Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land And Conservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
DNR seeks county approval to add 8.12 acres to Old Coshock Farm WMA; DNR pledges snowmobile trail will remain
Summary
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources asked the St. Louis County Board to support acquisition of about 8.12 acres adjacent to the Old Coshock Farm Wildlife Management Area near Ely. DNR staff said the parcel would expand public access and habitat management and that the Somerville snowmobile trail would not be moved.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) asked the St. Louis County Board on Oct. 7 to approve the acquisition of roughly 8.12 acres adjacent to the existing Old Coshock Farm Wildlife Management Area (WMA) near Ely.
Jessica (Jess) Holmes, area wildlife manager for the Tower DNR wildlife office, told commissioners the existing Old Coshock Farm WMA is about 87 acres and is heavily used for hunting, birding, hiking, skiing and snowmobiling. She said DNR staff were approached about the parcel in 2023 and that the current owners later reached out in 2024 to offer it for sale.
Holmes said the parcel contains wetland‑fringe habitat and a Lake Country power line runs through its eastern side. “We have no intention to move or alter this trail system,” Holmes said when asked about the Somerville snowmobile trail that runs through the area. The DNR’s proposal, she said, would preserve natural conditions, continue invasive species treatments and, if funding allows, add an Americans with Disabilities Act‑accessible boardwalk and lake access for birdwatching, shore fishing and small‑craft launch.
Commissioner McDonald, who moved the resolution, and others said they had consulted Morse Township and state legislators during negotiations and that the resolution contains language to preserve the snowmobile trail. Commissioners debated the tax‑base implications of additional public land. Commissioner Nelson pressed for discussions with the DNR about how the county’s lost property tax base could be mitigated when state agencies acquire private land, and he asked whether the DNR would consider land exchanges or other measures in future acquisitions. Administrator Gray said the county receives a payment in lieu of taxes (PILT) for the acquired acreage but did not provide a specific dollar amount in the meeting.
The board approved the resolution supporting the DNR acquisition by voice vote. DNR staff said they would follow state acquisition procedures under Minnesota law and continue coordination with Morris Township and county staff.
