This award is given in recognition of successful efforts to influence public policy relating to trail planning, trail protection, trail development, or maintenance.
Menomonee Valley Partners at work on landscaping
The Menomonee Valley Partners have assisted in bringing in millions of dollars in grants, in working with foundations, and pursuing private funding to benefit the state’s trails to add bridges, boardwalks, canoe/kayak launches, angler access, and additional recreational trails.
In Wisconsin, we are very fortunate to have a tremendous trail advocate in the Menomonee Valley Partners (MVP). MVP was originally organized to assist in improving the economy by redeveloping blighted areas. Their role has broadened significantly since the inception of the organization and they have become one of our strongest trail advocates and supporters.
Over the years, MVP has assisted in bringing millions of dollars to trail development by successfully applying for grants, working with foundations, and pursuing private funding. They are currently assisting with funding the development of plans that will add bridges, boardwalks, canoe/kayak launches, angler access, landscaping, and more recreational trails and footpaths.
They have taken the lead in establishing a Safety Committee, which brings together diverse groups of businesses, neighbors, and law enforcement to strategize and discuss ways to make the trails and surrounding areas safer. They act as the central point of contact in communications of problem issue or criminal activity. They have also organized a fund and established a contract for graffiti removal.
Since staffing for maintenance of trails is getting more challenging, MVP took the lead in organizing Stewardship Crews to help in picking up trash and weeding along the trails. They currently manage ten Stew Crews that each commit to 2 hours of clean-up each month during the Summer and Fall. In addition, they play a significant role in organizing an annual Spring Clean-up, which last year drew approximately 500 volunteers to assist with trash removal and clean-up along the river and trails.
They frequently play a significant role in building awareness and support from elected officials. They have also assisted in crafting agreements with the railroad (no small task) and have played a role in bringing artwork and other enhancements to our trails.
