STARBUCK, Minn. — Minnesota State Parks are jumping on the latest trend in water sports with plans to rent stand-up paddleboards at eight parks.

Department of Natural Resources officials say it's a good way to promote a new physical activity. Paddleboarding involves standing on a board similar to a surfboard and propelling oneself around with a long paddle.

The boards will be available at Blue Mounds, Glacial Lakes, Glendalough, Lake Shetek, McCarthy Beach, Myre-Big Island, Sakatah Lake and William O'Brien parks.

Parks and Trails spokeswoman Amy Barrett tells the West Central Tribune (http://bit.ly/19uUYSP ) that paddleboarding is cool and the DNR wants to attract the next generation of state park visitors.