The DNR Parks and Trails Division is seeking public comments on a draft management plan amendment for Rice Lake State Park. The comment period is open through May 8.
A management plan is a long-range plan that sets the direction for the state park, with recommendations for managing natural and cultural resources and providing recreational and interpretative opportunities to park visitors.
Amendment: Resource management timber harvesting
The purpose of this plan amendment is to clarify the use of timber harvesting as a resource management tool in the state park. The Parks and Trails Division uses timber harvesting as a tool to meet its resource management goals and to facilitate interpretive and recreation activities. Timber harvests take place in state parks and state recreation areas primarily to restore or manage native plant communities. In some cases, a harvest is necessary to manage impacts to forests caused by insects or disease. It also can be used to restore visitor access and safety by clearing trails and reducing the risk of forest fires from downed timber following a storm.
Review the Rice Lake State Park resource management timber harvesting draft plan amendment.
View the current Rice Lake State Park management plan.
Open house
As part of the public input process, the DNR will host an open house.
When: Tuesday, April 28 from 5-6:30 p.m.
Where: Rice Lake State Park Ranger Station (8485 Rose Street, Owatonna)
Public comments
In addition to the open house, people may provide comments through 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026.
Email: [email protected]
Mail:
Jade Templin
Minnesota DNR, Parks and Trails Division
500 Lafayette Road, Box 4039
St. Paul, MN 55155-4039
Questions?
Please contact Jade Templin at 651-259-5598 or [email protected].