OTTER TAIL COUNTY, Minn.— Otter Tail County celebrated the completion of significant upgrades to Phelps Mill County Park during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 7, highlighting new amenities such as a boardwalk and prairie restoration project.
What’s New
The first phase introduces visitors to a scenic boardwalk and prairie restoration, connecting them with the park’s natural beauty and history.
“This project was a huge first step towards working through our Park Master Plan in building out a facility that can be enjoyed by many,” shared Kevin Fellbaum, park and trails director. “This project was made possible by grant funding, and with support from these grants, we are able to make additions to our parks and trails systems that we can be really proud of.”
Community Investment
State Sen. Jordan Rasmusson was recognized for championing this project and playing a key role in securing LCCMR funding that made the improvements possible.
“This park is truly a gem. I want to thank everyone involved in the ongoing efforts to grow and enhance this beautiful resource. I’m excited to see this important work continue and look forward to this weekend’s festival.”
Sen. Rasmusson joined in the ceremony as commissioners recognized contributions from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC), and the Park Master Plan Committee, which included local citizens who helped develop the vision for the park’s improvement.
Commissioner Lahman said at the event, “These improvements show our county’s commitment to investing in a place that we can all enjoy for decades to come.”
Perfect Timing
The improvements enhance the park’s appeal as it prepares to welcome visitors for the annual Phelps Mill Festival on July 12-13. The festival features a variety of crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, and guided tours of the restored mill. Ken Martin, the festival’s director, invited everyone to visit this weekend: “We couldn’t ask for a better venue for our 41st year.”
For more information about Phelps Mill Park or the upcoming festival, visit ottertailcounty.gov.