DNR invites public input on Camp Ripley/Veterans State Trail planning process

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DNR invites public input on Camp Ripley/Veterans State Trail planning process
(Released March 8, 2012)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites anyone interested in the proposed Camp Ripley/Veterans State Trail to attend a trail planning open house on Thursday, March 22, from 6-8 p.m. at Baxter City Hall, 13190 Memorywood Drive, Baxter, MN.
The Camp Ripley/Veterans State Trail was legislatively authorized in 2009 to connect the Paul Bunyan State Trail in Crow Wing State Park to the Soo Line Regional Trail and the cities of Pillager, Fort Ripley and Little Falls.

The DNR is partnering with Morrison, Crow Wing and Cass counties, the Region 5 Development Commission, Mn/DOT and the local communities on a corridor study for this multi-use trail. The corridor study will be integrated into DNR’s Master Plan, which is a required component for any state trail.

The project team has developed several potential trail alignment options for consideration. All alignment options, for both motorized and nonmotorized use, will be available for public review and comment. Trail alignment options are only search corridors at this point. A specific route for the trail has not yet been determined, and no segments are yet in state ownership, other than existing parks and preserves. The master plan must be completed and approved before any funds can be used for trail construction.

DNR planners and regional staff, project consultants and members of the project steering committee will be available to discuss the project. This is the second of three open houses to be held for the study. The draft master plan will be presented at a third open house to be held in late spring.

More information is available online or by contacting: http://www.crvtrail.com/

• Laurie Young, DNR parks and trails planner, 651-259-5638.

• Suzanne Rhees, DNR parks and trails planner, 651-259-5586.