2023 Forums & EventsForum: Navigating Park Commissions & Friends Groups | December 6, 2023It goes without saying that parks commissions and friends groups provide much-needed support for parks and trail systems. Whether it’s providing funding, trail maintenance, or other essential services, they are important assets in the development of and expanding access to parks and trails. This forum featured a discussion with parks and trails professionals about the role that these groups play in parks and trails.Cannabis Challenges for Parks & Trails | September 21, 2023 In this forum, GMPT brought in a few experts to talk about marijuana legalization, what it means for parks and trails, and their experience with the new law thus far. Kyle Hartnett, Assistant Research Manager at the League of Minnesota Cities, as well as a few city and county members who have already adopted policies on marijuana use, provided updates on the law’s details, answered questions, and discussed the issues everyone is facing. Accessibility & Sensory Sensitivities Forum | June 20, 2023During this forum, local advocates participate in a discussion about increasing accessibility for those with sensory sensitivities and visual impairments. Guest speakers Michele Ensign and Mary Lee Turner explain some of the challenges are for individuals with sensory sensitivities and what changes can be made to help develop better planning practices for well-rounded accessibility. Recommended Reading: Archaoelogical Surveys & New Grant Opportunity Forum | May 16, 2023This forum discusses a new GMRPTC grant opportunity designed to reduce cost barriers when conducting required environmental studies ahead of improvement projects. Professional archaeologist & lifelong preservationist Dr. Jeremy Nienow explains the when, where, how, & why of archaeological surveys as environmental studies.Legislative Update | April 28, 2023With so much work yet to be done, lobbyist Elizabeth Wefel explains the most recent legislative developments concerning parks and trails priorities as the Legislature prepares for the end of its session.Legislative Update | February 24, 2023With the legislative session moving at a fast and furious pace, lobbyist Elizabeth Wefel discusses the most recent legislative developments involving many of GMPT’s policy priorities and offers insight on the path ahead.Native Prairie Restoration Forum | February 2023Seasoned conservation practitioner Frances Gerde discusses why prairie habitat is a critical component of outdoor recreation areas; the space required to facilitate and how to establish a prairie habitat; and management considerations. Sherburne County Parks Coordinator Gina Hugo presented a case-study of a unique prairie restoration in a Sherburne County Park. For additional resources, see below: Legislative Update Forum | January 2023GMPT lobbyist Elizabeth Wefel provides updates and valuable information on legislative activities and topics that members should keep an eye on as legislators return to work at the Capitol. |