ST. PAUL — A new 4.3-mile track at Camp Ripley will give emergency responders from throughout Minnesota a chance to train for disasters and practice tactical driving maneuvers in a variety of conditions.

The Emergency Vehicle Operations Course opened Thursday at Camp Ripley in Little Falls.

Department of Public Safety Assistant Commissioner Mark Dunaksi said the course will give officials essential hands-on training opportunities.

It features two separate gravel roadways and a four-lane divided highway, and will give drivers a safe way to practice driving maneuvers on many types of surfaces and road conditions.

It will also allow trainers to set up training scenarios, including vehicle crashes, hazardous material spills, and pursuits.

Many agencies worked together to make the course a reality. It will be operated by the State Patrol.