Decorah council sends proposed equestrian trail rules back to Parks and Rec for revision after months of public debate

Decorah City Council voted to send the Parks and Recreation Commission’s May 29 set of proposed equestrian rules back to the commission for revision after lengthy public comment and a multihour council discussion about how the rules would be applied and enforced.

The council’s action followed public testimony from several local equestrians and from Parks and Rec vice chair Benji Nichols, who described recent events at Palisades and other trailhead activity. Residents raised concerns about a proposed maximum of four horses per group, a 24‑hour trail closure after rain or snow, a manure‑removal requirement and a prohibition on commercial guiding.

The issue drew many speakers during the public‑comment period. Danielle Dotsonrod, identifying herself as the representative of the Winneshiek County Saddle Club, said the Park Board’s draft rules were “unfair and unreasonable,” and urged…