Announcing The Winning Names For Minnesota Snow Plows

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on Apr 29, 2025

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The Winning Snow Plow Names and Their Stories

The contest drew hundreds of creative submissions, showcasing Minnesotans' wit and love for their state. After careful consideration, MnDOT selected these exceptional names for their snow-clearing fleet:

• "Blizzard of Oz": This whimsical name, submitted by 10-year-old Maya Johnson from Rochester, perfectly captures the magical (and sometimes overwhelming!) nature of a Minnesota blizzard. Maya said, “I love the Wizard of Oz, and Minnesota blizzards are pretty magical, too!” This plow will serve the southeastern region of the state.

• "The Snowplow Express": Submitted by long-time Minnesotan, Carl Thompson, this name evokes the speed and efficiency of MnDOT's winter road maintenance operations. Carl stated, "It's all about getting people home safe and sound, and that's what this plow will do." This plow will operate in the Twin Cities metro area.

• **"North Star": This simple yet powerful name, submitted by Sarah Miller of Duluth, symbolizes guidance and hope during winter storms. Sarah shared, "The North Star guides us, just like these plows guide us safely through the snow." This plow will clear roads in the northern Minnesota region.

• "White Out": A classic and descriptive name submitted anonymously, this plow will serve the central Minnesota region, aptly named for the conditions it will often tackle.

These winning snow plow names, along with high-quality images of the plows themselves (where available), will soon be featured on MnDOT's website and social media channels.

The Impact of the Snow Plow Naming Contest

The success of MnDOT's snow plow naming contest far exceeded expectations. The contest received over 1,500 entries from across the state, showcasing remarkable geographic diversity and community engagement. This initiative generated significant positive media coverage, leading to a boost in social media engagement and an overall increase in public awareness of MnDOT's winter road maintenance efforts.

• Over 1,500 entries received.
• Submissions from all corners of Minnesota.
• Extensive positive media coverage across multiple platforms.
• Significant increase in social media engagement regarding winter road safety.

This level of public participation underscores the importance of community engagement and transparency in public works initiatives. The contest allowed Minnesotans to actively participate in the process and connect with the work done to ensure safe winter travel.

MnDOT's Commitment to Winter Road Safety

The snow plow naming contest is just one element of MnDOT's larger commitment to ensuring safe winter driving conditions throughout Minnesota. MnDOT employs a comprehensive approach to winter road maintenance, including:

• Strategic snow and ice removal: Utilizing advanced forecasting and technology to deploy resources effectively.
• Regular road condition updates: Providing timely information to drivers through various channels, including 511mn.org.
• Investment in advanced snow removal equipment: Continuously improving and upgrading its fleet of snow plows and other winter maintenance vehicles.
• Skilled and dedicated crews: MnDOT employs highly trained personnel focused on maintaining safe roadways during winter weather.

The Future of Snow Plow Naming in Minnesota

MnDOT is thrilled with the overwhelming response to the inaugural snow plow naming contest. While future plans are still under development, the possibility of similar contests in the future is strong. MnDOT recognizes the value of community engagement and plans to explore additional opportunities to involve Minnesotans in transportation-related initiatives. Stay tuned for updates on future community involvement opportunities related to winter road maintenance and improvements.

Conclusion

The winning Minnesota snow plow names – "Blizzard of Oz," "The Snowplow Express," "North Star," and "White Out" – represent a remarkable blend of creativity and Minnesotan spirit. This naming contest has not only given our snowplows memorable monikers, but it has also successfully demonstrated the power of community engagement in improving public awareness of winter road safety. Learn more about MnDOT's winter road maintenance efforts at 511mn.org and stay tuned for future MnDOT initiatives and the next chance to name a Minnesota snow plow! Share your favorite winning name on social media using #NameThatPlowMN!