Trail system grand opening also grand finale for DNR supervisor

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Trail system grand opening also grand finale for DNR supervisor
(Released June 27, 2011)

The grand opening of the 25-mile mountain bike trail system in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area on June 10 also marked the grand finale for a long-time employee of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Ron Kuschel, regional natural resources supervisor, grew up in Crosby-Ironton and saw the completion of the project as a good time to announce his retirement after 36 years of DNR service.

“The mountain bike trail project is very special to me because I grew up here and I remember when the mining companies left town,” said Kuschel. “It has been very satisfying to help with a project that will bring prosperity and tourism dollars to the community through the draw of mountain biking. It was also nice that the last big project of my career was near my hometown.”

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area now has a world-class mountain bike trail system with challenging routes and breathtaking views. The grand opening was a community-wide celebration involving the DNR, mountain bike clubs, local organizations and businesses, and the dedicated individuals who made the trail system a reality. The project was a collaborative effort among the DNR, the International Mountain Bike Association, Minnesota Off Road Cyclists, several private companies and the Crosby-Ironton community.

“Ron’s involvement in the Cuyuna mountain bike project is just one example of his commitment to Minnesota’s natural resources,” said Courtland Nelson, director of the DNR’s Division of Parks and Trails. “Although Ron is leaving us, the evidence of his hard work will continue to benefit Minnesotans for generations to come.”

During his career, Kuschel was a manager or assistant manager at five state parks. Career highlights include his involvement in a $2.5 million facelift for Lake Carlos State Park, the opening of Hill Annex Mine State Park and the redesign of the Interstate State Park glacial pothole trails, which visitors are still enjoying today.

To get more information on Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, visit www.mndnr.gov, or call the DNR information center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.