The idea for Putting Green was launched by a New Ulm family who, on vacation in 1997, discovered a fun family activity—- mini-golf!. On the way home, their 8 year old son was imagining and drawing mini golf holes in the backseat. Aha! Wouldn’t creating a mini golf park be a great way for kids to enjoy hands-on learning in many different disciplines such as physics, math, art, and business? And every good mini golf course needs a theme. With a passion for education and a new found interest in sustainability —that what’s good for the environment and good for business can be one in the same —-sustainability education became the park’s focus.

Putting Green founders thought the blend of lighthearted family fun with the serious need to care for our environment seemed a perfect combination for success. Given what’s been accomplished, it’s apparent there are many who agree. Putting Green, Inc. formed in 2001 as a 501c3 nonprofit organization and leased a riverside property from the City of New Ulm. The park was designed and developed by young people with the help of mentors, educators and experts and opened its doors in 2005.  Thanks to its many supporters and volunteers, Putting Green is an ever-evolving innovative center for environmental education serving south central Minnesota.