Browsing by Subject "Taking Stock - Recreation & Tourism"

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All-Terrain Vehicle Use on the North Shore State Trail: A Feasibility Study
(2006-03-01) Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
This study assesses the physical capacity of the North Shore State Trail (NSST) on a 6.4 mile segment to accommodate summer season ATV use. The principal environmental concern noted is potential impact on surface waters and wetlands, especially where the trail crosses protected waters. Of special concern are trout streams and their tributaries and wetlands. Summer season ATV use poses greater risk than all other trail users because of unfrozen conditions and mechanical disturbance to soils. The study finds that the NSST could be capable of supporting summer season ATV use but that modifications would be required throughout the entire length of the trail. Costs of such modifications are estimated at $577,000. The trail in its current condition is not capable of supporting summer season ATV use except where ATV use is already permitted.
American Indian Gathering and Recreation Uses of National Forests
(2004) McAvoy, Leo; Shirilla, Paul; Flood, Joseph
This paper identifies and describes the patterns of use of the Chippewa National Forest (Minnesota) by Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe members; and, the use patterns of six national forests in northwest Montana by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. The paper also identifies conflicts tribal members encounter while using the forests and makes recommendations regarding the management of national forests in light of tribal members' use of these lands. The implications from both study areas indicate that Forest Service managers should pay more attention to cooperative approaches, and potential co-management of forest resources that are near American Indian reservations. Managers need to be more sensitive to American Indians' uses and values associated with national forests and other protected lands that are close to reservations. They also need to be aware of the history of government and tribal relations, as well as tribal member traditional and historic uses of forests.
Case Study: Voyageur Canoe Outfitters
(2008) Southern Rural Development Center
This is a three-page pdf describing a family-owned recreational business in Grand Marais. While water-based resources is not specifically mentioned in the article it is implied through references to the BWCA and being "on the water." The article notes the importance of web-based marketing to business success.
Cook County Plan - The Future Cook County
(1997) Cook County
This document gave a clear vision in 1997 of how citizens want the Highway 61 corridor and the City of Grand Marais to appear in the year 2015. The proximity of Lake Superior, preservation of coastal wetlands, management of septic systems, and an undeveloped feel to Highway 61 reflect deep connectivity to water and forested habitat in the region.
Duluth Parks and Recreation Master Plan Final Report, 2010
(2010) Duluth, Minnesota Parks and Recreation
This plan establishes a blueprint to achieve an economically sustainable park and recreation system. The Guiding Principles and the action plans of this Master Plan set a course to: reduce operating and capital costs, enhance efficiency, improve parks, strengthen partnerships, connect the city with trails, increase access to nature, increase and stabilize funding, create equitable access to healthy recreation, and enhance stewardship. The plan recommends new sources of funding be dedicated to Duluth Parks and Recreation and that those funds be invested in: Park maintenance and stewardship - Duluth is fortunate to have a large and diverse network of park lands. Acquiring park land is often the most difficult and costly part of creating a park and recreation system. With the park land system largely in place, the City and its partners can focus on park improvements, upkeep and stewardship of parks and natural resources. Trail and bikeway connections – Duluth has several of the most important trails and parkways in Minnesota, but needs connections and enhancements to realize the potential of these gems. The Lakewalk, Munger Trail, Superior Hiking Trail and Skyline Parkway are wonderful assets that can form the backbones of a future trail and bikeway network. Trails are the most popular recreation feature and attract tourist and locals alike. Recreation facilities and programs – Convenient and equitable access to recreation facilities and programs is a hallmark of a healthy and vital community. Fully utilizing schools as community places and targeting city investment in people and sustainable recreation facilities will foster community, family and individual health. Realization of this vision will take time, dedication and funding, but it will result in a park, trail and recreation system that will help drive economic growth and enhance quality of life for decades to come.” Not much reference is made about water resources in the master plan files available on the city website; most of the survey pertains to non-water recreational park use.
Duluth Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Principles and Objectives
(2010) Duluth, Minnesota Parks and Recreation
12 slide Powerpoint presentation. Principles, listed below, in addition to specific objectives for each are included. Principle 1: Provide Safe, Clean, Fun and Beautiful Parks Principle 2: Ensure Adequate and Stable Funding Principle 3. Build Partnerships Principle 4: Ensure equitable access Principle 5: Connect the community Principle 6: Connect with Nature Principle 7: Continue to meet evolving natural resource needs Principle 8: Be sustainable Not much reference is made about water resources in the master plan files available on the city website; most of the survey pertains to non-water recreational park use.
Duluth Values Open Space
(2002) Kreag, Glenn M
This report documents how residents perceive the importance of open spaces in Duluth, Minnesota. While not specifically about water resources, this study refers occasionally to the value of wetlands, lakes and rivers. Key findings of the survey are extracted and reproduced below. Executive summary: “Duluth is known for its extensive open spaces, particularly their natural ambiance and relation to Lake Superior. The type, nature, and quantity of open spaces contribute significantly to the character and quality of a community, a concept captured locally in the community-wide "2001 & Beyond" visioning process (completed in 1997) where participants indicated that maintaining Duluth as an "urban wilderness" was a priority. The data in this report are the result of an 8-page, 20-question survey that reached 955 Duluth residents in 2001. The University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program designed the survey with assistance and review from the EAC, the NRI Committee, and the Minnesota Center for Survey Research. Two types of open space were defined in this study: Natural Open Space - places where the native vegetation grows without significant alteration and, Developed Open Space - places where land and vegetation are altered or controlled. Of the questions relating to water resources, 93% of those taking the survey reported that they frequently use and enjoy views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River. 50% reported using and enjoying wetland areas. Regarding developed open spaces, 68% reported using a public access for boating and fishing. 70% of respondents felt that water supply, sanitary and storm sewers were important government functions related to open spaces.”
Economic Impact and Social Benefits Study of Coldwater Angling in Minnesota
(2002) Gartner, William C; Love, Lisa L; Erkkila, Daniel; Fulton, David C
This study was conducted of anglers utilizing Minnesota’s northeast region cold-water fisheries in 2000-2001, and was based upon a staged mail-back questionnaire sent to anglers who had purchased a trout/salmon stamp from the Minnesota DNR. The purpose of this study was to investigate the economic and social benefits of coldwater angling participation in the state of Minnesota. Overall 10,297 questionnaires were mailed, and 3,029 returned for a response rate of 33%. Two null hypotheses guided this study: 1. There are no expenditure differences between the different types of coldwater angling investigated. 2. There are no experience differences between the different types of coldwater anglers. The survey looked at access points; bait used; species preferences; preference for fishing location; angler age, gender and education; trip distance; purpose of anglers’ trips; and numerous other behaviors and preferences. It also assessed the economic impact of anglers on local economies. The report notes that “fishing equipment was the largest expenditure in preparation for the trip ($12.57/person/day). Total expenditures at home were $33.90 per person per day. The largest expenses en route and onsite were lodging ($15.39/person/day), prepared food ($12.55/person/day), and gas ($12.70/person/day) totaling $71.31 per person daily. In sum, the typical coldwater angler spent $105.21/day. Overall, anglers were satisfied with their trip, and the quality, size and number of fish caught. The study concludes with the following findings: “There were many differences noted between the five different types of fishing investigated in this study. The differences were substantial, significant, and revealing. The evidence presented strongly argues for rejecting both of the null hypotheses used to guide this research. Therefore, we can state with a high degree of certainty that expenditure differences do exist for anglers between the different types of coldwater angling and that different experiences are sought by anglers engaging in different types of fishing. The research that allowed us to reject both null hypotheses also provides us with some interesting insights into other differences between anglers in the five different fishing types."
Executive Summary - Cook County Economic Analysis
(2007) Cook County Planning Commission
This document analyzes various human and economic development indicators and in general is a well-documented and well-written report. However, there is little mention of public or private use of water resources or other natural resources except for tourism. Key points are reproduced below: "Decades' long declines in logging, fishing and mining have made Cook County a one-factory community, and that factory is tourism. Tourism accounts for over 80% of the economy, making Cook County more dependent on tourism, by far, than any other Minnesota county. Until the late 1990s, tourism continued to grow, propelling growth in employment and sales. Due to a lack of resources to invest in relevant public infrastructure or broaden tourism beyond snow-based recreation activities during the seven month low season (mid-October through mid-June), the economy of Cook County has stagnated and become highly seasonal. Lodging visitation, the engine of tourism in Cook County, has not grown since 1999, resulting in parallel stagnation at restaurants, bars, retail shops, recreation facilities and other businesses. The total dollars flowing through the economy fall to 35% to 55% of peak summer sales levels from mid-October through mid-June. This economic weakness affects the entire County. Businesses are forced to take out credit lines to survive. Too few year-round positions with benefits are available, and seasonal unemployment is high. The County has been unable to attract or retain younger workers or families, or provide adequate housing, public transportation or other community infrastructure." This report gives a concise history of settlement in the area. Little or no mention is made of pre-settlement or current Native American use of the county. Focus is on the seasonality of tourism, with policy recommendations for economic development and investment.
Fond du Lac Resource Management: 2008 Integrated Resource Management Plan
(2008) Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
This very comprehensive document was reviewed and is felt to have significant content and analysis relevant to Minnesota’s coastal area and water resources. It also contains biophysical and watershed-related content directly relevant to Native communities in Minnesota’s coastal communities. Key content is reproduced below: Executive summary: “This Integrated Resource Management Plan contains information about the Band’s past and current management activities and identifies resources that need additional management. The Integrated Resource Management Plan contains alternatives to resource management, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act, which are based on the management objectives. Management activities range from no action to full implementation, and the alternatives presented reflect that range. The objectives that can be completed under each alternative are displayed in a table located at the end of discussion on alternatives. Public input was solicited on the draft document, which included a variety of management alternatives. Comments obtained from the community and tribal government were incorporated into the final document, and the hearing process provided a basis for the formulation and selection of the preferred alternative. The preferred alternative is officially approved by Resolution # 1183/08. Each resource is described in a narrative that was developed in the following format: o Description of the affected environment o Background for that resource o Issues, concerns, and opportunities for that resource o Goals and objectives for that program, with different management alternatives The final chapter is a summary of the alternatives. The preferred alternative is identified for each resource.” Approximately 15 pages of this report are dedicated specifically to water-based resources, including chapters on wild rice, wetlands and water, and fisheries. Some sections are reproduced below. Wild Rice There are five primary wild rice lakes on the Fond du Lac Reservation. The total area on which wild rice is currently present on these lakes is 843 acres. The wild rice areas on the individual lakes are: Perch Lake, 411 acres; Mud Lake, 151 acres; Rice Portage Lake, 131 acres; Jaskari Lake, 79 acres; and Deadfish Lake, 71 acres. These lakes are all within the Stoney Brook Watershed, which is tributary to the St. Louis River. Wild rice is also present in Side Lake, Cedar Lake, Wild Rice Lake, Simian Lake, and Hardwood Lake. Side Lake and Hardwood Lake are within the Stoney Brook Watershed. Cedar Lake and Simian Lake are within the Simian Creek Watershed. Wild Rice Lake is the headwaters of the Moosehorn River, a tributary of the Kettle River. The density of mature wild rice varies from season to season, as the ecology of wild rice growth is related to cycles of plant decomposition, the number of growing days, and available nutrients. In addition, wild rice is easily lost as a result of natural events, such as high winds, flooding, and hail. The majority of the wild rice resource on the Fond du Lac Reservation is in the Stoney Brook Watershed. Beginning in 1916, the Stoney Brook Watershed was adversely affected by the creation of a network of judicial ditches. These judicial ditches drastically altered the hydrology of the watershed, resulting in the loss of over 500 acres of wild rice habitat. The lower water levels that resulted from the judicial ditching allowed competing vegetation to encroach on areas that at one time supported wild rice. Besides the Stoney Brook Watershed, wild rice resources in other areas of the Fond du Lac Reservation are in decline as well. The reason for this decline is primarily due to higher water levels, caused by road building and beaver activity. The Fond du Lac Natural Resources Program is responsible for the wild rice management and restoration activities on the Fond du Lac Reservation. The primary method of wild rice lake management consists of utilizing water control structures (dams) to stabilize water levels, ditch maintenance, and beaver dam management. The restoration of the major wild rice lakes on Fond du Lac is dependent on restoring the lakes to their historical elevation and a more natural annual hydrological cycle. The implementation of the Rice Portage Wild Rice and Wetland Restoration Project resulted in the construction of four water control structures. These four structures are located at the outlet of Perch Lake, the outlet of Rice Portage Lake, an impoundment that is upstream of Deadfish Lake (commonly known as “Upper Deadfish”), and at the outlet of Deadfish Lake. These structures are used to restore the lake elevations and improve hydrologic function. Issues: The ineffectiveness of current mechanical methods for the restoration project on Rice Portage Lake. Mud Lake continues to produce a thin crop of wild rice, despite its potential for higher yields. Concerns: Invasive species–both invasive and exotic plant species–are of great concern due to their persistence once introduced. While there are no know exotic species in our wild rice lakes, the risk is high given the uses of these lakes by waterfowl hunters and wild rice harvesters. Climate change–weather pattern changes, annual precipitation, and temperature changes–all may impact the viability of our wild rice lakes. Opportunities The Stoney Brook Watershed Study will provide a model that will allow for more effective water level management, and identify opportunities for restoration of the original river system, and abandonment of unnecessary ditch segments. The current trend of land purchasing, land use planning, and increased resource management capabilities affords long term protection for portions of the wild rice lake watershed that were unavailable in the past. Increased Resource Management Division staff and capabilities may allow for opportunities to partner with other agencies and organizations to restore, protect, and enhance wild rice growth throughout the Ceded Territories. Goals & Objectives At a minimum, maintain the current program and management. Increase vegetation treatment acreage per annum. Surface water resources The Fond du Lac Reservation includes abundant freshwater resources, with over 3,000 acres of lakes (828 acres of wild rice waters), nearly 44,000 acres of wetlands, and 96 miles of rivers and streams. The St. Louis River, the largest U.S. tributary to Lake Superior, borders the Reservation to the north and east, and approximately 95% of the waters of the Reservation lie within its watershed. All of the waters within the Reservation are believed to be relatively pristine. There are no known or permitted industrial or municipal discharges to the waters, except to the St. Louis River. Historical hydrological modifications to many of the Reservation’s wild rice lakes occurred with the development of the judicial ditch drainage system early in the twentieth century. Currently, a restoration project is underway to gradually restore Rice Portage Lake, one of the most productive rice lakes, to its historical water levels, and to minimize water level fluctuations on Deadfish Lake, thereby enhancing its stands of rice. Shoreline development and the accompanying potential for increased nutrient inputs (septic discharge and lawn chemicals) and erosion are factors that could affect the water quality of several Reservation lakes. By 1998, the Fond du Lac Environmental Program developed and the Reservation Business Committee adopted a set of Water Quality Standards for the surface water resources of the Reservation, setting contaminant criteria and designating uses for 24 lakes and eight streams within the boundaries, and identifying Outstanding Reservation Resource Waters. More recently, the Band has been granted “Treatment as a State” authority by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the federal Clean Water Act, enabling it to enact and enforce such standards. As a critical tool for implementing these standards, the Environmental Program designed a comprehensive Water Quality Monitoring Plan. Initially a rigorous three-year monitoring project measuring the physical, chemical and biological quality of 24 lakes and eight streams located within the exterior boundaries of the Reservation, it has since been modified to reflect an ongoing status and trends program. This comprehensive database on Fond du Lac surface waters will also permit the Office of Water Protection to develop numerical biocriteria to replace the narrative biocriteria currently in the tribal Water Quality Standards. The data is also utilized to assess and report on the condition of these water bodies and their attainment of designated and aquatic life uses. Protecting human health requires monitoring for indicators that measure the safety of eating fish or other aquatic wildlife, or of swimming and boating. Conserving ecosystems requires indicators of diverse, healthy aquatic plant and animal communities, and indicators are also needed to assure that water quality and sediment conditions can maintain those biological communities. The Water Quality Monitoring Plan was designed to assess indicators for both human health and aquatic life. Atmospheric deposition of mercury is of particular concern in this boreal forest and wetland ecoregion, as biochemical processes enhance mercury availability to the aquatic food chain, bioaccumulating to levels that are hazardous to top predators and humans. Consequently, fish caught in Reservation waters can be dangerously high in tissue mercury content. Criteria for the Water Quality Standards were calculated under an assumed fish consumption rate that is much higher than the state of Minnesota or the Great Lakes region assumes for the general population, as some Band members rely upon fish at a subsistence level in their diet. The Environmental Program has completed several projects that assessed contaminant levels (mercury, PCBs and lead) and characterized sediments of twelve Reservation lakes and the St. Louis River. In 2001, Fond du Lac partnered with the Minnesota Department of Health to collect and analyze fish tissue from lakes and the St. Louis River (preferred fishing waters), using the data to develop specific fish consumption advisories. Groundwater In 2004, Fond du Lac completed its first Nonpoint Source Assessment Report and applied for Treatment as a State for non-point source authority. The Office of Water Protection received its first base program funding in 2005 and is using that support to implement several projects under the following categories: hydro modification, timber harvesting, roads and urban development. The Resource Management Division is also engaged in a major hydrologic study of the Stoney Brook watershed in partnership with Natural Resources Conservation Service and the U.S. Geological Survey. Ultimately, a Stoney Brook Watershed Management Plan will be developed to account for multiple resource management objectives, including wild rice production and stream and wetland restoration. The Office of Water Protection also has identified aquatic invasive species as a major concern for protecting the Reservation’s water resources. The nonpoint source program provides for broad education and outreach to the Reservation community and affected stakeholders, in order to minimize nonpoint source impacts to Fond du Lac water resources. The primary objectives of the Environmental Program are to ensure the protection of valuable ground water resources through the continued closures of abandoned wells, the delineation of protection zones for wells contributing to community water systems, and the development of a wellhead protection plan for the Reservation. The Fond du Lac Reservation boundary encompasses 101,153 acres, of which 43,264 (43%) are wetlands. These wetlands consist of forested (67% – black spruce, tamarack, or black ash dominant; includes bogs), scrub shrub (29% – alder or willow dominant), emergent (3% – sedge, reed canary grass, or cattail dominant; includes wild rice lakes), and open water (< 1% – coontail dominant). Many wetlands on the Reservation have been degraded due to human activities, particularly by ditching, road construction, agricultural and silvicultural runoff, and commercial and residential development. The Environmental Program has a Wetlands Conservation and Protection program that has been active since October of 1998. A Wetlands Protection and Conservation Plan was adopted by the Reservation Business Committee in October 2000. The plan was expanded, updated and adopted by the Reservation Business Committee in February 2006 to become the Fond du Lac Joint Comprehensive Wetlands Protection and Management Plan. The adoption of this plan led to the development and adoption by the Reservation Business Committee of the Fond du Lac Wetlands Protection and Management Ordinance in June 2006. Erosion and sedimentation resulting from storm water can cause significant impact to surface waters. On the Reservation, construction activities have the potential to be a major contributor to these impacts. Since March 2003, the Office of Water Protection has been providing erosion and sedimentation control best management practices oversight of construction projects on the Reservation. This is the result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Phase II Construction Storm Water regulations as part of Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. In addition to this voluntary oversight, the Office of Water Protection has also entered into a Storm Water Direct Implementation Tribal Cooperative Agreement to conduct inspections of construction sites impacting one acre or more. Two tribal inspectors have been trained and credentialed by Environmental Protection Agency to conduct inspections on the Reservation. More than 13 projects are scheduled for inspection during the construction seasons of 2007 and 2008. In addition, the Office of Water Protection has been developing the required Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans for nearly all projects conducted by the Reservation, as well as occasional projects conducted by individual Band members.” A long list of concerns and threats to water resources is included in the report. These related to taconite and sulfide mining operations, mercury deposition, nonpoint source pollution and other causes. “Fisheries The majority of the lakes on the Fond du Lac Reservation are small, shallow bodies of water, more suitable for growing wild rice than for the management of any significant fisheries. Many of these lakes do have fish, however, with populations consisting primarily of northern pike), largemouth bass, panfish, yellow perch), and bullhead. Due to relatively shallow water, high abundance of aquatic macrophytes, and substrates composed predominantly of decaying organic matter, many of these Reservation lakes are incapable of supporting any naturally reproducing populations of walleye (Sander vitreus). These lakes are, however, conducive to the production of northern pike, panfish, largemouth bass, and bullhead but are also subject to frequent winterkill. Most of the lakes on the Reservation do have some type of public access, though most are strictly carry-in accesses. The fishery of the St. Louis River is by far the most important one for residents of the Reservation. At least four game fish species can be found in appreciable numbers; northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. The channel catfish fishery remains the highest priority of Fond du Lac Band members who regularly use the St. Louis River’s fishery resources. Much can be done to improve the trout populations on the Reservation. Stream improvements and the removal of beaver and their lodges and dams may improve habitat for resident trout populations. Stocking may need to be a part of future management activity, but shouldn’t be random and haphazard as past stocking activities appear to have been. In addition, regular assessments need to be performed following any stocking efforts. The fisheries in the 1854 and 1837 Ceded Territories are numerous and diverse, from small trout streams in the Superior National Forest, to lakes such as Mille Lacs that are capable of sustaining large walleye populations, to the salmon and trout of Lake Superior. Walleye and northern pike appear to be the most important species to Band members, and are relatively abundant throughout both of the Ceded Territories. A high priority for Band members is a concentrated subsistence harvest at Mille Lacs Lake, where a regular spring harvest season occurs.”
Grand Marais Recreation Park Master Plan
(2009) Grand Marais Park Board
This is a bullet-point summary of current and proposed future uses to the park. Key points are that water-based activities be prioritized. Facilities that do not need waterfront access should be relocated (animal shelter, public works storage garage etc.). Shoreland vegetation and historic sites should be preserved. Future harbor development should be anticipated.
Grand Portage National Monument/Minnesota: Final General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement
(2003) National Park Service, Department of the Interior
This is a planning document presenting four development alternatives to enhancing visitor experience at the Grand Portage National Monument. The alternatives range from doing nothing, to different degrees of reconstructed historic buildings and major interpretive programs, to a hybrid model. A brief history and background of the site is provided. The report summarizes potential environmental impacts to land and water resources for each alternative option.
Lake County Comprehensive Trail Plan
(2013) Arrowhead Regional Development Commission
Executive Summary: “In 2011 Lake County representatives approached the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission regarding the development of a comprehensive trails plan to help the County identify needs, prioritize projects, improve connectivity with other trail systems, increase awareness, and generally improve management of the County’s trail system. In July, 2012, work began on the plan. The plan envisions a trail system that is beneficial to the health, economy, environment, education and quality of life of the County, its residents, and its visitors. Though the plan focuses on trails within the County, it does take into consideration connections to federal, state and local trails and destinations. The plan identified partnership opportunities for Lake County with other governmental organizations, users, and non-profits with interests in the County. The visioning process laid a foundation for future trails, projects, and funding. A marketing plan outline would become beneficial in encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy Lake County’s beauty, recreational offerings, and destinations. Trails are important to the health of County residents, to the economy of the County, and to the overall quality of life for those living in and visiting Lake County. Health and active living studies have shown that active living, including having trails accessible to the local population, results in benefits to physical and mental health. A citizenry that uses trails and outdoor recreation facilities has less obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and a longer life expectancy. The number of trails and trail users have an impact on the economy of Lake County. This impact is especially significant because studies have shown that the northeast region of the state led all regions in trail-related spending in six of ten trail uses. Studies done on the quality of life in other locations indicate that trails have an overall positive influence on quality of life. People enjoy having ready access to the outdoors and maintained, connected trails provide that access. While recreational use figures are not specifically available for Lake County trails, recent studies have categorized use in the 9-county northeast region of the state. Typically, visitor day trail use for snowmobiling, ATV riding, and RVing were higher in the northeast region than any other region in Minnesota, even though the metro area has a much larger population. The northeast area ranked second to the Metro area in cross-country skiing and off-highway motorcycle riding. An important aspect of any trails program is the key recreational attractions that bring visitors from outside the County, as well as being favorite recreational sites of local residents. Vision and goals: Lake County has a long history of trail use tapping its natural resources. Trails have provided access to nearly all areas within the county. Today, these trails are used by residents and visitors year round to view natural attractions, used to access hunting areas, or are part of a destination package. With this in mind, Lake County desired to develop their trails and improve connectivity to enhance the users experience and to promote economic development). The goals are: form a well-connected, integrated trail system; have a system that is manageable and sustainable; a system that is safe; and a system available (or multi-use). Future goals and strategies were developed to address continued growth in the number and different types of users. As the report progressed, four key elements became apparent about the trail needs in the county. They were: • better access to the extensive ATV travel routes system • better connectivity between the City o( Two Harbors and the County’s Trail System • more opportunities for road biking and mountain biking • marketing Lake County’s trails. These elements became the overall recommendations and when looking at the trail maps, it becomes apparent that these concepts apply throughout the county. The plan also contains specific recommendations as well as strategies for implementation. With over 2,000 opportunity miles of trails available, Lake County abounds with opportunities.”
Minnesota State Water Trails History
(2009) Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
This report is a brief four-page history of the state water trails and public access program, centering mainly on the 1960s and 1970s. The main focus is on the Minnesota and Saint Croix rivers. No specific mention is made of Minnesota's coastal region.
Minnesota's Network of Parks and Trails: An Inventory of Recreation Experience Opportunities in Minnesota: Northeast Region Profile
(2010) Davenport, Mae; Schneider, Ingrid; Date, Andrea; Filter, Lisa
Minnesota’s County Land Management A Unique Ownership Providing Diverse Benefits
(2004) Fernholz, Kathryn; Bowyer, Jim; Howe, Jeff; Bratkovich, Steve; Frank, Matt
This report concerns public and private forests in northeastern Minnesota. It does not specifically deal with water resources except to note the following: “Ideally, forest management for restoration, forest health, wildlife habitat, and biodiversity benefits should be continued even when market prices are low. Delaying management because of poor market conditions may result in declines in forest health due to insect or disease issues being left untreated or other changes that can diminish water quality protections and important wildlife habitats. Delayed harvests and associated silvicultural treatments can also negatively impact recreation and other social benefits benefits.” Also, under the topic of water quality, the report advocates utilizing improved inventory data (forest cover types, species, age, native plant communities, soils, etc.) to evaluate current conditions in known impaired watersheds and develop long-term plans. Other key points are extracted and summarized below. “Minnesota is among a small number of states that have county managed forest land. This report explores the history and current contribution of Minnesota’s county-managed forest lands, including the diverse social, economic and environmental benefits they provide. "Minnesota’s “county forests” originated during the 1930s. During the era of the Great Depression, the state was challenged with the consequences of unsustainable farming practices, cut-and-run logging, bankrupt homesteads and devastating wildfires. Thousands of acres of land became tax delinquent as owners could not, or for a variety of reasons would not, pay their taxes. These lands were labeled "worthless” and became the "lands nobody wanted." In 1935, in an attempt to return the tax delinquent acres to private ownership, the Minnesota Legislature provided for forfeiture of these lands to local counties, thereby enabling their resale to others. By this time, about eight million acres of tax-forfeited land had accumulated. Delinquency and subsequent forfeiture continued at a high level into the 1960s. As the demand for land remained low and many of the acres were not re-sold, the land continued to be the responsibility of the local county governments. Over time, the counties began to recognize opportunities to care for these lands in ways that could rebuild the soils, restore forest habitats, enhance local communities and create long-term economic returns. Counties found they could manage the lands to grow trees on a sustained-yield basis and the returns from this management could improve the environment and also provide jobs, revenues to meet public needs, and other benefits. In 1979, the Minnesota Legislature enacted "Payment In Lieu of Tax (PILT) Legislation" that encouraged retention of the tax-forfeited land by the local public land managers. The law provided compensation to local taxing districts (i.e., counties) for retaining land that represented a loss of tax base. These payments remain important for sustaining the needs of local communities and ensuring continual stewardship of natural resources. Counties do not share a uniform plan or prescription for management of forests. Each county manages its woodlands independently. Local interests, including the common use of citizen advisory committees, inform management decisions and county staff and boards administer the lands. In recent years, county land departments have provided leadership in several areas linked to responsible forest management. These include third-party forest certification, forest-based carbon offset opportunities, motorized recreation management, and forest inventory needs. Most of the benefits and services of county lands are not easily quantified and many are provided at no direct cost, which makes estimating their value difficult. However, related research has explored the potential value of these types of benefits. 98% of the lands each year are providing undisturbed habitat, water quality and recreation benefits. Minnesota’s county forest lands, unwanted in the 1930s, now provide unique opportunities to address local community needs, contribute to resolution of emerging issues, and demonstrate responsible forestry. County land managers are currently challenged by a number of significant threats, including invasive species, forest health concerns, and reduced markets. At the same time, the management of county forests is subjected to political pressures, shrinking local and state budgets, and competing interests. Minnesota is one of a few states that has county-managed lands within the public land category. These county lands can be described as Minnesota’s “community-forests” due to the important social, economic and ecological services they provide as public lands under local control. The county-managed lands provide a unique type of land ownership within the context of public forest lands in the state. To ensure the delivery of the services and benefits of these lands for future generations continued investment and statewide commitment to their responsible care and management is required.”
The North West Voyageurs Brigade Historic Trails Award
(2003) Boy Scouts of America
This short but interesting pdf describes an award given by the Boy Scouts of America to scouts accomplishing a route in the Voyageur's National Park. It contains a brief history and images of Native American and early European canoe routes. The pdf notes the importance of historic water routes to transportation and commerce.
Northeast Minnesota Flash Flood Disaster - Economic Development Impact Study
(2013) Arrowhead Regional Development Commission
ARDC conducted a study to determine economic development impacts of the 2012 flood. ARDC collected information from all levels of government and held small group interviews to analyze gaps in data and identify lessons learned. Recommendations are paraphrased and summarized below. “A. Develop and Mobilize Micro Loans and Micro Grants for Disaster Response and Recovery. Micro loans and micro grants have been identified as a best practice for providing quick assistance to small businesses. The Northland Foundation’s Business Flood Recovery Fund has been cited as one of the most successful local response efforts following the 2012 floods. The program should be evaluated to learn how the region can keep the basic infrastructure of this program in place and how other groups can duplicate it or enhance it so that it can be remobilized even quicker in the aftermath of a future disaster. Micro loans should be explored as a source of assistance immediately following a disaster. Regional economic development funds, revolving loan funds and additional commercial lenders should examine their capacity and adopt disaster recovery lending programs that could be enacted immediately after future disasters. B. Maximize Planning and Zoning for Disaster Mitigation, Response, Recovery and Resiliency. 1. Land Use Planning: Decisions made before and after a disaster affect the resiliency and recovery of a community in the event of a disaster. Communities that integrate disaster resiliency into land use planning and development decisions can mitigate potential disaster impacts by: a. Integrating a hazard element into Comprehensive Plans, either as a stand-alone section or in discussion of other plan sections such as housing, infrastructure, and economic development. b. Assessing disaster vulnerability of sites in development plans. c. Encouraging development in less hazardous areas. d. Minimizing or mitigating vulnerable types of development in hazardous areas. e. Reducing disaster vulnerability through land use and zoning regulations. 2. Economic Development Planning. Recovery dictates long term success. The return of jobs, tourism, and capital investments are dependent on housing recovery, infrastructure restoration, environmental restoration, and social service provision. Communities should integrate disaster resiliency into economic development planning by: a. Assessing the unique needs and challenges for small businesses, large employers, economic diversification, and workforce/residents in the face of a disaster. b. Prioritizing economic development projects that are disaster resilient and fill a need in the post disaster community. c. Encouraging all physical projects to address disaster resiliency in the planning stage. 3. Infrastructure and Public Facilities: Restoration of infrastructure and public facilities is a prerequisite for recovery. Communities should prioritize long term infrastructure needs to take advantage of opportunity to upgrade, mitigate, or relocate infrastructure following a disaster. In the rush to rebuild, communities should be prepared to avoid repeating mistakes or missing opportunities to develop systems that will serve their residents and businesses better in the future. A disaster resiliency factor should be added to routine capital project planning. 4. Planning and Recovery Facilitation: To support community planning for and recovery from disasters, ARDC is available to work with communities on a project basis to: a. Offer a forum to convene diverse stakeholders and facilitate discussion and planning initiatives around the issues of economic resiliency and preparedness. b. Provide communities and businesses with regional demographic and economic data, hazard vulnerability and mitigation data, and disaster impact data. c. Establish familiarity with economic and community recovery funding sources and programs. d. Explore how ARDC’s revolving loan fund can be used to assist disaster impacted businesses. C. Improve information cataloging for long - term recovery and resiliency ARDC found that a lack of a one - stop portal for information on the evolving economic impact of the disaster is a challenge to long term planning and recovery efforts. A one - stop data repository may be best set up at the county and state levels. An up – to - date data repository can be useful for: • Developing and securing funding for recovery and resiliency programs and assessing the effectiveness of mitigation programs. (TIF districts, redevelopment programs, business continuity planning) • Establishing baseline to assess the long -term issues presented by future disasters in the region or elsewhere in the state. • Developing new local, regional, and state policies and programs. • Developing disaster profiles for use in community planning. • Developing tools and metrics for evaluating progress against set goals, objectives and milestones.
Northeast Minnesota Industry Cluster Study
(2001) Munnich, Lee W; Chatfield, Nathan; Schrock, Greg; Lichty, Richard W; McIntosh, Chris; Wittrock, Tiana
This major study explored factors contributing to the economic competitiveness of northeastern Minnesota communities and counties. It has a strong focus on economic and industrial development. The study focuses on four “clusters”: forest products, tourism, health services and information technology. The first two clusters are assumed to require an adequate supply of water, and are assumed to greatly influence the quality and quantity of water available for multiple uses. Summary: "This regional study sought to understand the issues shaping the competitiveness of Northeast Minnesota’s industry clusters. The study follows the Michael Porter 'industry cluster' approach to understanding competitiveness. The project identified four clusters for the region: 1) forest products, 2) tourism, 3) health services, and 4) information technology. Focus groups and individual interviews with local business leaders and economic development professionals offered insight into the industries. The study region encompassed a twelve-county area of northeastern Minnesota that centered on the city of Duluth (St. Louis County). Also included are Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Cook, Isanti, Itasca, Kanabec, Koochiching, Lake, Mille Lacs, and Pine Counties.”
Outdoor Recreation in the Regional Copper-Nickel Study Area
(1978) Webb, Sara
This 35-year old study primarily discusses non-Indian recreational use of public and private lands in the Cu-Ni region of Minnesota’s Iron Range. This recreation-oriented study does not specifically note Native American use of study area lands except for very indirect references to gill-netting and wild ricing. It has a strong focus on human use of water resources in the region, but does not investigate potential impacts of increased recreational use, mining, or other anthropogenic activities with potential to affect condition of these resources. The study abstract and key segments are extracted and reproduced below. Abstract: “Geographic patters of outdoor recreational use in the Copper-Nickel Study Area were investigated as part of a study of potential impacts of copper-nickel mining in Northeastern Minnesota. With the objective of characterizing patterns of recreational use of facilities, water bodies and public lands, interviews were held with thirteen land use managers and others familiar with the study area. Findings from this interview program together with past recreation research provide a data base on existing recreational use necessary for to impact analysis. Numerous public and private recreation facilities are located along Study Area lakes and streams. Outside facilities, public and some private lands are used for diverse land-based activities when afforded road, trail, or surrogate trail access; old logging roads serve this function in the most heavily-used areas, although some activities such as and winter camping rarely occur in recently logged zones. Dense settlement and lowland bogs restrict access by most land-oriented recreationists. Water-based recreation is concentrated on large, deep lakes in the Study Area's northern half. Part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA), a national wilderness area, lies within the Study Area's north boundary. Canoeists and fishermen use BWCA lakes heavily. Dozens of smaller lakes throughout the Study Area serve Iess diverse but sometimes more intensive recreation functions. Only a few lakes lack any recreational use; most are quite small and lack access or recreation resources. Most Study Area streams have limited recreational use because of low water levels, with the exception of two rivers, the Kawishiwi and the St. Louis River. Three general types of outdoor recreation can be distinguished: facility -based recreation), dispersed land-based recreation, and water-based recreation. To spare the time and expense of primary field surveys, a program of interviews with thirteen land managers such as conservation officers and foresters was designed, using Spradley's interview method. Key points: ‘Outdoor recreation in all forms is dependent upon access: roads, trails, and public lands. The region is covered with an extensive network of land management units at various levels. Land-based recreation use relates closely to the area's logging history and logging roads. Lake, stream, road and facility use must be carefully evaluated before siting decisions about mining and recreational use are finalized.’

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