---

   BACKUS—Colonel Troy Fink, Garrison commander of Camp Ripley, provided an operational update to Cass County commissioners Tuesday, April 21, as the installation prepares for its busiest training months of the year.

   Fink said Camp Ripley’s mission remains unchanged, focusing on training soldiers while fostering strong community relationships and maintaining its role as a good neighbor in the region.

   Fink noted Camp Ripley continues to generate significant economic impact across the region through employment, construction and conservation partnerships, including funding tied to the Army’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) program. The installation remains centrally located in Minnesota, spanning Cass, Morrison and Crow Wing counties.

   Among recent highlights, Fink said Camp Ripley is now the second most-utilized National Guard training center in the United States.

   Construction efforts continue to focus on expanding troop readiness infrastructure, including development of a two-battalion operations complex with barracks and supply facilities. Additional officer quarters and headquarters buildings are still in planning.

   An update was also given by Fink on the new Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum, which remains on track for completion. A grand opening is currently anticipated in September 2026, with potential preview events for invited guests ahead of that date.

   Fink said Camp Ripley has entered its primary training season, with April through June expected to be the busiest and loudest period due to artillery exercises. From July through September, training will shift to heavy maneuver operations, including tank gunnery and preparation for future deployments.

   Prescribed burns will again be conducted across the installation this spring as part of environmental management efforts to reduce wildfire risk and maintain training lands. Camp Ripley works closely with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and operates under specialized guidelines for these activities.

   Fink also highlighted the camp’s environmental program, noting it has received multiple awards and remains integrated into all aspects of training operations. Conservation efforts include maintaining a buffer of more than 40,000 acres of surrounding land through the REPI program to prevent development encroachment.

Partnerships with state agencies remain strong, including the Minnesota DNR and Minnesota State Patrol, both of which maintain a presence at Camp Ripley. The installation also supports civil authorities during emergencies such as severe weather, flooding and wildfires.

   Responding to a question from Commissioner Neal Gaalswyk regarding drone usage, Fink said Camp Ripley regularly incorporates drones into training exercises. He added that soldiers are trained both in operating drones and in countering them, with all activity coordinated to ensure safe airspace alongside helicopters and other aircraft.

   Community outreach remains a priority, with Camp Ripley hosting tours, participating in local events, working with tribal communities and offering programs that support veterans and residents.

   Fink concluded by noting Minnesota continues to rank among the top states nationally for National Guard recruitment.

---