Summer Fun 2020

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C2 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Restaurant Directory

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ab a mani-pedi. unique boutiques. Gr joy a delicious op Sh e. ffe co r fo d ppy hour. En Meet a frien Gather a group for ha u do, you’ll save gas by Listen to live music. r ve yo er cocktails. Whate cal businesses that dinner. Catch up ov ll be supporting the lo u’ yo d an e, m ho to staying close d work! a great place to live an help make our town

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C3

Take your pick for golf

With 22 courses to choose from, all levels of play can find a fit

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f you like golf, there are plenty of places to play in the Willmar area.

How many? There are 22 golf courses in the West Central Tribune area. The best part is that all have available tee times even if you aren’t a member.

There is a little bit of everything for players seeking different types of courses.

Looking for a challenge? Try Stoney Creek near Renville. The 9-hole, par-36 has a slope rating of 144 for men and 141 for women, making it one of the area’s most difficult courses.

Looking for an easier, more relaxing round? Valley Golf Course in Willmar could be your choice.

The nine-hole, par-35 has a slope rating of 105. In other words, if you’re not as polished as some, it’s another option.

Note that slope ratings indicate a course’s difficulty. It’s based on the course’s length, the number of hazards and even the number of trees. The national average is a rating of 113. The lower the rating, the easier the course is supposed to be. Topend courses in difficulty reach 150.

There are plenty of 18-hole courses, too. Little Crow Country Club in Spicer and Eagle Creek Golf Course in Willmar are two of the more popular ones.

This year, it’s important to call ahead for tee times. Because of state restrictions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, you’re likely to need a credit or debit card to pay for your round, since transactions are supposed to avoid human contact.

There are other restrictions as well. Ask the course for theirs.

320-235-1050

C4 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Happy Birthday America!

Fireworks highlight scaled-back festivities for Independence Day

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ourth of July celebrations will be a bit different this year, without the large parades, music and other festivities, but many communities plan to still go ahead with the annual fireworks displays and a few select other activities. Following is a quick look at some of the celebrations across the region: MADISON: There will be fireworks at the fairgrounds on July 4. For more information, go to ci.madison.mn.us, madisonmn.info or call (320) 598-7301.

MAYNARD: There will be fireworks which will go off on Saturday, July 4, at dusk. The event is sponsored by the Maynard Lion’s Club.

PAYNESVILLE: The Lake Koronis Fourth of July boat parade will be held on Saturday, July 4, at 2 p.m. There will be fireworks on the 5th at sunset off First Island.The lake is just south of Paynesville.

PRINSBURG: July 3-4. On July 3, there will be a golf scramble at 3 p.m. and fireworks. July 4 will feature a virtual Freedom Fun Run open from 7 to 10 a.m. on a come-and-go basis. There will be a 10:30 a.m. praise and worship in the courtyard and spikeball and bean bag tournament at 3 p.m. There is a tentative plan for dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and parade at 5 p.m. These events are subject to change.

SPICER: There will be a boat parade on Green Lake at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 4. Fireworks will go off at dusk. The community is also boasting a ‘decoration display’ and the Green Lake Road Race will be held on July 5.

Cancellations include Terrace Mill July 4 family fun celebration and Prairie’s Edge fireworks.

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C5

Adventure a paddle stroke away

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un on the water starts right here. The rivers and streams of west central Minnesota offer a wide variety of paddling adventures, and are easy to access.

Some of the most popular stretches offer quiet waters ideal for families and beginners to paddle. The more adventurous also have plenty of opportunities to explore more challenging fast waters. No matter the choice, these waters make it easy to get away from the crowds and enjoy beautiful scenery.

Maps are available from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and on its web site detailing the river routes on the Minnesota River, Little Crow River and portions of the Chippewa and Pomme de Terre Rivers.

Put in and take out sites and road accesses are clearly marked. Rural communities located along or near the waterways offer dining, taprooms and more to enjoy.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the best:

Middle Fork Little Crow River

An easy afternoon paddle starts in New London and leads to the sparkling waters of Nest Lake. The scenic Mill Pond in New London is the perfect launching point for this fun and easy paddle.

Minnesota River

There are more than 330 miles of waterway to explore, starting at Big Stone Lake and reaching the Mississippi River at Fort Snelling.

There are ample opportunities to make two- or three-hour excursions to discover short but exciting segments of the river. The Minnesota River meanders through an oversized valley carved by the Glacial River Warren. The glacial waterway carved a path some 200 feet deep and two miles wide. It offers the modern explorer scenic vistas of wooded blufflands, towering granite outcrops and tree-lined shore lines.

Many of the most popular segments start at the Churchill Dam at the south end of Lac qui Parle Lake and continue to Fort Ridgely State Park. In between are the communities of Montevideo and Granite Falls, the Upper Sioux Agency State and a string of Renville County parks, all offering put-in and take-out sites, and access to drinking water and camping.

Chippewa River

The Chippewa River offers gentle paddling and a surprising scenery of islands, woodlands and steep bluffs. The best paddling is found upstream of the Watson Lion’s Park. Starting points for adventure include Ambush Park in the city of Benson, Big Bend and the Lentz Landing at the Minnesota Highway 40 bridge east of Milan.

Lac qui Parle River

The Lac qui Parle River offers an opportunity to sur-

Hawk Creek/ Yellow Medicine River

Minnesota Highway 274 (Wood Lake road) bridge and continue to the confluence with the Minnesota River at the Upper Sioux Agency State Park.

When water conditions are right, Hawk Creek Real-time data on water flows on Hawk Creek and the Yellow Medicine River offer some of the are also available online at: http://www.dnr.state. state’s very best whitewater paddling opportunities. mn.us/waters/csg/index.html Each spring the two waterways attract whitewater enthusiasts from around the state.

Little Crow River On both waterways, be prepared to be on your The North Fork of the Little Crow Pomme de Terre River own. There are very few intersecting bridges or River is ideal for paddling as it The fast-moving Pomme de Terre offers opportu- signs of civilization as the waters race toward the leaves the Lake Koronis Spillnities to surprise otters and an astonishing variety of Minnesota River. way near Paynesville. There birds, while viewing the changing prairie and woodTrips on Hawk Creek often start near or upstream are small rapids and hidland landscape. The Pomme de Terre also offers some of U.S. Highway 212 and continue to Renville den snags to watch for, of the area’s best angling opportunities for walleye. County’s Skalbakken Park at the confluence with the but much of the river is well suited for family canoeing.

Popular trips include runs from the Swift County Park Minnesota River.

Trips on the Yellow Medon U.S. Highway 12 north of Appleton to the city of icine River often start at the Appleton, and from Appleton to Marsh Lake.

prise an incredible array of wildlife, from eagles and owls to softshell turtles the size of wheel covers. The river’s sharp bends, towering cut banks and occasional whitewater makes every outing an adventure. The most popular route is an approximate 3-hour paddle from Lac qui Parle County Park to Lac qui Parle State Park near the confluence with the Minnesota River.

C6 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Camp, picnic or hike W

hen you’re looking for a place to “park yourself” for a picnic, a weekend getaway in a tent or a longer stay in an RV – there are numerous state, county, community and private parks and campgrounds in west central Minnesota to meet the desires of every camping and outdoor enthusiast.

(Note: As of press time, area public campgrounds are open with various degrees of services.

Not all sites are available in the campground to provide for social distancing.)

The parks are wrapped in – and around – the area’s diverse environment of lakes, woods and prairie landscapes and – on a normal year – draw people from all over the country.

Whether you want to go fishing on freshwater lakes, swimming and sunbathing on sandy beaches, biking on miles of trails, horseback riding, birding, geocaching or just sightseeing there is a park in the area to meet your recreational wish-list.

KANDIYOHI COUNTY PARKS

Kandiyohi County’s seven parks feature a variety of beautiful accommodations for a summer getaway.

Sitting on the edge of gorgeous fresh-water lakes ringed with mature native trees, the parks provide easy access to swimming, fishing, boating and stunning sunsets.

Five of the parks have campgrounds – Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park West, Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East, Diamond Lake County Park, Games Lake County Park and Green Lake County Park – with space available to accommodate large recreational vehicles and cozy enough for tents and campfires to make family vacations complete.

The parks are located in different corners of the county and each park has a different topography and offers different amenities that provide unique experiences to campers and day-visitors, including Saulsbury Beach and Lake Carrie county parks.

Most of the county parks feature playgrounds, picnic areas, modern restrooms, camp stores, swimming beaches and boat accesses, but not all may be accessible at this time. The number of campsites vary at each park, as well as the number of campsites that have access to electricity, sewer or water.

For more detailed information about fees and amenities, call the individual parks or access the county’s website at www.co.kandiyohi.mn.us All reservations will be online at https://www.kcmn. us/departments/county_parks/index.php

STATE PARKS

All campsites in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas now require a reservation before they may be occupied.

The park system recommends making reservations before leaving home because cell phone coverage and wi-fi can be unpredictable at some parks.

For spontaneous campers, there are same-day reservations with no reservation fees available whether you’re booking your site from home, from the road or even from the park.

To reserve a campsite, go to www.dnr.state. mn.us/state_parks/reservations_campsite.html or call 866-857-2757 from 8 a.m to 8 p.m.

Permits To visit the parks, vehicles require a vehicle permit. Daily permits are $7 and annual permits are $35 and good at all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for a full year from the month of purchase.

REGIONAL STATE PARKS

Fort Ridgely State Park south of Fairfax features the Fort Ridgely Historic Site, several campgrounds, two picnic areas, fishing, 1930’s era historic stone buildings and 13 miles of hiking and horse trails. The Fort Ridgely Historic Site contains the ruins of a military outpost. The Historic Site is closed through June 30. They should open for self-guided tours and the museum is normally open Friday through Sunday to Labor Day. For more information call: 507-426-7840 or email: fortridgely.statepark@state.mn.us Tucked away in the quiet, rolling hills of Minnesota’s glacial terrain near the city of Starbuck, Glacial Lakes State Park park offers miles of hiking and horseback trails, swimming and fishing in the cool, clear water of Signalness (Mountain) Lake, Kettle Lake and Baby Lake — which are known for panfish. A shady, spacious campground is available; horseback riders and backpack campers can camp at the horse camp and at remote sites.

A picnic area deck overlooks Signalness Lake. All modern restrooms are closed with vault toilets available throughout the park. For more information call the park at 320-239-2860 or email: glaciallakes. statepark@state.mn.us Lac qui Parle State Park is a bird-lovers’ paradise with thousands of migratory Canada geese and other waterfowl using the area as flight stopover. The park, near the city of Watson, is located alongside the 33,000-acre Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area, with Marsh Lake serving as an important nesting area for the white pelican. Lac qui Parle Lake is known as one of the state’s best walleye fishing lakes. There is a 30-acre upper campground, three camper cabins and tent camping available

Enjoy the great outdoors throughout the park. The campground’s sanitation building will be open excluding the restroom portion of the building (two family room flush toilets will be open for use), along with four vault toilets.

The beach is closed. There are several significant historic sites attached to the park, and the park itself is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. For more information call the park at 320-734-4450 or email: lacquiparle.statepark@ state.mn.us Located in the northeast edge of Swift County south of the small town of Sunburg, Monson Lake State Park offers a quiet get-away and a popular fishing spot. Anglers have options and bird lovers are drawn to the lake to observe pelicans, herons and western grebes.

This is a historic site of the Dakota Conflict of 1862 and was created as a memorial park. The park has 20 drive-in sites for camping. The vault toilets are open. Bathrooms and showers will remain closed until further notice. For information about Monson Lake State Park call 320-354-2055 or email: monsonlake.statepark@state.mn.us Sibley State Park, located off U.S. Highway 71 west of New London, is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks.

Mount Tom – one of the highest points in 50 miles – provides a breathtaking vista of the park, lakes and farms. Recreational facilities, biking, horseback riding and hiking trails let visitors explore the park’s beauty. The Ranger Station, Visitor Center, Trail Center, Nature Store Gift Shop and Lakeview Shelter buildings all remain closed until further notice. There are no naturalist programs and no kayak, canoe or boat rentals until further notice. There are a total of 132 drive-in camping sites at the park in two campgrounds. Bathrooms and showers are closed, only family assist facilities, primitive vault and portable toilets available. A separate horse camp offers nine sites and is open.

The four camper cabins are closed until further notice. For information about Sibley State Park call 320-354-2055 or email: sibley.statepark@state.mn.us A popular destination for those who appreciate the beauty of the Minnesota River Valley, the Upper Sioux Agency State Park south of Granite Falls offers 18 miles of hiking trails and 16 miles of horseback trails. The boat launch and Riverside Campground are closed until further notice. The Yellow Medicine Campground is open. There are three walk-in sites along the Yellow Medicine River and three teepees, including one that’s fully painted. There is a separate horse campground with 45 sites. Vault toilets are available in the park. Highway 67 is closed after collapsing last year. The park office, main entrance and horse camp are on the west side of the closure and the Yellow Medicine Campground is on the east side, with a lengthy detour connecting them. Follow the detour to travel between the park’s main entrance and the Yellow Medicine Campground. There is no way to avoid this detour. Detour maps and instructions are on the park website found under the Minnesota DNR, state parks. For more information call 320-564-4777 or email: uppersiouxagency.statepark@state.mn.us

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C7

C8 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Got lakes? Kandiyohi County is full of them There are at least 25 fishing lakes, including 3 in Willmar

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f there’s one thing Kandiyohi County is full of, it’s lakes.

The county has more than 25 fishing lakes, including three in Willmar. Most are north of U.S. Highway 12.

Most are well-stocked, making them a favorite for anglers.

If you’re looking to drop a line, it’s available, no matter where you live in the Willmar area.

There are large lakes like Green Lake in Spicer, which measures 5,406 acres, is more than 100 feet deep and has five areas with boat access.

There are small, secluded lakes like Bass Lake (52 acres), Lake Carrie (81) and Elk Lake (87). All offer ample fishing opportunities.

If you live in Willmar, you don’t have to go far. Foot Lake, Long Lake and Willmar Lake are all in the city limits.

You can fish from the shore, do it from a dock or by boat.

Foot Lake is stocked with walleye and catfish. Long Lake of Willmar (there’s a Long Lake in Hawick, too) has walleye and northern pike. Walleye, channel catfish and crappies can be found in Willmar Lake, which is stocked with walleye fry every other year.

What’s biting? Check with area bait shops. They’ll also know what you need to succeed. Luck’s a part of it, of course. But so is knowledge of the lake and conditions.

When it comes to lakes in the Willmar area, there are plenty of options.

West Central Area Bait Shops Kandiyohi County Park West, 995-6599 Big Kandiyohi County Park East, 664-4707 Kandiyohi County Diamond Lake County Park, 974-8520 Games Lake County Park, 354-4453 Green Lake County Park, 796-5564 J&J Highway 71 Bait and Tackle at Eagle Lake, Willmar, 235-4097 Barney’s on Eagle Lake, Willmar, 231-9708 Dilley’s Resort, West Norway Lake, 354-4266 Runnings Outdoors, Montevideo, 269-6025 Hill Top Stop, Paynesville, 243-3133 Mel’s Sports Shop, Spicer, 796-2421 Mitlyng’s Bait and Tackle, Watson, 269-5593 Pete’s Surplus, New London, 354-2626 Runnings, Willmar, 235-1325 Schmidty’s, Darwin, 693-0019 Skindelien’s Bait, New London, 354-2423 Wakanda Bait, Svea, 995-6121 Zero Tolerance Firearms & Fishing, Willmar, 235-4867 Editor’s note: The West Central Tribune welcomes additions, deletions or corrections to this list. Email news@wctrib.com.

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C9

Stingers baseball a fun option

Willmar’s Northwoods League entrant offers fun at the ballpark

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here is nothing like a calm summer evening at Bill Taunton Stadium, home of the Willmar Stingers baseball team.

The Stingers are in their 11th season as members of the Northwoods League, where the prices are reasonable, from the tickets to the concessions.

The Northwoods is a 22-team summer league made up of college players from around the country who are honing their skills in hopes of being drafted

by Major League Baseball.

A few who spent a summer in Willmar already have made it to the majors, including Kansas City Royals third baseman Hunter Dozier, who slugged 26 home runs, 10 triples and 29 doubles with 84 RBI and a .279 last year in the big leagues.

The Northwoods is not unlike many professional minor leagues, with fun promotions and silly games between innings. The level of play is strong, with the majority of players coming from NCAA Division I programs and dozens winding up in the pros. In the league’s 27 seasons, there have been more than

200 who have made it to the majors.

The catch this season is when the league will get underway. Late-May and June games have all been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

League officials hope to have an abbreviated season following social-distancing guidelines in the stands and running games July through mid-August.

Follow the Stingers at the stadium, in the West Central Tribune and online at wctrib.com; for additional information, visit northwoodsleague.com/ willmar-stingers/.

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C10 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Willmar Parks and Recreation offering summer fun S

ummer 2020 definitely looks different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To keep people healthy and reduce the risk of spreading the disease, Willmar Parks and Recreation have had to make many changes to its summer plans. However, that does not mean there won’t be plenty of opportunity for fun this summer.

Aquatics

The Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center will remain closed for an undetermined amount of time because repairs are needed. The city will reassess whether to open the pool after the project is completed.

The Rice Park Splash Pad opened the third week of June. The city will follow any state coronavirus requirements and recommendations include limiting the number of people allowed to be on the splash pad at any one time. Visitors are also asked to practice social distancing, hand washing and staying home when sick.

The splash pad was opened in 2019 and offers a wide range of water features for children to enjoy including sprinklers, fountains and sprayers. The park also offers a playground, park shelter, restrooms, picnic shelter and shade structures.

Lake swimming is also a possibility, with a swimming beach at Robbins Island, on the shores of Foot Lake.

Robbins Island

Robbins Island Regional Park is a 55-acre park situated between Foot and Willmar Lakes on north Business Highway 71. The park is home to the Willmar Destination Playground, a fully accessible playground with play structures for children of all ages including swings, slides and climbing structures.

A new fishing pier was installed on Foot Lake Beach, increasing the shore fishing opportunities.

There are also boat launches on both Foot Lake and Willmar Lake.

The park also has shelters, trails, a disc golf course and open green space for play.

Coronavirus has caused the cancelation of the Rockin’ Robbins outdoor concerts and any Willmar Fests festivities at the park.

Robbins Island is undergoing work, including the construction of a four-season shelter near the swimming beach on Foot Lake.

Summer Rec

The Willmar Parks and Recreation Department is planning on offering summer recreation programming for children this summer from June 22 to July 30. An online program cateloge will be avaliable on the city’s website at https://www.willmarmn.gov/parks_ and_recreation_land/index.php.

Registration will be available online as well.

For more information and updates visit the Parks and Rec website or Facebook page.

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C11

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C12 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Learn in great outdoor classroom

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t the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center, visitors can learn and have fun, all while spending time in the beautiful nature of west central Minnesota.

Prairie Woods is a nonprofit environmental learning center, committed to providing outstanding environmental education and outdoor experiences to people of all ages. Deeply rooted in the Kandiyohi County community, PWELC reaches out to provide services for communities across Minnesota and the upper Midwest.

Prairie Woods’ site encompasses 500 acres on the south side of Lake Florida, and includes an education building with five classrooms, a trailhead and a 30-foot indoor climbing wall. The buildings will be closed to visitors until further notice, though the grounds are open to visitors. They are currently renting out fat tire bikes, kayaks, and canoes to explore the grounds, and have courses and activities scheduled for the summer. Several beautiful spaces are available for meetings, family reunions, holiday gatherings and weddings, these buildings are also closed until further notice. Also onsite is the Gary Westby Educational Shooting Sports Range.

PWELC mission: We will promote an individual and shared commitment to the responsible use, management, and preservation of our natural resources.

In short: Learning to Live Well with Self, Others and the Environment.

Memberships are available. For additional information visit the PWELC website at www.prairiewoodselc.org or call the office.

For participation in activities, people are encouraged to call ahead to sign up through staff coordinators at 320-354-5894.

History of Prairie Woods

More than 12,000 years ago, the most recent glacier receded to reveal dramatic ridges and wetland-rich lowlands on this land. For thousands of years, Native American people found their livelihood among the shifting forests, prairies and wetlands here.

Anders Danielson and his family settled this land when they arrived from Sweden in 1871. Until the late 1980s, most of the land belonging to Prairie Woods was farmed by the Danielson family.

The land was sold to Kandiyohi County by the Danielson family. Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center was founded in 1992.

The farm site is still present, with a barn, granary and farm house. Many bur oak trees on the property are more than 100 years old. A renovated log cabin also sits near the farm site in the exact location where the Danielson family built their first log home, prior to building the frame house.

Programs and Events

Kayak the Crow River: June 26, 10 a.m. to noon, $20, ages 12 and up for solo boat, call for options with younger children; leaving from the Mill Pond swimming beach in New London. Paddle upstream and back, PWELC guides, equipment is provided; pre-registration required.

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C13

Indoor rock climbing: July 2, 4 to 5:30 p.m., $10 per session, for all ages; challenge yourself both physically and mentally at your own pace, beginners can learn about the sport, exercise and have fun; experienced climbers can train and refine their skills. PWELC instructors will be there to help, equipment is provided, pre-registration required.

Youth Shotgun Sporting Clays: July 28, The clays come from the left, right, straight at you, from behind you, there is even one that rolls on the ground. You may bring your own 12 or 20 gauge shotgun or borrow one of ours. There will be two ranges set up. One for the first-time shooter in addition to our regular sporting clay range; for ages 12-18, four time slots beginning at 6 p.m.; $5 per person; call to pre-register.

Kayak Ringo Lake: July 31, 10 a.m. to noon, $20, ages 12 and up for solo boat, call for options with younger children; meet at the Ringo

Lake public access, paddle into the nooks and crannies of the lake, on the Mill Pond in New London. PWELC instructors will be there to help, equipment is provided; call to pre-register.

Pioneer Skills: Aug. 6, 9 a.m. to noon, grades 3-6, $15; Do you have what it takes to live as a pioneer? Test your knowledge while participating in our version of “Oregon Trail;” grades 3-6, 9 a.m. to noon, $15, call to pre-register.

Youth Sporting Clays: Aug. 8, great opportunity to shoot for the first time or to improve your shooting skills, instruction on safe gun

handling and shooting technique, firearms, shells and targets will be provided and you may bring your own 12 or 20 gauge; Westby Shooting Range, for ages 11-16, 3 to 5 p.m. with dinner to follow, $5 per person; call to pre-register.

Nature Days: Aug. 11-13, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., going into Kindergarten-Grade 3, $55. For three mornings we will explore the natural world in which we live. We will use hands-on activities and games to better understand the forest, prairie, and the wetlands at Prairie Woods. Bring a sack lunch, snacks, clothes to be outside in any weather, and water bottle.

Take it off road T

Kayak and portage to Lake Florida: Aug. 28, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., $20,ages 12 and up for solo boat, call for options with younger children; meet at the PWELC farmsite. Paddle through the Lake Florida Slough. Portage the kayaks across 6 feet of land, into Lake Florida. Kayaks, gear and instruction will be provided.

Shooting range

The Gary Westby Educational Shooting Sports Range, located on a remote site at Prairie Woods, offers sporting clays and a smallbore rifle range.

Shooting leagues: contact Prairie Woods to schedule a time.

Directions, information

Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center is located at 12718 10th Street N.E. near Spicer; 1-320-354-5894; www.prairiewoodselc.org.

OHV parks offer all kinds of fun

he Appleton Area Recreation Park has a total of 315 acres to accommodate off-highway vehicle riders – all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles and four-wheel drive trucks – from all over the state.

There is no admission fee to the park, but vehicle registration or out-of-state trail passes are required.

The park is located two miles northeast of Appleton on U.S. Highway 59. Hours are from sunrise to sunset.

The OHV park includes 10 miles of truck trails, 15 miles of ATV/OHM trails, a 1.5-mile OHM practice track and three enduro tracks.

It also offers several technical areas for Off Road Vehicles (trucks) including rock crawls, stair steps, trails and hill climbs.

The park also includes a youth ATV training course and a youth OHM practice track, jumps, play areas, sand dunes and a shelter and picnic area.

There is an additional hiking and cross-country ski trail around the perimeter.

A map is posted in the picnic shelter at the start of the trails and offers different levels of difficulty for

different levels of riders. There is also a list of rules and regulations to make people aware of the laws that need to be followed for their safety. The park is open to all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and trucks and snowmobiles.

All OHVs must be registered with license plate visible and all riders under 16 must have the appropriate safety certificate.

The park was created with funds from the National Recreation Trails Program and Minnesota Grantin-Aid. Most of the trail development work was done by the Swift County Department of Parks, Drainage and Wetlands with leased equipment and volunteer ATV enthusiasts.

Some areas of the park are closed periodically due to high water conditions; watch for postings at the park or call for more information about the OHV park and updates at 320-843-5341. Information is also available at www.swiftcounty.com by clicking on the County Parks option and then on Appleton OHV park option.

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C14 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Historic Terrace Mill County fairs mostly Grounds open to spend absent for summer time with nature and family T

G

oing to the county fair is part of the Minnesota experience.

But this year will be a bit different. The Minnesota State Fair has been canceled for later this summer, and many county fairs have been canceled as well.

Regional cancellations include Pope, Yellow Medicine, Kandiyohi, Renville and Chippewa county fairs.

Swift and Meeker county rairs are also canceled, though their raffles will continue to take place. Tickets for both are available from their respective fair board members. Updates will be posted for all to

their websites or Facebooks.

LAC QUI PARLE: The fair will take place on Sept. 10-13 at the fairgrounds in Madison. Gates open at 9 a.m. daily, admission is $5 for ages 12 and over, and includes parking; admission is free for ages 11 and under and for active military personnel with a military ID. Season passes are $10 and include parking. Entertainment will also feature music performances in the beer garden Friday to Saturday, with a demolition derby on Saturday, and an automobile race at the grandstand on Sunday. More information is available at the website at lqpfair.com

he Historic Terrace Mill District, set in the scenic Chippewa River valley, is open on a limited basis this summer. Situated in a picturesque valley in the village of Terrace, the mill is 12 miles south of Glenwood on Minnesota Highway 104.

For health and safety purposes, the mill will not be open this summer and no events are scheduled.

Their usual Children’s Theater events will not take place this summer.

Only the Terrace Mill grounds will remain unattended and open. Visitors are able to stop by and fish behind the mill, or spend time on the beautiful grounds. Any updates about events or mill hours will be posted on the website at terracemill.org.

along the Chippewa River to grind wheat grown by area farmers. It was dismantled in 1895 and moved next to the railroad line in Brooten.

The current mill and a keystone arch bridge were built in 1903. The mill at one time produced more than 40 barrels of flour a day. Ownership transferred several times through 1950, when the mill was converted to a furniture factory. In 1967 it was abandoned.

The Terrace Mill Foundation bought the mill in 1979 and restored it. The bridge was reconstructed in 1980. In 1982 the mill was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A reconstructed 1870s log house was reassembled near the dam and bridge in the early 1980s.

History More information about the mill is available on its Terrace has been the site of two flour mills during the past century. The first mill was built in 1870 website, www.terracemill.org.

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C15

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C16 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Walk and bike around Willmar

W

hether you love to walk or bike, the city of Willmar offers many opportunities for both around town. The city has a variety of trails, pathways and roads listed as walk and bike routes, giving users a nice view of the city, its natural resources and its history.

and pedestrian education and advocacy group, will be scheduling rides throughout the summer.

A schedule can be found on Willmar Bikes Facebook page.

The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota has named Willmar a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community in 2020 due its advocacy of biking and a vision Bicycling in Willmar to create bike connections throughout the city and BikeWillmar, the bike share program will be the surrounding area. celebrating its second year in 2020. Bikes started showing up in the docking stations mid-June. Due to the coronavirus, the bikes are being cleaned by city staff once a day. Biker renters are also being asked to sanitize the high touch areas of the bikes before and after riding, using provided cleaner at the hubs.

BikeWillmar Bike Share program has 40 bikes and 10 bike docking stations across the city. For a low-fee, riders can rent a bike to ride, whether they need it to get to work, do errands or just want to take a leisurely bike ride around town. The program is run on the KoloniShare system, which has other bike share programs in the country.

Once you have a bike, Willmar offers miles of trails and roads marked as dedicated bike paths, with some of them connecting to larger trail systems like Glacial Lakes. Willmar Bikes, a bicycle

Willmar Walks

Established in 2010, Willmar Walks is three marked routes through downtown Willmar. The routes take walkers by some of Willmar’s historical sites, like Bethel Church, the Frost House, the old Tribune building and 310 Third Street Southwest, the oldest commercial building in town. There are a total of 18 points of interest on the walks.

Each of the three routes start at Selvig Interna-

tional Park, which is dedicated to Willmar’s two sister cities. A banner at Selvig Park shows the Willmar Walk routes and where the points of interest are located. Brochures on Willmar Walks are also available at the Willmar Public Library, LuLu Bean’s and Rick’s Cycling & Sports Center.

The Red route is one-mile long. It heads west for one block on Becker Avenue, then south on Fifth Street to Minnesota Avenue, then west two blocks to Seventh Street, north to Becker Avenue, then jogs east and north to Litchfield Avenue and south back to Selvig Park.

The Green route, which is 1.5 miles long, follows the Red route to Seventh Street, then south to Kandiyohi Avenue, east to Second Street, then jogs north to Becker and west to Selvig Park.

The Blue route is the longest, at two miles. It also follows Red and Green to Seventh Street, then heads north to Ella Avenue along Foot Lake and east to First Street, then south to Litchfield Avenue. At Litchfield, the route heads west for three blocks, then south one block to Selvig Park.

Willmar Walks is a joint effort between Rice Memorial Hospital, Kandiyohi County Public Health, Willmar Design Center, Willmar Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Kandiyohi County Historical Society.

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C17

Hike, bike, walk or ride horse

Glacial Lakes Trail takes a trip through countryside

T

he Glacial Lakes Recreation Trail provides plenty of opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities across Kandiyohi County’s prairie lakes region.

The trail is paved with asphalt for 22 miles between Willmar, Spicer, New London, Hawick, and the Kandiyohi/Stearns County line. A five-mile stretch from Richmond to Roscoe is also paved.

The segment from Willmar to New London has 10 miles of parallel, grass treadway for horseback riding, while the New London to the Kandiyohi/ Stearns County line segment has grass shoulders to accommodate this activity. The smooth-surfaced trail winds through the heart of the county’s scenic resort communities, lakes and wooded hills.

The gently rolling topography of Central Minnesota was created by glaciers retreating 10,000 years ago. The trail cuts across the border between Minnesota’s western tallgrass prairie and eastern deciduous forest. Though much of the area has been cultivated, remnants of virgin prairie, wetlands and scattered woodlots can still be found along the railroad right-of-way.

There are numerous places along the trail to stop and enjoy lakeside views. Popular swimming areas at Saulsbury Beach on Green Lake in Spicer and the Mill Pond in New London are close to the trail, though they are closed until further notice.

Trail users can also watch the waterfowl in wetlands, spot wildlife — such as white-tail deer and butterflies — in the rolling-hill woodlots along the trail and enjoy refreshments at unique restaurants, ice-cream shops and coffee shops in Spicer and New London.

Primary summer use of the developed trail includes hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and in-line skating.

The Glacial Lakes Trail connects to Sibley State Park near New London via three miles of paved

shoulder along County Road 148.

In Paynesville it connects to the 20 mile Lake Koronis Recreation Trail around Lake Koronis.

To the south, Cosmos marks the western end of the Luce Line Trail, a 63-mile long trail that begins in the Twin Cities suburb of Plymouth. The trail consists of a natural surface from Cosmos to Winsted. It goes through mostly rural countryside that includes surviving tracts of tall-grass prairie.

Both the Glacial Lakes Trail and the Luce Line Trail follow former railroad lines.

They are maintained by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Parking for the Glacial Lakes Recreation Trail: Willmar: Take U.S. Highway 12 east to County Road 9. Turn north (left) and go 2 miles to parking lot on west (left) at the Civic Center.

Spicer: At the junction of state Highway 23 and County Road 10. Parking lot west off Highway 23.

East Nest Lake Public Water Access: 2 miles north of Spicer on Highway 23 and one-half mile west on the Township Road.

New London: Off state Highway 23 and follow state Highway 9 north to public water access parking lot on east (right).

Hawick: North side of town, at the intersection of state Highway 23 and County Road 2. * Enjoy the beauty of wild plants & animals, but leave them undisturbed for all to enjoy.

Share the trail with others:

• Stay on designated trail.

• Obey social distancing guidelines, with respect for other trail users.

• Keep right so others can pass.

• Keep all pets on leash/dispose of pet waste.

• Obey traffic signs and rules.

• Pack out all garbage and litter.

• Respect adjoining landowners’ rights and privacy.

• Warn other trail users when passing by giving an audible signal. Some horses may be spooked by quiet bikers or in-line skaters. Let them know you are passing.

• Camping and campfires are not permitted on the Glacial Lakes State Trail.

C18 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Nature areas are off the beaten path W

est central Minnesota abounds with natural areas that showcase the region’s lakes, prairies and examples of native plant and animal life.

Among those worth a visit: The 600-acre Ordway Prairie Preserve is one of the largest native prairie tracts in the state.

The glacial till prairie is made up of meadows, wetlands and woods. It is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including the rare Hill’s thistle and the Poweshiek skipper butterfly.

The prairie, acquired by the Nature Conservancy in the 1970s, is located off Minnesota Highway 104 north of Sunburg. It can be reached via a rest area on the Lake Johanna Hill.

Lund Prairie, covering 110 acres, is one of the region’s most recent additions to the Nature Conservancy. About half of this preserve is untouched native prairie. It contains more than 200 different species of native grasses and flowers.

Lund Prairie is 25 miles west of Willmar on Minnesota Highway 40.

Granite outcrops and wetlands are interspersed with prairie at the 40-acre Prairie Smoke Nature Center in Upper Sioux Agency State Park, south of Granite Falls.

The area has been restored with native plants.

Regal Meadow is a 185-acre preserve exemplifying the region’s native mix of prairie, forest and wetlands. Hikers may be able to spot a rare lady-slipper, the state flower, in marshy areas of the meadow.

Owned by the Nature Conservancy, the Regal Meadow is located on 160th Street Northeast, two miles north of Hawick.

The 2,000-acre Chippewa Prairie Nature Preserve is a rich site for plant and bird diversity and is well known for grassland birds. The prairie chicken has been reintroduced here. The land has never been tilled and has hundreds of species of native natural grasses and wildflowers. An old ox-cart trail provides a 2-mile trail for hikers and bird watchers.

Cooperatively owned and managed by the Nature Conservancy and the Minnesota

Department of Natural Resources, the preserve is four miles northwest of Milan along the upper Lac qui Parle Lake.

Swedes Forest is seven miles south of Sacred Heart on Renville County Road 9 and 1½ miles west on a gravel road.

It contains granite outcrops and the rare five-lined skink, which lives in open, sunny bedrock exposures near oak habitat.

Blue Devil Valley is on the south edge of Granite Falls. Follow Minnesota Highway 23 south for half a mile, then go west on County Road 39 a few hundred yards.

This nature area is home to one of the state’s largest known populations of the fivelined skink. Prairie plants such as the brittle cactus, little bluestem, harebell and pasque flower are found among the granite outcrops and scattered burr oak.

Gneiss outcrop is located southeast of Granite Falls. Follow U.S. Highway 212 east for 1.5 miles to County Road 40, then continue south one mile. Gneiss outcrops comprised of the most ancient rock in the world, some 3.6 billion years old, dominate the landscape and surround a natural lake.

These rugged outcrops are also home to some of the state’s most unique plant communities. The rare Great Plains prickly pear and brittle cactus endure the desert-like environment of the rocks. Rare plants like the Carolina foxtail, little barley and mousetail sprout in shallow depressions among the outcrops.

Bruce Hitman Heron Rookery is a short ride from Brooten to Lake Johanna.

Follow Stearns County Road 8 three miles west and then go three miles south on County Road 37.

The rookery is one of the state’s largest and most diverse nesting sites for water bird colonies. Large numbers of great blue herons, great egrets, double-crested cormorants and black-crowned night herons nest here.

Rare bird species — among them the little blue heron, snowy egret, yellow-crowned night heron and cattle egret — also have been spotted visiting or nesting at the site.

Green-backed heron are also known to nest here.

Note: The island is closed from April 1 to July 15 to protect the nesting colonies.

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C19

Local gardens bloom for visitors The region’s gardens put on a colorful show each summer for visitors to enjoy.

W

hether you like to stroll or simply sit and look at the flowers, here are some places that are worth a visit.

Anderson Garden is a mini-arboretum on the northeast shore of Lake Ripley on the edge of Litchfield; access is from Minnesota Highway 22.

The public garden has many varieties of exotic and familiar flowers, shrubs and trees that can be viewed from a paved, handicapped-accessible walking path. Plants bloom all season long to create a colorful experience.

A gazebo in the park is a popular site for summer weddings and afternoon teas. For reservations, call Litchfield City Hall at 320-693-7201 or download a copy of the city’s special use permit form, found at www.ci.litchfield.minn.us, and mail it to Litchfield City Hall, 126 Marshall Ave. N. 55355.

While in Litchfield, make another stop at Central Park downtown, where the bandstand has been restored to its 1910-era glory.

An Old World-style fountain is the centerpiece of Selvig Park in downtown Willmar. The small formal park, at the corner of Fourth Street and Becker Avenue, was created to commemorate Willmar’s relationship with its sister city of Frameries, Belgium.

It is landscaped with flowers, shrubs and benches.

In the town of Dawson, Scandinavian lore comes

to life in the form of gnome statues that populate Gnome Park on U.S. Highway 212 and can be found scattered at businesses and private yards around the city.

A prized collection of hand-carved wooden gnomes is on display at the Dawson Public Library.

Learn about plant and agricultural research at the West Central Research and Outreach Center, located one mile east of the University of Minnesota-Morris campus on Minnesota Highway 329.

The outdoor gardens are currently closed to the public and the annual Horticulture Night in July will be online and include virtual tours of the garden and hands-on demonstrations from t h e backyards of horticulture experts. Online experiences will be made available Thursday, July 30, beginning at 5 pm, and may be accessed online in the weeks following.

C20 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

What’s on? What’s off?

A quick look at what’s canceled and what’s still on

W

ith events and schedules changing daily, here is a quick rundown of what events were still scheduled or had been canceled for the summer of 2020 at press time. All items are subject to change, please check ahead.

Days, Montevideo Fiesta Days, Bird Island Island Days, Atwater Festival Days, Paynesville Town and Country Days, Willmar Fests, Granite Falls Western Fest, Starbuck Heritage Days and Dragon Boat Racing, Lake Lillian Fun Days, Belgrade August Fest, Danube Fun Days, Cosmos Space Festival, City Festivals Benson Kid Day Celebration, Kerkhoven Town and Clara City Prairie Fest: July 11. City celebra- Country Day, Glenwood Waterama, Redwood Falls tion with a variety of events for the whole family, Farmfest, Dawson Riverfest, Bird Island Polka Fest, events list to be posted later. Grand parade will be at Litchfield Watercade, Brooten Bonanza Valley Days, 4 p.m. Saturday, unless updated otherwise. Updates Blomkest Appreciation Day, New London Water will be posted on the website or Facebook page.

Days and Pennock Fun Days.

Sacred Heart Summerfest: July 15-19. Due to COVID-19, the celebration will not be traditional. Music The Thursday concerts at Glacial Ridge Winery Join us for a scavenger hunt, fireworks, and possibly other events. Watch for additional information on are from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. through September.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sacredheart- Other area outdoor concerts include the Aug. 4 consummerfest. cert with the Kingery Family at 7 p.m. at the Depot Olivia Corn Capital Days: July 20-26; 53rd Museum park gazebo in Danube. Danube canceled anniversary, expect significant changes from the the first four concerts. typical Corn Capital schedule.

Whitney Music will decide in July if they are Bechyn Czech Heritage Festival: 29th annu- going to continue with their Thursday night concerts al festival will be held as an online concert and this summer. fundraiser. Recording artists and Czechfest favorites Cancellations include Rockin’ Robbins concert Mollie B and Ted Lange, will be from 7 to 8 p.m. series in Willmar, Prairie Winds Concert Band free Sunday, Aug. 9, live on the Facebook page “Bechyn, concerts at Robbins Island, Hinterland Vineyard conMinnesota World,” with the duo playing favorites and taking requests throughout the concert.

Madison Dragon Fest: This will take place in August though there is no date yet assigned. Updates will be released later though the schedule is expected to be normal with a Lou T. Fisk 5K run, street dance, golf tournament and other events.

Raymond Harvest Fest: Aug. 22. There will be a craft and flea market vendor fair, garden show, parade with a longer route to compensate for spacing, dance, worship service and fireman’s pork chop feed. These events are subject to change and others may be added. Updates will be posted on the Facebook page.

Atwater Threshing Days: Sept. 12-13. Experience farm life in the by-gone days; there will be a tractor parade 1 p.m. daily, threshing, saw mill, flour mill, corn shredding, ensilage cutter, sorghum press, shingle making, butter churning, rug making, spinning, jelly making, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.

Admission for adults is $8, 12 and under are admitted free. This event is subject to change, with a final decision expected to be made in July. For updates watch the Facebook page.

Cancellations for the summer of 2020 include Grove City Windmill Days, Renville Sugar Beet Days, Willmar Dairy Days, Kandi is Dandy

The final movie, “Toy Story 4” will be at 7 p.m. certs, Appleton Music Concerts and the Pioneerland Band Festival in Benson and the Vikingland Band Sept. 18, at Bill Taunton Stadium.

Festival in Alexandria.

Farmers Markets

Saturday Market: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Kandi Mall east side parking lot, Willmar.

New London: 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Holm Park, northwest corner of the Mill Pond.

Mid-week Market: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday, Kandi Mall east side parking lot, Willmar.

Both Tuesday market in Kerkhoven and the Saturday market at the YMCA in Willmar normally open in mid-July.

Movies in the Park

Movies in the Park, sponsored by Willmar Parks & Recreation, return this summer with a twist. There will be no pre-activities this year due to COVID-19. All the Friday night movies start at dusk.

The first two will be shown drive-in style at the Willmar Civic Center. “Jumanji: The Next Level” at 9 p.m. June 19 and “Sonic the Hedgehog” at 9 p.m.

July 17.

The Aug. 21 movie “Frozen II” will be at 8 p.m. at Rice Park.

Miscellaneous

Green Lake Bible Camp Quilt Auction: July 25; 35th annual auction of quilts and silent auction items will be available online beginning July 17. Live online auction begins at 11:30 a.m. July 25. Fladeboe Auctioneers will be on site with this portion live streamed for you to participate at home. The silent auction will close at 4 p.m. July 25.​ ABATE State Rally: Sept. 4-7. The ABATE State Motorcycle Rally will take place in Litchfield at the Meeker County Fairgrounds; www.abatemn.org.

Studio Hop: Sept. 18-19; Studio Hop moved to the fall this year and Celebrate Art, Celebrate Coffee will not be held; local artists will have studios open 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday in Atwater, New London, Spicer, Svea and Willmar areas.

Cancellations include the Forest City Stockade Rendezvous, Little Crow Water Ski Shows (at least through June), Montevideo Milwaukee Road Heritage Center Event, the Lakeside Summer Dances in Glenwood and the summer musical at The Barn Theatre in Willmar.

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C21

MEET

Your TEAM

Contact us today csteffel@wctrib.com

Group Advertising Manager West Central Tribune

Christie Steffel

“Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing but nobody else does.”

—Steuart Henderson Britt Our team of experts are here to shed some light on effective marketing tools we have to help create something perfect for your business needs.

Contact Christie | t: 320.213.4317 | e: csteffel@wctrib.com Marketing Consultant West Central Tribune

Angie Richardson

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel; you just need to share your unique perspective on why the wheel is important.”

—Page One Power We are here to help with all your marketing needs. We will use all our resources to make sure they are best suited for your business.

Contact Angie | t: 320.213.4328 | e: arichardson@wctrib.com Marketing Consultant West Central Tribune

Rhea Yeadon

“Advertising says to people, here’s what we’ve got. Here’s what it will do for you.

Here’s how to get it.”

—Leo Burnett We look forward to helping your business get the word out as to what you have for products and services for our community members.

Contact Rhea | t: 320.213.4375 | e: ryeadon@wctrib.com

C22 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

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Write in your favorite Dining, Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Recreational, Products and Services of West Central Minnesota!

Best of the Best contest replaces previous Readers Choice contest

www.wctrib.com

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Friday, June 19, 2020 C23

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C24 Friday, June 19, 2020 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

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