(KNSI) — The Stearns County Parks Department has gotten funding from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program to help buy 202 acres of land for a new park.
The park would be located just south of Paynesville.
The land’s appraised value is $893,000. The landowner, Linda Liestman, is making a $293,000 donation, bringing the cost to $600,000. The DNR’s grant adds $300,000 to the pile, with $150,000 coming from donations made by Paynesville community members and Stearns County contributing the last $150,000.
The Natural and Scenic Grant Program is funded with federal and state funds. The federal funds come from the Lake and Water Conservation Fund, and the state funds are allocated through the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund.
It’s close to Lake Koronis and has an existing trail system, restored wetlands, prairie and woodlands. Potential park amenities would be parking areas and public access, a picnic shelter, restrooms, a scenic overlook, and walking, hiking and ski trails.
The county is now working with the DNR to finalize the grant paperwork and can then start the acquisition process with Liestman.
The property is still privately owned, so public access is unavailable. Officials hope to open the park next year.
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