U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announces the U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded Minnesota a grant of more than $1 million for the conservation of Lake Superior shoreline and parks.
The grant will provide funding for several initiatives in the North Shore area, including the development of a master plan for the Grand Marais Park and replacement of the Superior Hiking Trail Bridge over the Kadunce River.
"Lake Superior is a much-loved part of Minnesota's heritage," said Klobuchar. "For generations, Minnesotans have treasured our state parks and beaches. This grant will give North Shore communities the resources necessary to protect Minnesota's shoreline to ensure that future generations can enjoy the shore."
The $1,035,000 grant will support local governments through coastal zone management planning, technical assistance, infrastructure projects and education programs. Specifically, the grant provides for:
- Acquiring easement rights along a portion of the abandoned Burlington Northern Railway in Carlton County to develop a pedestrian trail that will connect to the Munger State Trail;
- Developing a master plan for the Grand Marais Park area;
- Replacing the Superior Hiking Trail Bridge over the Kadunce River;
- Helping governments obtain and use Geographic Information Systems mapping data;
- Developing a public access plan for the North Shore of Lake Superior; and
- Funding for a "View from the Lake" interactive educational program.
Klobuchar, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and the Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, has been a strong advocate for the conservation of Minnesota's lakes, rivers, forests and natural habitats.
The $1,035,000 grant from the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration was given to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Waters.
