Outdoors enthusiasts rejoice. Today is the official start of spring, even though temperature wise it usually comes a little bit later in Minnesota.

It’s worth the wait, however, as our state is home to some of the best recreational activities in the country.

It’s the place where you can take a motorcycle ride along the North Shore, embark on a camping trip to Lake Mille Lacs or take a long weekend and reel in some walleye or northern pike on Lake Minnetonka.

Here in Austin, the recreational options are good as well, with golf courses, parks, a municipal pool, excellent ball-field facilities and plenty of green grass to throw a Frisbee, walk a pet or simply get some exercise.

We’re fortunate to live where we do, and it won’t be long before we can take advantage of all the recreational activities Mower County has to offer.