Rep. Heintzeman Raises Concerns Over DNR Handling of June Lake Land Dispute, Signals Potential for Legislative Action

St. Paul — Representative Josh Heintzeman (R–Nisswa), GOP Chair of the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee, issued the following statement criticizing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) mishandling of a property rights dispute in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (CCSRA) that undermines community-supported economic growth.

The dispute, which involves shared ownership of a parcel containing a portion of a heavily used recreational trail and a rejected request for an access easement, has raised the possibility of restricted public access during peak tourism months.

On one side of this dispute are Tim and Dawn Prinsen, who are seeking an access easement for 60 acres within the recreation area that they own, and want to build camper cabins on to rent to outdoor enthusiasts. Directly south of that parcel is a 40-acre parcel in which the Prinsens have a small interest, along with the DNR. On this 40-acre parcel is Overburden Road, the DNR’s Galloping Goose bike trail, and a parking area. The Prinsens have offered to relinquish their share in the 40-acre parcel in exchange for an easement to their property. On the other side of the dispute is the DNR, which to date has refused to grant an easement to the Prinsens.

Despite local support for the project and precedent for other private development within the park boundaries (Red Rider Resort on the east side of Cuyuna Country has cabins and camping sites), the situation remains unresolved.

“Efforts to resolve this issue with the DNR have been extremely challenging, and unfortunately have been met with ongoing conflict that may result in sections of trails being closed and other problems stemming from the divided interests in the 40-acre parcel,” said Rep. Heintzeman. “That’s not acceptable for a recreation area that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and plays such an important role in the local economy.”

Heintzeman said he is exploring options to help resolve the situation.

“I strongly urge the DNR to be more realistic in its negotiations with the Prinsens. There needs to be resolution so people can continue to enjoy the entire recreation area,” he added.

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