Abandoned
by mining companies more than thirty years ago, this area of former mining
pits and rock deposit stockpiles now boasts regenerated vegetation and clear
lakes that draw a wide range of recreation enthusiasts. Over the last 20
years, the landscape that was dotted with mining pits and stockpiles has
changed. The deep pits are now filled with crystal clear water and a variety
of vegetation now covers the area. The result is 25 miles of natural
shoreline with a considerable area of forested land containing trembling
aspen, paper birch, basswood, red oak, ironwood, and big-tooth aspen. The
marsh areas contain bulrush, cattail and sedge. These communities provide a
home for a wide variety of wildlife. The area contains six natural lakes,
plus an additional 15 deep lakes that were former mine pits. Trout,
northern, bass, crappies, sunfish and walleyes inhabit the area's lakes.
Most of the recreation area's 5,000 acres are undeveloped. Off-highway
vehicles are not permitted within the boundaries of Cuyuna Country State
Recreation Area.
|