Watershed Building at Dunton Locks to Remain Amid Parking Discussions

The Pelican River Watershed District’s storage building at Dunton Locks County Park will remain in its current location for the foreseeable future, as Becker County officials reassess parking solutions.
The county had considered requesting the watershed district to relocate its facility, which houses boats, vehicles, and equipment, to expand parking at the increasingly popular 56-acre park. However, historical records recently unearthed in the Becker County Courthouse basement revealed that the watershed district contributed approximately $16,000 toward the park’s establishment in 1976, fostering a more collaborative approach between the entities.
Commissioner Phil Hansen, representing Lakeview Township where the park is situated, acknowledged the watershed district’s role: “The watershed district deserves credit for helping push it through, back in the day.” He emphasized the park’s value to the county and expressed a desire for additional parking solutions.
Pelican River Watershed District board member Charlie Jasken suggested alternative parking strategies, such as creating spaces higher up on the hillside or modifying the existing storage building’s layout to free up space. Plans are also underway to increase parking near Highway 59, as the park’s popularity continues to grow, partly due to new attractions like a troll statue.
Commissioner Barry Nelson noted that any significant changes are unlikely before next year, indicating that current discussions are focused on long-term planning.
In related news, the County Board appointed Scott Busker, CFO at PRO Resources in Detroit Lakes, to the Pelican River Watershed District Board, succeeding Phil Hansen. Busker’s experience is expected to contribute to ongoing rule revisions and other initiatives within the district.