During a recent government meeting, park officials highlighted the urgent need for enhanced water safety education in response to alarming drowning statistics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 45,100 individuals drowned in the United States from 2020 to 2022, marking an increase of approximately 500 deaths annually compared to 2019. The rise in drowning incidents has disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, particularly young children and Black individuals of all ages.

To address this critical issue, park staff are seeking approval for seven grant agreements with the Metropolitan Council and Washington County as part of the 2024 Metropolitan Council Park System Competitive Equity Grant Program. These grants will fund multiple water safety outreach programs during the summer months, aimed at teaching essential water safety skills, recognizing aquatic emergency warning signs, and responding appropriately to emergencies.

Participants in these programs will receive free life jackets to promote ongoing safety in and around water. The board discussed the importance of these initiatives and is expected to vote on the grant agreements to facilitate the implementation of these vital educational programs.