Crow Wing County Land Services received the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Parks and Trails Division Director's Award for dedication and commitment to the snowmobiling community.
The award was presented during the annual Minnesota United Snowmobile Association event at Cragun's Resort and Hotel on Gull Lake that began Thursday, Feb. 7.
Crow Wing County was one of the first sponsors of snowmobile trails when the DNR's Grant-In-Aid program started back in the 1970s.
"The snowmobiling community is very important to Crow Wing County," Environmental Services Supervisor Ryan Simonson said in a news release.
Land Services recorded easements over snowmobile trails on isolated county-managed lands before offering them for sale to ensure the protection of the trail corridor. The department increased the level of trail monitoring and outreach to local clubs to ensure the trails are being properly maintained and signed.
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In addition, Land Services developed a comprehensive recreation trails plan, which involves clear, objective criteria for evaluating trail proposals, as well as a transparent public comment process to ensure all viewpoints are considered, the county reported.
"Once the snow starts falling you definitely notice an increase in traffic and trail users, and many local businesses and resorts rely on this type of recreation in the winter months," Simonson said.
More information about snowmobile trails, such as maps and current trail conditions, can be found at www.crowwing.us/1457/Snowmobile-Trails .
