Gateway and Brown's Creek State Trails

Purpose (why we are doing this):

The purpose of volunteer monitoring on State Trails is to support the DNR in maintenance of the trail, specifically by reporting maintenance needs to the DNR, and when appropriate, assisting with maintenance as duties identified below.

Responsibilities (duties and tasks)

Authorized work: (The volunteer is not required to do all of these activities.)

• Travel the trail regularly (once a week if possible), especially after a weather event that may have deposited debris on the trail.
• Watch for trees, branches, rocks, gravel, or other debris on the trail. Remove any trail obstructions when the debris is easily removed, such as small branches, and only if it is within your capacity.
• Non-motorized tools, such as small hand saws may be used to assist in removing trees, but NEVER attempt to lift or move items beyond your capacity. Natural debris removed from the trail treadway may be placed within the State Trail corridor but, if possible, should be placed on the side of the trail and out of the way so as not to be an obstruction for mowing.
• When addressing an obstruction upon the trail, always be aware and courteous of other trail users, keeping in mind the safety of all on the trail.
• Contact the DNR when significant obstructions or debris or other hazardous situations upon the trail are discovered, and put minimal caution tape to mark the issue until the DNR is able to address it. When possible, take a digital picture of the obstruction and email it to the DNR contact.
• Pick up litter along the trail. If litter is sharp or unsafe, such as broken glass, be cautious and use the appropriate safety equipment, such as gloves.
• Contacting local law enforcement is an option if you observe a trail violation, DO NOT engage in conversation or confrontation if a law enforcement issue arises.
• Be safe along the trail. If using a bicycle on the trail, make sure it is good working condition, and make sure to wear proper protective gear, such as a helmet. Wear gloves and eye protection when handing any debris or non-motorized hand tools.
• Be courteous and friendly to other trail users.
• Keep a log of time spent conducting your volunteer monitoring, which should include the location, date, hours, and number of miles of trail monitored. Report your hours to your volunteer group leader or, if none, the DNR contact person.

Restricted work:

• Do not attempt to move any trail obstruction that is above your capacity, such as fallen trees. Instead, contact the DNR.
• Do not use motorized equipment on the trail, such as chainsaws, power tools, golf carts, or other vehicles not permitted upon the trail.
• Do not make a hazard more dangerous than it already is, such as breaking off a branch that creates a sharp point.
• Do not “police” the trail. Trail volunteer monitors are the eyes and ears of the DNR regarding maintenance only. Law enforcement agencies could be contacted if a volunteer observes a violation of law or rules.

Qualifications Desired:

Volunteers must be able to:

• reach overhead
• bend over
• squat/kneel down without restriction

Safety Training:

The DNR Area Supervisor will provide volunteers with general safety training information. Additional DNR safety training must be completed prior to starting your volunteer experience if participating in activities involving any of these:

• Chainsaws
• Herbicide application
• ATVs
• Snowmobiles
• Watercraft
• Trailers

Minimum Time Commitment: 

One hour per week, if possible. Flexible hours.

DNR Contact Person:Carolyn Kocken or Jess Althoff

Sign up:

• Complete the online application
• Please note that this application will time out after 30 minutes of no activity
• All days and shifts will be visible when you apply

The Gateway State Trail is an 18 mile multiple use trail that begins in the city of St. Paul, travels northeast through the cities of Maplewood, North St. Paul, and Oakdale, through Washington County, and ends at Pine Point Regional Park, just four miles northwest of the city of Stillwater. Located on a former Soo Line Railroad grade, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible. East of I-694, an adjacent unpaved trail provides ten miles of horseback riding and carriage driving.

The Brown's Creek State Trail is 5.9 miles long and connects the Gateway State Trail in the city of Grant to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway in Stillwater. Situated on a former railroad grade, the trail is generally level and accessible to users of all abilities. The trail connects to local park and trail systems.

Purchase and development of this trail was made possible by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Legacy Amendment, Washington County, the City of Stillwater, and the Gateway-Brown's Creek Trail Association.