Rice County

Rice County commissioners took their annual road trip Tuesday, touring several of the county's parks to see first-hand some of the issues facing equipment and structures.

This year they visited Shager Memorial, McCullough and Albers parks along with the east side of Cannon River Wilderness Area where they met with cyclists Christopher Abbott and Lynn Babcock who spoke about the desire for trails connecting the wilderness area, Caron Park and Nerstrand State Park. All feature unique landforms and segments of what was once known as the Big Woods, said Abbott, making them valuable destinations. Babcock also spoke of how cycling brings tourism dollars to a community.

Pictured, from left, are Commissioner Gerry Hoisington, Facilities Manager Chris Kluge, County Engineer Dennis Luebbe and Commissioners Charlie Peters and Jim Purfeerst.

Contractors: Earn C.E. credits with a FREE deconstruction training

Rice County Environmental Services is hosting a two-day training for contractors the county interested in learning about deconstruction and the benefits: grants, tax incentives and lower disposal fees.

Email [email protected] to sign up or visit www.ricecountymn.gov/814/Deconstruction to learn more

The Board of Appeal and Equalization will hear appeals at 6:30 p.m. June 17, 2026, at the Rice County Government Services Building.

You could be due money from the state: The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced guidance for homeowners for the one-time increase to 2025 Homestead Credit Refunds of nearly 15%.

Learn more: www.ricecountymn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11937/Guidance-for-one-time-increase-to-homeowner-refunds-announced

Suspect elder abuse? Call 844-880-1574.

With just 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse is reported each year, help protect seniors and vulnerable adults by learning to recognize signs of mistreatment:
• Increased anxiety or fear
• Isolation from family/friends or normal activities
• Dehydration or unusual weight loss
• Unexplained bruises, cuts or sores
• Unattended medical needs
• Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
• Unexplained STIs
• Unpaid bills
• Fraudulent signatures on financial documents
• Unusual or sudden changes in spending patterns
Minnesota Department of Human Services

On this National Trails Day, commit to leaving trails and outdoor spaces better than you found them.

Try taking a trash bag whenever you hike or go for a walk. Collect trash on a local trail, along your neighborhood sidewalk or in a natural space near you. Then dispose of it in a designated receptacle.

While Saturday is National Trails Day, today is World Bicycle Day, making it the perfect time to remind cyclists about shared path etiquette so their use is enjoyable for everyone.

• Pedestrians always have the right of way. Slow down when approaching walkers, give them plenty of space and be prepared for unpredictable movements, especially from children or those with mobility challenges

• Avoid sudden swerves and stay aware of faster riders and those behind you.

• Always pass on the left and give an audible signal, such as ringing a bell or saying, “on your left." If the path is too narrow, wait for a wider section before overtaking.

• On most shared paths, ride on the right side and pass on the left.

• Adjust your speed according to the density of users, trail conditions and visibility. Slow down near intersections, curves and crowded areas.

• Always wear a helmet, use lights if riding before dawn or after dusk, and employ hand signals when turning or stopping.

• Avoid wearing headphones or other distractions, move off the trail when stopping, and be mindful of children and pets.

• Do not ride on closed or wet trails, as this can damage the surface and create hazards for others.
City of Faribault, Minnesota - City Government

While we've taken steps to mitigate the likelihood permit applicants receive
scam emails, some property owners are STILL BEING APPROACHED by scammers.
This scam is affecting permit applicants nationwide and involves the solicitation of fraudulent fees. Protect yourself: learn more at www.ricecountymn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11502/FBI-county-warn-of-scam-aimed-at-property-owners-applying-for-permits

While we've taken steps to mitigate the likelihood permit applicants receive
scam emails, some property owners are STILL BEING APPROACHED by scammers.

This scam is affecting permit applicants nationwide and involves the solicitation of fraudulent fees. Protect yourself: learn more at www.ricecountymn.gov/ -fd8f7b68610b73dbdb0e6850c3fc7190eec0c862460a3e3cbdfe0edfef875cd9

The Cannon River, which nearly cuts the county in two, is the perfect setting for a run, ride or walk, especially if it's with a human's best friend.

With National Trails Day on Saturday isn't it time to hit the trails? With so many to choose from, it's easy to find your path in Rice County.
City of Northfield, Minnesota