Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
This project was funded in part under the Coastal Zone Management Act, by NOAA’s
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, in cooperation with Minnesota’s
Lake Superior Coastal Program.
Other sponsors include the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 2010 State Park
Legacy Funding and private donations.
Acknowledgements:
The staff and management team at Gooseberry Falls State Park would like to thank the
following partners for their work on the Gitchi Gummi Overlook Project:
Being the most visited park in Minnesota, Gooseberry Falls' management team and staff
strive to protect the natural and cultural resources from the constant stream of eager
visitors. We also have the responsibility to protect those eager visitors from the Park’s
natural and cultural resources. This project was suggested for these two reasons. Very
seldom do we get the chance to take on both of these aspects in the same project. The
public and resources will benefit from this project through 1) improved safety conditions
2) greater accessibility to the sites as a result of the improved safety conditions 3)
preservation of the Park’s cultural and natural resources for future generations 4)
improved water quality for Lake Superior and the Gooseberry River 5) management of
Park resources in a manner that balances increasing tourism with the need to ensure
quality State Park experiences.
There were four initial site concerns that prompted Park management to take the steps
that led to this collaborative effort. The first three involved areas on the Gitchi Gummi
hiking trail, and the fourth site was near the Upper Falls on the Gooseberry River.
The Gitchi Gummi trail provides some of the best panoramic views of the Gooseberry
River, Lake Superior and the surrounding area in the park. Because of these views the
trail has seen a lot of use since the 1930’s. Erosion impacts to the thin soil and steep
slopes result in unsafe access and degradation to the surrounding resources. This project
was modeled after a similar project at Tettegouche State Park. Experiences at
Tettegouche show that if we provide safe, delineated places for our visitors to congregate
they will be more likely to stay on these paths, resulting in less overall damage to the
resource.
The first Gitchi Gummi overlook is the site of two original Civilian Conservation Corps
(CCC) structures built in 1937, a shelter and an outhouse. Because of the surrounding
history the site was named the CCC Overlook. This overlook provides views of some of
the most popular areas at Gooseberry Falls including the Picnic Flow, Lake Superior
shoreline and the Gooseberry River drainage. This overlook will also provide visitors
with a chance to spend time in and around these historic buildings. This project will stop
the degradation of the surrounding area, allowing native lichens, mosses and grasses to
regenerate. Plans are already being made to follow up this project with resource
restoration projects.
The second Gitchi Gummi overlook site was initially referred to as the Birch Overlook
because of a small birch tree that was perched precariously on the edge of the cliff.
During a safety inspection a staff member had trouble locating the site, and upon closer
inspection the small birch tree was found dislodged and fallen to the rocky lakeshore 60
feet below. This site was initially going to have a small deck, but later inspections
reveled that putting up a hand rail would be more beneficial, as the third site would
provide a better view and hand rails would make the site safe and user friendly. About
35 feet of railing was installed.
The third site on the Gitchi Gummi trail, Cedar Cove, consists of two decks that initially
were going to be connected with a stairway. But, once site prep and construction began,
the two decks were too far apart to create the link. It was decided that each deck would
sit independently, connected by the existing trail.
The fourth site was an area at the Upper Falls on the Gooseberry River where exposed
roots, rock and wet conditions from a hillside spring created a dangerous situation for
park visitors and staff. About 40 feet of safety railings were installed to mitigate this
hazard.
Work Completed
Task 1 Overview
Attached you will find the deliverables outlined in the grant. In task 1 we were directed
to “finalize project plans, order materials and hire workers”:
1. Finalize blueprints and other plans for the project.
2. Develop overall safety plans for the project. This will include inspections of the
work sites and safety considerations for both workers and members of the public.
3. Put together bids for the project materials and order same. Following DNR
purchasing guidelines, some of this will need to be done by the DNR NE Region
Business Office, and their time is not included in the grant.
4. Hire 2 temporary Building and Grounds Workers for the project. This will
include posting requirements, interviews, selection and hire paperwork.
Task 1completion
Task 1 created some unexpected hurdles. With a project of this scope there are so many
people with so many ideas, plans and schedules that keeping everyone organized and on
the same page posed the largest complication. However, in the end prints and plans were
assembled, finalized and approved. The Safety Plan was written and continuously
updated for changing conditions, tasks, labor needs and other safety issues that were
raised. Attached is the final draft (appendix T1-2). Bids for project materials were
acquired. Attached to this report are all Purchase Orders and bids written for this project
(appendices T1-3…). One change to the original plan was labor needs. It was decided
that a young adult Minnesota Conservation Corps crew (MCC) would be used for the
labor on this project. Jordan Schaefer, Park Specialist, Gooseberry Falls State Park and
Randy Nelson, Building and Grounds Maintenance Worker, Tettegouche State Park
would assume oversight/lead worker roles to direct the technical layout and framing
work. We acquired two MCC crews for two weeks each. The first crew was based out of
Duluth and was used for layout and footings; the second crew was based out of Moose
Lake and was used for framing and post setting. This decision turned out to be highly
beneficial. The MCC crews do great work and strive for a high level of safety on every
project. With minimal oversight they completed much of the heavy work within the first
three weeks, leaving the last week for clean-up and finish work. Future projects of this
kind would benefit greatly from the MCC organization.
Task 2 Overview
Task two began the dirt work and construction. We were tasked with “Site preparation of
scenic overlooks”:
1. Prepare project request for Minnesota Conservation Corps crew and coordinate
their participation in the project.
2. Tree and brush removal from access trail and individual project locations, gravel
improvements to same.
3. Material delivery to project locations, starting with overlooks.
4. Install footings for all 3 overlooks.
Task 2 completion
Task two was where this project really began to take shape. Due to an early spring ice
storm Gooseberry crews had already cleared the access trail into the three overlook sites.
A cache site was set up off the main trail to place tools and materials so they could be
used as needed, instead of having everything on site for the duration of the project. Site
layout was done before our young adult MCC crew from Duluth arrived to begin digging
footings. The footings were dug and installed by the Duluth MCC crew, overseen by
Jordan Schaefer and Randy Nelson. At the end of this week the shape of the decks could
be visualized. Safety concerns were addressed prior to work each day, including limiting
lines and harnesses. The sites were adequately blocked off with snow fence to keep the
public safe during this process.
Task 3 Overview
For task 3 we had to begin construction of the three scenic overlooks:
1. Fabrication of Core 10 handrails, including bid process to hire a welder.
2. CCC Overlook construction and site clean-up.
3. Birch Overlook construction and site clean-up.
4. Cedar Cove construction and site clean-up.
T3-2.cedar)
Task 3 completion
Each of these overlooks presented unique challenges. After a welder had been found to
fabricate the handrails, MCC crews from Duluth and Moose Lake began framing the
overlooks. Again, Jordan Schaefer and Randy Nelson were present in the lead worker
roles. Each MCC crew consisted of 4 people. With Jordan and Randy working with
them, the initial framing went very quickly. Due to safety concerns the sites were kept
clean during each aspect of construction, picking up and packing out all trash and scrap at
the end of each work day/week. Fence was put up at the end of each day to keep visitors
out of the construction area.
Task 4 Overview
Task 4 consisted of construction of railing by the Upper Falls and final sign posting:
1. Site preparation by the Upper Falls, including safety provisions for the numerous
park visitors frequenting this area and final delivery of materials to the site.
2. Installation of railing and cleanup of site.
3. Make and post Coastal Program signs at all sites
4. Complete final grant administration tasks, including final report.
Deliverables are:
1. Completed railing at upper falls (Appendix T4-1)
2. Photographs of construction process (Appendix T4-2)
3. Coastal Program signs (Appendix T4-3)
4. Final paperwork/report (quarterly reports will be sent throughout this project as
they come due)
Task 4 Completion
The railings at the Upper Falls were installed first and foremost with staff and public
safety in mind. The railings were installed on the trail side of the existing rope trail
guides and staff was instructed not to go past them for any reason without safety
equipment on. At the end of each work day, tripping hazards were marked using pink
flagging and large objects on the ground. After posts were installed, the rope was moved
from the existing pig tails to the posts and the pig tails were removed. Railing was later
installed to replace the rope. GFSP staff and MCC crews worked together to accomplish
this project.
Coastal Program signs were installed at all four sites upon completion of the project.
Results
The tangible outcomes from this project have gone above and beyond those outlined in
the grant. This project has not only accomplished its goal of providing safe viewing
opportunities for park visitors but has also shown what can be done when different
groups, agencies and individuals work together towards a common goal. All of the
deliverables outlined in the grant have been met and are attached for review.
The primary impacts are the same as the primary deliverables. There are now four
viewing areas where park visitors are better protected from hazardous conditions and
where the surrounding landscape will benefit from the concentrated use these overlooks
provide. Future landscape and resource work is being planned as a follow up to this
project. If it weren’t for the funding granted to us by MLSCP we would not have been
able to take on a project of this scope. So much of our time and energy is spent keeping
up with maintenance demands that assistance of this kind is sometimes the only way we
can do these kinds of projects.
Funding
Funding for this project has come from a variety of sources. $18,406 came from MLSCP
in the form of a grant. $15,000 of Minnesota bonding funds was used as part of the
match to the grant. We also were awarded $9,000 in Legacy Act funds which were also
used for matching funds. A generous donation from Laurie Bennett extended our bench
budget, making it possible to install one bench on each overlook deck. Fleet and grant
administrative costs were absorbed by Gooseberry Falls State Park and the NE Region as
part of the matching funds.
Conclusions
This project was very challenging logistically. Timing orders and deliveries with crew
availability, hardware needs, equipment needs and funding sources kept administrative
staff very busy throughout the project. Administrative needs such as keeping all funding,
invoices and receipts organized and paid while adhering to business office standards was
a learning experience for Gooseberry staff.
New opportunities arose as a direct result of what was accomplished during this project.
There are now three new locations for non-personal interpretation. A historical look at
the mouth of the Gooseberry River is already being planned. Photographs of the mouth
of the river were found. These photographs were taken in the 1930’s near where the new
CCC scenic overlook is located. An interpretive sign is planned for the overlook railing
describing the history of the area and incorporating these photographs.
Another opportunity that resulted from this project is extending and adding sections of
railing to unsafe areas of trail. And, as discussed earlier, Gooseberry staff have been
conferring with the area Resource Specialist on rehabilitation potential for the sites in the
next year. After successful completion of this project Gooseberry’s management team
and staff now have clear expectations for future projects of this kind. We are confidant
that we can pursue the resources needed to accomplish similar projects with the generous
help of MLSCP, the Region II Management Team, MCC and all those who assisted with
this project.
Appendix Contents:
Task 1:
T1-1.1 – PDF, Prototype Beam, Joist and Deck Details, MN DNR
T1-1.2 – PDF Scan, Overlook Footing on Rock, MN DNR
T1-1.3 – PDF Scan, Safety Railing Cover Board Design, MN DNR
T1-1.4 – PDF, Post Boot Design, MN DNR
T1-1.5 – PDF, Safety Fence Style B Specifications, MN DNR
T1-1.6 – PDF, Safety Pins and Cover Board Design, MN DNR
T1-1.7 – PDF, Safety Railing Bracket, MN DNR
T1-1.8 – PDF, Overlook Designs
T1.1map1 – PDF, Boundary Map, Sliver Creek Township
T1.1map2 – bmp file, Overlook and railing locations
Task 2:
T2-1 – MCC project request
T2-2 – Photos, overlook sites before construction
Task 3:
T3.1.paulsweldPO.pdf – Purchase Order for Paul’s Welding, (welded safety pins and
railing for the project)
T3.1.paulsweldinvoice.pdf – Invoice from Paul’s Welding
T3.2.CCC – Photos, CCC Overlook construction process
T3.2.birch – Photos, Birch Overlook construction process
T3.2.cedarcove – Photos, Cedar Cove Overlook construction process
T3.3 – Photos, Final photos of finished CCC, Birch and Cedar Cove Overlooks
Task 4:
T4.1&2.UF – Photos, Upper Falls safety railing construction process and final product
T4.3 – Photos, MLSCP/NOAA signs posted at all 4 sites.
Reference Materials:
Ref001.SHIPOapproval.pdf – Approval to do this project on/near a historical site
Ref002.laboraudittrl.pdf – accumulated labor paid from MLSCP Grant
Ref003.inkindmatch.xlsx – In-kind match for labor, fleet and MCC crew lodging.
Ref004.visitorcenterposting.docx – Sign posted by Paul Sundberg, Park Manager, at the
Visitor Center front counter
Ref005.parksupdate.pdf – Parks update mailing from 12/2009 referring to the project.
Ref005.parksupdate2.pdf – Parks update mailings from 01/2010 referring to the project.
Ref006.ManagersFinRpt.pdf – Final Managers financial report for the grant funding
string
Ref007.ExpendDetailRptGrant.pdf – Final Expenditrue detail report for the grant funding
string
Ref009.ExpendDetailRptMatch.pdf – Final expenditure detail report for the match
funding string.
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See BLANK for hand rail
information
6’
8’ 4’
12’
8’
Revised 10/14/09
Site overview:
There are four sites for this project, each with it’s own safety considerations. The first three
sites are on the Gitchi Gummi Trail. Each is on a high bluff overlooking the mouth of Gooseberry River
and Lake Superior. Site one is defined by an original CCC stone shelter. There will be a deck built on the
bluff overlooking the river and lake. Site two is will have approximately 32 feet of safety railing installed
to keep the public back from the edge of the bluff which is 50-60 feet down to the lake. Site three will
hold two separate 8x12 decks. These decks will hold magnificent views of the lake, mouth of the rive
and Picnic Flow. Site 4 is an area at Upper Falls where people can get very close to a 15-20 foot drop.
48 feet of safety railing will be installed. This plan represents Gooseberry’s commitment to protecting
the public and our staff throughout the construction process.
Overall concerns:
The height of all four of these locations is such that safety harnesses will need to be worn to
complete much of the work. Lead workers will ensure that safety harnesses are worn properly and that
anchor points are adequate. Limiting lines will be used any time staff are working within 8 feet of the
edge.
Other concerns relate to material handling, equipment use and site security. The semi
remoteness of the sites means that all equipment, materials and hardware will need to be brought in by
Gator or ATV. Park staff will need to drive equipment and trucks on the Gitchi Gammi bike trail to the
access trail. Flashers will be used and staff will drive no more than 10 M.P.H. yielding to pedestrians and
bikes. The access trail will be used to move materials from the trailhead to the cache site or building
site. The trail is uneven with some hills going in and out. Caution will be used when driving equipment
on the access trail and the portions where equipment is being used on the Gitchi Gummi operators will
yield to park visitors. Loads will be kept low and care will be taken not to overload materials. Much of
the material hauling will need to be done by hand from site 1 to sites 2 and 3. Proper lifting and
stretching techniques should always be used so injuries to backs and joints are avoided.
The following will break down safety issues by each task associated with the CZM Grant and
then any site specific concerns will be added at the end.
Task 1:
Site inspections are the only areas of task 1 that presents any safety issues. Staff will potentially
be in close proximity to the edge. Walking the trail to and from the site presents many opportunities to
roll ankles and sprain knees.
Task 2:
Clearing and maintaining the access trail requires use of a Gator and a chainsaw certified person
to clear windfalls and brush. As stated above the trail is very uneven so care will be taken to drive slow
and in the proper gear. Rear differential should be locked when going up hill and brakes should be
tested before leaving the shop. All PPE for the saw operator and swamper will be worn including hard
hats w/ear protection, safety glasses, chaps, steel toe sawyer boots and gloves. The sawyer will stop
cutting when park guests are in the area and the swamper will watch for guests and if necessary stop
them from proceeding until the area has been deemed safe by the sawyer or lead worker.
As stated above, care will need to be taken when handling materials. Many materials will need
to be moved to and from the sites as work progresses. Materials and equipment will also have to be
hauled on state and county roadways to and from other work stations. Materials will be hauled in
trucks, with the ATV/ORV and by hand. Proper care will be taken to ensure that all proper PPE is worn,
loads are secured properly and equipment and trailers are not overloaded.
Safety issues during installation of the footings at all three overlooks are: proximity to the edge
of the bluff, hauling concrete in pails 300 yards from the mixer to the furthest deck and cutting rebar.
The proximity to the edge has already been addressed. Limiting lines and harnesses will be used any
time staff are within 8 feet of the bluffs edge. Hauling concrete has been addressed under material
hauling. Any person cutting rebar will wear eye protection and hearing protection.
Task 3:
In task 3 we begin the actual construction of the overlooks. The Birch Overlook plan was
discarded and replaced with a safety railing plan similar to the one at Upper Falls. Three decks are to be
built on two overlooks. All three overlooks will require limiting lines for anyone who is working on the
river or lake side of the framing or anyone who is working on the deck once built. Power tools needed
for this project are attached to this plan as a JSA. All staff, MCC workers and volunteers will be told how
to safely operate each tool. Proper PPE will be worn during operation of all tools. Safety glasses and
hearing protection will be worn any time a circular or reciprocating saw is in use. Clear communication
and directions will be given by the lead workers each day prior to the start of work.
At the end of each day orange snow fence will be put up to deter park visitors from entering the
construction area. After the decks have been built and before the posts and railings have been installed
snow fence will be attached directly to the deck framing and will surround each deck entirely. Sites will
be picked up and organized at the end of each work day. All unusable scrap and garbage will be packed
out and all usable lumber and materials will be neatly stacked outside of the trail corridor. Tools and
equipment will be stored in a location that is easily accessible by staff yet out of the way of park guests.
Task 4:
Prep work and construction at the two railings sites (Birch Overlook and Upper Falls) will be
done to ensure that public safety is the primary consideration. Each site will be adequately marked with
flagging and orange snow fence to ensure that there are no tripping hazards. The sites will be inspected
regularly to ensure that safety measures are still in place until completion. Limiting lines and safety
harnesses will be used to ensure that staff cannot access the edge of the bluff and ledge. Once posts
and railings are installed staff will not work on lake or river side of the railings without limiting lines
attached to a secure anchor point. The sites will be picked up and secure at the end of each work day so
materials and tools are not a tripping hazard to staff or visitors.
Department of Natural Resources
SUGGESTED VENDORS: Include contract #, vendor #, complete company name, address & phone #:
Vendor 1: Vendor 2: Vendor 3:
REQUIRED ACCOUNTING INFORMATION: If not completed this could delay your order:
Acct Dist 01 Amount: $3,545.00 Percent: 100 Acct Dist 02 Amount: Percent:
Fund: 500 Org/Sub: 42C0 Appr: 465 Fund: Org/Sub: Appr:
Activity: Project #: Rept Cat: 2CA9 Activity: Project#: Rept Cat:
4CZM4090
FY: 08 Location Code: Obj Code: 2J00 FY: Location Code: Obj Code:
SUGGESTED VENDORS: Include contract #, vendor #, complete company name, address & phone #:
Vendor 1: Vendor 2: Vendor 3:
Chippewa Forest Wood Products, LLC
12634 Three Culverts Rd. NE
Bemidji, MN 56601
Ph 218.586.2776
REQUIRED ACCOUNTING INFORMATION: If not completed this could delay your order:
Acct Dist 01 Amount: $600 Percent: 100 Acct Dist 02 Amount: Percent:
Fund: 500 Org/Sub: 42C0 Appr: 465 Fund: Org/Sub: Appr:
Activity: Project #: Rept Cat: 2CA9 Activity: Project#: Rept Cat:
4CZM4090
FY: 08 Location Code: Obj Code: 2J00 FY: Location Code: Obj Code:
SUGGESTED VENDORS: Include contract #, vendor #, complete company name, address & phone #:
Vendor 1: Vendor 2: Vendor 3:
REQUIRED ACCOUNTING INFORMATION: If not completed this could delay your order:
Acct Dist 01 Amount: $1950 Percent: 100 Acct Dist 02 Amount: Percent:
Fund: 500 Org/Sub: 42C0 Appr: 465 Fund: Org/Sub: Appr:
Activity: Project #: Rept Cat: 2CA9 Activity: Project#: Rept Cat:
4CZM4090
FY: 08 Location Code: Obj Code: 2J00 FY: Location Code: Obj Code:
PO # Requst for Quote # 253-2010-01 2008 500 465 42C0 4CZM4090 2CA9 R29 PGL R2942G
Notes:
FEE-FOR-SERVICE WORK ORDER BETWEEN THE
This work order is between the State ofMinnesota, acting through its Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Trails
("STATE") and FRIENDS OF MINNESOTA CONSERVAnON CORPS (MCC). This work order is issued under the
authority of the Master Contract Agreement, dated July 1,2009, CFMS Contract Number B28612 (T-number 1029A), and
is subject to all provisions of the Master Contract Agreement, which is incorporated by reference.
2. DUTIES OF MCC
2.1 Complete services as specified in Exhibit A, which is attached hereto, and shall be a part of this work order.
2.2 Hire and supervise MCC personnel in accordance with MCC guidelines.
2.3 Provide basic orientation and training as appropriate for MCC corpsmembers.
2.4 Provide consultation and on-site project review to ensure that service is progressing in accordance with this
work order and MCC guidelines.
2.S Provide personnel and payroll administration for MCC corpsmembers.
2.6 Provide all necessary transportation ofMCC corpsmembers to and from service sites.
2.7 Provide basic tools, safety gear, personal supplies and equipment needed by MCC corpsmembers to meet all
state and federal safety requirements. Provide worker's compensation for all MCC corpsmembers.
2.8 Track services completed and make this information available to STA IE upon request.
3. DUTIES OF STATE
3.1 Provide project specific direction and assistance to the MCC work crew.
3.2 Provide public information that MCC is performing services within the STATE'S area of responsibilii)'.
3.3 Provide at least one media promotion to the public stating that the services(s) are being performed by MCC.
Any publicity regarding the subject matter of this work order must not be released without prior written
approval from MCC's Authorized Representative.
3.4 Ensure safe working conditions in and around project areas that meet all state and federal standards.
3.5 Secure allloca!, county, state and federal permits required by law prior tu the commencement ofwork.
3.6 Provide MCC corpsmembers with training and educational opportunities relevant to the serviees being
performed. STATE may provide or arrange said training or may request MCC assistance in providing or
arranging said training, as described in Exhibit A.
3.7 Provide specialized tools, safei)' gear, personal supplies and equipment that are not available through MCC and
that are needed by MCC corpsmembers to meet all state and federal safety requirements.
3.8 Provide all project materials, supplies and chemicals.
Page 2
4.2 STATE's obligation to MCC under this work order is up to a maximum of $11,680.00, based on the following
ree scbedule: 16 days labor for a crew of 4 @ ~nOO/day plus 8 days spike fees @$60/day. .
4.3 MCC may invoice monthly. MCC shall send final invoice to STATE upon service completion.
4.4 STATE shall make payment within 30 days ofreceipt of invoices.
5. PROJECT MANAGERS
The STATE's Project Manager is Phil Leversedge, Park Manager, 5702 Hwy 61, R2 - Tettegouche S.P., Silver
Bay, Mu 55614 ph 218-226-6365 ext 224. The STATE's Project Manager will certifY aCceptance on each invoice
submitted for payment. Ifthe STATE's Project Manager changes at any time during this work order, the STATE must
immediately notifY MCC.
The MCC's Project Manager is Lisa Cassioppi, NE District Manager, 1201 EastHwy 2, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
ph 218-327-4139. If the MCC's Project Manager changes at any time during this work order, the MCC must
immediately notifY the STATE.
7. E~LOYEESTATUS
By order ofthe Governor's Executive Order 08-0 I, if this contract, including any extension options, is or could be in excess
of$50,000, Contractor certifies that it and its subcontractors:
7.1 Comply with the Immigrstion Reform and Control Act of 1986 (U.S.C. 1101 ct. seq.) in relation to aU
Page 3
employees perfonning work in the United States and do not kno\\ingly employ persons in violation of the
United States' immigrations laws; and
7.2 By the date of the perfonnance of services under this contract, Contractor and all its subcontractors have
implemented or are in the process of implementing the E-Verify program for aU newly hired employees in the
United States who will perfonn work on behalf of the State of Minnesota. .
Contractor shall obtain certifications of compliance with this section from all subcontractors who will participate in the
perfonnance of this contract. Subcontractor certifications shall be maintained by Contractor and made available to the state
upon request. If Contractor or its subcontractors are not in compliance with 1 or 2 above or have not begun or implemented
the E-VerifY program for all newly hired employees performing work under the contract, the state reserves the right to
determine what action it may take including but not limited to, cancelling the contract and/or suspending or debarring the
contractor from state purchasing.
8. CANCELLATION
8.1 This work order may be cancelled by the STATE or MCC at any time, with or withont cause, upon 30 days
written notice to the other party. In the event of such cancellation, MCC shall be entitled to payment for
services perfonned up to date of cancellation. .
8.2 MCC reserves the right to withdraw corpsmembers from STATE for emergency respouse work including,
but not limited to, natoral disasters and wild fire response. MCC will make reasonable efforts to
accommodate the needs of the STATE. STATE has no funding commitment to MCC under this work
order while corpsmembers have been withdrawn from this work order for emergency response. STATE
shall remain liable for payment for services that MCC provides to STATE.
A representative from MCC and DNR should sign below AFTER funding has bcen encumbered in theDNR accounting system.
, Signed: SiLvd\R
. Date: a,(<if
r i
('O",? TitlelDivision:
By: '-----I
Title:
Date:
A copy of the signed MCC project request form must be attaehed to tbis document as "Exhibit AIf before
processing. Note: The project manager certification must be completed before encumbrance will be
authorized.
Page 4
r ~- ,
Randy Nelson i Building & Grounds Worker - Tettegouche : Daily technical assistance as needed
; Will requesting agency provide a work site orientation, project overview and history, or any other applicable on-site training for the crew?
! XV.. ONo
, CrewType:
X Young Adult crew (4-5 members in size including Crew Leader. Available MidwFebruary thru Mid~December)
oSummer Youth Program crew (S...a- members in size incfuding Crew Leader. Available Mld~une thru Mid-August)
i Estimated number of days required Season best suited for project Dales Preferred
I 4 Weeks : Fall Immediate - as discussed
I
i Can profect be accomplished Intermittently? 0 Yes X No
: Requesting Agency'sIDlvlalon', Priority for this Project (Explanation)
I This project is high priority tOt Fall 2009. The Lake Superior Coastal Program Grant requires the work to be comple1ed by December 31, 2009,
, This project may also include funding from the 2010 Legacy Funding for MCC Projects - we will determine this in the next few weeks and will make
i necessary adjustments to comply with Legacv.",Fu",n",d",in"",G",ui",de",ii",nes=.,________________________---'
Alternate work plan In event of adverse weather (II applicable)
None
Can requesting agency provide specialized equipment If required for project? X Yes DNo
DEADLINE FOR Mee RESPONSE (date & time): - As needed
ASAP - September 9, 2009
Certftlcatlon: As project host, I certify that the asslgnmenl of MeC members will not result in the displacemenl of currenlty employed workers or
workers on seasonal layoff or layoff from a substanllat!y equivarent position, including partial displacement such as reduction in hOurs of non-overtime
work, wages, or other employment benefits. Further, MeC members will not perform services or duties that have been performed by or' were assigtled
to any employee who is on strike or Is being locked out.
X Capy sent to Union Representative Representative's Name: Grace Derller Date: September 4, 2009
Submitted by:
'7L1f! ,'r
Authorized Requestor's Printed Name Title
Philip Leversedge Park Manager,
Gitchi Gummi Overlook, Appendix T3-2.birch 2009
Poured footings at theBirch Overlook Site
An MCC Duluth Crew member gets holes ready for cement footings at the “CCC Scenic Overlook”
A crew member from Duluth MCC works on setting posts for the “CCC Scenic Overlook”
Work was completed by MCC Crews, Randy Nelson and Jordan Schaefer
Installing hand rails at the CCC Overlook was completed by Shelly Keech and Jordan Schaefer.
The Duluth MCC crew begins digging the footings for the Cedar Cove Overlook.
Moose Lake MCC crew works on framing the two Cedar Cove Overlooks. Work completed by MCC crews, Randy Nelson
Cedar Cove decking and posts set by the Moose Lake MCC crew.
Final railing installation at Cedar Cove Overlook was completed by Shelly Keech and Jordan Schaefer.
Upper Falls safety measures after post holes were dug and the stainless steel threaded rod was placed. Each hole was
Moose Lake Minnesota Conservation Corps Crew installing safety railings at upper falls.
Moose Lake MCC crew installing Upper Falls safety railings and cover boards.
Employee Totals for Gubrud,Gary W: 4.00 64.68 4.94 0.00 3.07 72.69
R2942G3 00248967 1 Keech,Shelley L PCN# 00046950
11/10/09 11/10/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 32.00 572.48 43.80 0.00 27.20 643.48
Salary Subtotal: 32.00 572.48 43.80 0.00 27.20 643.48
Employee Totals for Keech,Shelley L: 32.00 572.48 43.80 0.00 27.20 643.48
R2942X4 01069675 0 Nelson,Randolph A PCN# 00903420
9/29/09 9/29/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 16.00 239.84 18.68 0.00 15.74 274.26
9/29/09 M OTR 1C Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 1.00 22.49 1.74 0.00 1.46 25.69
Salary Subtotal: 17.00 262.33 20.42 0.00 17.20 299.95
10/13/09 10/13/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 36.00 539.64 41.81 0.00 32.72 614.17
Salary Subtotal: 36.00 539.64 41.81 0.00 32.72 614.17
Employee Totals for Nelson,Randolph A: 53.00 801.97 62.23 0.00 49.92 914.12
R2942G3 01106545 1 Schaefer,Jordan A PCN# 00924600
9/1/09 9/1/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 12.00 196.92 15.06 0.00 9.35 221.33
Salary Subtotal: 12.00 196.92 15.06 0.00 9.35 221.33
9/15/09 9/15/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 15.00 246.15 18.82 0.00 11.68 276.65
Salary Subtotal: 15.00 246.15 18.82 0.00 11.68 276.65
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200, Reporting Category: 2CA9 to 2CA9
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Emp or Dept Id Sort = No/Orgn or Appr = Orgn Page: 1
CE Path: IA Financial/Labor Printed on 12/17/09
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Revision: 03/30/2009.cjr Printed at 2:02 pm
Payroll Posting Audit Trail
Covering SEMA4 Payroll Postings from PPED between 9/1/09 to 11/10/09
Selected Date Range 12/17/08 to 12/16/09
Region: DNR REGION 2
Orgn: 42G0 PAT - REG. 2 - GOOSEBERRY FA
Dept - Emp Nbr - Emp Name
9/29/09 9/29/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
Salary Subtotal: 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
10/13/09 10/13/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
Salary Subtotal: 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
10/27/09 10/27/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
Salary Subtotal: 16.00 262.56 20.08 0.00 12.47 295.11
11/10/09 11/10/09 M REG 1B Y N - 2CA9 - 4CZM4090 36.00 590.76 45.19 0.00 28.06 664.01
Salary Subtotal: 36.00 590.76 45.19 0.00 28.06 664.01
Employee Totals for Schaefer,Jordan A: 111.00 1,821.51 139.31 0.00 86.50 2,047.32
Allotment Account Totals 10 300 42G0 405: 200.00 $3,260.64 $250.28 $0.00 $166.69 $3,677.61
42G0 200.00 $3,260.64 $250.28 $0.00 $166.69 $3,677.61
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200, Reporting Category: 2CA9 to 2CA9
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Emp or Dept Id Sort = No/Orgn or Appr = Orgn Page: 2
CE Path: IA Financial/Labor Printed on 12/17/09
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Revision: 03/30/2009.cjr Printed at 2:02 pm
Payroll Posting Audit Trail
Covering SEMA4 Payroll Postings from PPED between 9/1/09 to 11/10/09
Selected Date Range 12/17/08 to 12/16/09
Region: DNR REGION 2
Orgn: 42G0 PAT - REG. 2 - GOOSEBERRY FA
Dept - Emp Nbr - Emp Name
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200, Reporting Category: 2CA9 to 2CA9
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Emp or Dept Id Sort = No/Orgn or Appr = Orgn Page: 3
CE Path: IA Financial/Labor Printed on 12/17/09
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Revision: 03/30/2009.cjr Printed at 2:02 pm
Payroll Posting Audit Trail
Covering SEMA4 Payroll Postings from PPED between 9/1/09 to 11/10/09
Selected Date Range 12/17/08 to 12/16/09
Region: DNR REGION 2
Orgn: 42G0 PAT - REG. 2 - GOOSEBERRY FA
Dept - Emp Nbr - Emp Name
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200, Reporting Category: 2CA9 to 2CA9
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Emp or Dept Id Sort = No/Orgn or Appr = Orgn Page: 4
Date Asset # YR Make/Model Milage/Hours
9/10/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 3hrs
9/11/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 4hrs
9/14/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
9/15/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
9/16/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 6hrs
9/17/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 6hrs
9/23/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 4hrs
9/24/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 90mi
9/25/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 72mi
9/28/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
9/29/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
9/29/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 2mi
9/30/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
9/30/2009 1478374 2009 Kubota RTV 1100 8hrs
10/6/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 67mi
10/9/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 100mi
10/12/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/13/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/14/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/15/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/16/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 162mi
10/16/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/19/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 118mi
10/26/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/27/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/28/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/28/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 6hrs
10/28/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 45mi
10/29/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
10/29/2009 1479121 2009 Chev/2500 45mi
11/3/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
11/4/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
11/5/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 8hrs
11/25/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 2hrs
12/3/2009 1331774 2004 JD/Gator 2hrs
TOTAL
Use Rate/Mi or Hr. Total Cost
Material hauling to work site $1.239 $3.717
Material hauling to work site $1.239 $4.956
MCC Dirt work/site prep $1.239 $9.912
MCC Dirt work/site prep $1.239 $9.912
MCC Dirt work/site prep $1.239 $7.434
MCC Dirt work/site prep $1.239 $7.434
Materials to jobsite $1.239 $4.956
Materials pick up at Tettegouche $0.413 $37.170
Materials pick up in Two Harbors & to and from job site $0.413 $29.736
Trailhead to jobsite $1.239 $9.912
Trailhead to jobsite $1.239 $9.912
Shop to trailhead $0.413 $0.826
Trailhead to jobsite $1.239 $9.912
Upperfalls safety railings $1.239 $9.912
Material hauling to work site from Tettegouche $0.413 $27.671
Material hauling to Duluth $0.413 $41.300
MCC Constrction - CCC Deck $1.239 $9.912
MCC Constrction - CCC Deck/Cedarcove decks $1.239 $9.912
MCC Constrction - Cedar Cove decks $1.239 $9.912
MCC Constrction - Cedar Cove decks, finish work $1.239 $9.912
Tette materials $0.413 $66.906
MCC Constrction CCC Deck/Cedar Cove Decks, stairs. $1.239 $9.912
Temp Cor10 run $0.413 $48.734
MCC Construction - CCC Posts $1.239 $9.912
MCC Construction - Posts $1.239 $9.912
MCC Construction - Posts $1.239 $9.912
MCC Construction - Upper falls railing $1.239 $7.434
Railing pick up - Finland MN $0.413 $18.585
MCC Construction - Posts, railing, stairs $1.239 $9.912
Railing pick up - Finland MN $0.413 $18.585
Railing Install $1.239 $9.912
Railing Install $1.239 $9.912
Railing Install $1.239 $9.912
Deck Curb $1.239 $2.478
Benches $1.239 $2.478
$508.816
Date Who Position # Hrs. Task Rate Total Fringe rate Fringe Total
6/11/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1.5 Material list & Engering specs 16.41/hr $24.61 $2.03 $3.05
6/17/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1.5 Grant admin. 16.41/hr $24.61 $2.03 $3.05 posted 6/23
7/16/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Grant admin. 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09 posted 7/8
7/22/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1 Safety railing specs. 16.41/hr $16.41 $2.03 $2.03 posted 8/18
7/29/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 2 Expense reports 16.41/hr $32.82 $2.03 $4.06
8/19/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Grant admin, PO's, set up MCC 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
8/20/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Admin meeting @ Tette 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09
8/26/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Material specs 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12 Posted 9/1
8/28/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1 PO's for post boots 16.41/hr $16.41 $2.03 $2.03
9/2/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Pay bills, saftey report 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09
9/3/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4.5 Reorganize, check PO's 16.41/hr $73.85 $2.03 $9.14
9/10/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Grant admin. 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18 Posted 9/15
9/14/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Site layout 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
9/15/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1 railing specs 16.41/hr $16.41 $2.03 $2.03
9/23/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1 PO Admin 16.41/hr $16.41 $2.03 $2.03 posted 9/29
9/30/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Admin catch up, crew oversite 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
10/4/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 1.5 Material prep, safety posts 16.41/hr $24.61 $2.03 $3.05
10/7/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Material handeling 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09 Posted 10/13
10/8/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Material handeling, grant admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
10/14/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
10/15/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 admin, layout 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
10/16/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 admin, layout 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09 posted 10/27
10/20/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
10/25/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Prep for crew 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09
10/26/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 8 MCC posts 16.41/hr $131.28 $2.03 $16.24
10/28/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 8 MCC posts 16.41/hr $131.28 $2.03 $16.24
10/29/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 8 railing pickup/posts 16.41/hr $131.28 $2.03 $16.24
10/30/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Pick up work 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
11/2/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 7 Admin 16.41/hr $114.87 $2.03 $14.21 posted 11/10
11/3/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
11/5/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 8 Railing install 16.41/hr $131.28 $2.03 $16.24
11/9/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
11/10/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
11/18/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 Admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12 posted 11/24
11/24/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 Admin 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09
11/25/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 2 Deck curb 16.41/hr $32.82 $2.03 $4.06
12/3/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 2 Benches 16.41/hr $32.82 $2.03 $4.06 posted 12/8
12/7/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/8/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/9/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 Admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/10/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/11/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/12/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 3 admin 16.41/hr $49.23 $2.03 $6.09 posted 12/22
12/16/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/17/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 6 admin 16.41/hr $98.46 $2.03 $12.18
12/18/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
12/23/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
12/24/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12 31‐Dec
12/31/2009 Jordan Schaefer Specialist 4 admin 16.41/hr $65.64 $2.03 $8.12
Total $3,413.27 $422.24
date site price per site # occupants
12-Oct 57 $20.00 3
13-Oct 57 $20.00 3
14-Oct 57 $20.00 3
15-Oct 57 $20.00 3
26-Oct 57 $16.00 5
27-Oct 57 $16.00 5
28-Oct 57 $16.00 5
29-Oct 57 $16.00 5
Total $144.00
Hike the Gitchi Gummi Trail on the East side of the
Gooseberry River and see the new overlooks constructed with
a grant from Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program.
DNR Division of Parks and Trails
UPDATE
A News Brief for State Parks and Trails Employees
Dec. 9, 2009 Volume 14, Number 12
UPDATE is published and distributed on a monthly basis the first Wednesday in each month. UPDATE is an internal
newsletter for employees of the DNR Division of Parks and Trails that is sent via e-mail to all staff on GroupWise.
The newsletter should be posted to ensure that employees who are not on GroupWise have access to UPDATE. To
keep the two-way communication going, send your news items and comments to: amy.barrett@dnr.state.mn.us. The
next UPDATE will be published on Wednesday, Jan. 7. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, Dec. 30.
Commissioner Holsten (pictured below with, left to right, John Edman, Park Rapids Chamber of
Commerce Executive Director Katie Magozzi, Itasca State Park Manager Matt Snyder, and me)
spoke about the importance of taking a more business-like approach to our work, establishing and
strengthening partnerships, and continuing to be
aggressive in our marketing and advertising. John
Edman then shared some information on travel trends,
noting that people are still traveling, but they are
making decisions at the last minute and being very,
very budget conscious. He emphasized that tying
natural resources to tourism thus makes great sense,
because people can participate in activities such as
hiking, biking, and fishing without spending a lot of
money. We ended the event by asking the group if
they had any suggestions for us on how the DNR and
the Parks and Trails Division might help them draw
more visitors to the area. It was a good discussion, and
one we look forward to continuing—perhaps with
park, trail, and tourism representatives in other
regions.
That same day, we also got a peek at an exciting new program that will help connect young people
to the outdoors through nature photography. Park naturalists Connie Cox and Sandra Lichter were
piloting a program called “Through the Lens of a Camera” with fourth-graders from Park Rapids.
This concept was pioneered by Carrol Henderson, Nongame Wildlife Program Supervisor for the
Division of Econological Resources and Waters, who has a
vision of connecting kids to the outdoors with digital
equipment and desktop publishing skills. Using digital
cameras, the students were rotating through several
stations around the Visitor Center. While some were taking
photos of taxidermy owls (left) and birds at the bird
feeders, others were using GPS units to find items in the
woods to photograph and others were printing photos to
make greeting cards. It was great to see their energy and
enthusiasm. This pilot program will be expanded throughout many of our DNR program locations,
including state parks.
As 2009 winds to a close, I hope you will all look back on the progress we in the new Parks and
Trails Division made toward that goal with as much pride as I do. What a year it was. We opened a
new water trail, developed two new trail bridges and replaced seven others, added about 20 miles
of new paved trails (primarily on the Paul Bunyan State Trail), initiated or completed the
acquisition of land and shoreline on 16 new or existing water access sites, developed three new
water access sites and rehabbed 11 others. In addition, overnight visits to state parks increased 8
percent, sales of one-day state park vehicle permits increased 12 percent, and sales of year-round
state park vehicle permits increased 9 percent compared with 2008. We also added free fishing and
expanded family programming at state parks, introduced many new trip-planning features on our
Web site, and—most recently—successfully launched the DNR’s first-ever gift card.
Whether we can post numbers like these again in 2010 remains to be seen, but with unprecedented
resources to support our efforts, we are very well positioned to be successful in our efforts to
continue building interest in the outdoor recreation opportunities we offer.
Many of us may be running on empty—or close to it—after such a busy year, so I encourage you
all to take time to relax and recharge with friends and family over the upcoming holidays. Thanks
to all of you for making 2009 a banner year for Parks and Trails and best wishes for the year
ahead.
Courtland Nelson
2
The following week, Courtland Nelson and
Commissioner Holsten (pictured left to right with
Denise Anderson and Bill Anderson) unveiled the
card to the public during a media event at Fort
Snelling State Park and announced that gift cards
loaded with $10 to $50 would be hidden in
geocaches at all Minnesota state parks and
recreation areas starting Nov. 24. Media coverage
of the gift card has included TV spots on WCCO
(see link under Recent Media Coverage below),
KARE-11, FOX-21 (Duluth), and WQOW (Eau
Claire). Articles have also appeared in the Pioneer Press, the Grand Forks Herald, the Lake
County Chronicle, and several other newspapers.
In the first 30 or so hours following the public announcement about the availability of the new
Minnesota State Parks gift card, 57 gift cards with a cumulative value of $2,337 had been sold (39
of those were from the website). Since then, the total number of gift cards sold has increased to
more than 535, with a total value of nearly $20,000.
Radio commercials suggest the Minnesota State Parks gift card as a holiday gift: Debuting
during the busiest holiday shopping weekend of the year, radio commercials offered the Minnesota
State Parks gift card as a smart choice. The commercials are currently airing on Cities 97 (97.1
FM, Twin Cities)—mainly during “Acoustic Sunrise,” Sundays, 7 a.m.–12 noon. Underwriting
announcements are airing on Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW-FM (91.1 FM) and the MPR
statewide news network. To hear the commercials, open the two attached MP3s. Catch the MPR
underwriting announcements Monday through Wednesday, 4:30–6:30 p.m. (to see if there is a
station in your area airing them visit minnesota.publicradio.org/radio/stations/) or on weekends
during “Car Talk.” The campaign also includes an ad in the Dec. 4 edition of Outdoor News.
—Debbie Leider, Marketing Assistant
Ski Pass and Snowmobiling: Two other rack cards, designed by Megan
Godbold, are available from the Information Center. One provides information on
where cross-country skiers can purchase and use the Great Minnesota Ski Pass. The
other lets snowmobilers know where to find trail maps, podcasts, and snow condition
reports on the Web.
3
Gateway Initiative
The DNR Gateway to the Outdoors workgroup has developed a vision: Minnesota families,
communities, and individuals engage in the outdoors as a place of discovery and wonder, learning
outdoor skills, building a sense of stewardship, and experiencing the natural world in a family-
friendly, welcoming environment.
The Gateway to the Outdoors is a DNR initiative, involving all DNR staff, and takes place in
Minnesota State Parks and Trails. It was launched to stem the decline in outdoor recreation
participation by the “Next Generation.” You may have heard about the Gateway to the Outdoors
“Regional Initiative Funds” project. It is aimed at “jumpstarting” some Gateway projects on the
ground, using legacy funds, and will be handled through the four regions. If you haven’t yet
become familiar with it, ask your Regional Manager for more details and what types of projects or
events may qualify.
You may be contacted by one of your DNR colleagues, because as part of the process of
developing proposals for these funds, staff are required to contact the park or trail manager, or
naturalist to coordinate implementation of the project.
—Pat Arndt, Planning, Public Affairs & IT Manager
4
*reporting not complete
Here some comments posted on geocaching.com from grateful geocachers who found the first 10
of 80 total Minnesota State Parks gift cards hidden in the Critter Caches:
• Red River SRA: KBayNPapaBear found it. Thanks for the St. Park Gift Card!
• Wild River State Park: A perfect way to spend Black Friday! Enjoyed our visit to the park
and will definitely have to come back when we have a couple days to spend on the virtuals
and the history cache. Found the treasure at the end of our hunt for the Critter Cache! We
tossed in bracelets and grabbed our Critter Card. We also scored the gift card and we
plan on using that towards next year’s permit! Many thanks to the Minnesota State Parks!
• Itasca State Park: On another state park run with BFlentje and Molly. What a great
challenge to have completed. We found a $10 gift card in this cache; then visited with
Ranger Jody for quite some time. TFTC
• Lac qui Parle State Park: Took state park gift card, left light-up SDSU pen and
Remembering Pepper geocoin. TFTC
• Fort Ridgely State Park: We drove down to Fort Ridgely State Park to check the Wildlife
Safari cache for a DNR gift card and, luckily, we came home with one! This was our
second visit to the Wildlife Safari cache as we originally found it in May. Thanks,
Minnesota State Parks, for the Holiday Gift Card Treasure Hunt.
• Afton State Park: Nice walk through the park. Lucky for me we were the first to find the
cache after the rangers restocked the Critter Cards, since they also put in a $10 State
Parks gift card. Will probably use it to help pay for one of the geo-coins when I bring the
critter cards in. TFTC and allowing us to cache in the State Parks.
• Frontenac State Park: Nice walk in the new snow looking at all the animal tracks. Found
park gift card and left NSTT award. 1 of 3 for the day.
• Charles A. Lindbergh State Park: Dropping off travel bug that we had kept too long. Was
a nice treat to find a gift card in the cache! Thanks, Minnesota State Parks.
• Lake Louise State Park: What a wonderful winter day to go geocaching. Thank you to the
DNR staff for the new twist on finding this cache. We took the gift card
• Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park: What a wonderful winter day to go geocaching.
Thank you to the DNR staff for the new twist on finding this cache. We took the gift card
and left a trade bead.
—Megan Godbold, Project Specialist
Information Technology
Divisional experts to help with Outlook 2007: The transition to Outlook 2007 is scheduled to
begin on Dec. 11, 2009, at 5 p.m. for the Central Office and Metro Region. All other locations will
begin on Dec. 18, 2009, at 5 p.m. Please continue to check the Transition Information Web page
(http://intranet.dnr.state.mn.us/outlook2007_transition/index.html) regularly for updates.
In preparation for the transition, several people in our division have agreed to be “resident experts”
and took training to be able to assist the rest of us if we have questions about using Outlook 2007.
Please call on these people for help related to using Outlook 2007 instead of GroupWise. They are:
Dawn Jensen, Pam Murphy, Wanda Swor, Melody Webb, Joan Broten, Magnuson Tyler
Gangelhoff, Martha Reger, Roseann Schauer, Lynne Hoeft, Kris Backlund, Megan Godbold, and
5
Bryce Anderson. Thank you to all these volunteers for their willingness to help us all through this
e-mail transition.
—Shannon Flynn, IT Specialist
Virtual tours of six state trails (using video footage previously seen at the State Fair) are now
available online at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/virtual.html.
Budget Update
Division of Parks and Trails Budget Analysis
Completed: Over the past three months Grant Scholen,
Jade Templin, and Brian McCann put in more than 500
hours completing a budget analysis for the Division of
Parks and Trails. This report was required by the Minnesota
Laws of 2009. Deputy Director Forrest Boe presented it to
the Environment and Natural Resources Finance Committee
on Nov. 16, and then again two days later to the Legislative
Citizens Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).
By all accounts, legislators were pleased with the candor and level of detail contained in the 11-
page report, and it was well received at both hearings.
Parks and Trails staff are currently working in collaboration with the University of Minnesota on a
25-year framework for the future of Minnesota’s parks and trails system. A 10-year strategic plan
for Parks and Trails is also being crafted. Together, these plans will help refine initial cost
estimates and inform decisions regarding the appropriate level and mix of funding needed to
achieve future goals and objectives. Discussion of this report and its findings will likely continue
in the coming months during the 2010 legislative session.
—Ron Potter, Policy and Program Manager
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Legacy Grants
More than $30 million requested for Parks and Trails Legacy Grants: The DNR received
applications totaling more than $30 million for the new Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program.
Trail project requests totaled $14.6 million and park project requests totaled $15.7 million. There
is $3.3 million available in funding for both parks and trails projects. Funding for this grant
program is from the Parks and Trails Fund created by the Minnesota Legislature from the Clean
Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment passed by the voters in 2008.
Eligible projects include acquisition, development, restoration, and maintenance of park and trail
facilities that are considered of regional or statewide significance. Recipients include counties,
cities, townships, and legislatively designated regional parks and trails taxing authorities. The
DNR is not an eligible recipient of these grant funds. Grants reimburse recipients up to 75 percent
of the total eligible project costs, and recipients must provide a non-state cash match of at least 25
percent. Applications for the first round of grants were due on Nov. 13. For the next round,
applications are due March 31, 2010. Information on the grant program can be found on the
program webpage: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/recreation/pt_legacy.html or by contacting
Andrew.Korsberg@state.mn.us.
Special Events
Parks and Trails staff participate in Winter Outdoor
Adventure Expo: Our division participated in the Winter
Outdoor Adventure Expo at Midwest Mountaineering for
the first time on Nov. 20-22. Jay Krienitz (pictured), Eva
Johnson, Megan Godbold, and Rachel Hintzman worked at
our booth and talked to hundreds of people about winter
recreation opportunities at our facilities around the state. Pat
Arndt gave a presentation about upcoming winter events,
camping, and ski and snowshoe trails. People were excited
to learn about all the places they can use the Great
Minnesota Ski Pass and are looking forward to using our ski trails this winter!
—Megan Godbold, Project Specialist
State Trails
Paved state trails get bigger stop signs: Larger stop signs have been
ordered for all public road crossings along paved state trails, and should be
installed by this spring. The Minnesota DOT Manual of Uniform Traffic
Control Devices requires an 18-inch stop sign for shared-use paths where
bicycles are required to stop. Although several of the state trails already
had 18-inch stop signs, many needed to be upgraded from a 12-inch stop
sign.
—Grant Scholen, State Trail Program Coordinator
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Wild and Scenic Rivers
A Wild and Scenic Paddle: Blue skies, glistening water,
bald eagles following our wooden Voyageur canoes
downstream, good spirits, and laughter easily describe an
early October inter-agency trip down the Mississippi River
to talk about the Minnesota Wild and Scenic Rivers
Program, one of the most progressive state wild and scenic
rivers programs in the nation. Participants included 14
DNR staff (including Courtland Nelson and Chuck
Kartak), National Park Service Superintendant Paul
Labovitz and staff, and Wilderness Inquiry’s executive
director Greg Lais. Many had never been on this stretch of
the Mississippi River and were inspired by its subtle beauty and solitude.
Last year, the DNR hired Jay Krienitz to manage the scenic easements program for the Division of
Parks and Trails. Jay and Lark Weller from the National Park Service organized this trip to connect
people to the river, to discuss the history of the program and to begin a conversation about the
future of Wild and Scenic Rivers conservation. How will our division continue to manage the
rivers in this system? How can we work together with partners to garner support and appreciation
for these wild rivers? No great decisions or proclamations were made this day, but two possible
directions were offered by participants—the creation of a rivers advisory group for the DNR and
more educational trips, where we can show people why it is important to protect rivers. That part is
easy; the river will simply show us all on its own.
Pictured above (left to right): Susan Damon (DNR), Wayne Sames (DNR), Chuck Kartak (DNR), Jay Krienitz (DNR),
Lark Weller (NPS), and Megan Godbold (DNR)
—Jay Krienitz, Scenic Easements Coordinator, Wild and Scenic Rivers
With 12 DNR scenic easements on the Lower St. Croix River within a few miles of Afton State
Park, Gene realized how our new Division allows us an opportunity to look beyond the borders of
park boundaries and increase efficiencies through local stewardship of our wild and scenic river
easements. “We can now work with neighbors on priority restoration projects. Some of the
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problems we face don’t stop at the boundaries of Afton State Park. Now we can deal with those
issues on a larger scale.” Jay and Gene were both excited about the new opportunity to work
together. Jay saw the potential for the park to be a steward for existing easements and acquire
future ones. “Wild and scenic river easements (scenic easements) are designed to protect the broad
values for which the river was protected,” said Jay. “Managing and acquiring easements to benefit
the ecological integrity of the park and the watershed are right in line with the intentions for the
program.”
For more information, please contact Jay Krienitz,, Scenic Easements Coordinator, Wild and
Scenic Rivers.
“We were able to complete needed safety improvements on a heavily used trail on the North
Shore,” says Regional Park Operations Supervisor Mark Kovacovich. “Jordan Schaefer, Park
Specialist did an outstanding job taking the lead on the project and working with MCC crews and
Tettegouche State Park staff to get it done. This is an excellent example of the talent we have
available on the North Shore. We need to continue to find ways to fund these types of energizing
‘in-house/force account’ projects.”
For more information, please contact Jay Krienitz, Parks and Trails liaison to the Minnesota
Conservation Corps.
Off-highway Vehicles
DNR seeks comments on Environmental Assessment Worksheet for Virginia expansion of the Iron
Range Off-highway Vehicle Recreation Area: The DNR is seeking public comments through Dec. 16
on a proposal to develop a 2,704-acre expansion to the existing Iron Range Off-highway Vehicle
Recreation Area (OHVRA), in Gilbert, Minn. The proposed expansion site is located one mile
north of the existing Iron Range OHVRA, partially within the city of Virginia, Minn. The Virginia
expansion site will be managed out of the existing facility, which will be linked to the expansion
area by a connector road. This proposed expansion includes the development of the connector
9
road, a core trail system, vehicle-specified trails, and perimeter fencing. A copy of the EAW is
available online. Additional copies may be requested by calling 651-259-5157.
—Brian McCann, Planner
The scope of this effort was unprecedented. Face-to-face public meetings were an important part of
this sometimes acrimonious process. Public interest was understandably very high, and political
intervention wasn’t uncommon. Plan implementation is now complete all across the state. All 58
state forests have been signed. Route designations resulting from this process include over 2,300
miles of roads, 831 miles of ATV/OHM trails, 143 miles of single-track OHM trails, 27 miles of
ORV trails (i.e., jeep or truck), and 827 miles of non-motorized trails. Over 3,382 miles of routes,
or about one-third of all state land routes, have been permanently closed to all or most vehicular
traffic. To learn more, log on to www.findthetrails.com and click on “Plans and Proposals.”
—Mary Straka, OHV Program Consultant
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Region 2 staff that worked with the Eveleth-Gilbert Joint Powers Trail Board and Northern
Minnesota Jeepers Off-Road Vehicle Club to get this new trail on the ground.
—Mary Straka, OHV Program Consultant
State Parks
Construction continues at Grand Portage State Park:
Grand Portage State Park’s new 5,800-square-foot visitor
center, which has been under construction since June 15, is
becoming more visible every day. On the north end of the
building, one wall has been raising, giving a hint of the
windows that will overlook the Pigeon River estuary. The
frame-up of the lobby area has also begun, and half of the
main entrance walkway has been formed and poured.
Earlier this month, the apron for the garage was poured,
and seeding and mulching was done around the parking
lots and along the highway turn lanes. The park is still closed on weekdays, but it is expected to
reopen daily around the first of the year. To see more construction photos, go to
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/grand_portage/index.html
—Rick Novitsky, Park Manager, Grand Portage State Park
Zippel Bay State Park posts award-winning photos: The 2009 Zippel Bay State Park Summer
Photo Contest encouraged park visitors to share photos of summer fun at the park. Over 50 photos
were submitted, and the winning photos and honorable mentions are now showcased online at
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/zipple_bay/photo_contest.html
11
Nature Sighting
The sighting of an acorn woodpecker (below) at Crow Wing State Park on Nov. 10 brought 25
birders to the campgrounds the next day. Doug Backlund had photographed the bird the previous
afternoon and posted his photo on the Minnesota Ornithologists’ Union website
(http://moumn.org/cgi-bin/recent.pl). It was a first for Minnesota. The acorn
woodpecker is a western bird that can be found in Arizona and California. One
of the birders told me that there are 435 birds on the official Minnesota list. This
sighting will make number 436, when it gets official approval. Doug is a well-
respected birder. He had picked up a camper at Pequot Lakes and stopped at the
park to try it out. Fortunately, he had his binoculars and photo equipment along.
—Paul Roth, Park Manager, Crow Wing State Park
A walk in the park, The Journal (New Ulm), Oct. 25: “Buckthorn is an invasive shrub that is a
big problem in Flandrau,” said Gary Tiepel the Flandrau Park Manager. Mike Mulder decided to
take it upon himself to remove as much buckthorn from the area near the Indian Point Trail as he
could. He is off to a good start.
http://www.nujournal.com/page/content.detail/id/510114.html
Where is the Zephyr going?, Stillwater Gazette, Nov. 3: The DNR continues to press forward
with plans to transform the Zephyr corridor to a trail that would link Stillwater to the Gateway
State Trail. The DNR received $700,000 for the potential acquisition of the Zephyr railway a year
or two ago, said Kent Skaar, an acquisition section leader with the DNR’s Parks and Trails
Division who had been overseeing the Zephyr purchase.
http://www.stillwatergazette.com/articles/2009/11/03/headlines/905wc3zephyr.txt
Cities seek bonding funds for the Heartland Trail extension, Park Rapids Enterprise, Nov. 4
The 100-mile multi-use Heartland Trail extension from Park Rapids to Moorhead is estimated at
$24 million.
http://www.parkrapidsenterprise.com/event/article/id/20594/
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Feds might contribute $1 million for river trail, Jordan Independent, Nov. 5: Scott County has
a good chance of winning up to $1 million for a three-mile trail along County Road 101 in
Shakopee, which would connect a large portion of the Minnesota Valley Trail. The approximately
$1.25 million project would be a major step toward completing a state trail intended to run
continuously from Belle Plaine to Fort Snelling State Park, according to Tamara Simonich,
operations supervisor for the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
http://www.jordannews.com/news/activities/feds-might-contribute-1-million-river-trail-111
Shimanski to sponsor Luce Line Trail bill, Hutchinson Leader, Nov. 9: State Rep. Ron
Shimanski is introducing a bill in the next legislative session seeking $2.5 million in bonding
money to pave the Luce Line State Trail.
http://www.hutchinsonleader.com/news/county-politics/shimanski-sponsor-luce-line-trail-bill-111
New Shetek State Park Campground studied, Tracy Headlight Herald, Nov. 11: A new
campground is being planned for Lake Shetek State Park. Park Manager Kerry Christoffer says
that construction of the new campground is planned for late spring of 2010. The site’s
archeological assessment began with a visual inspection for any unusual features. Then about 74
shovel tests to depths of 35 to 40 centimeters were conducted randomly around the site. Subtle
evidence of human activity was found. “There were between one and five artifacts in the holes that
were positive,” said team leader Dave Radford. Meticulous records are kept of the excavations and
what is found.
No link available.
Over the Edge, Rock County Star Herald, Nov. 12: Luverne High School students tested their
courage and their footing on the Sioux quartzite cliffs of Blue Mounds State Park earlier this
month. Each year Lifetime Fitness class members learn how to rappel as one of several unique and
interesting fitness choices. The class teams up with Luverne members of the Minnesota National
Guard, who teach proper form, technique and safety. Lifetime Fitness, offered to seniors in the top
academic portion of their class, includes fitness opportunities that students might not otherwise
have a chance to try.
No link available.
Expect Gitchi growth spurt, Lake County News Chronicle , Nov. 19: Fans of the Gitchi-Gami
State Trail got some good news this fall when it was announced that the Beaver Bay to Silver Bay
portion should be paved in the spring.
http://www.twoharborsmn.com/event/article/id/19309/
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‘Very delicate’ negotiations are underway for new state park land, Detroit Lakes Online,
Nov. 20: Talks to buy land for a Lake Vermilion state park are on hold, the DNR commissioner
told a legislative committee, but hope remains that a deal could be completed. Commissioner Mark
Holsten said he wants $20 million set aside for land purchase to remain available.
http://www.dl-online.com/event/article/id/49108/
State park hunt aims to thin havoc-wreaking deer population, Winona Daily News, Nov. 22:
Great River Bluffs State Park is in the final year of a five-year plan to thin the deer population. The
first year, 170 deer were shot. Just 30 were killed last year. Park manager Rick Samples said the
program is working. The leaves and grasses are growing back, and there are fewer deer being
spotted. “If we didn't have this hunt, the park would be overrun with deer,” Samples said. “And
you would definitely see some increase in resource damage.”
http://www.winonadailynews.com/news/local/article_76f35be8-d721-11de-8e7f-
001cc4c002e0.html
DNR Gift Cards In Time For The Holidays, WCCO-TV, Nov. 24: The gift
card, which features a photo of the state's highest waterfall, went on sale
Tuesday and can be purchased in person, at Minnesota state parks or by phone
or online. Frank Vascellaro reports.
http://wcco.com/video/?id=70739@wcco.dayport.com
DNR’s Top Ten Hiking Trails, Showcase Minnesota, KARE TV, Nov. 25:
Pat Arndt from the DNR joins host Rob Hudson to talk about hiking trails in state parks. The trails
are open every day, including holidays.
http://www.showcaseminnesota.com/show/client_article.aspx?storyid=829218
Perk to push Minnesota state parks use: gift cards, Pioneer Press, Nov. 25: The DNR on
Tuesday unveiled a new state parks gift card that allows the holder to use it for such parks-related
expenses as advance registrations, vehicle permits, lodging and clothing or books.
http://www.twincities.com/ci_13862039
State parks offer a plethora of winter activities, Post-Bulletin (Rochester), Nov. 28:
“There are new activities all the time by our naturalist staff and our park managers and then we
have outside groups like Friends of the State Parks that sometimes help out sponsoring events,”
said Amy Barrett, public information officer of the DNR’s division of parks and trails.
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=31&a=427268
Awards
The “Teacher-Parent Conference” radio spot promoting Minnesota state parks was one of only
18 radio spots (out of hundreds of radio spots entered) recently honored at The Show, an annual
competition sponsored by the Advertising Federation of Minnesota. An MP3 version of the ad is
attached with this newsletter.
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Personnel News
Coming and Going
Claire Plank our temporary, part-time web coordinator, has accepted a full-time position with a
private company. In addition to keeping our pages accurate and up to date, she worked with the
DNR web team to create a “summer starter kit” and our first-ever lodging pages, and she brought
us into the world of “Twitter.” Claire’s last day was Nov. 25.
Years of Service
20 Years
Terry Holden - Itasca State Park
Randy Tvrdik - Lake Carlos State Park
15 Years
Daniel McGuire - Blue Mounds State Park
10 Years
Diane Yapel - Soudan Underground Mine State Park
5 Years
Gretchen Heaser - St. Croix State Park
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DNR Division of Parks and Trails
UPDATE
A News Brief for State Parks and Trails Employees
Jan. 6, 2010 Volume 15, Number 1
UPDATE is published and distributed on a monthly basis the first Wednesday in each month. UPDATE is an internal
newsletter for employees of the DNR Division of Parks and Trails that is sent via e-mail to all staff on GroupWise.
The newsletter should be posted to ensure that employees who are not on GroupWise have access to UPDATE. To
keep the two-way communication going, send your news items and comments to: amy.barrett@dnr.state.mn.us. The
next UPDATE will be published on Wednesday, Feb. 3. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, Jan. 27.
Some of our staff from around the state will be involved in the MnUSA
Snowmobile Conference in Hinckley Feb. 12-14. This annual event brings
together most of the clubs and organizations that work with Parks and
Trails in our snowmobile management and grant activities. With over
22,000 miles of trails groomed by either Parks and Trails staff or local
organizations, it is an important series of meetings and activities for the
participants. There will be rides in the St. Croix State Park area as well as
west of Hinckley to other parts of the area trails system. For those
snowmobilers coming to St. Croix State Park, naturalists from around the
region are pitching in to provide a series of family friendly activities. Several committees will meet
with staff and fellow members regarding grant management and reimbursement issues, legislation,
safety and general industry issues. Plans are currently for the Governor to be in attendance for a
ride on Saturday, followed by an auction and a banquet.
Hosted by four of the local clubs, this roving event moves around the state each year and provides
an opportunity for some of the owners of the 250,000 snowmobiles in Minnesota to work with
local and state government interests to provide the best services possible. There is an expectation
of 300 attendees.
Bill Morrissey
Many of you are aware that the former Parks Director, Regional Director and Forester Bill
Morrissey has had a tough new year. He was having some vision problems during his ski trip to
Colorado in late December and, following a quick trip back to St. Paul for evaluation, was found to
have a brain tumor. His surgery went well, and he had been home for several days, getting ready
for post-surgery treatments and adjusting to his short-term condition (no driving and limited
karaoke performances).
Many of you have called or e-mailed, which has been great therapy for him. With a new computer
system and family and friends to help out, he was falling into a good routine. However, over the
last weekend, he started to have some other issues and is back in the hospital for a few days. He
asked me to mention this to you, because he will not be able to take your calls (651-739-1736) or
respond to e-mails (billmorrisseymn@comcast.net) for a short period. If you have cards that you
would like to send to Bill, please send them to Lynda Zoet here in St. Paul, and we will get them
out to his place quickly.
We are formalizing plans for a one-day meeting in the St. Cloud area to address the future of local
and regional bicycle tourism in Minnesota in late spring. Under the guidance of Explore
Minnesota Tourism and in cooperation with MnDOT, the National Park Service, the Parks and
Trails Council of Minnesota, and local government interests, we hope to create energy and
knowledge around the developing market for bike tourism. We will be targeting local convention
and visitor bureaus, hotels and motels, restaurants, bike shops, local government representatives,
tourism leaders, and special interest groups to listen to success stories, share information on
market-based issues, and connect with service providers throughout the state.
Grant Scholen from our staff will be leading the effort, with several other staff and volunteers
contributing their expertise. Our initial work has been to get all the agreements in place and to get
a notice out to “save the date” to potential attendees. At the area level and park you may be asked
about this event. Grant and his team will be getting the appropriate information to you for your
understanding and support.
Courtland Nelson
Clarification: In last month’s column, credit for the “Through the Lens of the Camera” actually should have gone to
Joe Courneya of the University of Minnesota Extension 4H program and local educator Steve Maanum. They
developed the program over the past two years with a science grant and now use it with schools in the northwest
region of the state. Thanks to Connie Cox for setting the record straight.
2
Geocaching Wildlife Safari
Critter Cache finds continue to climb: The total number of Critter Cache “finds”
logged online at www.geocaching.com was up to 11,072 as of the end of
December (including 17 gift card finds logged so far). The chart below shows how
the total has been growing since the Geocaching Wildlife Safari began May 2.
—Megan Godbold, Project Specialist
Gateway Initiative
Regional Initiative Funds available: You may be hearing from your DNR colleagues about
“Regional Initiative Funds” for special projects in your park or trail. The purpose is to provide seed
money that will facilitate regional interdisciplinary efforts to address declining participation in
nature-based recreation by utilizing the infrastructure and geographic distribution of Minnesota
state parks and trails as a gateway to the outdoors. If you’d like more details, contact your regional
manager or regional information officer.
—Pat Arndt, Planning, Public Affairs & IT Manager
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Information Technology
Don’t forget—experts can help with Outlook 2007: Several people in our division have agreed
to be “resident experts” and took training to be able to assist the rest of us if we have questions
about using Outlook 2007. Please call on these people for help related to using Outlook 2007
instead of GroupWise. They are: Dawn Jensen, Pam Murphy, Wanda Swor, Melody Webb, Joan
Broten, Magnuson Tyler Gangelhoff, Martha Reger, Roseann Schauer, Lynne Hoeft, Kris
Backlund, Megan Godbold, and Bryce Anderson. Thank you to all these volunteers for their
willingness to help us all through this e-mail transition.
—Shannon Flynn, IT Specialist
Special Events
Families ring in new year at Fort Snelling State Park’s
candlelight event: Word has been spreading about the annual
family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration at Fort Snelling
State Park, and this year (the fourth year of the event) Park
Manager Bob Piotrowski estimates that approximately 1,300
people showed up to enjoy an evening of hiking under the
beautiful blue moon, followed by hot chocolate, cider, and
s’mores around a fire. Photographer Steve Zumwalt (brother
of Parks Worker Cheryl Zumwalt) snapped this shot of a
family on one of the candlelit trails.
State Parks
Camper cabins arrive at Afton State Park: Two of our four
camper cabins were delivered on December 30. The STS crew has
completed the deck and ramp work on these two. I am waiting for a
quote from the electrician to make the final connection. Then, after
the electrical inspection and the Labor and Industry inspection these
should be ready to occupy. We are hoping they will be available for
our Feb. 6 Candlelight Snowshoe night.
—Gene Groebner, Park Manager, Afton State Park
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Reservation Update: Wondering how reservations are looking for 2010? The chart below shows
the percentage of reservable inventory that is currently reserved (as of Dec. 29, 2009) for Saturday
evening overnight stays on the three major holiday weekends of the spring/summer vacation
season. Note that most of the camper cabins and more than half of the electric campsites and
lodging already are reserved for Memorial weekend.
Crosby hopes trail leads to better days, Brainerd Dispatch, Dec. 5: Much of the area buzz is
centered on two-wheeled recreation. The planned mountain bike trails in the Cuyuna Country State
Recreational Area are considered a ray of hope and something that is a common conversation
thread…The biggest economic boom may be coming with the 20-plus miles of mountain bike
5
trails being constructed next summer. She pointed to the online buzz about the trails from blogs
and Web sites far removed from the Cuyuna Range.
http://www.brainerddispatch.com/stories/120509/new_20091205054.shtml
DNR reminds Minnesota state park visitors not to hike or take pets on groomed ski trails,
ABC Newspapers (Anoka County Union, Blaine-Spring Lake Park Life, Coon Rapids
Herald), Dec. 22: With fresh snow on the ground and crews busy grooming trails for cross-
country skiing and snowmobiling at Minnesota state parks and recreation areas, the Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) has a few reminders for visitors about winter trail rules.
http://abcnewspapers.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10303&Itemid=73
Exploring winter—As the snow flies, let the winter fun begin, Brainerd Dispatch,
Dec. 26: The state recently released its 2009-10 Minnesota State Parks Programs &
Special Events catalog, which lists more than 130 ways to enjoy winter at state parks,
including Take-A-Kid Ice Fishing clinics, maple syruping demonstrations and, of
course, the popular candlelight ski and snowshoe events. With the snow, there's plenty
to do at state parks this winter.
http://www.brainerddispatch.com/stories/122609/out_20091226020.shtml
State park cards sell briskly, Pioneer Press, Dec. 27: The Minnesota DNR's Parks Division has
sold 1,700 state-park gift cards since they went on sale earlier this fall, raising about $60,000 for
parks. The cards are good for state park camping, cabin and equipment rental or for gift purchase
6
in park stores. They can be purchased by calling 866-857-2757, online at stayatmnparks.com or at
any state park. State park permits for 2010 are also on sale now.
http://www.twincities.com/outdoors/ci_14066822?nclick_check=1
Best Entertainment Bets for Dec. 27-Jan. 2, Pioneer Press, Dec. 25 and 27: Thursday:
Celebrate the new year with a candlelight walk through the woods. This annual event will hold
extra magic this year because it falls on a blue moon, the night of the second full moon in a single
month. Walk along a flat and easy three-mile trail that winds through a floodplain forest, alongside
a couple of small lakes and by a backwater of the Minnesota River. The trail is lit with flickering
candles and ice luminaries. Finish with hot cider and s’mores in the Visitor Center or around a
bonfire.
http://www.twincities.com/entertainment/ci_14057765?nclick_check=1
2010: New year, new state laws, Star Tribune, Dec. 31: Until now, people
who visited Minnesota got a free ride on the state’s ATV trails. Now
nonresidents will have to buy a $21 annual ATV trail pass to ride on state
or grant-in-aid trails.
http://www.startribune.com/politics/state/80384787.html?page=2&c=y
Grants in place to fund area trail construction, Houston County News, Dec. 30: The existing
Root River Trail extends about 43 miles, so with the extension, more than 60 miles of Minnesota
trails would be linked to about 100 miles of western Wisconsin bike trails.
http://www.houstonconews.com/articles/2009/12/30/news/01trails.txt
Is trail big enough for bikes, horses?, Rochester Post-Bulletin, Dec. 25: A five-mile trail link
from near Rochester to Chester Woods Park, part of an eventual 50-mile regional trail loop, is
being prepped for construction in 2010... The trail would connect eight cities—Rochester, Eyota,
Dover, St. Charles, Elba, Plainview, Elgin and Viola. Also two state parks—Whitewater and
Carley—plus Olmsted County's Chester Woods Park. Trail plans, drawn by the Department of
Natural Resources, call for a 10-foot-wide paved bike path alongside a four-foot grassy strip for
horses.
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=430941
Minnesota State Park winter calendar is full of ideas, KARE-11, Jan. 6: The Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources has more than 100 different ways to celebrate a Minnesota
winter. There are places to drop a line for some ice fishing. There’s snowy geocaching for prizes.
And lots of places to snowshoe. “Snowshoeing is one of those really old activities. It goes back
6000 years,” Chuck Kartak, assistant director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division said. “One
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of the nice things about it is you don’t need a trail. Snowshoes were designed to go cross country.
You can go anywhere in a Minnesota state park, except for a set ski trail.”
http://www.kare11.com/news/local/mornings/sunrise_article.aspx?storyid=834823&catid=16
Junk Pile: Off-roaders clean a floodplain (and have some fun), Minnesota Off-road Magazine,
December 2009-January 2010: The Lunatic Wrecking Team was a part of about 50 off-road
enthusiasts and members of the Minnesota 4-Wheel Drive Assn. Assisting the DNR in one of its
largest clean-up projects. This is the sixth year that off-road members have helped the DNR, and
its third year at the Minnesota River Restoration Project in Belle Plaine. In appreciation of their
work, the DNR recognizes the MN4WDA on a sponsor plaque at the site entrance.
No link available.
Green acres, The Redwood Gazette, Dec. 21: The Minnesota River Green Corridor Project got a
major boost recently from the National Park Service, which is going to provide technical assistance
in helping it create a plan to better utilize the designated water trail along a 45-mile stretch of the
Minnesota River from Granite Falls to Fort Ridgely.
No link available.
Personnel News
Years of Service
8
35 Years
Dan Collins - Central Regional Headquarters
30 Years
Robert Hattenberger - Moose Lake Office
25 Years
Jon Kallberg - Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Brian Johnson - Tower Office
10 Years
Kevin Johnson - Two Harbors Office
5 Years
James Kessel - St. Croix State Park
9
CE Path: IA Financial/Budgets
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 05/20/09.cjr Printed at 9:52 am
Manager's Financial Report
Account Balances As Of: 1/25/10 (Including Salary Expenditures for Pay Periods Ending On or Before: 1/15/10)
Obligated Amounts for Object Classes 1A0 and 1B0 are Current Modified Payroll Obligation Amounts from SEMA4
Totals for Appropriation: 10 300 405 $18,406.00 $0.08 $3,700.00 $14,706.00 $0.00
Parameter Selections: Display Open Prior Year Accounts: No, Region: R200 to R200, FY 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Status: *ALL*
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation Page: 1
CE Path: IA Financial/Budgets
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 05/20/09.cjr Printed at 9:52 am
Manager's Financial Report
Account Balances As Of: 1/25/10 (Including Salary Expenditures for Pay Periods Ending On or Before: 1/15/10)
Obligated Amounts for Object Classes 1A0 and 1B0 are Current Modified Payroll Obligation Amounts from SEMA4
Parameter Selections: Display Open Prior Year Accounts: No, Region: R200 to R200, FY 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Status: *ALL*
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation Page: 2
CE Path: IA Financial/Budgets
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 05/20/09.cjr Printed at 9:52 am
Manager's Financial Report
Account Balances As Of: 1/25/10 (Including Salary Expenditures for Pay Periods Ending On or Before: 1/15/10)
Obligated Amounts for Object Classes 1A0 and 1B0 are Current Modified Payroll Obligation Amounts from SEMA4
Parameter Selections: Display Open Prior Year Accounts: No, Region: R200 to R200, FY 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Status: *ALL*
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation Page: 3
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 9:58 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 11/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
10 300 405 CZM PARKS NOAA YR5
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 1
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 9:58 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 11/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
10 300 405 CZM PARKS NOAA YR5
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 2
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 9:58 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 11/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
10 300 405 CZM PARKS NOAA YR5
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 3
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 9:58 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 11/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
10 300 405 CZM PARKS NOAA YR5
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2010 to 2010, Fund: 300 to 300, Appr: 405 to 405, Orgn: 42G0 to 42G0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 4
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 10:03 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 12/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
08 500 465 ST PARK & SRA ACQ & DEV L08
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2008 to 2008, Fund: 500 to 500, Appr: 465 to 465, Orgn: 42C0 to 42C0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 1
CE Path: IA Financial/Expenditures & Orders Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Printed on 1/26/10
Revision: 07/23/2009.cjr Printed at 10:03 am
Expenditure Detail Report
Selected Date Range 12/26/08 to 1/25/10
Region: DNR REGION 2
08 500 465 ST PARK & SRA ACQ & DEV L08
FY Allotment
Doc Type Trans # & Line Accept Dt Vendor Nbr Vendor Name Invoice Nbr PO Number Obj Cd Act/Rept.Cat/Project Amount
Parameter Selections - FY: 2008 to 2008, Fund: 500 to 500, Appr: 465 to 465, Orgn: 42C0 to 42C0, Region: R200 to R200
Sort Selection: Regional Sort = Yes/Programmatic Sort = No/Orgn or Appr Sort = Appropriation/Vendor Sort = No Page: 2