By Brandi Makuski

Officials from the Portage Co. Parks Dept. have planned a ribbon-cutting for the newest addition to its park system.

The ceremony begins at 4:30 PM on Saturday, Jan. 23 and will include a moonlight snowshoe/hike along the Steinhaugen land in Sharon. The mile-long trail will be marked, with longer trail loops available.

Attendees are encouraged headlamps or flashlights and their own snowshoes.

The event is free and open to the public.

Gary Speckmann, county parks director, said volunteers are needed to help develop recreational trails on the land.

“We are looking for input on fat tire bike, hiking and cross country ski trails on the site, and anyone interested should contact the parks department directly,” Speckmann said, adding the land will be available for silent sports throughout throughout all four seasons.

Speckmann’s office can be reached at (715) 346-1433.

The Steinhaugen land is a 270-acre managed forest and nature preserve in the Town of Sharon purchased by the county in October of 2015. The land was formerly owned by the family of the late Herman Olson.

The property also has a long history service to the community, and has long been utilized by UWSP for surveying, timber measurements, wildlife and soils identification.

The park is located at 3485 Bentley Road in Custer.

For more information about Portage County Parks go to www.co.portage.wi.us/parks.