From the Chair: Appreciating our advocacy

Below is a message from GMPT Chair Gina Hugo. You can reach her at gina.hugo@co.sherburne.mn.us.

Being in parks and trails, we are all in gear and excited for the busy season! Across Greater Minnesota, we are all things parks and trails, from camping, hiking, single track and mountain bike trails, programming, and paddle crafts!

Whether your role is in programming, park management, design, or park amenity products, we are all striving for the same thing: a high-quality outdoor recreation experience for all visitors! We are all learning with every project how to make outdoor recreation more accessible for everyone, and we are always seeking to do better. Thank you for persevering with passion in your work.  

As the 2025 legislative session comes to a close (sort of), it is important to acknowledge the important role our elected leaders play in achieving our goal for parks and trails. GMPT’s advocacy made a big difference this year. We should be proud that our membership was heard in committee hearings and that policy decisions were not made without considering Greater Minnesota. See more details in the legislative update below and watch for an upcoming Legislative Forum—be sure to engage with us there!

And don’t forget to join us for the 2025 Summer Meeting on July 29 at Lake Washington Regional Park! Our annual event is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow parks and trails professionals and to learn more about the latest and greatest in our industry! Scroll down for more information and registration.