New paddling opportunities and safety information available on DNR water trails

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New paddling opportunities and safety information available on DNR water trails website
(Released August 22, 2011)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has two new additions to the state water trail system – the South Fork of the Crow River west of the Twin Cities and the Blue Earth River, which feeds the Minnesota River at Mankato.

The DNR has also revamped its river-level reporting system to make it easier for boaters, canoeists and kayakers to check real-time water levels on state water trails. Water trails are mapped routes on waterways, especially for watercraft.

“This has been a big year for state water trails,” said Erik Wrede, DNR water trails coordinator. “In May, we launched a new, online interactive map so boaters and paddlers can customize their own maps. Now, we have launched a major upgrade in our river-level reporting system. Special thanks go to the local paddling groups that were active in pursuing legislative designation and that were extremely helpful in mapping 200 miles on two new water trails.”

The Amboy Area Community Club, the Mankato Paddling and Outings Club and the South Fork Crow River Association each had a hand in adding to the first and largest water trails system in the nation. The state water trails system started back in 1963 and now has 4,400 miles on 32 water trails that are managed for canoeing, kayaking, boating and camping. There is a water trail within an hour of almost anywhere in the state, and camping at the remote sites is free unless otherwise designated on the maps.

Trip planning resources like river level reports, free printed maps, customizable digital maps, lists of outfitters and paddling clubs are available online.