A 21-mile road reclamation and resurfacing project on State Highway 34 in Becker County has caught the attention of environmentalists and nature lovers across Minnesota, drawing just over 80 people to a virtual open house on the project that was hosted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation on Wednesday, Jan. 12. Of particular concern: A plan to remove 75% of the trees and vegetation in the project's "clear zone," due to the route's status as part of the Lake Country Scenic Byway as well as being a known area for viewing large numbers of Minnesota's state flower, the Showy Lady's Slipper.
The skeptics had their say at a virtual open house hosted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) on Wednesday, Jan. 12, to discuss its plans for rehabilitating a 21-mile stretch of State Hwy. 34 between County Roads 29 and 47 in Becker County.
Violations are considered misdemeanors, but civil penalties also apply if the placement of snow creates a hazard, such as a slippery area, frozen rut or bump, that contributes to a motor vehicle or pedestrian crash. The civil liability can extend to both the property owner and the person who placed the snow.