August Trails Talk

2021 DCTB & HOPE ROLLS FUNDRAISER

DCTB’s collaboration with Hope Rolls to raise funds for development and provide recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities was a big success raising over $5,800.  Hope Rolls was founded in 2019 to provide adaptive tricycles to children who are unable to ride traditional bikes. In early 2021, Hope Rolls decided to expand their mission to include a park for all ages and abilities. The million-dollar park will include sensory equipment, workout equipment, a challenge-agility course (think ninja warrior) and accessible equipment that can easily be utilized by those in wheelchairs or with walkers. It will be placed on a poured rubberized surface to further the accessibility of the park. Hope Rolls President, Maria Mellmann says, “This will be the first park in our area that will be fully accessible to everyone. There are many families within our community that are excited to finally have a place right here to bring their children with special needs to play with their family and friends” The DCTB appreciates Hope Rolls’ mission to provide recreational opportunities to every one of all abilities. Please visit the Hope Rolls Facebook page to learn more about this wonderful organization and their accessible park plan.

 

RECREATIONAL TRAIL FUNDING

In May, the DCTB submitted a substantial grant request to the Iowa Recreational Trails program that made $5 million in Covid relief funding available for trails.  The grant was to help fund 3 ½ miles of Tatanka Ska Trace heading west towards Lake Park.  Unfortunately, the project was not recommended for a grant award as there were 82 applications requesting over $70 million and only six projects will receive funding. This grant round was extremely competitive and it clearly demonstrates how more trail funding is needed in Iowa.  The Natural Resources & Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund that was approved by Iowa voters over ten years ago would go a long way to help fund trails but the trust still sits empty.  For more information on the trust and how you can support funding it, visit www.iowaswaterandlandlegacy.org .

 

TATANKA SKA TRACE

The next segment of Tatanka Ska Trace from Highway 86 to Montgomery is paved and will be getting shoulders backfilled and seeded in the next couple of weeks.  We forward to opening this new section of trail for everyone to enjoy this fall.

 

TATANKA SKA TRAILHEAD

As with many things in the era of Covid, the trailhead project has been delayed due to a holdup in steel shipments.  The manufacturer has told us they plan to start fabricating the shelter this week and can ship it next week if all goes well.  The DCTB is optimistic that we will see the structure developing soon.

UPCOMING TRAIL EVENTS

30^TH ANNUAL U OF O OKTOBERFEST BIKE RIDE: Registration is now open for this year’s Oktoberfest ride that will be held Saturday, September 25. Enjoy this fun bike ride along the scenic trails and lakeside roads of the Iowa Great Lakes Area. Proceeds from the ride benefit Dickinson County Trails and registration includes food and drink deals throughout the area, drink tickets and a long sleeve t-shirt.  There are optional pit stops along the route and then return to the Arnolds Park greenspace for additional games, activities, live entertainment, food and beer.  For registration and event information visit www.uofooktoberfest.com.