Politics & Government
Coronavirus: Minnesota Governor To Reopen Some Outdoor Facilities
Gov. Tim Walz says the changes will allow people to enjoy the outdoors while following coronavirus social distancing guidelines.
MINNESOTA — Gov. Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-38 on Friday, which expands acceptable outdoor recreational activities during the new coronavirus "stay home" order. Walz says the changes will allow Minnesotans to continue to enjoy the outdoors close to home while following social distancing guidelines.
Executive Order 20-38 allows Minnesotans to engage in a range of activities, including golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, and hiking, as long as they follow new outdoor recreation guidelines. These guidelines include maintaining 6-foot social distancing, avoiding crowded areas, and staying close to home.
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"It’s important for us to stay active and enjoy the outdoors while preventing the spread of COVID-19," Walz said in a statement. "This measure will allow Minnesotans to take advantage of more opportunities to get outside, while still doing their part to keep their neighbors healthy."
Under Executive Order 20-38, facilities that may reopen or remain open include:
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- Bait shops for live bait
- Outdoor shooting ranges and game farms
- Public and private parks and trails
- Golf courses and driving ranges
- Boating and off-highway vehicle services, including:
- Marina services
- Dock installation and other lake services
- Boat and off-highway vehicle sales and repair, by appointment only
Campgrounds and dispersed camping, outdoor recreational equipment retail stores, recreational equipment rental, charter boats, launches, and guided fishing remain closed.
Minnesotans should continue to take part in outdoor activities close to their primary residence. Staying home helps protect Minnesotans from spreading COVID-19 and limits pressure on rural medical facilities and essential supplies, the governor's office said in a news release.
These new provisions will go into effect on Saturday, April 18 at 5 a.m. Minnesota's stay home order lasts until May 4.
Also read:
Coronavirus: 17 More Dead In Minnesota Friday, Toll Crosses 100
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