From the Chair: Less than 2 weeks to go until the Annual Fall Meeting!

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

Hello, Greater MN Parks and Trails Friends! We are so excited to connect with you at the upcoming 2025 Annual Fall Meeting! This year, we are hosting our event at Robbins Island Regional Park, part of the City of Willmar’s Park System. There is still time to register, so make sure you RSVP using the button below.

Click here to register!

Why attend this year!? I may be biased, but I truly believe this is the best compilation of presenters, guests, and topics yet!

• 2025 Legislative Accomplishments
• 2026 Policies & Legislative Priorities
• Climate Impacts on Parks Operation & Programming — Pete Bouley, Assistant MN State Climatologist
• Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation — Randolph Briley, Deputy Director, Explore Minnesota
• Special Legislative Guests — Sen. Foung Hawj, Rep. Samantha Vang, Sen. Andrew Lang (invited), & Rep. Joe McDonald (invited)
• Help us thank our outgoing Treasurer (After 11 years, Tom Salkowski has announced his retirement)
• AND – it’s my last annual meeting as Chair!

Food and refreshments will be provided for those attending in person. Please register in advance so we can plan for your attendance and accommodate any dietary requirements. The $30 registration fee includes coffee, morning refreshments, and a catered lunch.

We hope to see you all there!

If you have any questions about this year’s Fall Meeting or future GMPT events, please email us at greatermnparkstrails@gmail.com.