Renewing the Blue
Restoring Land, Water, and Community Canopy
This collaborative initiative aims to restore up to 240 acres of riparian habitat, enhance green infrastructure along key segments of the Blue River, and expand the urban tree canopy in surrounding neighborhoods—ultimately building a healthier, more resilient watershed for Kansas City.
Through a combination of expert and community-led riparian restoration, native landscaping, wetland restoration, and the advancement of modern stormwater policies, the project improves water quality, reduces flood risk, and strengthens local capacity for green infrastructure planning and implementation.
To support this effort, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) awarded funding to the City of Kansas City, MO through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). In turn, the City partnered with four environmentally focused nonprofit organizations to carry out the grant deliverables, engage expert contractors, and drive community-based, nature-forward solutions across the region.
Project Location
Restoration work will occur on public land owned by:
-
City of Kansas City, Missouri
-
Jackson County Parks + Rec
Explore our project story map to see where partners are taking action, what they’re accomplishing, and how they’re collaborating with communities to help Renew the Blue.
How to Get Involved
Together, we can Renew the Blue - the metro’s largest watershed - to advance a healthier, more climate-resilient future for the entire Kansas City region.
Open Requests for Proposals and Training Opportunities
Are you a contractor with riparian restoration experience—or looking to build your skills in this growing field?
Explore our Request for Proposals (RFP) and upcoming training opportunities to get involved.
-
Heartland Conservation Alliance’s Open RFPs
-
Bridging the Gap’s Open RFPs
-
Mid-American Regional Council training opportunities and seminar series
Project Event Calendar
Be part of the effort—connect with neighbors and project partners at Renewing the Blue events held along the Blue River. Check out our project calendar for details.
Project Contacts
Heartland Conservation Alliance
Jessica Hartel, Senior Director of Conservation & Education
jess@heartlandconservationalliance.org
Damon Patterson, Conservation Project Manager
damon@heartlandconservationalliance.org
Mahreen Ansari, Communications & Engagement Coordinator
mahreen@heartlandconservationalliance.org
Bridging The Gap
Hunter Moore, Kansas City Wildlands Program Manager
hunter.moore@bridgingthegap.org
Joe Wheelock, Heartland Tree Alliance Program Manager
joe.wheelock@bridgingthegap.org
Leslie Barland, Donor & Business Engagement Manager
Deep Roots
Kay Thomason, Outdoor Education and Outreach Program Coordinator
kay@deeprootskc.org
Mid-America Regional Council
Tom Jacobs, Environmental Director
Natalie Unruh, Water Quality Planner II
City of Kansas City, Missouri
Stephanie Dresen, Office of Environmental Quality, Natural Systems Coordinator
stephanie.dresen@kcmo.org