DNR invites public input on Heartland State Trail extension from Park Rapids to Itasca State Park

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting an open house Wednesday, Oct. 2, for planning of the Heartland State Trail in Hubbard County. The open house will be in the Northwoods Bank Community Room at 1200 East First St. in Park Rapids.

People can stop by anytime between 5 and 7 p.m. to review and comment on the draft master plan, which includes a proposed 20-mile trail extension that travels north from Park Rapids to Emmaville and Itasca State Park.

DNR staff will be available to discuss the plan and answer questions. The master plan must be completed and approved before any funds can be used for trail construction.

As planned, a significant portion of the trail extension will travel through public lands. Recommended trail uses include bicycling, hiking/walking, dog walking, running/jogging, in-line skating, environmental education/interpretation, hunting, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

A copy of the draft master plan is available online at www.mndnr.gov (www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/mgmtplans/parks_trails/open.html).

Those unable to review and comment on the draft master plan at the open house meeting can submit comments via email or phone to:

• Colin Kelly, principal planner, colin.kelly@state.mn.us, 651-259-5606.
• Tony Walzer, acquisition and development specialist, anthony.walzer@state.mn.us, 218-308-2379.

A 30-day public review of the draft plan begins Wednesday, Sept. 25. Comments will be accepted through Friday, Oct. 25.