Enhancing access and welcoming new users to public lands and outdoor recreation facilities
- Accessible hunting and fishing improvements highlighted (September 2024)
DNR and Capable Partners host an event to demonstrate some of the planned accessibility projects through Get Out MORE that will make hunting and fishing experiences more accessible to people with mobility limitations. Get Out MORE funding will go toward a hydraulic lift hunting blind, permanent hunting blinds, parking lot improvements, trailheads and shore fishing access sites.
Watch media coverage of the event here: Minnesota DNR aims to make fishing, hunting more accessible kare11.com|
- State-wide accessibility projects announced (April 2024)
DNR announced plans for specific accessibility improvements across the state, including road, trail and facility modernizations in state parks, state forests and wildlife management areas.
- Construction begins at William O’Brien State Park (March 2024)
Significant improvements include additional accessible campsites, an accessible canoe and kayak launch, trail upgrades to better accommodate assistive mobility devices, and new restrooms and shower facilities. This project is funded primarily through regular state bonding funds, with additional funds provided by the Get Out MORE investments.
Construction begins on accessibility improvements at William O’Brien State Park : Mar 21, 2024 | News release | Minnesota DNR
- Projects to enhance access and welcome new users through Get Out MORE investments announced (January 2024)
Specific investments include $15 million for accessibility improvements, $9.4 million for roads, $8 million for hiking and paved trail surface improvements, $2 million for improved wayfinding and signs, and $1 million for track chairs and other adaptive equipment.
Minnesota DNR advances implementation of Get Out MORE funding : Jan 22, 2024 | News release | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
What's the need
Minnesota's public lands should be accessible for everyone to enjoy. Improving accessibility at DNR-managed facilities and lands enhances the experience for people with disabilities and other visitors. Improved road access and signage and rehabilitated state trails further improve Minnesotans’ recreational experiences.
What's the investment
Of the $150 million in Get Out MORE investments, $35.4 million will go toward more than 100 access and accessibility projects throughout the state, including:
- $15 million for accessibility improvements in state parks and wildlife management areas.
- $9.4 million for road improvements.
- $8 million for improvements to hiking and paved trails at state parks and hunter walking trails at wildlife management areas.
- $2 million for improved wayfinding and signage.
- $1 million for adaptive equipment, including track chairs and accessible hunting blinds, and supporting infrastructure.
For more details on the projects above, please see DNR’s news release from April 4, 2024: Minnesota DNR announces plans to invest $35 million in Get Out MORE funds on wide-ranging access and accessibility improvements across the state.
What people are saying
Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan shares her excitement about critical investments in Minnesota state parks to ensure outdoor spaces are accessible to all Minnesotans.
Across Minnesota, we’re making critical investments in our state parks to ensure outdoor spaces are accessible to *all* Minnesotans year-round.
Head to https://t.co/eHBuxaNSkA to find a state park near you! pic.twitter.com/WrVIewsEKX— Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan (@LtGovFlanagan) July 30, 2023