Bicyclists can help flooded residents who have helped them
From Minnesota Cyclist magazine:
“Last week, residents of one of the most scenic bicycling areas in southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin were hit by the worst disaster of a lifetime. Many families were forced to evacuate, leaving their devastated homes and memories behind. To make the situation even worse, many residents found that their insurance does not cover this type of disaster. …
“Over the years, many of these now-displaced people have served the bicycling community through their work and volunteer efforts along the bicycling trails in the affected areas (the eastern section of the Root River in Minnesota; the Great River Trail, the Lacrosse River State Trail and Sparta-Elroy Trails in western Wisconsin; and other bicycle-friendly roads in both states).
“Many of us have ridden our bicycles, traveled or visited these very scenic areas. Among those affected by this disaster are people who have served us, either on one of the bike trails, or in local cafes, taverns, service stations, motels or B&Bs.
“We now have a chance to repay these wonderful people for what they have done for us in the past, and help them rebuild for the future. These people need our help now!”
Consider contributing through the following organizations:
American Red Cross, Southeast Minnesota Chapter, 310 14th St. SE, Rochester, MN 55904. 800/HELP-NOW (435-7669)
Salvation Army: 800/SAL-ARMY (725-2769)
Root River State Trail
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reported on Aug. 24 that the Root River State Bike Trail was closed between Lanesboro and Whalan and between Peterson and Houston due to flooding. The trail was open and undamaged west of Lanesboro to Fountain, Preston, and Harmony for 40 miles.