What was Funded
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant was for the acquisition of approximately 126.70 acres of the Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park. The total project encompasses 1,200 acres of land and water, including four undeveloped lakes (5.75 miles of lake shore and 1.5 miles of streams), in Wright County, that wasowned by the YMCA of Minneapolis. This was a rare opportunity to acquire a large natural open space close to development in an area of rapid population growth and high population density. The park provides a variety of recreational opportunities while preserving the natural resources including camping, hiking, cross country skiing, mountain bike trails, shore/pier fishing, swimming, picnic facilities/shelters, athletic fields, playgrounds, a YMCA day camp, and host Monticello ISD’s Nature Based Education program.
About the Match
Funds for acquisition represent a joint effort between the Minnesota Land and Water Conservation Fund, Wright County, the City of Monticello, and the State of Minnesota. The LWCF contributed $600,974 to the project, and the remaining was matched through the other funders.
Park Reaction
Marc Mattice, Wright County Assistant County Administrator and former Parks & Recreation Director said, “Wright County is fortunate to have been chosen as the recipient of grants funded through the LWCF. These funds have assisted with acquisition of parkland and the creation of active recreation areas such as playgrounds and trails. It is important to realize that many recent park projects in Wright County would not have been successful without funding assistance from the LWCF. The acquisition of the Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park, near Monticello in northern Wright County, was made possible because of the LWCF. During tough economic times when local governments are asked to do more with less, LWCF dollars have made it possible for Wright County to move forward with the largest acquisition ever made in its park system history. This project will enable Wright County to protect over 1,200 acres of open space and provide a positive connection between the outdoors and quality of life and will also have a positive impact on the local economy."
