Stearns County Releases Master Parks Plan

(KNSI) – The Stearns County Parks Department has released its master plan roughly a month after its adoption by the board of commissioners.

The document helps guide the development of the network of green spaces and local and state trails. Planners are working under the assumption that the population will rocket higher by 17% between now and 2050, mostly in the eastern end of the county.

The growth in demand will primarily occur with the trail system. The Master Plan was completed with the help of two major surveys conducted in 2023. Respondents say they want paths that can serve a variety of uses, from walking to biking. The trails should be accessible for young and old along with a range of physical abilities.

Conservation is viewed as one of the parks department’s primary roles, but residents want to keep moving forward by adding amenities. Many want to see dog parks and other pet-friendly spaces. Picnics were another common activity that people from all ethnicities and cultures said they intend to do at county facilities.

The Master Plan is useful in guiding upgrades over the next five years and helping set a strategic vision for projects 10, 15, and 20 years out. You can view the plan here.

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