PHOTO BY YAN – STOCK.ADOBE.COMThe Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has identified more than 40 public water access sites throughout the state for upgrades; smaller-scale projects will be carried out at 75 additional sites. The work is part of the Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) investments approved by the legislature and signed by Gov. Tim Walz in 2023.
Examples of projects include improving stormwater management, adding parking and enhancing aquatic invasive species inspection on Whaletail Lake in Hennepin County; installing a second boat ramp; and the installation an invasive species cleaning area at Lake Carlos in Douglas County.
“Time on the water is cherished activity for so many Minnesotans and visitors for out state, and we take pride that Minnesota DNR is a leader in providing access to those waters,” DNR commissioner Sarah Strommen said in a statement. “We also know that our public water accesses need significant investment. I’m excited for Minnesotans to start seeing upgrades in the coming months and years as a result of these investments and our commitment to ensuring people of all abilities and interests can enjoy our waters.”
The DNR manages about 1,700 public-water access sites. The Get Out MORE initiative is providing a boost in the department’s ability to maintain more of them and will be coordinated with ongoing baseline investments. Approximately $35 million will go towards modernizing boating access including $30 million for large-scale projects and $5 million for smaller-scale work including lengthening and widening ramps and launch lanes.
