All News

April 1, 2016

Legislative Update: House committee hears trail bills

The last week at the Capitol was a busy one for parks and trails. A number of bills were heard and continue to move through the legislative process: On Tuesday, March 29, the House Mining & Outdoor Recreation committee heard 20 different park and trail …

March 25, 2016

Legislative Update: Upcoming House hearing on Minnesota’s trails

This Tuesday, March 29, the House Mining & Outdoor Recreation committee will be hearing testimony on 19 different park and trail bills, including bills on the Greater Minnesota grant program, Chester Woods Trail, Preston-Harmony Trail, Glacial Lakes Trail, Gitchi-Gami Trail, Heartland State Trail, Minnesota Valley …

March 16, 2016

Legislative Update: Session gets off to a fast start

We’re only a week into the 2016 session, but already lawmakers are moving forward on a number of items that affect Minnesota’s parks and trails. Of particular note: On Tuesday, Gov. Dayton announced his supplemental state budget proposal. The governor’s proposal includes a $3 million …

March 11, 2016

Parks & Trails Primer on the 2016 Legislative Session

Minnesota lawmakers returned to St. Paul on Tuesday for what is sure to be a full yet speedy legislative session. Legislators have less then three months to work on a laundry list of issues, including passing a capital investment bonding bill, deciding how to spend (or save) …

March 9, 2016

Parks & Trails Bills Tracker Now Live

To help you stay on-top of these and other bills affecting parks and trails, we have created a bills tracker on our website. As bills are introduced and progress through the legislative process, we will update them in our tracker.

White-nose syndrome, a disease that can kill bats, confirmed in Minnesota

The MNDNR has confirmed cases of white-nose syndrome affecting hibernating bats at Lake Vermilion-Soundan Underground Mine State Park. Starting in late January, several hundred bats have been found dead near the main entrance to the mine.

February 25, 2016

Advocacy Day brings together supporters from across Minnesota

Photo Gallery of 2016 Parks & Trails Advocacy Day Parks & Trails Council's Advocacy Day draws advocates from across Minnesota Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota's annual advocacy workshop, held on Feb. 24, was filled with opportunities for our supporters and friends group members across ...

February 16, 2016

Friends of Scandia Parks and Trails look to make city pollinator friendly

From Forest Lake Times Members of the Friends of Scandia Parks and Trails are trying to make the city more desirable for pollinating bugs, such as butterflies and bees.

February 5, 2016

State parks and trails license plate contest

A new license plate will soon be available, and it comes with park perks. The new plate, which will feature a parks and trails design, will support Minnesota state parks and trails, and gives free entry to vehicles sporting them. Minnesotans who choose the plate …

January 12, 2016

Former Rep. Ann Lenczewski to represent Parks & Trails Council

Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota (P&TC) is proud to announce an exciting enhancement to our government relations program as the highly respected, former chair of the House Taxes Committee, Ann Lenczewski will represent P&TC at the state capitol during the 2016 legislative session. Lenczewski had been a strong supporter of parks and trails during her 16 years at the Legislature, where she retired from last year.

January 8, 2016

Minnesota state parks and trails to celebrate 125th anniversary in 2016

From MN DNR State officials today invited Minnesotans to take part in a 125-mile challenge, a state park “Total Takeover,” picnics, summer “samplers” and other special events throughout the coming year as part of the 125th anniversary of Minnesota state parks and trails. On hand …

January 8, 2016

Minnesota State Parks and Trails system kicking off 125th anniversary

The Minnesota State Parks and Trails system is kicking off its 125th anniversary celebrations Friday at Fort Snelling State Park.

December 15, 2015

Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee seeks applicants

Applications due by Thursday, Jan. 7 The Department of Natural Resources, the Metropolitan Council and the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission are seeking qualified applicants to serve on the Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee. “The Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee plays …