Dakota Prairie Composting Facility

The Dakota Prairie Composting Facility was developed to address a growing regional need for sustainable organics recycling capacity while protecting natural resources and public health. Prior to this project, limited large-scale infrastructure existed in Minnesota to process source-separated organics and yard waste in a manner that aligned with statewide waste diversion and climate goals.

Bolton & Menk served as both the project design firm and construction administration firm for the Dakota Prairie Composting Facility. The team led the planning, design, and delivery of Minnesota’s largest organics recycling facility and pioneered the Midwest’s first large-scale Covered Aerated Static Pile (CASP) composting system. By coordinating multiple bidding processes and design packages into a unified schedule, the team delivered efficient construction management techniques and saved more than a year compared to traditional delivery methods. We managed complex site, building, water treatment, compost aeration, electrical, and roadway improvements while ensuring sustainable practices and regulatory compliance. Our approach enabled funding partnerships and supported efficient collaboration with contractors, agencies, and the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.