FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
December 23, 2009
         
Contact:
Kirk Titus 824-1138
Kirk.Titus@co.crow-wing.mn.us
Jake Frie, 824-4149
Jacob.Frie@co.crow-wing.mn.us  

TRAIL APPROVED FOR 2010 CROSSLAKE DOG DERBY RACE

The Crow Wing County Land Services Department has approved a new expanded route for the 2010 dog sled race slated for February 20-21 in Crosslake. The County's action comes after extensive planning and collaboration involving County, State and City policy-makers, as well as local citizens to design a route that meets organizer's needs while protecting area wetland resources.

"This action is a great example of citizens and government working together to achieve what's best for our local economy and our environment," said Kirk Titus, County Land Services Supervisor for Natural Resource Management. "It starts with the County's genuine commitment to customer service, and came to fruition due to the resolve of a diverse group of leaders who devoted themselves to the common purpose of finding a solution that works for everyone."

Last year's race was cancelled after the County declined to approve a proposed route expansion through County-managed lands due to concerns with the creation of new trails leading to sensitive wetland areas. Although dog sled traffic on frozen wetland was not the concern, new trails leading to such areas in non-winter months create opportunities for unauthorized ATV access, which can cause damage to wetland resources.

"Our number one priority is to protect our natural resources," Titus noted. "We can preserve our high quality natural areas and open spaces while providing outstanding recreation experiences for the public and economic opportunities for our community at the same time. The 2010 dog sled route is a prime example of this."

Titus singled out the efforts of Jake Frie, a Natural Resource Manager for the County who led the efforts of a public-private task force formed soon after the 2009 race was cancelled. "We made a commitment to find a workable route for 2010, and Jake did the legwork to make sure it happened," Titus stated. "Heather Becker of our staff also provided exceptional administrative support," Titus added.

The task force included County and DNR staff, private citizens and business representatives, race organizers, and local elected officials. A series of 5 planning meetings were held starting in March through July of 2009. The meetings served to gather input from all stakeholders regarding environmental concerns, trail location, design, and potential impact the race has on the Crosslake area economy. By the end of the process, the task force reached a consensus on the best route to achieve the goals identified.

In addition to Frie, task force members included: Commissioner Paul Thiede, Crow Wing County Board; Steve Rowe, Crosslake City Council Member; Dean Swanson, Crosslake City Council Member; Dog Derby Race organizers Roger Roy, Joel Knippel, Steve Anderson, and DiAnne Bubalo; David and Mary Kolesar, local citizens; Craig Schultz, Department of Natural Resources (DNR); Cary Schoutz, DNR Law Enforcement and Ruth Ann Hanson, Brainerd Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

The new expanded route utilizes several acres of County tax forfeit property. Crow Wing County manages more than 100,000 acres of forest land for timber production and recreation opportunities. The sale of timber at public auctions during the year funds the County's management of these lands, while providing revenues to local communities under a revenue-sharing formula. In 2009, timber sales on County managed lands generated $575,000.00, 30 percent of which – $172,500 – was distributed to Townships, Cities and School Districts in the County to offset local tax levies. Moreover, for every dollar of timber sold, an estimated $41.60 of value added economic activity is generated – or nearly $24 million based on 2009 County timber sales -- according to a 2004 State of Minnesota study.

In addition to its recent work on the dog sled trail, the County Land Services Department is working with Dovetail Partners, Inc to develop a comprehensive trails plan for the County identifying sensible routes for motorized and non-motorized trails devoted to protecting natural resources while providing recreation opportunities for the public. Information about this planning process may be found at the Crow Wing County website, (www.co.crow-wing.mn.us) under the Land Services Department heading.