Can I use this site anonymously?

    Yes, you can use this website anonymously. Even when you register and post comments, your anonymity is protected because you are identified by your chosen screen name. 

    At times we may ask you to provide more information as it relates to a project, but our hope is to be inclusive and make people comfortable participating online.

    How do I participate on the site?

    Depending on the level you want to get involved with projects will determine this answer. 

    Each project is a little unique depending upon the engagement level required for that project. Some projects are inform only which means we are just trying to share information with the public. Other times we ask individuals to submit feedback via the online discussion forums, quick polls, forms and surveys for each of the projects currently open for consultation.

    To participate for the first time, simply:

    • Sign up for Engage with DNR by clicking on the "Sign In" button or the “Register” button in the top right of any page
    • Choose a username and password
    • Complete a few questions about you
    • You will receive an email to validate your email address
    • Return to the website and click the "Sign In" button

    Why do I have to register to Engage with DNR in order to make a comment?

    While registration is not required to access Engage with DNR, it is necessary for many of the more interactive engagement opportunities. We ask you to register to the website for a few reasons.

    • It helps ensure that a broader set of perspectives have an opportunity to be represented by attributing feedback and frequency of feedback to individuals.
    • It promotes accountability and encourages people to provide more thoughtful responses because feedback can be attributed to them.
    • It also means that we can let you know of any news if something major changes about a project.

    Is my privacy protected?

    • Yes! Your privacy is absolutely protected and the city will only use your email to contact you with updates and to invite you to participate in consultations.
    • Your email address will not be distributed to any third party or used for any other purpose. For more information, see the platform Privacy Policy(External link).

    What rules does the Minnesota DNR have around etiquette usage and moderation on this site?

    • We want you to keep it positive. While you may not agree with all comments submitted, we ask that you respect another individual's experience, perspective and opinion. 
    • Visit our moderation page for more information. 

    How are discussion forums moderated?

    All public comments are moderated 24 hours a day seven days a week, for inappropriate language, comments that disrespect other participants, and for comments that are off topic.

    All moderation is carried out by Bang the Table and all moderation is independent of the Minnesota DNR. The moderators do not edit or alter any comments and will only remove comments deemed to be significantly off topic, offensive or malicious, in which case they are removed from the site immediately and the person who posted the comment is advised by email. See the moderation policy for more details.