Conservancy, Friends of Pool 2 co-host convening of river recreation stakeholders

The Great River Passage Conservancy recently partnered with Friends of Pool 2 to host the first-ever Saint Paul River Recreation Summit at the Minnesota Boat Club. The goal of the summit was to build relationships among the many organizations who work in Mississippi River Pool 2, discuss obstacles and opportunities for recreational access and amenities, and talk about priorities that would benefit all river users.

The convening brought together nearly two dozen people representing nine different organizations involved in river recreation, including Friends of the Mississippi River, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service, Twin Cities Kayaking, Native Fish for Tomorrow, Wilderness Inquiry, among others. They represented many different forms of recreation – from kayaking and canoeing to rowing and fishing.

RIVER ACCESS ISSUES

The group discussed current barriers for river recreation access, including:

  • Flooding issues and downed trees, which make it difficult for less experienced kayakers to navigate the river.
  • Fishing access barriers, including fencing separating land from the river.
  • Freighting near public access locations or potential future locations.
  • Boat wakes generated by boats, such as power boats. Boaters do not always see or follow “no wake zone” signs.

OPPORTUNITIES

The group shared ideas for ideal access, infrastructure and programs they would like to see, including:

  • An easy way for kayakers to exit the river, such as a floating platform with guardrails to get kayaks and other boats on and off the river.
  • A place to drive to the water and unload kayaks and canoes.
  • Restaurants in downtown Saint Paul that are easy to get to.
  • A dock, sand and/or green space at Lilydale Regional Park.
  • A way for new people to learn how to navigate the river for the first time, including a guide to landings and their conditions.

NEXT STEPS

The group agreed it would be beneficial to start tracking the economic impact of recreation on the river, as well as consider educational opportunities for river users and funding opportunities for infrastructure improvements.  

To discuss future work, the group plans to meet on a recurring basis. Friends of Pool 2 and the Great River Passage Conservancy will coordinate the next meeting this spring, including working with the group to establish meeting goals, agenda topics and invitees.

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