MDNR invites public input on Stagecoach State Trail at three open houses

[mudbrook]

MDNR invites public input on Stagecoach State Trail at three open houses

(Released February 4, 2010)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to learn more or offer input about the status of the future Stagecoach State Trail in southeastern Minnesota by attending one of three informal open houses in February.

DNR staff and volunteers working on the trail-planning effort will discuss issues related to planning and development of the trail, display maps and other trail information, and answer questions. Input will be sought on potential trail uses, trail surface options, alignment possibilities, and desired amenities, such as parking lots and rest areas.

Open houses are scheduled for:

    * Thursday, Feb. 18, 5-8 p.m., at Byron City Hall, 680 Byron Main Court, NE, Byron.
    * Monday, Feb. 22, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Senior Place, 500 Dunnell Dr., Owatonna.
    * Thursday, Feb. 25, 4:30-7 p.m., Dodge County Courthouse, 22 E. Sixth St., Mantorville.

Comments received at these meetings will be used to develop the master plan for the Stagecoach State Trail.

The Stagecoach State Trail is a Legislatively authorized state trail, which will link to the Douglas State Trail in or near Rochester; Rice Lake State Park; and, eventually, the proposed Wildflower State Trail in or near Owatonna. These links also provide an opportunity to connect local trail systems in southeastern Minnesota.

For planning and discussion purposes, the trail corridor has been divided into seven planning segments: Douglas State Trail near Rochester to Hwy. 5; Hwy. 5 to Mantorville; Mantorville to Wasioja; Wasioja to Dodge Center; Dodge Center to Claremont; Claremont to Rice Lake State Park; and Rice Lake State Park to Owatonna. The route for the trail has not yet been determined, and no segments are yet in state ownership.

For more information or to comment on the plan, contact:
? Diane Anderson, recreation planner, 651-259-5614.
? Joel Wagar, area supervisor, 507-206-2848.
? Steve Hennessy, acquisition and development specialist, 507-333-2056.