Root River Pathway Maps

The Story of Jens Jensen and the Root River Pathway

Introducing a New Interactive GIS Map of the Root River pathway, including some history on the life and accomplishments of Jens Jensen an important historical landscape architect tied to Racine's historical roots. Some of his work can even be seen in and around Racine, WI.

Created by UW-Parkside student and Root River Council volunteer Katie Geiger.

Click here to view this story.

The Root River Pathway Parks Map
(For the full experience click the link above)

In the 'Jens Jensen The Living Green' documentary follows the career of Danish-born JENS JENSEN (1860 - 1951) from street sweeper, to 'dean of landscape architecture', to pioneering conservationist. Jensen battles corruption and unbridled industrial expansion to make the modern city livable by bringing 'the living green' into the wretched lives of Chicago's workers. Striking cinematography and an evocative soundtrack illuminate colorful witness from Prairie School architect ALFRED CALDWELL and an intensely reflective interview with JENSEN. Today, residents of underserved communities still suffer the effects of 'park deserts' and 'food deserts' - but the healing power of nature is recognized. Jensen leveraged his relationships with FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT, HENRY FORD and JULIUS ROSENWALD to stop the steel mills from industrializing the entire shoreline and preserve native Midwestern landscapes.
—IMDb TV

“We all need the living green or we’ll shrivel up inside. To make the modern city livable is the task of our times.” ~ Jens Jensen