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Conservation director: Morgan Creek trail, lodge and wetland projects near completion
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Summary
Linn County conservation staff reported punch-list completion on Morgan Creek Trail, lodge construction moving quickly, Penneken Ridge mountain-bike trail drawing out-of-area riders, and winter-start plans for a Morgan Creek Wetland to finish in spring 2026.
County conservation director Dennis Gourmet told supervisors on Oct. 28 that multiple recreation and water-quality projects are advancing and that the department expects to complete several this winter and next spring.
Gourmet said crews completed a punch-list walkthrough for Morgan Creek Trail and he expects the project to be "put to bed before the end of the evening." He described structural progress at the Morgan Creek lodge (trusses up; roof panels arriving next week) and said the Penneken Ridge mountain-bike trail’s gravity features have attracted riders from outside the area.
On water-quality work, Gourmet said the Morgan Creek Wetland is planned and designed, a contractor is on board and earthmoving work can begin this winter with completion expected in spring 2026. He also referenced earlier board discussion about county water-quality work and said the conservation board wants state support for long-term operations rather than a permanent county-funded program.
Gourmet reviewed routine seasonal operations — campgrounds closed, preparations for cross-country ski and snowmobile trails, and removal of roughly 220 hazard trees — and described community outreach events such as a mountain-bike luminary ride scheduled for Halloween.
Supervisors thanked conservation staff for the work. No formal approvals were requested during the update; supervisors were briefed on timelines and upcoming contractor activity.
