Below is a message from GMRPTC Executive Director Renee Mattson. You can reach her at renee.mattson@gmrptcommission.org.

(Above) Welcome sign at the Big Falls Campground and Horse Camp.

August means the Minnesota State Fair, school shopping, last weekends with family before school is back in session, and funding tours! 

The annual GMRPTC grants cycle opens April 1 and closes on July 31. In August, Joe and I had the pleasure of visiting the grant applicants and reviewing their proposed projects. This is certainly a lot of driving, and also a distinct highlight as we are able to review projects and really understand through an in-person visit what this project will mean to the community and visitors who use the park or trail.

It’s always energizing to see how thoughtful master planning—shaped through community engagement and dialogue—guides the long-term vision for a park or trail. Reviewing a facility’s very first project as it seeks grant funding is especially rewarding, and watching a park or trail evolve over time, sometimes from nothing more than an early idea, is one of the most enjoyable parts of this work.

I’d encourage everyone to take advantage of our beautiful Minnesota fall and explore a park or trail you’ve not previously been to before. The wealth of opportunity we have in Minnesota is simply amazing, and much of that is possible because of our Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment funding!

(Above) Site visit to Hubbard County Deep Lake Park.