No region of the state better demonstrates the tensions between what defines Minnesota as a place of natural beauty and the unrestrained development pressures associated with population and economic growth.  The Northern Lakes Region is truly blessed with clean lakes, meandering rivers, abundant forests and wildlife.  Its clear waters and clean air serve as the cornerstone for a quality of place seldom equaled in the nation and the basis for sustained economic growth. With easy access to trails, parks, hunting and fishing, and an aura of tranquility that conveys what many feel is the unique spirit of the North Woods, the region’s amenities have become a powerful lure for tourists, second homebuyers and retiring seniors.


Meeting Schedule: 
October 23, 2006 - Senior Center, Hackensack
November 10, 2006 - Sawmill Inn, Grand Rapids
November 17, 2006 - MPCA Building, Baxter

Meeting Participants:
Don Hickman, Initiative Foundation
Joel Stokka, Minnesota Sportfishing Coalition
John Ringle, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
Reed Larson, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Harold Burle, Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Association
Mike Duval, Department of Natural Resources
Dave Olfelt, Department of Natural Resources
Bruce Cox, Clearwater County
Art Norton, The Nature Conservancy
Dan Steward, Board of Water and Soil Resources
Phil Hunsicker, 1000 Friends of Minnesota
Tom Buss, Leech Lake Area Watershed Foundation
David Lick, Itasca Coalition of Lakes Associations
Dr. Harold Dziuk, Itasca Coalition of Lake Associations
Garry Johanson, Naterra Lands
Paula West, Minnesota Waters
Steve Young, Headwaters Trout Unlimited
Becky Knowles, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
Rod Ustipak, Ducks Unlimited
Kathy Schroeder, Tourism Director, Lakes Area Chambers of Commerce
Mike North, Brainerd Lakes Area Audubon Society
Kristen Blann, The Nature Conservancy
Kris Larson, Minnesota Land Trust
Todd Holman, The Nature Conservancy
Eleanor Burkett, U of M Extension
Jim Gustafson, Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District
John Schaubach, Cuyuna Regional Medical Center & Cuyuna Trails Group
John Sumption, Cass County Environmental Services
Tim James, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency