Below is a message from GMPT Chair Gina Hugo. You can reach her at gina.hugo@co.sherburne.mn.us. Hello,…
From the Chair: Our Annual Fall Meeting was a great success!
Below is a message from GMPT Chair Gina Hugo. You can reach her at gina.hugo@co.sherburne.mn.us.
What a wonderful Greater MN Parks and Trails Annual Fall Meeting! It was so lovely to have so many members come together at beautiful Robbins Island Regional Park in Willmar, MN!
We packed the short day with fun trail trivia, 2025 highlights, and the election of new and returning Board Members.
Following the business portion of the meeting, we really started to have fun! Guest speakers and legislators brought great insights and data with humor and wit. Assistant State Climatologist Pete Boulay discussed climate trends and resiliency strategies for parks. Before lunch, we announced the retirement of long-time Treasurer Tom Salkowski and presented him with an award. Thank you, Tom!
Randolph Briley, Director of MN’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership, delved into the results of the Outdoor Industry Economic Impact Report that was released last June. Next, on a cold rainy day, we settled into a fireside chat with Senator Hawj—Chair of the Environment, Climate, and Legacy Committee—and Senator Lang—who also serves on the Environment, Climate, and Legacy Committee. Together, they discussed their personal connections to the outdoors, how it has been working together through a dynamic political year, and advice for GMPT members: Apply for LSOHF and CPL! Report on how Legacy dollars are being spent and plan to maintain what you build.
The day wrapped up with a presentation from Curt Hein and Kyle Radunz on behalf of the City of Willmar. They highlighted how Legacy dollars have enhanced accessibility within Robbins Island Regional Park and quantified the impact on community-building events, which are now much better supported by the investments.
Thank you to everyone who joined us!
If you would like to review highlights from the meeting, you can view our photo album using the button below.
If you have any questions about this year’s Fall Meeting or future GMPT events, please email us at greatermnparkstrails@gmail.com.
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