Hydrologic Harmonies: Weaving Water Corridors Into Fargo's Park, Trail, and Open Space Network

Author

• Isaac Janssen

Files

Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Landscape Architecture

College

Arts and Sciences

Department

Landscape Architecture, Disaster Resiliency & Emergency Management (LADREM)

Faculty Advisor

Craig Larson

Studio Coordinator

Jay Kost

Faculty Chair

Dominic Fischer

Publisher

North Dakota State University

Rights

NDSU policy 190.6.2

URI

https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf

Abstract

This thesis investigates how Fargo’s river corridors can be redesigned as connected, multi-functional public landscapes that strengthen community access, expand recreational opportunities, and support nature-based education. Although the Wild Rice and Red Rivers shape the city’s identity, decades of flood-control infrastructure and fragmented access have limited the public’s relationship with these waterways. As Fargo continues to grow and adapt to changing hydrologic conditions, the need for resilient, accessible, and educational riverfront spaces has become increasingly urgent.

Using a mixed-method approach that integrates literature review, precedent analysis, GIS-based site assessment, and iterative design exploration, this project develops a framework for reconnecting residents to the river through a system of trails, access points, play environments, and ecological learning zones. Precedents in resilient park design and hillside adventure play inform strategies for shaping topography, managing flood dynamics, and creating immersive educational experiences within the floodplain.

The resulting design proposes a connected river loop that links neighborhoods, enhances recreational diversity, and interprets the ecological processes of the floodplain. By combining resilience principles with community-oriented programming, the project demonstrates how riverfront landscapes can function simultaneously as infrastructure, public space, and outdoor classroom. The thesis contributes a replicable model for cities seeking to transform flood-impacted corridors into resilient, engaging, and educational public landscapes.

Recommended Citation

Janssen, Isaac, "Hydrologic Harmonies: Weaving Water Corridors Into Fargo's Park, Trail, and Open Space Network" (2026). Landscape Architecture Theses. 20.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/landscape-architecture-theses/20