Minnesota Ag Connection - Fort Snelling Remains Closed Due to Flooding, Damage

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Fort Snelling Remains Closed Due to Flooding, Damage
Minnesota Ag Connection - 05/24/2019

Due to persistent flooding and damage from the winter's hefty snowpack and spring's heavy rains, Fort Snelling State Park will remain closed to the public through Memorial Day weekend and the month of June.

Located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers near the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, Fort Snelling State Park is one of Minnesota's busiest parks and is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, birders and school groups.

"We know how eager folks are to get out and enjoy nature now that spring has finally arrived, but making sure the park is safe for staff and park visitors is critical before opening," said Fort Snelling State Park manager Kelli Bruns. "The park experienced significant damage to its main roads, and water lines, and there are downed trees and trail washouts that need to be repaired. Meanwhile, we hope people will consider visiting one of our other state parks."

The closure could remain in effect until sometime in July, depending on weather conditions and work progress.

Department of Natural Resources and park staff want to remind people to refrain from coming into Fort Snelling State Park.

"We are asking the public to not enter the park at this time. This is important for their own safety and allows workers a safe place to complete repairs and clean-up. Emergency responders would have difficulty locating people in the closed park if needed," Bruns said.

The DNR is committed to working on opening the park as soon as possible.

The DNR encourages people to get out and enjoy Minnesota's outdoors as the first holiday weekend of the season approaches. Birds are singing their spring songs, and wildflowers are in full bloom across the state. But due to the ongoing wet weather, the DNR would like to remind people to check on current conditions before heading out. For more information, consult mndnr.gov/closures.

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