Schematic drawing by Widseth, Smith, Nolting of the proposed Nisswa Lake Park.

They have done a great job! We have partnered on this project with the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation and have set up a "Friends of Nisswa Lake Park" fund where donations to the Nisswa Lake Park project are 100 percent tax deductible.

The 3.7-acre lakeside park would have a beach area, pier and boat docking area. The total cost of the land purchase is $850,000. Our Friends of Nisswa Lake Park Committee will be doing the Phase 1 fundraising to purchase the property with an immediate fundraising goal of $170,000 (20 percent of the total cost) by June 1.

We are asking individuals and organizations for an initial one-time gift to meet the immediate need and then commitments over the next four years.

The Crow Wing County Parks Department Citizens Advisory Committee noted in an endorsement letter that "at present there are only four public beach areas in Crow Wing County: Whipple Beach (Baxter), Lum Park (Brainerd), Serpent Lake (Crosby) and Pelican Beach (Merrifield). For an area known for water-based recreation and tourism this limited public access to swimming opportunities is a glaring omission. Many land-based resorts from the Nisswa area have testified that they have nowhere to send guests ... they must presently drive nearly 20 miles for the nearest legal public swimming area. Successful completion of this project will greatly enhance the quality of life for both the county's residents and guests."

The Brainerd Lakes Area Development Corp. noted, "It is our belief that the addition of a public park and beach area on Nisswa Lake has regional significance and will greatly enhance the Brainerd lakes area's appeal to visitors and the greater community ... This proposed facility's close proximity to the businesses in Nisswa and the Paul Bunyan State Trail will also make it unique in our region."

The Nisswa Chamber of Commerce wrote, "It is our belief that the addition of a public park and beach will greatly enhance the city's appeal to visitors and the community ... You can rely on our help to ensure a successful outcome."

"We have faith in our city fathers to do what they can to finally get a lakeside park," wrote Ted Dullum.

It is now time for us to raise the funds necessary for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to help purchase the land necessary to make the Nisswa Lake Park a reality, please send contributions to: Friends of Nisswa Lake Park, PO Box 262, Nisswa, MN 56468. Make checks payable to BLA Community Foundation with a notation "Friends of Nisswa Lake Park."

For more information about this project please e-mail me at lehmanconsulting@nisswa.net.

Thanks for your help in making our Nisswa Lake Park a reality!