In This Issue
Minnesotans encouraged to try winter outdoor recreation
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is waiving vehicle permit fees at all 73 state parks and recreation areas on Monday, Jan. 20. This Free Park Day is one of four days each year on which the DNR waives the requirement for a vehicle permit at state parks and recreation areas. There is one fee-free day for each season of the year, giving Minnesotans an opportunity to experience state parks and recreation areas at different times of the year.
The 2025 free park days are scheduled as follows:
- Monday, Jan. 20
- Saturday, April 26
- Saturday, June 14
- Friday, Nov. 28
“While Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are open 365 days per year, most visits occur in the summer,” said Ann Pierce, director of DNR’s Parks and Trails Division. “Minnesota state parks truly shine year-round, and winter is a special time to embrace the state’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities; so we’re hoping people will come out and join us on Jan. 20.”
In winter, visitors can partake in popular activities like sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, if snow conditions are suitable. There are also many winter outdoor activities that don’t require snow, such as birding, wildlife watching, winter hiking, nature photography, and having a campfire with hot chocolate and s’mores. If ice conditions are suitable, ice fishing is also a popular activity in state parks and recreation areas.
Many parks offer snowshoe rentals, and select parks offer ski rentals. Visitors looking for rental equipment or certain recreational opportunities can use the DNR’s ParkFinder tool (mndnr.gov/parkfinder) to find the best destination for their visit.
The DNR recommends visitors wear clothing appropriate for the weather and bring water and snacks. Trails are often icy in the winter, so visitors planning to hike may want to bring traction devices for their footwear.
Visitors are advised to check for updates in the visitor alert section on park websites (mndnr.gov/parks) before leaving home. Visitors can also download free maps from park websites, which can be found in the free Avenza maps app that helps visitors navigate even when there’s no cell service. Visitors who prefer a paper map can pick one up at the ranger station; look outside the station if it’s closed.
The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping or equipment rentals.
For more information, visit the DNR’s Free Park Days webpage (mndnr.gov/freeparkdays).
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Appreciation award highlights conservation effectiveness
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources presented its annual Ecological and Water Resources Division Appreciation Award to the Pipestone Soil and Water Conservation District. DNR Ecological and Water Resources Division Director Katie Smith presented the award at the annual conference of the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts in December.
“Pipestone SWCD is a great partner in sustainable water resource management,” Smith said. “They understand the water availability challenges in the area and work closely with landowners, communities and the DNR.”
Smith also cited Pipestone SWCD’s valuable work collecting and monitoring groundwater and surface water. They were one of the first Minnesota counties to pilot the electronic observation well data downloading program. They partner with landowners to conduct permit-required monitoring to ensure accurate data collection. They also collect surface water monitoring data that are critical to monitoring groundwater aquifers.
“Soil and water conservation districts play a vital role in helping to protect Minnesota’s lands and waters. In collaboration with local and state government, and the demonstrated commitments of landowners and businesses, SWCDs are making a difference that benefits our communities, environment, our wildlife and, ultimately, all Minnesotans,” Smith said.
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Watershed District of the Year award highlights conservation effectiveness
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources presented its Watershed District of the Year award to the Roseau River Watershed District. DNR Ecological and Water Resources Division Northwest Region Manager Nathan Kestner presented the award at the annual Minnesota Watersheds conference in December.
“Since 1964, the Roseau River Watershed District has been a key player in managing water and protecting water quality through partnerships and programs at the local, state, regional, national and international levels,” Kestner said. “The district’s three-person staff and five-member board are open-minded, cooperative and effective partners in water and natural resource management.”
The RRWD is a key partner in managing public water permits, working closely with the DNR to support landowners, townships, and local governments. RRWD has been instrumental in developing innovative projects that reduce flood damage while enhancing natural resources. Through their collaboration on multiple projects like the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area outlet and the Hay Creek-Norland flood control and habitat restoration project, RRWD has achieved outstanding results in flood damage reduction. The RRWD has also managed their drainage systems in ways that provide drainage benefits and improve the quality of water entering the Roseau River.
The RRWD also promotes water conservation efforts through its website, informational brochures, public presentations, and one-on-one interactions with landowners in the district.
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