Governor Tim Walz today issued an executive order expanding allowable outdoor recreational activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes will allow Minnesotans to continue to enjoy the outdoors close to home while following social distancing guidelines. It covers golf courses, bait shops, outdoor shooting ranges, public and private parks and trails and boating and off-highway vehicle services. In signing the order Walz says “it’s important for us to stay active and enjoy the outdoors while preventing the spread of COVID-19.” House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt says he hopes this order is “just a first step that paves the way for other businesses to open in a way that protects the health and safety of employees. While common sense prevailed with today’s executive order, we need to move quickly to help more of our businesses safely open their doors and get Minnesotans back working again.” These new provisions will go into effect on Saturday, April 18th at 5:00 am.