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Correspondence SectionAdministl ative ection March 1, 2002 Mr. Todd Hoffman Director Chanhassen Parks & Recreation 690 Coulter Boulevard Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Todd: I thought you should have official notification of my decision not to reapply for my Park & Recreation Commission seat, which term expires on April 1,2002, so - here it is. I have decided not to go forward and reapply for a third term with the Chanhassen Park & Recreation Commission. I thank you, the City Council, and the Commission for allowing me to serve since 1996. We have accomplished many things in our city during that time, and I am very proud to have played a part in some of those items. I have learned much about how city government operates, how a top-notch Park & Rec department gets things done, and made many friends along the way. Most of all, I am impressed with you and the staff who all work so hard on behalf of Chanhassen's citizens, ensuring that we have plenty of clean, safe parks and trails, greenspace for the future, and outstanding events year 'round that help keep us together as a community, all while watching the public's dime. No doubt the many prestigious awards won by you, your staff, and Chanhassen's Park & Rec infrastructure attest to this. I will never shy away from telling the Park & Rec story to my neighbors and fellow Chanhassen residents. We are lucky to have you, Todd. If it sits well with the City Council, the Commission, and you, I would like to remain on the Dave Huffman Race Committee, and I still plan on hosting the annual Howe Family Easter Weekend Trash Cleanup. I would also very much miss drilling holes for the Feb Fest, so I will sign up in advance for that duty if offered. Lastly, in the unlikely event that you are unable to fill all four vacancies on the Commission by April 1, I will be happy to remain on the Commissionx~ntil all seats are filled, or until the Council, Commission, and you deem it appropriate for the short term. Thanks again for a great experience, and good luck in all of your future endeavors. RECEIVED March 3, 2002 Mr. Todd Hoffman Director- Parks and Recreation City of Chanhassen 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Todd, It is with much regret that I resign my position as a member of the Chanhassen Park and Recreation Commission, effective April 1, 2002. I find myself extremely busy with Matthew and Justin's increasing involvement in activities, along with my continued job search effort. This increased activity limits the required time I can dedicate to the Park and Recreation issues of Chanhassen. I appreciate having the opportunity to serve the Chanhassen community, and working with you and members of the Park and Recreation department. I have enjoyed the many discussions and viewpoints shared during the commission meetings, and I will look back on these times with fond memories. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the transition to a successor commission member. Sincerely, David J. Moes 6241 Near Mountain Blvd Chanhassen, MN 55317 952-470-1699 RECEIVED 0 6 CITY OF CHANHASSEN 2/24/02 Dear mayor of Chanhassen, I am an 11 year old kid that loves going to the skatepark. One thing that I don't like about it is that we can't bike in the skatepark. My friend and I go up to the skatepark with our bikes and skateboards and we think that we should be able to bike in the skatepark. In the summer there are a lot of teenagers that go there just to look cool and smoke, or drink alcohol. I think that if they are doing that then the younger kids will think it's cool too and may start to smoke and drink to be cool like them. In the summer, little kids always get in the way. I think that the city should set different times for different ages of kids to use the skatepark to avoid this problem. Possibly set times such as 6am- lpm for younger kids, and lpm- 9pm for the older kids for park use or at least try to encourage this type of schedule to people to alleviate younger kids from getting in bigger kids' way or hearing and seeing some of the bad things that go on. I've seen too many people vandalize other people's property, so I think we should have security cameras watching everyone or at least have policemen doing the sam~. I think that we should be able to bike at the skatepark and there should more people watching the skatepark. Sincerely, Je~Cc~ ostello RECEIVED FEB ~ 0 7.00~ CITY OF CHANHASBEN 7o 51 Jamie Humphrey Kurvers Point RD. Chanhassen MN. February 8, 2002 Todd Hossman Chanhassen city council 7700 Market Blvd P.O. box 147 Chanhassen MN. 55317 Dear Todd: I moved here from out of state, in ~ugust. In the first few days I lived here some of my fiiends took me to Chanassen Skate Park, since then ! have been back a few times. I am really satisfied with the Skate Park, however... I have tried to go skating when there was no snow on the ground during winter. I noticed there were fences around the park saying, "Park Closed" I also realized that there was a skater inside, which tells me that other people want to skate during the winter too. I have a solution to this problem. You could put a roof up over the Skate Park, with no walls. It could be held up with steel poles on the comers and in the middle. This way it wouldn't cost as much, and it could keep out some rain and snow. Enc. I have enclosed an SASE and am looking forward to your response. Sincerely . · ,,.. ~' .~' .. ..... . .... Jamie Humphrey RECEIVED FEB 8 ZOO2 CITY OF CHANHASSEN 19 February 2002 Marvin Puspoki Ridgedale YMCA 12301 Ridgedale. Drive Minnetonka. MN' 55.305-1904 Dear Mr. Marvin P.uspoki, I am looking' forward 'to our programming pa~nership for a.sports theme day camp in the su~nmer. 2002.. The YMCA's repUtation-for youth prOgramming'is recognized in'our . conitnunity and we are hopeful that this will be the fi.rst of many summer day camp. p-rogramming opportunities.. . I' have outlined responsibilities' for our initial ,season of'this offering: 1. The.Ridgedale. YMCA will provide staff, program content and su. pplies for a summer :day camp weekdays June' 17 :thru AUgust 16. 200Z eXcludi.ng the.week of July 3. The program is for youth entering grades-3-5, enrollment minimum is ! 5, maximum .is 32. '-' 2.' Ridgedale YMCA 'will provide, brochure lay6Ut'and proces, s all registtati0ns. 3.. The City'ofChanhassen will provide the Rec Center warming house interior/exterior sPace, field access, rink access and gymnasium access at scheduled times t0-be dgtermined: ' . 4. The' city of Chanhassen will be responsible for brochure printing and distribution, banner and newspaper promotion, and promotion in the Chanhassen COnnection. '5. City of ChanhasSen will .receive $10 per.weekly registrafit with'the YMCA receiving the balance of the registration fee. -. . ~ Marvin. I appreciate'all your effort in initiating this program at our facility. I will be in continued contact with you as our planning process continues. Best/Regardsl S0san Marek Recreation Center .Manager City Of C'hanhassen -.C.: 'Todd Hoffman . Jer. ry, Ruegemer .Corey t'oen Dfil¢ Gregory . . ChanhaSseri Recreation Center ' 2310 C°ult'er Boule~,ard'. Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317. Phone:'612-474-0641 · Fax: 612:474-0651 This Promotion Is Brought To You By These Local Sponsors. Edina Realty The Chanhassen Bank Dfacto Art %City of Nancy S. Chanhassen Lipinski, CPA Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce Please complete this information and submit with your artwork. Name Address City Phone High School (Must be Chanhassen) The Chanhassen Chamber Of Commerce & Local Chamber Sponsors Present ~ Chanhassen 4th Of July Artwork Competition! High School Students! This Is Your Chance To Win $1000 and Local Fame With Your Artistic Ability,! Who - Chanhassen Residents in High School What -Design Our Artwork ! It Will Be Used For The Chanhassen 4th of July T-Shirts & Posters! When ~ Artwork Design Deadline, April 5, 2002 De$/gn Spec/ficat/on$ Artwork must be original and exclusive Each artist may submit more than one design Artwork must be produced using conventional media or desktop publishing software Artwork must fit within borders of 8 1/2" x 14" Unlimited Restraints On Color (4 color process) The following must be included somewhere in the design: ~ The word "Heroes" (Our 2002 theme) ~ Any Maple Leaf (The Chanhassen Symbol) ~ The words "Chanhassen 3uly 4, 2002 Celebration!" Artwork will become the property of the Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce and will be used on promotional materials including, but not limited to, t-shirts, posters, ads, etc. An award of $1000 will be paid to the artist whose design is selected to promote the 2002 Chanhassen 4th of 3uly Celebration. The $1000 will be put into an account of the artist's choice at The Chanhassen Bank. The winning artist will be announced on April 14, 2002. The artwork will be displayed at the Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce office. An additional award of $250 will be provided to the art department of the High School that the artist attends. Artwork must be submitted in person by April 5 to: Edina Realty Hours: :.~Pla~ce For Students www.fungosports.com~ Spring Sport Leagues at Fungos funfos is a new youth development facility opening in early April. Created to provide more youth activities and facilities in our southwest metro area, this Chanhassen location provides three "practice size" courts, a golf range, three batting cages, and a number of meeting rooms. The facility is specifically designed for practice and healthy competitive development. hmg0s also offers activities to students that are not currently offered by local associations. On the reverse side is a registration form indicating the activities offered during the year. We are now taking registrations for spring basketball and spring track and field clubs. Spring basketball Spring basketball features different opportunities for different interests. Common to all programs are sessions lasting two hours each. All two hour practices feature an hour of individual skills development, and an hour of competitive skills development, meaning one- on-one, two-on-two, and three-on-three games, and team practice time. More advanced programs spend more time on the team skills because of tournaments. Teams competing in tournaments will.be part of the AAU Basketball program. Practice days and tournaments will be announced later. At this time, we are only taking registrations to gage interest. No money is required, and no commitment is necessary. This registration form is merely your request for more information when demand is more clear. Practices will start during the first week of April and continue to dates specified by each program. Eligible ages are 4th grade through ,~ high school. 1. Recreational - Four weeks, eight two hour sessions, line basketball (two teams rotating three players at a time into the game every four minutes. No coaches, one referee. We want the kids to "just play", and feel free to apPly the individual skills they are learning. The cost is $40. 2. Competitive- There are two AAU programs, one:.:.l:~t!~:~.?!~!i!i.i~iiiii~9:g:~ of May 12th and participating in three tournaments. A more co~[!fi~i~!i!~~!i~ii~.iii~.~i!~iim.id June, playing in five tournaments. There are two~~:':~'~r week:;::.::~Pl:~~~ti.ng on ::~'~:~:~:~:~: ~:~:?~:~:~:~:~:~:: ~:{:~:~::'"' ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ======================= :::::::::::::::::::::::: teams must be from the same school diStti~t~:~?;?The cost of.t~:~6~:.;~ogrA~i~$200, and the cost of the long program is $250...?:::?///:?~?:~://:~?" ::~:~:~:~?~ .//.::::~:/.~:~?.~/,. ::: ~:.:: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ..........,........,....,... ......,..,..........'.'. ~-~0~e ~ack ~d ~eld ...................................... ~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~:~ .............................. =============================================== ge inn.n in A,r. con, nu n ' i ii' sc,oo .s trac features one practice per week, and~::'Saturday meets~::~[~re program details will 6~ available later. Any member can pa~i~i~ate in the June ~D?:~eet held in Rosemount.::~:~ ..................... ~:,~:~:~ .... ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: As always, volunteer coaches are n~B~:B to keep costs:~n. Please indicate your willingness to coach in either spcA. :~i~ form must be ~i~ed by March 7th so that~.~ay determine interest at age groups, an~~Petitive level~ ~u will then receive a ~ith confirmation of your intomst. If you are :~i~*r~to~t i~nore tho mailin~ .... ~~' ::::::<~?::~::<~:~questions answered, please call mg0s at ~:'~i~ ~i:.~ ~$::::~:~umber: 1-877-606~8~?:?' ':::: ~::~ ~:.~:.~::~::~::~::~::~::~::~::~!:.~:.~:~::~ ........................................ ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: .. 2929 Water Tower Place. Chanhassen, MN 55317- 1-877-'~;~~ .... A Place For Students www. fungosports.com :: :::::::::::::::::::::: Fungos Club Registration Form First Name: I Address:l Phone:J Mom Name:l Mom e-mail:l I Last Narne: I I Birth Date:l Grade: I Gender: M Club Sport Leagues I O Spring Basketball O Summer Golf O Fall In-House Volleyball O Fall Cross Country O Spring Track & Filed O Winter Indoor Soccer Club Developmental and Instructional Sport Programs O Basketball O Baseball O Softball O Running O Track & Field O Volleyball O Football O Soccer O Golf O Art O Music O Photography O Journalism O Business i want to be a volunteer coach/mentor .... ..:,../::.,.,,:,,.,..::..:, ....... · I ....... ....... · :. ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Activity(s) I would like to coach/mentor: ~.~i; ;~'~ ..... ':~:;~?ili'i?'~':~:~;:~:~?:::~i'i:i?~ .... ~:~'~:~:~:~:~:~'~:~:~'~'~:~:~:~ :.:.:? ?' ': :.::: ~:~.::.~:::.i~?i::i:::i::~i~:. · '": ':" ':': !'!:: i'i. "il;i ..... . ..:: .: :::::!:., This registration form is used to registe:.~i~fOr multiple prog~h'~!~?~:i~When the registration::~?~::. period for a specific season arrives, i:~:i.i~ill be invoiced'~ ~:.~:~::~C:h'eck is confirmation 6f:i:i~ i~. continued interest. If you do not ret'O?n?a check, your registration from that program removed at the closing date, but yoUr~rnain registered fo~;~:her sports until their respe~(i~e closing dates. ' ...... Please return this form to: fungos :'!!~,;!;iiiiii:::i;:~::::~ ..ii;..!::::!:. -::.. - PO boX~::;~81iii;iiii~?!;- '~ Chanhas§:~:fi':,~.MN 55318 ::::::~.,.,.~;~.~i?:' ...... .....:......, ,:.- .. . .... : ..:i.i:i:!:! Toll Free N U'~b~!iii:~:877.~606-8229 .............. ::..:-: :: -- "--------' ~'"'~:~'=:':":':'"::':www. mngospor~';com~:~;:::~:::::' :?~.:::: ...... - .... 2929 Water Tower Place · Chanhassen, MN 55317 · 1-877-~06~8229'::~:':~:~:::iiililii~ii!?i:::i!~i:.!:'::,i::i:!?, ' :::: '.; .; i ..ii~ i:i.~:;:i. :i.::i.i:"::: ..... Minnesota, Department of- Natural Resources 5()() l.afavcllc Road ru si. Paul, Minnesota 55155-40. __ ~ 2002 You are invited to attend the next Citizen Advisory Committee meeting for the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area Plan on: Wednesday, March 20th, 6:30-8:30 at the Ney Environmental Center, Nature Center Lane (just off of Hwy, 19 east of the Henderson bridge) Henderson, Minnesota 507-248-3474 The focu,~ for the night will be the Rush River Unit and the Henderson area: The Rush River Unit of the Mn Valley SRA (Sibley county) occurs on the steep slopes and bottomlands within the Rush River Valley near its confluence with the Minnesota River. The area includes 285 acres of maple-basswood forest, mesic oak forest, lowland hardwood forest and a dry prairie remnant. Current park uses primarily include horse-related camping and trail riding. Current management issues include: how to maintain and manage the forests and prairie, how and what recreational and educational facilities to provide, whether to require state park permits, trail development and maintenance, and boundary adjustments. This is the 7th meeting of citizens interested in the management and protection of the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area. Come and join us for a lively discussion! Please f'md enclosed: the meeting summary from the January 17th meeting of the Citizens Advisory Committee, the revised meeting summary from the November 8* meeting, a revised DRAFT of the mission/vision statement, and a DRAFT of the Recommendations heard so far. Comments on these documents are welcome either at the meeting, through direct e-mail, phone calls or letters. Thanks for your time and interest and we look forward to meeting with you again. Sincerely, / I / t ' /' ~. ' Nancy Albrecht, State Park Planner 651-284-0263 nancy.albrecht~dnr.state.mn.us enclosures (4) DNR Information: 651-296-6157 ° An Equal Opportunity Employer Who Values Diversity 1-888-646-6367 ° RECEIVED TTY: 651-296-5484 * !-800-657-3929 Printed on Recycled Paper Gontaining a Minimum o! 10% Post42onsumer Wasto Revised Meeting Notes Mn Valley State Recreation Area Plan Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting Thursday, November 8t~, 2001 Scott County Government Center, Shakopee ~The River is just acting like a river." Rick $chultz Participants: Kathy Burke, Jordan Fran Burke, Jordan Donna Williams, Jordan Larry Granger, J.R. Brown Minnesota River Center, Henderson Ed Moyer, USF. WS, Bloomington Judy Thomson, MnDNR, St. Paul Dennis Porter, M.O.R.C., Bloomington Ned Winters, Izaak Walton League, Bloomington Tod Sherman, MnDOT, Metro Todd Murray, M.O.R.C., Bloomington Paul Stanuch, Shakopee Chris Eriekson, Erik's Bike Shop, Eden Prairie Paul Voight, birder, Burnsville Rick Schultz, USFWS, Bloomington Ed Crozier, Friends of the Mn Valley, Burnsville Chris Wilhoit, biker, Minneapolis Mark Cleveland, MnDNR, Fort Shelling/Mn Valley Dave Jeurissen, Snowmobile Club, Belle Plaine Henry Crosby, Jordan Pat Steekman, Henderson Milt Meierbachtol, Henderson Bev Meierbachtol, Henderson Lon Berberich, City of Henderson, Henderson Nancy Albrecht, MnDNR, St. Paul Frank Knoke, Mn DN1L Mn Valley State Recreation Area, Jordan I. Interpretive Workgroup: Ed Moyer from the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge shared interpretive materials and programs from the Refuge. Larry Granger showed the group the large map of the Minnesota River Valley that the J.R. Brown Center is using'in an exhibit. Judy passed around examples of interpretive Page 1 of 4 items that DNR has developed for the trail. The group discussed various issues related to developing and interpretive plan: Vandalism and safety are major concerns for trail users and need to be taken into consideration when developing interpretive signage. Recommend using a unified, recognizable style and graphic elements to tie together interpretation along the trail instead of a mixed, multiple agency approach. In planning for interpretation we should bo looking for a process rather than a product.; a system of interpretation that can grow and change. We need to consider using the interact in order to provide information and interpretation for the corridor. We want to look at the valley corridor rather than a trail alignment in order to tell more integrated stores and to include features and visitor attractions near the trail. The planning process should include an effort to bring in the participation of communities along the corridor to help plan and to contribute to the effort. The group discussed a process for organizing the existing cultural and natural history information for interpretive planning. We also discussed the importance of theme development as an organizing framework. ACTIONS The group decided a next step would be to bring together the cultural features of the DNR cultural survey report, the work of the Shakopee band in the UDakota Presence on the Minnesota" mapping project and overlay this information on the mapping done for the County Biological Survey. If these could be combined in one map or series of maps, a bio- cultural river corridor map could be created as the basis for interpretive planning. A suggestion was made'to enlist tile help of students to do some of the work as a project. Members of the group are going to write examples of a copnecting tl~eme for the valley and bring it to the next meeting. Judy will talk to the cultural resources staff at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Community (who were unable to make the meeting) and together with Nancy, will look at ways to combine some of the mapping and information and bring an example to the next meeting. Larry will also look at some of the information and consider how it might be summarized for internet Use and for mapping. ***Please note the attached detailed notes from Larry Granger. Page 2 of 4, ~ II. Bloomington Area Workgroup This group discussed potential trail alignments, surfaces, and additional possible loop trails for the corridor between Cedar Avenue and the Bloomington Ferry bridge site. Of note: Eden Prairie would like to connect to the system with a trail going west from the Bloomington Ferry parking lot. There are differing opinions on how to surface the trail. The Izaak Walton League would like to see it remain unpaved and natural (although well designed). The Refuge would like to see it hardened in some way (either asphalt or gravel). The DNR first choice would be to pave the multi-use trail, but will remain flexible at this point in time. The people who mountain bike and travel on foot would generally like to see it remain a natural surface. It is assumed that there are people who bike skinny-tired bikes who would use it if it were paved. The Refuge will support a multi-use trail with one identified corridor. Both the east and west ends of this corridor are owned by the Refuge. Most of the middle is owned by the City of Bloomington with a few exceptions. The number of people who "bird" in the Minnesota Valley is substantial and likely to only increase. This is a general trend in the US today ........ ~ ......... ~, ........................... for eve~'one. Consider adding spur trails or observation points for birders. Trail design must address speed control (of bikers) and erosion control. Bridges and/or culverts need to be used in several places. People would especially appreciate a bridge at the nine-mile creek crossing (currently a "Huck Finn" raft is used). The area on Bloomington property adjacent to 35W (adjacent to the maintenance road) should be reclaimed and managed as a natural area. The old Cedar Avenue bridge needs to be maintained and re-surfaced in order to maintain the crossing to the State Trail from Bloomington (birders also use it). The alignment for the trail in this area will be difficult to place due to wetlands and bluffs--the current aligmnent may be the only one that is useable (from a natural resource perspective; potential impacts to cultural resources are still to be addressed). East of Indian Mounds School may be the only place to maintain an additional loop trail for mountain bikes (only). This area is currently on city property. ACTIONS Page 3 of 4 For the next meeting the group will need maps that include ownership boundaries (for private as well as public property). Given this, the group will try to work on an alignment. III. Belle Plaine South Workgroup The river has changed its course and created some big cut-throughs and marshy backwaters in the last floods. We should anticipate more changes due to flooding in the years ahead. Also, the Blakely bridge is likely to be replaced in the next year which will result in some water backing up. The zoning has (from Henderson to LeSueur) has just been changed to 1 house per 5 acres-on the bluffs above the Rush River. Expect more residential development adjacent to the park/trail. In general, the land use is changing from agriculture to recreation and prices are going up. The focus should be on buying large blocks of land along the river for public access/conservation and work towards a connected Utrail' whether this trail is a linear trail on- the-ground or a dot-to-dot (place to place) trail. In the short-term, it will be the latter. · The state does own land on the west side of the river by Jessenland. There is still a lot of farmed land from Blakely to Jessenland church and upstream (towards' Henderson). On the east side of the river, it nms right up to high land and the railroad line. The State should work more with other governmental agencies/programs (USFWS, RIM, CREP) and private organizations such as Audubon (bird trail). As blocks of land are acquired, it makes sense to'coordinate the acquisition and use of those lands. ACTIONS Please provide better maps so.that the group can work on specific alignment recommendations at the next meetiisg. Revised 1/02 NJA Page 4 of 4 ,~ Meeting Notes Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area Planning Process Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting Thursday, January 17th, 2002 Scott County Government Center, Shakopee Participants: Jim Wolf, Friends of the Minnesota Valley, Bloomington Ned Winters, Izaak Walton League of America, Bloomington Dennis Porter, Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists, Bloomington Paul R. Stanuch, Shakopee Todd Murray, Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists, Bloomington Mark McQuillan, City of Shakopee, Shakopee Klm Werkmeister, Shakopee Snowmobile Club, Shakopee Lance Anderson, City c~f Bloomington, Bloomington Paul Voight, Burnsville John Dahl, Burnsville John Siegfried, Chaska Holly Buchanon, Friends of the Minnesota Valley, Bloomington Harriet & Charles Mason, Minnesota Native Plant Society, St. Peter Charles Mason, St. Peter Bob Lambert, City of Eden Prairie, Eden Prairie Larry Granger, Joseph Brown Minnesota River Center (Henderson), Bloomington John Crampton, Gideon Pond Heritage Society/Pond-Dakota Society, Bloomington Jeff & Gandy WilliamsOn, Gideon Pond Heritage Society/Pond-Dakota Society Bloomington Historical Society, Rosemount Fran & Kathi¢ Burke, Jordan John Gutteter, Scott County Historical Society, Shakopee Ed Moyer, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington Jeff Strate, Minnesota Land Trust, Eden Prairie Tim Liss, Belle Plaine Park Board, Belle Plaine Cary Coop, Belle Plaine Park Board, Belle Plaine Ivon Brenke, Belle Plaine Park Board, Belle Plaine Dave Jeuri_.~n: Belle Plaine Snowmobile Club, Belle Plaine Patrick Rew, City of Belle Plaine, Belle Plaine Tim Straub, Ney Environmental Center (Henderson), LeSueur Arlys Graft, Ney Environmental Center, Henderson Milt & Bev Meierbachtol, Henderson Esther Tikalsky, City of Belle Plaine., Belle Plaine Pat Steekman, Henderson Melanie Boyd, Mn DNR Trails and Waterways, St. Paul Paul Nordell, Mn DNR Trails and Waterways, St. Paul Frank Knoke, Mn DNR Parks, Jordan Mark Cleveland, Mn DNR Parks, Ft. Snelling State Park Nancy Albrecht, Mn DNR Parks, St. Paul Bloomington Workgroup This workgroup was given the task of recommending a tentative alignment for the trail both in the valley and up on Bloomington streets. The latter was recommended to 'be done by DNR staff in consultation with city traffic engineers and maps. The group was given soil maps that included the current alignment of the trail which was GPS'ed the summer of 00. Basically, all of the soils in the valley are in the "severe" category, meaning that trail development and maintenance will always be a challenge. Frequent severe flooding takes place, resulting in the deposition of piles of silt and large debris. It is likely that the trail in this area will have to be cleared and repaired every year. Recommendations: River Crossings: The group felt the most important thing to do now is to maintain the river crossings so that people can access both the river and the trail from both sides. Over the last several years we have lost one important crossing (Shakopee to Chaska) and are just a~ut.to lose anutltcr (Old Cedar Avenue bridge). 1) Preserve and improve the river crossing over the Old Cedar Avenue bridge. This is a high priority since the bridge needs restoration NOW and if it is lost, access across the river from Bloomington will be lost at this point. If the current bridge is beyond restoration, then a new bridge should be designed and built. 2) Reconstruct the river crossing from Shakopee to Chaska. Either add a pedestrian/bike lane to the new 41 bridge (currently being planned but may be postponed for several years due to funding issues) or replace the crossing with a new bridge. When the old railroad swing bridge was taken down some years ago, this crossing was lost for both pedestrians' and for bikers. It has not only impacted recreation but also commerce between the two cities as people used to cross to go to restaurants and shops in either Shakopee or Chaska; this is a high priority; 3) Design a bridge for the nine-mile creek crossing on the Hennepin County side (where there is currently a "Huck Finn" type of raft); 4) Maintain the existing bridge at the Bloomington Ferry Crossing. ' Trespass Issues: the second most important recommendation the group had was to immediately secure permission from the remaining private landowners in order that the trail can be designated 5) Secure permission of all remaining private landowners so there are no remaining trespass issues---there are currently 2 private landowners along this section near the Bloomington Ferry crossing end; Trail alignment, width, surface and general nature: 6) Keep the trail along existing trail corridor, if possible; don't destroy more ' habitat to make a new trail. It is likely that there will be very few options for moving the trail since most of it now is on the levee next to the fiver (the highest and most disturbed ground). Once the trail is being designed, a cultural resource assessment will be needed so as to avoid sensitive cultural resources; 7) The group of people present prefer a narrow and natural,surface trail over a. wide trail---however, keep in mind the need to have a safe trail (lyme's disease considerations; personal safety considerations; head clearance, etc.) 8) When the trail is designed, protect the significant natural resources---stay away from sensitive plant communities; maintain large, old trees;.. ,. 9) Spend money on long-term structures that will remain/withstand a lot of flooding and use; Use state-of-the-art and proven trail maintenance/construction techniques (IMBA or USFS); good erosion control will depend on good trail design and construction. When structures are needed, such as bridges, spend money on structures that can remain/withstand a lot of flooding. (the Texas birding trails withstand hurricanes). Trail Management: 10) Encourage the City of Blc;omington to use its property along the river/trail as a park and/or natural area and not a dump for tree disposal, etc. This is both an aesthetic issue and an environmental issue; 1 l) Work on controlling buckthom! 12) Increase enforcement and safety patro!s along the trail; discourage littering and off-trail riding. Volunteer groups such as the North Central Mountain Bikers could be involved as well as volunteers from the local area; 13) Keep facilities (restrooms, water, picnic tables) near the trailheads/parking lotsminclude access for boat traffic; Trail Interpretation/Signage/Wayfinding 14) Develop interpretive trail signage/literature on sturdy kiosks/use the oppommity to talk about trail etiquette; 15) Delineate starting and ending points for each section of the trail---develop maps on site or a brochure explaining them and where to park, for example 16) Interpret the Bloomington Ferry Crossing area, the Gideon Pond site and other sites of cultural significance; 17) Build boardwalks and observation decks on spur trails for wildlife observation--they should be environmentally sensitive and sturdy. Belle Piaine Workgroup: This group focused on the area of the river adjacent to the City of Belle Plaine, including the former Voss property. Paul Nordell, DNR Trails and Waterways Adopt-A-River Program, gave an overview of recent clean-up efforts. In 1999, for example, 1200 tons of tires, old cars and other discarded items were removed through DNR-coordinated volunteer efforts. Members from the Belle Plaine Park Board gave an overview of the City's iplans to connect the city's many attractions (i.e., prairie, restoration at the ElementarySchool, historic church) through the development of a recreational trail that loops around the city. The city recently purchased property surrounding a ravine for a bird sanctuary that will also be connected. There are two city streets that can be' used to access the river valley in Belle Plaine: Cherry Street (the entrance to the Voss property) and Grove Street (which connects to the bird sanctuary). Both of these streets cross the railroad tracks before entering'the river valley and that will be a continuing concern. There is a small city park near the trailer" court that has a parking lot and restrooms that could be used when accessing the valley. There was also discussion on using the nearby sandbar in the river as a stopping point (accessible only by boat) and that there needs to be a pedestrian/bike crossing on the bridge. The current bridge is quite old and may be replaced so it is not clear whether it would be advisable to add a lane to it now (would be really expensive) or to just wait until the new bridge is designed---it will be required to have a pedestrian lane. The piers from the old bridge could be a tourist attract'ion. Recommendations: 1) Continue cleaning up the former Voss property through the Adopt-A-River Program, working cooperatively with the City of Belle Plaine; 2) Since the property will require years of clean-up and it floods frequently, its recreational potential may be limited---continue to maintain the area as open space along the river but do not develop additional trails or amenities on the property; 3) Connect the City of Belle Plaine's trail system with the Minnesota Valley Trail; 4) The state should continue to acquire properties on the river side of the tracks as they become available; 5) When the bridge is replaced, it is imperative that a pedestrian/bike lane is designed into it so that people can cross the river on foot or on a bike; 6) Continue to involve the City of Belle Plaine and its residents in the planning 6f the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area; 7) Birding, as a recreation, is beginning to be seen at Belle Plaine and will continue to be a good draw for the valley. Use it. Even the.: sewage ponds are becoming birding areas (shorebirds). Interpretive Workgroup · The interpretive workgroup focused on themes and subthemes for the Lower Minnesota Vallgy. The overall theme is analogous to a coat-rack upon which we hang the subthemes (stories). The question that we need to ask ourselves is: "What do you want people to come away with once they leave the valley?" .. The starting point for the discussion was a series of theme lists, including themes that have been created for other sites or for specific types of subjects. These included themes from the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Fort Snelling State Park, and "A Lower Minnesota River Valley Cultural Resource Study and Interpretive Plan for the Minnesota Valley State Park and Trail" by Dr. Norene Roberts, as well as a "Summary of Rare Features in the Minnesota' Valley State Recreation Area" (Mn DNR County Biological Survey 2001). Discussions focused on the cultural sites and related stories of the Minnesota River Corridor. The themes identified by Dr. Norene Roberts were the starting point. The general themes or topics were: Prehistoric uses of the Minnesota River Eastern Dakota Settlements and Land Use Fur and Indian Trade Early Euro-American Settlements Early Industry It became clear during the discussions that the human activities in the valley were natural resource driven, regardless of the cultural affiliation at a given site. This led to clarifying an overall theme for the Valley, which was "People, the River and the Valley." Another way this was stated was "People and Nature Together". This may not be the final stated overall theme, but reflects the direction the group is going. Generally, interpretation should focus on the resources from the geologic history, soils, waters and hydrology, and how these affected the plant and animal communities, and the subsequent activity. The group worked toward answering two basic questions: "Why should visitors care about the trail and recreation area, and its history and resources?", and "What information, ideas and insights should people come away with when visiting the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area?" The next part of the agenda focused on examples of subthemes and how they should be organized. A number of specific sites were noted by many members of this group. Subthemes noted included: What attracted the earliest prehistoric people, the Dakota and EuroAmefiean to the valley? Alteration of the Minnesota River and its tributaries: 9-foot channel, drainage, sediments Habitation sites: Paper towns, Dakota villages, river towns, railroad towns Vegetation communities: floodplain forest/fen/floodplain lake Commercial sites: breweries, ferries, bricks, quarries, button-making, farming, mercantile, barging, railroads, etc. Wildlife viewing locations It was determined that the best method for addressing the variety of sites along the long narrow corridor was to break the Minnesota Valley Trail and Recreation Area into a series of theme areas using individual sites as interpretive nodes---essentially breaking the area into a mosaic of areas covering a specific theme or ~hemes. Some possible methods for reaching visitors and potential visitors with interpretive information included the following: Website with links to specific sites and organizations Signs Tours-biker/hiker/ski/horse etc. Printed materials: brochures/books/maps Broadcast media: Refuge radio? Recommendations: 1) The main theme recommended is: People and Nature Together: Past, Present and Future of the Valley 2) Break the corridor into subtheme mosaics and focus on individual sites as interpretive nodes as available; 3) Promote the valley through ideas suehas "Experience or Rediscover your Backyard" 4) Make connections to the "city" and area communities. Many thanks to the Workgroup facilitators: Mark Cleveland, Frank Knoke and Holly Buchanon! 2/08/02 NJA Compri. ed from Citizen Advts.ory Commfftee and Techmcal ' ... . , . . (Updated ~/~$/o~) · . .. . .::.. · · · . · · Dr(l~ Mission Statement for Minnesota Valley State Recreation.~: :~ti::?~ · To protect, manage and restore the remaining natUral features,' CUl'--~'.?.i!;'':..... "'.. '"': :'. ,.i'-""". '~' landscapes and sacred places in the lower Minnesota River Valley; to focus on telling the stories of the people who lived in these landscapes; and to provide a ' recreational travel route through the valley that connects these features. Dro~ Vision Statement for the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area: "In 20 years, this is what we want the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area to be..." a place where the natural areas, wildlife and other natural features that remain are protected and restored a place within and near the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area where the natural, wild character of the river valley is maintained a place where cultural sites and landscapes are protected and restored a place where people can experience and learn about the people who have lived there--both in the recent past and in the distant past a place where people· can come to understand the history and traditions of the Dakota people and to learn to respect Sacred sites a place where people can access these features through a variety of recreational pursuits a place where recreational use is facilitated and encouraged without compromising the integrity of the natural and cultural resources a place where the on-the-ground management and interpretive programming are coordinated between the variety of city, county and federal agencies, as well as the other myriad organizations who work in the valley a place where the~t"~"~:~'a~..,., ~ corr/dor is connected to other:natural areas and green space in the valley a place that has been expanded and where future acquisitions for the recreation area will be broader and more ecologically connected a place where the variety of users act responsibly towards each other, towards neighboring land owners, and towards the environment a place where people can develop a deeper appreciation and sense of ownership towards the Lower Minnesota River Valley, its history and its future 12/13/01 . .. . . 'SUMMARY OF RECo .MMENDATIoNS TENTATIVE · . FROM THE CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE · '""~"-"' MN VALLEY~,~:: ".. . ...... ' · . - . . . .~' 20 FEBRUARY 2002, ' · '..... ~:~.~,,~, ~.,.. · .~,~'-.,~. .,'.~ ;~.~/~:j ..~ ~ ~*~ . . ..~ ." '.." - -. 0 · ,,- . . ~ ~ -, ~,... ~.,.,;i~-..,~..''~, .- .: .,:~,, '.- ,. , .,'.., . Please Note: This is a Wor]~-in-prog~.eS~ and will change Citizer~ are ~till meeting and discUSSing these issues. This is meant to be a summary of what's been heard so far. ***See Draft Mission/Vision Statements for Overall Directions from the Citizens Advisory Committee Bloomington Workerouo: "' This group has been focusing on the stretch of the fiver going upstream fi.om the Cedar Avenue bridge to the Bloomington Ferry crossing. The group has discussed, in particular, the state trail alignment along this section. This is a condensed version of their recommendations to-date: (Getting close to priority order) Recommendation: The most important thing to do now is to maintain the river crossings so that people can access both the river and the trail systems from both sides. Over the last several years we have lost one important crossing (Shakopee to Chaska) and are just about to lose another (Old Cedar Avenue bridge). *Preserve and improve the fiver crossing over the Old Cedar Avenue bridge. This is a high priority since the bridge needs restoration now and if it ii lost~ access across the fiver fi.om Bloomington will be lost' at this location. If the current bridge is beyond restoration, then a new bridge should be designed and built. *Reconstruct the fiver crossing fi.om Shakopee to Chaska. Either ~dd a pedestrian/bike lane to the new 41 bridge. (currently being planned but may. be postponed for several years due to funding issues) or replace the crossing with a new bridge. When the old railroad swing bridge was taken doTM some years ago, this crossing was lost both for pedestrians and for bikers. It has not only impacted recreation but also commerce/tourism between the two cities as people used to'cross t° go to restaurants and shops in either direction. This is a high priority. .,..' .:' '.:::.-~:,~ :..~.:i:...ii?.~a.,:. ,Design a bridge for the'nine-mile Creek crossing 'where there is · .--..,,.'?17~.~..,..'~,,~.. ,.. . · ' .,..:~,.,,.. : ~-,--,. ~.., :,,...., . .. · .': ':,::".~:~?:.::;?:?c~ntly a ",H~c~k Finn" type of ratt~?~:::... ~i..i::-~ :i?..-,~: ::,,,.,'~:.'. ~:','.!~ ili%:~T,~;.-i'. :'! :~..~:"i..::.;.: ;~.:::,:., . ~:... :..:e~,-~,,~:~'" ., . ..... :. .. ~ ~, . ..:,,,_ . . ~. .. .... :-, . .:;.~.~.~...'...~:;.... ..- ...... ~ ,~',: .' ...:.;.,,::;.: ..',:,.: '.,.'~.~.: . Recommendation: Designhtb:a't{,ail co~;rid~ir ASAP. Since an official trail corridor'does not exist in this area, enforcement by the agencies and Self-. - . .~,: enforcement by the bt'keis is difficult.:.:~..:~-:':''''' .~ ": ..... "' "' ' .... ' ..... .~:'"-~..'.'...-. ? ..... · Seeure permission of the two remaining private landoWners so there are no trespass issues. .. "'.' .... :.... ,. .........' .-~.~ . . · When aligning the trail, avoid destroying more habitat if possible. Avoid sensitive plant communities and large, old trees. Use the highest and most disturbed ground for example, the levee next to the river. · When aligning the trail, avoid significant cultural resources (it is-' · understood that the area will need a cultural resource assessment prior to finalizing any alignment). · Use state-of-the-art and proven trail construction techniques (like those used by IMBA or USFS) including good erosion control and durable materials for structures like bridges. Future maintenance needs'will decrease if the trail is designed well. · Work cooperatively with the current trail advocates to design, build, maintain and enforce the trail. Recommendation: This portion of the trail should be a multi-use trail and accommodate many types of users (birders, walkers, joggers, bikers). *The current users for this section of the trail prefer a relatively natural surface and relatively narrow width. Opportunities for biking, roller- blading, and strolling on paved trails are easy to find in the metro area; opportunities to bike, walk, jog, or bird in undeveloped natural areas are difficult to find in the metro area. . *.Agency personnel are concerned about trail maintenance issues and would prefer a hard-surfa6ed trail of some sbrt..", *Keep facilities sUch as restrooms and picnic tables near'the trailheads and parking lots. *Work with the City of Bloomington to develop an alternative route on city streets/sidewalks/trails for those users who require pavement.. Recommendation: Prescribe state-of-theart natural resource management for th'e areas through' which the trail will run.' ........ ' ........... '~' *Control exotic Species'such as EUi-OPeafl'biackthom;" '~ ........... "' ,',¥::-":,~::'..' *Reduce erosion; this will be challenging due to frequent flooding, - .-- -_ ~,~?.~::,' ' development-on th~'biUffS' above' iirid off2trail use: :" .. :'~ ~'.' ::~-.,:;:.~"": ':'::v'.."'~::c.'. ' -:' .. ": .... ' ::., t',:..'. ,. .... '~.. ~. "," ~: ..... :;". ' · :':':~::.-' . *Encomge ~e C~F ofBloo~~on m m~age im'~ea . ~? fiver ~ a p~k. or natural ~ea immad of ~ a ~ee diS~s~ ~ea. . .'.. . . .. -. ~... ; . ~..· ~ ~ - . .. . . ~.., . . ., .. ~ . .. ' . .: .... . - .... ..' .... '...~.~ '~.:-..~., ,,.--..,., ...... .~ ..... .:,::~.,:.:'..?,'-'. , .~ ~.~..~...... ' " '' · : i.. .. · .. . - .,'::. r.:~.,' "~.: :, . :..:~ . ,.. : ...'~ .;: . .. .. ...... '. Reco~endaa~n: Provide state:of-the art interpretation:, including wayfinding, along the trail and at is acCtSSpoints.' .. ,'~' " · Delicate s~ing ~d ending po~ for each section of the mil & directions on how to get ~ere---develop maps or a brochme explain~g ~em (& where to p~k, for e~ple). · Develop inte~retive materials (~osks or on-site brochures) that talk about trail etiqueue inclu&ng discomag~g liaefing ~d off-~ail use. · Ime~ret ~e impo~t cul~ ~d-natOml" feazes airing ~e ~ail like ~e Bloo~n~on Fe~ crossing ~d ~e Gideon Pond site. · Build sturdy ~d enviromentally sensitive bo~dwal~ ~or obse~ation decks on sp~ trails for wildlife obse~ation. To be Discussed: staffing/costs Interoretive Work~rouo This workgroup has been focusing on the interpretation of the natural and cultural resources for the lower Mn Valley from the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers in FOrt Snelling State Park to LeSueur. The group has spent time reviewing the reports and other resources available for information on the the resources, and has been most recently been discussing interpretive themes. Reco. mn?endation~ : Develop interpretive/educational messages that convey not only the story of the itnmediate area or feature, but also "The Big' Picture" within the Minnesota River Valley, *Inform the trail users of the distinctive ecological/cultural history of the Minnesota River Valley over the past 1.0,000 years in a variety of ways. *Integrate the cultural and ecological aspects of interpretive messages as much as possible. Tell the stories of the people who lived there. *Look at the valley corridor rather than the trail alignment in order to tell more integrated stories and to include features and visitor attractions near the trail sUch as wayside overlooks and other vistas... - · * Re-interpret tradition from the native (Indian) perspective. · . -,.. · · .,' ?',,~. -.: .... . . . _~ ~,.*. :. '"" "~:"' * Subthe.mes.may include: ~"........., :'.....::.-.: . :.' · · ~'".'.:' ?: '· - ' '~-'i:'...tS, i,: ..: -. .¥.;.7. " ' . .,..,y,. .o ..... .. ..~ ,;, . ..I... ,. ....... - .':'. .. · What attracted'the earliest prehistoric people, the Dakota, and': the EuroAmedcan the valley? '~' tO ~.. '..- - . Human activities in the .valley were natural resource driven, regardless of the cultural affiliation at a given site.- .,. Habitation sites: paper towns, Dakota villages, fiver towns, railroad towns. Vegetation communities: floodplain forest, fens, floodplain lakes. Commerical sites: breweries, ferries, brick-making, quarries, button-making, farming, mercantile, barging, railroads. Alterations of the Minnesota River and its tributaries: channelization, drainage, sedimentation (water quality). Wildlife viewing locations. · It may make sense to break the corridor into subtheme mosaics and focus on individual sites as interpretive nodes as available. · '. '~ '.'..:....~....i¢;:d...:3.'~..:;. ,,: . ':..'.: ..:. . -~ ,.~R~ ~; ...:,~. ,.~. ~. , .. . . -' ~,';~,.,'~ x, ~q · "5 '? ' -. ' .... - ........ ~ ' .':....4t~,.~:~'r~ .' .~ ~ ". ~'"~ .,'~' · ...... . ..: ' . :'4~:' ;:~.:~:~'?~::~~enda"on: Use the mare. thgme: ,~Peop!e.and Nature Together:~: ~:.. ":' ".-;.~ ";: '?Past, ~esent and Fufure of the.~a!l~' or a variation on th~, tombe Recommendation:Use a unified, recognizable style and graphic elements to tie together interpretation along the trail instead of using the current mixed, multiple agency approach.. *Develop a "user friendly" signing system at entry and exit location to the trail/valley and for guiding visitors to .attractions at off-trail locations. Look at coordinating signs and kiosks with amenities such as benches, rest rooms, picnic tables and wildlife viewing areas. *Techniques for interpretation could include: website links to specific sites and organizat!0ns (frgm the·Mn DNR website), on-site signs and : kiosks, printed materials such as brochUres, books and maps, use of the media (radio, community newspapers) and guided tours and interpretive events. -' *Include education through area schools; particularly emphasize those . topics that are not currently taught in schools such as Dakota history, cultural values and traditions. *Vandalism and safety are major concerns for trail/valley users and.. need to be taken into consideration when developing interpretive stops and materials .... · ...: , ... -.~- . ......... !.;! ~.i. *Consider developing'an Overall Minnesota Valley T//a . "':. "" 'r' "'"~? .";~;~ ' :' ...... ! · ': ', , ":"~ ', .' · ' · ,, "~ .., . ' . ... ,:.-~.~-..: .: .'.~.;. ~i::~modeled after MNRRA s M~sslsslpp~ River Trail Grade;-;~.~'::..'~:.'~:.: ',:'. .... "..:",..,::*~2~',:'.. "..~'9~::..i .;'..~:-:'. ... - ' .' '. ': '" ~'; ' .... . ',)? ''. .... . .', · ' ' .. --~:.:,..'.,...,~:~.,&,~::;-.,... . . :. .'..~.'.;'... ..::. ~.'..., · .'., . ." .. .. ... 2. . - - . . . - . . ....~..~,. , .......:. · '.' ~?' Recommendation: Develop.a formal or informal collaborative of agencies :" "' and organizations involved in"~'UltUral and ecological'~dUeat!dh, in the ::i:: .' ~''; · . Lower Minnesota River Valley Which will'coordinate"effo~, ih'~rail2"' related interpretation and regularly review and Update thesejoi~t effortS.. *Complete an inventory of cultural and natural features for.:.. interpretation in or adjacent to the valley. The first task Of the group should be to develop a GIS-compatible map that brings together the cultural features of the DNR cultural survey report (Roberts' report), the work of the · Shakopee band in the "Dakota Presence on the Minnesota" mapping project 'and overlay this information on the natural resource information. *Contiriue to share infbrmation on what i'~' ~ivail~tble now to visitors. *This group needs to include the participation of all of the communities along the corridor. " *Design linkages between the Minnesota Valley trail(s) and the trail systems from communities along the fiver in interpretive themes and possibly coordinated signage and visitor facilities. *Identify possible trail interpretation sponsors along the River who could coordinate their resources and funding. * Possible participants in this group include: the Ney Environmental Center,'the Joseph R. Brown River Center, County Historical Societies, the Scenic Byways group, the Audubon Birding Trail group, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the Friends of the Minnesota ValleY, the Gideon Pond Society, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Community, the Izaak Walton League, Minnesota River Valley Audubon Club, the Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists, the Shakopee and Belle Plaine Snowmobile Clubs, the Minnesota Native Plant Society, the Bloomington Historical Society, all of the communities along the fiver from Bloomington to LeSueur, teachers in the area, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and Minnesota State Parks. . To be discussed: staffing & costs. · To be discussed: more.theme development Belle Plaine South Workgroup: This workgroup'has been focusing on the trail aligmnent from Belle'" Plaine to LeSueur, the Belle Plaine wayside, and the Rush RiVer Unit of the: ,:. '::~:V,, .['~:.'9;''''''~' · ........... "' "" ' ....... ' ' .' ;.:.:. :-.~:..; .'~: .. "' ~' ,'(~'~',~'3":; ,"';'~."::'~: %" ' '~"I-:~',.'-'.~ .'..: '-':Y?r?~f't;~l~.:~;~g~'~:. -.,~ ..... ::':~:..,:,;".'..',..,,,:~'~'<':'::'; ~'.~:.::':~:~.a..-~.:.,..:'-.'.",'.:, '. ,~ :,- . : . .-:"?' :'::.:~.~"': ?-~' ~.' :..',~ .... "::.,~%?"-.':'"'".'.. , ' · """ .,~,.;~,;; · .~ ..... . · · ...; '-. ".. - · · · ' ' '.;''.. ..... .'; ;" ........ , ~... .. ' · ' '~i* ~'. '.ip - lC' ~.~': ' ' ' ""~ , ~':".:~'~'~." nver from Belle Platne to BlakelY, Then cross the bndg~ and me the west - , ~ . , . , , ~ . ... . . ~ ~'. . ,... . . ~,~ . . . ... , . .,.. . ,.., ,. ~ · . ... . -' , . -,, . · '. ~. s . ,,.... '. ,~,~.~ .. · .... , .. . stde' of Henderson. Once at Rmh R~ver, wtll ne~d to ~o up on the bluffs to £eSueur (come out of the Rush River on the upside w~st.of. 9$).-'.. :~.'?.' ~:.-_"~ "' · · Find a Way to acquire land n/or/efficiently 'and more quickl}; or there will be many missed opportunities in this area; the'area is developing quickly (residential development) and the prices are going up. · Anticipate changes in the river due to future flooding and bridge construction. ' ' · The focus should be on buying large blocks of land along the rivet for public access & conservation and work towards a connected trail--- whether this trail is a linear trail on-the-ground, or a dot-to-dot (Place-to- place) trail. In the short-term, it will be the latter. · The State should coordinate more with other g°vemmental ' agencies/programs (USFWS, RIM, CREP) and private organization such as TPL and the Friends of the Minnesota Valley to coordinate acquisition and USe. ' Recommendation: Coordinate the clean-up and development of the Belle Plaine tgayside with the City of Belle Plaine and other interested partners. *Continue cleaning up the former Voss property through the Adopt- A-River program~working cooperatively with the City of Belle Plaine. *Continue to manage the area as open space along the river, but do not develop additional trails or amenities on the property (other than the MW:.) *Connect the City of Belle Plaine's trail system with the Minnesota Valley Trail. *The'state should acquire properties on the river side of the tracks as they become available. *Add'a bike/pedestrian lane on the new bridge in Belle Plaine. *Recognize birding as a major draw to the valley in this area. .. RecOmmendation: Management of the Rush River tFayside needs to be re- evaluated and changed.( Please note that the workgroup has not spent a full meeting looking at this unit yet and the following recommendations were a result of tangential discussions.) · : ' '-,::..:,"",' "?~.~::~ .. *Land both within'and adjacent to the unit is likely to be available ,., ~:..-.,,~.~ ,'.o .~- ~,.~,~ ,'- '?...::,:,.,. .. · ,.. . · · ::'- :'.': ·" either now or in the near'fUiure---find a Way to acquire-it before it becomes ' ":"":"'~'"':'? reSidential'hiSusingi "' " '" ':" : "' .... .~ ' ' '"7 ?~':'"'"' ~ ' "'"':,;-, :.':...' *Revise the statutOry boundaries for the unit up ha~ not '". ..o . , . . '...: . .. . . , . ....... ' worked n ' · .... ' .-' !..: . O .' .: i.:'.'t:~.(':"?.:' ;: :.. '.: ...'5' :'.'{ ':' :.' .'., ~,, .c.:. ....- .'..'~. ':c'~ "..~.- :, ',': ~.: '" . *Complete a visitor'survey at the Rush River Unit so we knOw how manypeople are using it and for.what reas0ns..' ..? . .-,: · .": · The unit needs a physical 'presence on-site for adequate enforcement (especially ATV use) and security. · Require park permits, as in every other state park unit. · Increase the operational budget for the unit; we currently contract trash removal and mowing to Sibley County and otherwise have no budget for this unit. · Natural/cultural resource management: to be discussed · Trail development and management: to be discussed · Interpretation: to be discussed Other Areas of State Park Management to be Discussed: *Marketing *Sensitive Area Mapping *Acquisition/Park Boundaries 2/20/02 NJA NEXT MEETING: 7:30PM Tuesday, March 12 2002 at the Chanhassen American Legion. Bring a friend! February 12 Meeting Minutes Old Busines.s · Treasurer's report. No report. · Secretary's report. Refer to last newSletter. · MnUSA report. Doug Swanson talked about the upcoming legislative session and what we can expect. Doug Franzen, the MnUSA lobbyist, was at the Winter Rendezvous (held February 7-10 at the Breezy Point resort) and talked with the group about this. There are a lot of bills we need to follow on the upcoming legislative agenda, some of which target ATV operators. They've been accused of causing some erosion problems because of the lack of snow cover. As a reminder, i, Y,.,u support Rep. Workman by sending in your $50 or $100, make sure you mention that you're a member of MnUSA, SW Trails Association and the Chanhassen Snowmobilers on a separate note you include with the donation form. Doing so is positive exposure for snowmobiling. Even though we haven't had snow, there have been 12 snowmobile-related deaths so far this season. · Sno rap! Pictures from a trip recently taken to Yellowstone and another trip to Bayfield county in Wisconsin as well as some pictures of the Crow River were passed around. These were all pretty cool! Folks also talked about the Waconia vintage snowmobile show held February 2-3. · Local trail update. Not much news. Please help keep the trails marked. If you see signs that are in disarray while you're out riding, please straighten them up. · SW Trails Association. No update. New Business · There is a club ride tentatively planned for Saturday, March 16 2002. Interested folks should contact Scott Truempi at (952) 949-1372 for more information. MARCH 2OO2 · Trail take-down for this season is planned for Sunday, Apdl 7. Folks should meet at Boyd Peterson's house by 10:00am. The address is 9860 Pioneer Circle in Chanhassen, just east of the intersection of Great Plains Boulevard and Pioneer Trail. · We'll be planning a summer party during the next meeting. The date and location will be determined at that time, so get involved if you're interested! Wednesday Nig;ht Rides Wednesday night rides are on once again this year when the snow flies! Interested folks should contact Scott TruemPi at (952) 949-1372 for locations and meeting times. Random News Flakes Show your support for the Chanhassen Snowmobilers club and the work we do by becoming a current member! Many may not realize this but we are the group responsible for all of the trails in Chanhassen, including the trails past and non-members use. Riders and the city both depend on us to mark the trails, and all of the work is done as a volunteer effort by the same few folks each year. This is your club, please support it. All that we ask is a small amount of time, or even just your membership. Heck, it's even fun! The future of snowmobiling in Chanhassen depends on it! Editor: Blayne Puklich Club Meeting Schedule The Chanhassen Snowmobile Clbb meets at the Chanhassen Legion' on the sec6nd Tuesday of every month at 7:30PM from October through March. Meeting dates for the 2001-2002 seasOn are: ¥I.41 lUl.41 d~ V ilVV&I .... UC,,] March 12 2002 SWTA, the Southwest Trails Association (the local trail grooming organization), meets at 8:00PM the last Tuesday of every month at Island View Golf Course in Waconia. Other Snowmobiling Events Mar 29-30 Mar 30 April 26-2~ Leo's South NationaI Amateur Snocross Championships. Buck Hil,~i Ski Area, (651) 388-5513. Super Snow Cross series finals at the Metrodome. (651) 989-5151 for tickets. MnUSA Spring Meeting. (763) 577-0185. Club emaii Web site Scott Truempi Greg Havlik Club Contacts members@chansnomo.org http://www.chansnomo.org (952) 949-1372 (952) 937-5678 gkart66@att.net Blayne Puklich (952) 474-3173 blayne @ pu,klich ~com Chanhassen Snowmobilers P.O. Box 28 Chanhassen, MN 55317 Brad Blomquist Leroy Biteler Charlie Littfin (952) 937-8760. wire@wans.net (952) 474-7590 snosptz@aol.com (952) 937-8392 Todd Hoffman 7700 Market Boulevard Box 147 Chanhassen,MN 55317 Chanhassen Snowmobilers Membership Form Please fill out this form and bdng it to the next club meeting. You can also mail this form and payment to Chanhassen Snowmobilers, P.O. Box 28, Chanhassen MN 55317. Only one membership per family is required. Dues are $30 per family. This includes membership to MnUSA, an added benefit! Make checks payable to "Chanhassen Snowmobilers." [-I New membership I"! Renewal I-I Already a MnUSA member Name: Address: City: Email: Phone: ( Number of sleds: State: Zip: Club #: 820 Club email Web site Scott Truempi Greg Havlik Blayne Puklich Number of members in family: Brad Blomquist Leroy Biteler Charlie Littfin MnUSA Region: 8 members @ chansnomo.org http://www.chansnomo.org (952) 949-1372 (952) 937-5678 gkart66@att.net (952) 474-3173 blayne @ puklich.com (952) 937-8760 wire @wans.net (952) 474-7590 snosptz@aol.com (952) 937-8392