Construction is under way on the Brookside Boathouse and Experiential Learning Center. The boathouse will house canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for our Experiential/Environmental Learning Program; serve as a trailhead for the shared user path around Fountain Lake; and be home to a variety of environmental programs.

As construction continues, Albert Lea Community Education Director Chris Chalmers is asking the community to consider helping complete the boathouse.

The hand-crafted timbers from the Gunflint Trail are rated for 300 years.

The $300,000 project is within $10,000 of becoming a reality. Monetary donations at any level are appreciated and materials, equipment and talent are also needed. Checks can be written out to: Community Education Boathouse.

For every $100 donated to this project, a kayak/canoe experience for five people will be provided. These can be employees or family members, or even donated to area youth.