Yunker Farm Park is in a season of transition.
If you have visited the park recently, you have likely noticed tree work, construction activity, changes near the former train area, updates around the dog park and other visible improvements throughout the site. Some areas may look different right now, but each step is part of a larger effort to clean up the park, improve public use and prepare the space for future recreation opportunities on Fargo’s north side.
The Fargo Park District understands Yunker Farm holds a special place in the community. For many residents, the site is tied to memories of the former Children’s Museum and family visits over the years. As the park continues to evolve, our goal is to honor that history while also making thoughtful updates that better support how the space is used today and how it may serve the community in the future.
WHY THE PARK IS CHANGING
For many years, Yunker Farm Park supported a variety of community experiences, including features connected to the former Children’s Museum, seasonal activities, gardens, open space and neighborhood recreation.
As those uses have changed over time, some areas of the park are no longer being used as they once were. The Fargo Park District is now working to thoughtfully transition those areas into more flexible public green space, expanded recreation opportunities and improved amenities for north Fargo residents.
This work is guided in part by recommendations from the Yunker Farm Park Master Plan, along with current site needs, available funding, partnership opportunities and community use. The master plan serves as a guideline, not a fixed construction schedule. Some recommendations have already helped guide improvements at the park, while other future projects will require additional planning, funding and community conversation before moving forward.
WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW
Tree Removals and Plantings
A significant amount of tree work is taking place throughout Yunker Farm Park. This includes the removal of trees that are dead, declining, impacted by Emerald Ash Borer concerns or located in areas where future park infrastructure may be considered. While the park may look more open during this phase, the work is being done intentionally. New tree plantings are being planned with the long-term layout of the park in mind, including potential future trail connections and open green space.
Dog Park Relocation
The dog park has been relocated to the northwest area of Yunker Farm Park. This move is one of the first visible improvements tied to the broader vision for the park and allows the former dog park area to be opened up for future public use.
Train, Tracks and Train House
The train, tracks, train house and related items are planned to be transferred to the North Dakota Steam Threshers, in New Rockford, ND, who are able to take on the cost and work of removing, transporting and preserving the equipment. For many residents, the train is a memorable part of Yunker Farm’s history. It was part of the park experience for many years, especially during the time when the former Children’s Museum was active on site. However, the train has not been used for several years and no longer fits the current or future use of the park. Transferring the train allows it to remain available for public enjoyment in a new setting rather than being demolished or left unused. An exact removal schedule has not yet been established, but work will not take place during the remainder of July. Removal is expected to begin in August at the earliest, with the goal of having the train and related items removed approximately September 1.
Former Mini Golf
The former mini golf area was once part of the broader Yunker Farm experience. As the park’s uses have changed over time, the space is now being transitioned into a new chapter. The Fargo Park District has been working with partners, including the Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, to support meaningful use of the area. The Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society has honored its commitments to the space and continues to be a valued partner in helping bring life and care to the park.
Northern Plains Botanical Society Koi Pond Project
The Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society has begun work on a koi pond project in the area. The Koi Pond will include 34,000 gallons of water, connected to a smaller aquatic pond by a 150-foot stream and a 6-foot waterfall. The organization has honored its commitments to the space and continues to be a valued partner in helping bring life and care to the park.
Picket Fence Removal & Pickup
The picket fence at Yunker Farm will be removed due to its age, condition and ongoing maintenance needs. Because many of the pickets include names and carry community meaning, the Fargo Park District is providing an opportunity for residents to retrieve individual pickets or sections of fence connected to their families or donations.
July 20-31: Express Interest
Residents interested in retrieving a picket or section of fence should call the Fargo Park District North Maintenance Shop at (701) 551-5891 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Residents should provide enough information to help staff identify the requested picket, including the name displayed on it when possible.
August 3-7: Picket Identification & Retrieval
Fargo Park District staff will locate and mark requested pickets and fence sections in preparation for pickup.
August 11-13: On-Site Pickup
Requested pickets and fence sections will be available for pickup at Yunker Farm Park, 1201 28th Avenue North, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on August 11, 12 and 13. Fargo Park District staff will be available to assist residents during the designated pickup times. Residents who cannot attend one of the on-site pickup opportunities may arrange to retrieve their pickets or fence sections from the North Maintenance Shop, 550 15th Street North. Arrangements must be made in advance, and the Fargo Park District must be notified by 3:00 p.m. on August 13.
Due to limited storage capacity, unclaimed pickets and fence components will be disposed of following the August 13th deadline. A small number of fence sections may be retained for potential future use if their condition and available storage allow, but the Fargo Park District cannot preserve or store all remaining components.
Looking Ahead
Additional work at Yunker Farm Park will continue over time as funding and planning allow. Future priorities may include continued green space improvements, trail planning, community garden updates and additional public recreation opportunities. The Fargo Park District is also preparing for new programming opportunities at Yunker Farm, including expanded events and activities that help better serve north Fargo residents. Fall 2026 programming is expected to bring renewed activity to the site and make use of improved park spaces.
Keeping the History Alive
The Fargo Park District recognizes the memories many residents have tied to the former Children’s Museum, train, mini golf, picket fence and time spent at the park with family and friends. While some physical features are changing, the goal is not to erase that history. The goal is to care for the site in a way that reflects today’s needs while finding appropriate ways to honor what the park has meant to the community.
As work continues, this page will be updated with project timelines, public notices and opportunities for community members to stay involved.
