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Best of MN

Dog-friendly playgrounds

You need a space where your children can play and your dog is genuinely welcome to join.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Thompson County Park image 1
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Country park offers a large modern playground with musical elements and a fenced, carpeted play area for safer children's play. A beautiful lake sits at the center, surrounded by trees and benches, creating a peaceful, quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation and nature watching.

A fenced-in playground with rubberized ground offers a safe space for kids under 10 to play. It features a variety of equipment, including a taller slide, and has seating areas for parents nearby.

Open trails offer plenty of room for walking dogs and getting steps in. Stations with doggy bags help keep the area clean and welcoming for pets.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a nice lake for walking."

"The playground here is beautiful and modern."

"It's a great place to walk your dog on the trails."

Good to know

1

There is a ChargePoint EV charger in the south parking lot.

2

The restrooms on site are clean.

3

The park is family-friendly with a large playground for kids.

02
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park image 1

Large beach and extensive playground offer space for swimming and climbing. Open areas with picnic tables and volleyball sand courts create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Calm water and walking trails provide a peaceful setting amid busy activity.

Playground features include climbing structures, bridges, and a half pipe for feet. Equipment suits children aged 5-12 with options for younger kids and offers a challenging obstacle course.

Large areas offer plenty of space for off-leash activities with separate parks for small and large dogs. A water fountain at the entry keeps dogs hydrated during walks on the off-leash dog trail.

People are saying

"This park's playground is challenging and has equipment for younger kids."

"The beach here is wonderful for kids and has shallow water."

"This playground has many features for climbing and descending."

Good to know

1

Pavilions can be reserved for larger gatherings.

2

The beach is suitable for children with a shallow entry.

3

The playground has new equipment and is suitable for all ages.

03
Central Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained walking paths and multiple playgrounds designed for children of all ages. It hosts free live music at an outdoor amphitheater and provides varied recreational activities including volleyball courts, ball fields, and picnic areas. The space feels lively yet safe, with plenty of room for dogs and wildlife sightings.

Multiple playgrounds offer spaces for children of all ages with new equipment and clean, fun areas. Surrounding features include walking paths, picnic spots, and open fields that add to the outdoor activities.

Lots of open space lets dogs roam and play freely. Dogs stay on leashes and mix well with bikers and walkers around the lake.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice walking paths and trails in the park."

"It's a great dog-friendly place with lots of space to roam."

"I loved the playground because it had padded soft ground."

Good to know

1

During the summer, expect free outdoor concerts and family movie nights.

2

Parking is available in the lot or across the street from the park.

3

The park features walking trails, an amphitheater, and ball fields.

04
Whitetail Woods Regional Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained trails through forest, prairie, and lakeside with a paved path around a lake suitable for strollers and bikes. Atmosphere is quiet and peaceful with no road noise, featuring natural playgrounds and cabins nestled in trees or overlooking prairie. Facilities include a pavilion, amphitheater, and fire pit, supporting gatherings and outdoor activities.

A nature play area offers a unique and beautiful space for kids to explore. The playground includes covered areas, picnic tables, and nice bathrooms nearby.

Trails offer beautiful morning hikes and plenty of space for dog walking and running. Many dogs visit, but some areas have dog waste left behind, and there is no dedicated dog park or play yard.

People are saying

"I found this park to be absolutely beautiful and serene."

"The playground here is awesome and fun for kids."

"It's a beautiful park with many accessible walking trails."

Good to know

1

The park has great pavilions suitable for hosting parties and weddings.

2

There was ample parking available.

3

Expect limited shade on hiking trails and few benches.

05
Aquatore Park image 1

Open green spaces with shaded picnic shelters and extensive playground equipment create a family-friendly atmosphere. Separate areas for dogs and a zip line for all ages add variety to activities. The park stays calm and quiet, making it suitable for long outings.

Playground offers ziplining, multiple slides, and a pirate ship structure. Swings sit above solid ground, making them safe for little kids, and the area stays quiet without busy street noise.

An extensive dog park with separate areas for big and small dogs, marked by clear signage. Dogs run freely chasing squirrels, but some owners bring larger dogs into the small dog area, causing safety issues.

People are saying

"This place is kid friendly with a great playground and swings."

"It's a great dog park, fun for all the dogs."

"The playground has so many fun slides and swings for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has separate areas for big and small dogs.

2

The playground is wheelchair accessible.

3

There are lots of trees providing shade during hot summer days.

06
Bassett Creek Park image 1

Large park with extensive walking trails and a 21-hole disc golf course offers varied outdoor activities. Shaded areas and abundant trees create a peaceful, natural atmosphere. Separate dog parks and a spacious playground with a zip line accommodate families and pet owners.

A huge playground offers equipment suitable for all ages and includes a big zip line. The area is great for kids and sits alongside other activities like frisbee golf and ball fields.

Separate areas for large and small dogs provide tailored space for play. The dog park offers a big open space with plenty to sniff and a nearby long walking trail for exercise.

People are saying

"It's Dog Friendly with separate areas for large and small dogs."

"It's a huge playground, really fun for kids."

"I found the playground here to be huge and great for kids."

Good to know

1

The park features a newly updated 21-hole disc golf course.

2

There are separate areas for small and large dogs in the dog park.

3

Only porta potties are available for restroom facilities.

07
Weaver Lake Community Park image 1

Spacious park with a quiet beach and soft sand offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Multiple courts and fields support basketball, tennis, pickleball, and baseball, alongside playgrounds and picnic areas. Trails wind through woods, and an ice rink adds seasonal variety.

Big playgrounds offer a decent size play area for young children. A steel slide runs from the top of the hill down to the beach, connecting the picnic area to the water.

Paths include both paved and dirt trails suitable for dogs. Dogs enjoy the space for walks lasting around 45 minutes. The park works well for outings with family, friends, and dogs.

People are saying

"This park has a great beach and playground for the kids."

"The playground here is a decent size for young children."

"It's so Dog Friendly; my dog really enjoyed the walk."

Good to know

1

Swimming is permitted until 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.

3

Parking is usually available, but can get busy on hot summer days.

08
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park image 1

Park offers great views of river and dam alongside lush scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Multiple playgrounds and treetop boardwalks provide engaging spaces for children. Trails and picnic areas support varied outdoor activities in a well-designed, nature-focused setting.

Multiple playgrounds feature nature-inspired equipment for kids of all ages. A splash pad and treetop boardwalk add variety and fun to the play areas.

Spacious, fully fenced areas separate small and large dogs for safe play. A new dog park offers a great spot for daily walks and meetups with friends.

People are saying

"The treetop trail offers stunning views and is awesome for an evening walk."

"It's really kid friendly with lots of fun things to play on."

"I loved the treetop trail, it was awesome and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parents should supervise children at the playground due to uneven natural stone stairs.

2

Kayak rentals are available for visitors looking to explore the water.

3

The visitor center opens at noon, so plan your visit accordingly.

09
Battle Creek Regional Park image 1

Expansive park offers quiet walks beneath beautiful oak trees and across restored prairie with sweeping river views. It hosts diverse features including a large dog park, water park, and playgrounds for all ages. The atmosphere stays peaceful and welcoming, supporting outdoor fitness and family gatherings.

Playground offers a baby-friendly zip line and swings with a mommy and me seat. A kiddie area and mini playground exist alongside a pool with a big slide for older kids.

A 35-acre off-leash dog park offers plenty of room for dogs to run, swim, and play. It includes a fenced-in swimming area and many trails around ponds for walking and socializing.

People are saying

"It's a great Dog Friendly park with so much space to run."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a fun playground."

"The playground here is awesome, with things for every age."

Good to know

1

The dog park has a separately fenced swimming area for dogs.

2

Parking security is a concern due to past break-ins.

3

The water feature at the park hasn't been functional all summer.

10
Elm Creek Park Reserve image 1
Nature preserve

Nature preserve offers vast trails for walking and biking alongside a large playground with slides, ziplines, and climbing structures. The atmosphere stays peaceful and scenic even when busy, with amenities like a swimming pond and dog park enhancing outdoor activities.

A giant playground offers numerous slides, swings, and zip lines all in good shape. The outdoor play area suits kids of all ages with climbing structures and no time limit on the swings.

An excellent dog park offers a fenced-in area where dogs can run freely and play. Paved and singletrack trails provide options for walking dogs off leash, alongside picnic spots and a playground.

People are saying

"These parks have long, high-quality paved and unpaved trails."

"The playground here is huge with tons of slides and swings."

"It's dog friendly with an excellent dog park."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

2

Parking is free for all visitors.

3

The swimming beach is clean and well-maintained.

11
Brookview Park image 1

Large park with extensive playgrounds and multiple sports courts offers a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Spacious, shaded picnic areas and well-maintained paths support gatherings and outdoor activities. Popular with children, bicyclists, and dog owners, it features ample parking and covered group spaces.

A huge playground offers swings, slides, spinning rides, and a merry-go-round. It includes a pirate ship for younger kids and a rock climbing wall with monkey bars for a wide age range.

Open spaces welcome dogs alongside groups, kids, and walkers. Many people walk their dogs here, making it a dog friendly spot with plenty of room to roam.

People are saying

"I found the park's playground to be huge and beautiful."

"The playground here is huge with a sandpit, swings, and slides."

"This place is well-maintained and clean, perfect for dogs."

Good to know

1

Brookview Park has multiple covered group spaces available for events.

2

Restrooms are available and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

Parking is ample, with multiple areas to accommodate visitors.

12
Clifton E. French Regional Park image 1

Park offers spacious, modern playgrounds with areas for different ages and plenty of shade. Woodland setting creates a peaceful, scenic atmosphere with paved paths leading to the river. Busy on weekends, it provides ample seating and features like a water misting station and event building.

Several climbing structures and a bucket-type swing offer fun for kids of many ages. The playground includes water features and hidden musical instruments, with swings designed for multiple people like a saucer and two-seater swing.

Wide trails provide space to manage dogs, including those that are reactive. Plenty of dogs and walkers create a strong socialization opportunity, but some dogs are off-leash and not well controlled, which can be an issue around kids.

People are saying

"This playground is amazing and so kid friendly with water features and swings."

"This playground is ginormous and has a huge tower for kids."

"It's so Dog Friendly, the wide trails are awesome for walks."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free.

2

Parking near the beach is limited with only a few spaces available.

3

The playground closes for the season in winter.

13
Moir Park image 1

Park sits in a wooded ravine with meandering creek and paved trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Atmosphere feels peaceful and serene, with multiple wooden bridges enhancing a sense of seclusion despite urban surroundings. Features include frisbee golf, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and various dirt paths for exploration.

Playgrounds include one designed for little ones, located near a picnic area and bathrooms. The park offers multiple activities like frisbee golf, volleyball, and baseball alongside the playgrounds.

More fun trails and walking areas exist for dogs. Some owners let dogs go unleashed.

People are saying

"It's a nice place for a picnic or family outing."

"I found the large picnic area convenient for gatherings."

"It's dog friendly here."

Good to know

1

Bicycles are not allowed on the trails at Moir Park.

2

The park has a large picnic shelter suitable for outdoor events.

3

Bring your own trash bags if you plan to grill, as trash cans are limited.

14
Lake Harriet Regional Park image 1

Park surrounds a serene lake with paved walking trails and a band shell hosting concerts. Atmosphere stays relaxing and peaceful, with green spaces and a playground for families. Canoe rentals and picnic areas add to the variety of outdoor activities.

Massive playground offers ample space for kids to play near the bandshell. It features fun equipment and sits close to scenic views and a lake.

Open spaces offer great views of people, dogs, and sunsets. Walking dogs here feels natural with the park's pet-friendly environment.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly park with a massive playground."

"It's a nice playground for the kids."

"It's dog friendly, perfect for walking your pet."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur on Saturdays and Sundays at the bandshell.

2

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction and road closures.

3

Restroom facilities may be limited; expect porta potties during events.

15
Lake Elmo Park Reserve image 1

Huge, spacious park with beautiful scenery and quiet, private campsites tucked among trees. Paved trails invite walking and biking, while a large swim pond and new playground offer family-friendly activities. The atmosphere feels peaceful and remote despite proximity to the city.

Huge and clean playgrounds offer huge slides and great climbing structures. Areas suit kids of all ages with great trails and a swim pond nearby.

Wide, spacious trails offer plenty of room for walking dogs. Unpaved paths support activities like running, hiking, and skiing with dogs along.

People are saying

"The playground here is awesome and great for kids of all ages."

"The playground here is huge and clean."

"The trails here are spacious and miles long, perfect for walking dogs."

Good to know

1

The bluegrass festival features food trucks and live music throughout the day.

2

Expect various activities like stargazing, wildlife learning, and outdoor sports.

3

The swim pond is clean and supervised by lifeguards.

16
Day Park & Earley Lake Trail image 1

Paved trails circle a sizable lake with native plants and several beaches, creating a quiet, shaded environment. A small playground and pavilion with grills offer spots for rest and meals. The area welcomes dogs and features gentle hills that add mild exercise without strain.

A small playground sits near a lake with a trail circling it. The park includes one picnic shade close to the play area.

Walking around the lake and on the trail welcomes dogs. The area offers a dog friendly environment where dogs can enjoy the walk.

People are saying

"I took my dog for a nice mile-long walk around the lake."

"I loved the pretty, green scenery."

"The trails around the lake are paved and clean."

Good to know

1

The park has a paved trail that is about 1.5 miles long.

2

Dogs are allowed on the walking trail.

3

The trail is wheelchair accessible and mostly flat.

17
East Community Park image 1

Park offers multiple sports courts including basketball, tennis, and pickleball alongside a playground with unique features. Walking trails loop around a lake, crossing a nice bridge and passing through forested areas with birdlife. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, suitable for families and dog walkers.

Unique features make the playground fun for kids. It sits alongside tennis courts and a baseball field, offering varied activities nearby.

Designated areas let dogs run freely while many dogs walk along the trails. Plenty of dog waste and bags sit uncollected near paths.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with nice walking trails."

"It's a great place for a walk, especially with your dog."

"The playground was fun for the kids."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at the park.

2

The park has a playground, baseball field, and tennis courts.

3

There are 4 tables under a shelter and 3 more around it for seating.

18
Como Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden offers a peaceful atmosphere and live music under glass. Zoo and outdoor pavilion add variety, while picnic areas support relaxed visits. Free access invites casual exploration despite limited parking.

Playgrounds include a renovated playground up the hill and equipment that helps tire kids out. The area features walking paths, green spaces, and a kids entertainment park with rides.

Large grassy fields along Lexington Ave offer plenty of space for dogs to roam. The zoo welcomes service dogs, and Como Lake provides a nice spot to walk or run with pets.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"I appreciated the playground and the beautiful, well-maintained grounds."

"It's a great Dog Friendly place to walk your dogs."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

19
Lake Nokomis Park image 1

Vast lakeside park with spacious beach and lush greenery offers a family-friendly and lively atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas, boat rentals, and snack shacks. Trails and quiet water create a versatile space for recreation and relaxation.

A playground with a swingset sits near the beach area by the lagoon. It stays busy and offers a nice spot for kids to play.

A huge field near Cedar Avenue offers plenty of space for dogs to play ball. Multiple trails around the lake provide good spots for walks with dogs, but some owners do not clean up after their pets, which can affect the experience.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, with amazing lake views and relaxing scenery."

"It's so kid friendly with playgrounds and swan boats by the lake."

"The playground here is right by the beach."

Good to know

1

Trivia Mafia events occur regularly at the park, featuring beer and food.

2

Pond hockey tournaments take place during winter at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging on busy days; consider arriving early.

20
Cleary Lake Regional Park image 1

Large lake anchors a park with canoe and paddle boat rentals, a 9-hole golf course, and swimming beach. Tall trees and picnic areas create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of walking trails. Amenities support diverse activities like fishing, volleyball, and dog walking.

A variety of play equipment fills the well-maintained playground area. Nearby amenities include a swimming area, golf course, and sand volleyball court.

Off leash areas offer plenty of space for dogs to run and play. Friendly dogs and humans create a welcoming atmosphere. Water bowls are available but bringing extra water helps keep them filled.

People are saying

"You can walk, bike, swim, and fish at these parks."

"It's a great place to walk your dog on the trails."

"The playground is beautiful and well maintained."

Good to know

1

The park has a large lake suitable for boating and fishing.

2

You can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards at the park.

3

The children's playground features a variety of play equipment.

21
Roosevelt Park image 1

Small park with varied amenities including playground, dog park, basketball and tennis courts, and baseball fields. Atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, with friendly people and well-maintained recreational equipment. Separate dog areas and walking paths add to the family-friendly environment.

A unique merry-go-round on tilt stands out in the playground. Seating for parents is limited, and the area stays pretty quiet on weekdays.

Roosevelt Park offers a dog park with separate areas for larger and smaller dogs. The park includes walking paths and a large parking lot, but lacks water dishes for dogs.

People are saying

"The dog park here is a nice bonus for visiting."

"It's a nice, quiet park, perfect for sitting and thinking."

"I found the playground to be nice with a unique merry-go-round."

Good to know

1

The park has a playground, dog park, basketball court, tennis courts, and baseball field.

2

There are separate areas for larger and smaller dogs in the dog park.

3

Restroom facilities are limited to portapotties throughout the park.

22
Rice Creek Campground Visitor Center image 1

Wooded campsites offer large, private spaces with quiet surroundings and well-maintained grounds. The area supports a family-friendly atmosphere with playgrounds and trails, though occasional loud music can disrupt the peace. Dog-friendly policies and natural beauty contribute to a relaxed outdoor experience.

A small playground sits within the campground. Kids find the playground just OK but it adds to the overall campground experience.

Campground welcomes dogs and requires leashes for safety. Dogs enjoy the water access available on site.

People are saying

"It's so quiet here, you can really relax."

"I really enjoyed the beach here."

"The sites here are wooded and private."

Good to know

1

The campground is dog friendly, but dogs must be kept on leashes.

2

Campsites have water and electrical hookups available.

3

The dump station is easy to access on the way out.

23
Minnehaha Falls image 1
Tourist attraction

Waterfall and surrounding trails create a scenic setting with breathtaking views. Large open grounds include an outdoor theatre and public food court, supporting a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Families enjoy play areas and pedal carts, while music and art add cultural touches.

A decent-sized kids playground features swings, monkey bars, slides, and a teeter-totter on a sand base for barefoot play. Nearby areas offer picnic spots, hiking trails to the waterfall, and surrey rentals.

Leashed dogs enjoy walking trails and open spaces. The area welcomes pets for picnics, playground visits, and bike rides.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with its wonderful waterfall."

"The waterfall here is breathtaking and beautiful."

"It's dog friendly, perfect for a walk with your pet."

Good to know

1

Entry to Minnehaha Falls is free for all visitors.

2

Parking costs $1.30 per hour and requires license plate recognition.

3

The park occasionally hosts festivals and events, so check the calendar.

24
Phalen Regional Park image 1

Traditional Chinese pavilion and arch add an oriental flair to the spacious park with lakeside views. The atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with walking and biking trails, a beach, and water activities. Sculptures and bridges along paths create an interesting environment for visitors.

Multiple playgrounds sit along the walking paths near a lake and picnic areas. The playgrounds look well maintained and offer fun spaces for children.

Walking paths and two dog beaches offer spots for dogs to swim and roam. The park welcomes dogs but has many large dogs, so staying alert is important.

People are saying

"I loved walking and biking the scenic paths around the lake at this park."

"I loved walking my dog on the varied paths here."

"I found the fenced-in playgrounds fun for children."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the lake, especially on the western shore.

2

The beach area is great for families and swimming.

3

Dogs are welcome at the park, but be mindful of leash laws.

25
Palmer Lake Park image 1

Park offers paved walking path around lake and new playground equipment geared for younger children. Trails connect to nearby parks and remain clean and clear with occasional shaded spots. Locals use open fields, ball fields, and courts for sports, creating a diverse, friendly atmosphere.

New playground equipment offers engaging play for younger children. Several picnic tables sit nearby, and a baseball field is close to the playground.

Great for dog walking with plenty of space and friendly people. Dogs stay leashed and more arrive as the day goes on, creating a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park, perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride."

"It's a great place to get some exercise and enjoy nature."

"The playground has new equipment that looks fun for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a nice paved walking path around the lake.

2

The new playground equipment is engaging and fun for kids.

3

There are ball fields, tennis courts, and a basketball court available.

26
White Bear Lake County Park image 1

Spacious park with a large shallow beach and crystal clear water offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Well-built playground and boat launch facilities support varied outdoor activities. Parking is ample, and walking trails connect to nearby neighborhoods and marina.

A large playground offers simple but fun equipment suitable for kids of various ages. Benches nearby provide spots for resting while kids play.

Pets are allowed and the park offers ample space for dog walks. The beach area often has dog waste left unattended, which affects the experience.

People are saying

"The beach here is great, with nice sand and shallow water."

"The playground is simple but nice and suitable for kids."

"It's a great spot for dog walks."

Good to know

1

The park has proper restrooms and showers, benches, and a playground.

2

The beach area has nice sand and a large shallow water space.

3

On an average day, it's easy to find a parking spot at the park.

27
Bde Maka Ska image 1

Scenic lake with beautiful beaches and extensive bike trails offers a calm, peaceful atmosphere ideal for walking and relaxing. Lakeside pavilion features Native art and increased seating, while water rentals and playgrounds add active options. The area combines urban nature with spaces for dining and live jazz music.

Cute playgrounds near the lake include a teeter-totter element that adds a nostalgic touch. These nice playgrounds offer good spots for children to play around the docks and parks.

Paths along the lake offer great walking spots for dogs. The area welcomes dogs for both walks and swimming.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful scenery and the lake views here."

"You can rent paddle boats, canoes, and sailboats for fun activities on the lake."

"I saw nice playgrounds around the lake."

Good to know

1

There are several beaches and rental options for paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks.

2

The lake has well-maintained walking and biking trails.

3

Free street parking is available nearby, but some lots require payment.

28
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park image 1

Large park surrounds a small lake with paved and dirt trails for hiking, biking, and skiing. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere with family-friendly playgrounds and a fishing dock. Facilities include a heated pavilion and a spacious indoor room for events.

Big playground with a Nest play structure offers plenty of space for kids. Nearby features include a fishing pier and trails for hiking or skiing.

Leashed dogs can walk on both paved and unpaved trails here. The paths welcome dogs, making it easy to explore with your pet.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lovely trails for walking."

"The bathrooms here are clean and accessible."

"It's beautiful and always clean, a lovely wooded park."

Good to know

1

To access the park, a Washington County park pass or $7 per day is required.

2

Parking costs $7 without a permit, which is not worth it unless staying all day.

3

The park has well-maintained paths, toilets, picnic areas, and parking facilities.

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