Fishing is not cancelled

The outdoors is a sanctuary for those of us fortunate enough to live in homes with
yards, gardens, trees and lakes. The ice has gone out, loons are back, trees are
budding and a warm spell has allowed spring rituals like raking and washing windows to
begin.
Most local events that traditionally mark the beginning of summer have been called off
or are on hold. Fishing, bike riding and sunsets have not been cancelled.
The walleye/northern fishing opener is still on for Saturday, May 9. Please use caution
and practice social distancing at boat launches, fishing piers and the like and be aware
that public restrooms will likely be closed and lake accesses may not have been
maintained this spring.

photo is by Barbra Wicks, Park Rapids, a current PRDBA photo contest entry

Minnesota is advising us to follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for
visiting parks and recreational facilities and to stay physically active while protecting
ourselves and others.
The Minnesota Department of Health also has guidelines for fishing, boating, bike riding
and other outdoor recreational activities. We are asked, for example, to visit parks and
other public lands at off-peak times. These guidelines are at
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/covid-19-outdoor-recreation-guidelines.html .
Some resorts are opening with limits on use of communal areas, such as laundry
facilities. If you’re interested in booking a stay, please contact the Chamber office or the
lodging facility you are considering.
Local restaurants and retail shops are opening as is possible and have been very
creative in handling take out and curbside and other delivery options. Elsewhere on the
Chamber website, visitors can find current information on these options.
In a nutshell, an abundance of caution now will mean better days ahead. If you do not
know anyone who has contracted COVID-19 yet, you are fortunate. We are all in this
together.
If you need help planning a memorable, affordable and safe visit, need more information
about the area or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.