The Trust for Public Land Announces Protection of Critical Shoreline along Kremer Lake

Today, The Trust for Public Land announced the permanent protection of 33 acres of forest land between Kremer Lake and the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway in the heart of northern Minnesota’s Chippewa National Forest. 

Through resources from the Land Water and Conservation Fund (LWCF), The Trust for Public Land was able to purchase the property from the landowner and convey to the U.S. Forest Service who will manage the land going forward. 

“We are proud to be able to preserve this beautiful property, to not only protect the natural value of the lakefront but to provide more opportunities for residents and visitors to get outdoors,” said Will Cooksey, Senior Project Manager for The Trust for Public Land. “Kremer Lake is a renowned trout fishing location, and our acquisition will enhance public access to cross country skiing, hiking and mountain biking trails at Suomi Hills.” 

The Trust for Public Land has been working with the landowners, the Rajala family, in order to preserve the property to prevent forest fragmentation. 

The Chippewa National Forest is the first National Forest established east of the Mississippi River in 1908 and is the home to more lakes and wetlands than any other National Forest. The forest is home to one of the largest breeding areas of bald eagles in the lower-48 states, as well as threatened species such as osprey, loon, and great grey owl. 

“Today’s announcement marks the culmination of significant efforts by all parties involved, we are honored that The Trust for Public Land has entrusted us with the management of these additional lands”, said Michael Stansberry, Chippewa National Forest Supervisor. “These efforts also highlight the importance of the Land Water and Conservation Fund ability to enhance public access and opportunities on the Chippewa National Forest by funding this strategic land acquisition.” 

The LWCF was established in 1964 as a way to conserve land and create outdoor recreation space spaces. Last year, the fund was guaranteed full and dedicated funding of $900 million per year through the Great American Outdoors Act that passed congress and signed into law. The Trust for Public Land, in collaboration with LWCF Coalition partners, also created the first ever interactive map showcasing LWCF funded projects across the country. 

“Our Club volunteers groom the trails at Suomi Hills for cross-country skiing including the portion running along Kremer Lake. The acquisition and preservation of this parcel will definitely enhance the experience for folks enjoying this scenic section,” said Pete Friedlieb president of Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club. 

“The project that resulted in numerous acres of public land being added to the Chippewa National Forest and the Suomi Hills Recreation area along the Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway near Kremer Lake is a significant and terrific achievement,” said Tim Johnson, Executive Director for Edge of the Wilderness Lodging Association/Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center. “The increased amount of public land will ensure future generations increased access and expanded opportunities for a variety of uses. The organizations I represent are extremely grateful for the work that the Trust for Public Land and the Chippewa National Forest put into completing this effort.” 

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About The Trust for Public Land

The Trust for Public Land creates parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. Millions of people live within a 10-minute walk of a Trust for Public Land park, garden or natural area, and millions more visit these sites every year. To support The Trust for Public Land and share why nature matters to you, visit www.tpl.org.