Prairie Park: An Ecological Wetland Proposal & Recreational Destination for North Fargo

Abstract

The city of Fargo, ND, has approximately 40 stormwater detention and retention basins throughout the city. Many of which are vast open grass fields with concrete channels that do not support or welcome human interaction. These areas are dry, not holding stormwater, other than in the event of a severe storm. The following research focuses on the integration of a stormwater system that allows for stormwater detention basins to be more appealing and usable for recreation at all times. Questions answered in the research are those such as: How much water needs to be detained in case of severe weather? Are the existing stormwater detention basins in Fargo sized appropriately and efficiently? Is there an alternative way to deal with the detention of stormwater that would allow for detention basins to be utilized for recreational purposes? What type of activities should the spaces support? The end result uses ideas from related projects along with new ideas that offer an alternative way for the detention of stormwater that allows the site to function as a stormwater detention basin, but serve as an inviting area for recreation and relaxation to the public at all times.

The development of a stormwater system that allows for the coexistence of stormwater detention function, along with features that would attract people would allow students of NDSU and people of Fargo to have a more usable space at all times of the year.