Shelley Kohlhaas
Operations Supervisor –
MN DNR | Division of Parks and Trails
Throughout her career, Dorothy Peters has served as one of the primary purchasers and merchandising specialists for the Gooseberry Falls retail gift shop within the current visitor center. She began her service in the park’s original refectory located along Highway 61 and Gooseberry Falls River. She was present through the transition in the 1990s when a new visitor center was constructed to meet the demands of the significant number of people who visited the popular destination. This marked a new milestone for the park and its capacity to serve the public. Dorothy has demonstrated excellence in product selection, vendor relations, and inventory management. Her expertise in choosing high-quality books and retail items has ensured the gift shop reflects the educational mission and the park’s CCC history and heritage.
In her current role as Central Service Administrative Senior, she operates from the park’s warehouse facility where she receives and processes product shipments on a daily basis. Dorothy’s attention to detail through the years has played a role in maintaining the reputation of the gift shop over the decades. The gift shop has continued to serve as a revenue-generating asset to the state, which helps fund various park programs.
Dorothy’s 60 years of service represent an extraordinary contribution to Gooseberry Falls State Park, to the Minnesota DNR, and to the principles of public service excellence. In her steady, conscientious service, she has helped ensure Gooseberry Falls State Park continues to fulfill its role within the broader mission to provide meaningful outdoor experiences for future generations.
Congratulations and thank you, Dorothy, for your impressive career and dedication to the DNR – Parks and Trails!
