Great Outdoors initiative needs your help

President Obama's initiative to conserve outdoor spaces and reconnect Americans to the out-of-doors, made a national listening stop in Minneapolis and with grassroots support, one suggestion could make it to the top of the list.

That idea, championed by several people in Minnesota and Wisconsin, would have the federal government complete the National Trails System. By going to America's Great Outdoors website, Minnesotans can add their support for this idea. Register at the top right of the page. Once you are registered, go to "open document." Locate the topic, "Reconnect with the Great Outdoors" and then find the item "Complete the National Trails System-Connecting People to our natural historic and cultural heritage through citizen stewardship." About halfway down the page will be a small box with the word "promote" in green. Click that button and you will have shown your support for the idea.

America's Great Outdoors national listening tour stopped in 20 locations including Minneapolis on Aug. 4.