Iowa DNR will rip up part of the Trout Run Trail

A project to improve access to Trout Run Park off Highway 9 on the east end of Decorah will include tearing up the Trout Run Trail for seven months.

The Iowa DNR is in charge of the project to change the road going into the park so there isn't an immediate steep drop-off.  The project is aimed at creating an improved canoe and kayak access at the Upper Iowa River.

DNR officials had originally planned to start the project early this fall, but they had not told City of Decorah or Winneshiek County officials about their plans.  City of Decorah officials stressed that the Trout Run Trail would be used in late September for the annual Loop de Loop half marathon, while Winneshiek County officials stressed that the bike trail gets year-round use.

That persuaded the DNR to delay the start of the project to October.  However, the Trout Run Trail still will be torn up for seven months in order to complete the project.  DNR officials have agreed, however, to create a detour that will allow trail users to pass through the construction area.  They will also fence off the construction area, to prevent problems.

"It's going to be a big change," Winneshiek County Conservation Director Barb Schroeder says of the construction project.  But Decorah Park-Rec Director Andy Nimrod says local officials will be "aggressive" in making sure the trail remains open.

The completed project will be a welcome change, says Nimrod, who notes "the park's been in limbo."  That has been because the property is owned by the Iowa DNR--not the city or county.  When the project is completed, the plan is for the DNR to transfer ownership of the park to the City of Decorah.

Bids on the construction project will be opened on Thursday by the Iowa DNR.

There's a steep drop-off into the park at the present time

An improved river access is part of the project