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<br />Ramsey County | Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan 13
<br />2. Community Profile and Capabilities
<br />2.1 Introduction
<br />Established in 1849, Ramsey County is the second-most populous county in the state and the smallest by
<br />land area in Minnesota, covering approximately 170 square miles. Its dense urban core gives it a vibrant
<br />economy and diverse population, estimated at 536,075 in 2023.
<br />The county encompasses several cities, including Arden Hills, Blaine, Falcon Heights, Gem Lake,
<br />Lauderdale, Little Canada, Maplewood, Mounds View, New Brighton, North Oaks, North Saint Paul,
<br />Roseville, St. Anthony, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights, and White Bear Lake.
<br />White Bear Township is the only township in Ramsey County. Ramsey County’s economy is diverse, with
<br />a mix of public sector, healthcare, education, and service industries forming the backbone. Major
<br />employers include state government, major healthcare systems, and higher education institutions.
<br />Unemployment rates in the county have remained relatively low in recent years, though like many
<br />urban areas, some neighborhoods experience higher rates due to economic disparities.
<br />2.2 Geography and Topography
<br />Ramsey County is anchored by its largest city and the state capital, Saint Paul, which forms part of the
<br />Twin Cities along with neighboring Minneapolis. The Mississippi River runs along the western boundary
<br />of the county, significantly shaping its topography and land use. Despite its urban nature, Ramsey
<br />County boasts an extensive park system, with over 6,500 acres of parkland, including lakes, trails, and
<br />natural reserves. It is bordered by four counties: Hennepin to the west, Dakota to the south, Washington
<br />to the east, and Anoka to the north.
<br />Ramsey County, Minnesota, has a relatively flat to gently rolling topography, typical of much of the
<br />Upper Midwest. Key features of the county's landscape include:
<br />• Low Elevation: The county sits at an average elevation of around 700-1,000 feet above sea level.
<br />The terrain is generally flat to gently undulating, with no significant mountain ranges or
<br />dramatic elevation changes.
<br />• Lakes and Waterways: Ramsey County is home to several lakes, wetlands, and rivers. The
<br />Mississippi River forms part of the county's western boundary and is a major geographical
<br />feature. Other notable bodies of water include Lake Phalen, Lake Como, and White Bear Lake
<br />(partly located in Ramsey County). These water features are integrated into the local landscape,
<br />providing natural beauty and recreation.
<br />• Glacial Influence: The topography of Ramsey County, like much of Minnesota, was shaped by
<br />glacial activity during the last ice age. The landscape includes remnants of glacial drift and
<br />moraine, resulting in the formation of lakes, wetlands, and gently rolling hills.
<br />• Urban Development: As the county is heavily urbanized, particularly in Saint Paul and
<br />surrounding areas, much of the natural topography has been altered by development. Parks,
<br />green spaces, and lakes offer glimpses of the region’s natural terrain.
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