$500,000 Allocated to Upgrade Otter Tail Lake Public Water Access

Construction plans for the Riviera Public Water Access. (Senator Rasmusson’s Office)

Ottertail, MN – The Minnesota DNR announced $500,000 has been allocated for upgrades to the Riviera Public Water Access (PWA) on the northern shoreline of Otter Tail Lake. The funding is part of the $700 million infrastructure package authored by Senator Jordan Rasmusson (R-Fergus Falls) during the 2025 legislative session.

“Public water access allows anglers, families, and visitors to enjoy Minnesota’s natural resources,” said Rasmusson. “The improvements to the Riviera access will ensure Otter Tail Lake remains a beloved destination for years to come.”

The existing PWA was originally developed in 1983 and is currently located entirely on state-owned and administered property. Upgrades to this facility will include the complete reconstruction of the parking area. Vehicle and trailer parking stalls will be enlarged from 40 feet by 11 feet to 50 feet by 12 feet, and two ADA-accessible stalls will be added.

Additional improvements include wider drive lanes, two ADA-accessible inspection and management parking spaces, and replacement and realignment of the two concrete ramp sections. The project also includes the replacement of the boat boarding docks and the installation of stormwater treatment and water management features on-site.

“Minnesota’s anglers and outdoor enthusiasts depend on safe, accessible, clean public water accesses,” said Mark Holsten, Executive Director of MN-FISH, the state’s sportsfishing and angler association. “Senator Rasmusson’s leadership was key in securing urgent funds to modernize this 30-plus-year-old access site and ensure future generations of Minnesotans can enjoy it.”

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin late July 2026 and is anticipated to take two to three months to complete.

Story courtesy of Senator Rasmusson’s Office.