Aitkin County to Develop Comprehensive Recreation Trail Plan
Dovetail Partners Assists in Public Engagement

(Mpls, MN - August 19, 2008) - The Aitkin County Land Department has initiated the development of an updated Comprehensive Recreation Trail Plan. The plan will guide recreation trail management activities on county-managed lands. Dovetail Partners is assisting with project coordination and public engagement.

“Aitkin County offers a full range of recreation opportunities throughout the year, but not every activity is a good fit for every acre,” says Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Commissioner.

The county manages more than 222,000 acres of public land. There are over 100 miles of designated ATV trails and over 600 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the county. Trails are also available for cross-country skiing, horse riding, and hiking.

“The goal of the planning process is to identify which recreation uses best fit which areas so that conflicts can be minimized and resources protected,” says Jacobs.

The county is also interested in planning for new and emerging recreation opportunities including water trails that would allow for expanded kayaking and canoe trips. There is also interest in geo-caching, a relatively new and growing recreation group.

“Aitkin County is in a good position to develop a plan that will map out recreation trails uses that will work well now and for years to come,” says Jacobs.

An Ad hoc committee has been formed to advise in the plan development. The committee includes representatives from throughout the county and with diverse recreation interests. Public meetings will also be held as the plan is developed.

Additional project information is available at the project website or by contacting Dovetail Partners at 612-333-0430, info@dovetailinc.org



For more information, visit:
http://www.dovetailinc.org/aitkincomprectrailplan.html