LCCMR recommends funding for Parks & Trails programs and projects

One of GMPT’s top priorities is ensuring that funding is available for parks and trails of all sizes, whether they qualify for Legacy funds or not. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) local parks and trail grants programs under Minn. Stat. 85.019 an important source of those funds, which is why GMPT advocates every year for funding of those programs in the recommendations made by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

In July, the GMPT submitted written testimony to the LCCMR in support of such funding. We are pleased they recommended that $4.77 million be allocated to the grant programs in their overall recommendations. In addition, several GMPT member projects were also included in the recommendations:

• Olmstead County — $1.978 million for Lake Zumbro Park Water Access and Site Improvements
• St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority — $1.325 million for the Mesabi Trail
• City of Duluth — $2.312 million for Thom Storm Chalet and Outdoor Recreation Center
• Otter Tail County — $1.122 million for Echo Bay County Park

Inclusion in the LCCMR’s recommendations is an important first step in obtaining these funds. These recommendations will be forwarded to the Legislature with the goal of passing legislation that finances these projects out of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF). Click here to view a complete list of the 2025 recommendations.