DNRE announces additional Cross-country skiing trails to be groomed thanks to public support

LANSING — The Department of Natural Resources and Environment announced that due to a tremendous amount of private contributions and donations, the Algonquin, Anderson Lake and Canada Lakes Pathways will be groomed for cross-country ski use this season.

“Donations began coming in from local enthusiasts, businesses, and organizations once they found out that grooming was being suspended due to budget cuts. These trails will be groomed by DNRE employees on a weekly basis depending on snow conditions,” said Mark Mandenberg, DNRE
trails program technical designer.

The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce served as a catalyst in a community effort to groom the Algonquin Pathway, Mandenberg noted. Their effort has resulted in $1,500 along with a pledge of additional money when needed. Local citizens have pledged $300 of support for Anderson Lake Pathway, and are optimistic about their efforts to raise additional funds.

Canada Lakes Pathway, south east of Newberry, received an initial deposit of $1, 000 from the local community. They are organizing to collect additional funds so that grooming may be extended beyond the initial four or five weeks.