I recently ran my second half marathon, the Urban Wildland Half in Richfield, Minnesota.  There are two things to discuss the race/course but also that it's a "green" race.

First off, the course and the race itself was great.  It helps that the weather was beautiful.  But if you're looking for a flat course, or one that is good for a first-timer-- this is it.  There are few hills and the ones there are, are very small.  The course is about 60-70% shaded too, so the hot August sun didn't beat down on us as much.  There were a lot of restrooms along the way plus well-placed water stops.  Things were very organized on the front end as well. Packet pickup was smooth and well-run.

This race calls itself Minnesota's Green Race.  Your packet comes in a reusable shopping bag, you can get free bus rides to the race, and you can bring old shoes for recycling.

Overall, I would recommend this race to any runner.