Winneshiek County Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed Campground

A proposed campground in rural Winneshiek County raised concerns among local residents, with one family voicing opposition to its development near their home. 

Mark and Andrea Ondrashek, who live about five miles southwest of Decorah, addressed the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors on Monday.

The proposed Neste Valley Recreational Area is set to be built approximately 500 feet from the Ondrasheks’ backyard. Andrea Ondrashek told the board that they chose their rural home for its tranquility and privacy and were not informed of the county’s plans until 2021.

“In May of 2016, we built our home there, seeking the peace and privacy that rural living offers,” Andrea Ondrashek said. “However, in 2021, we were informed by the Winneshiek County Conservation Board that they planned to build a campground very close to our property.”

They also questioned whether the county needed another campground when two already exist in the region.

“In this region, recreational tourism has a huge impact on Winneshiek County monetarily,” County Supervisor Shirley Vermace said in an article published by Decorah Leader on March 26.

The situation of the proposed Winneshiek County Campground highlights the importance of communicating with local residents before moving forward with development plans. Effective community consultation ensures that concerns are addressed early, reducing opposition and fostering trust between officials and residents.