DEPARTMENT: Physical Development Administration
FILE TYPE: Regular Information
TITLE
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Discussion On Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Plan Options
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Discuss and obtain direction on the plan for Miesville Ravine Park Reserve.
SUMMARY
An update to the 2005 Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Plan is underway to reflect parkland acquisition and natural resource restoration that has occurred since 2005, to consider the appropriate level of visitor facilities, and to align future investment with community and environmental needs. The focus of the Plan will be on investments within the next 10 years and will also include a long-range vision for the park. The planning process is being coordinated with the development of the park’s first Natural Resource Management Plan.
A summary of the research phase of the plan update was presented to the Dakota County Physical Development Committee of the Whole on January 11, 2023. Research findings and public input reveal that the circumstances surrounding use of the Miesville Ravine Park Reserve are similar to 2005. The Committee requested staff pause the project and return to the Committee to discuss options for the park before moving forward with the plan update.
Research reveals that the park’s rugged terrain, sensitive natural resources, and newly identified cultural resources place constraints on high-impact recreation (for example, vistor centers, mountain biking, large picnic grounds,large-scale drive-in camping). Public comments place emphasis on natural resource protection, access to more of the park, water access, basic park facilities, improved ADA accessibility,and nature-based activities. An updated plan would guide natural resource restoration, cultural resource stewardship, and strategic improvements that provide a basic level of service while highlighting the park’s unique features. An updated plan may address the following topics:
• Natural resource restoration and management
• Cultural resource protection
• ADA access
• Basic park facilities such as potable water, hiking and walking trails, overlooks, benches, nature play, and signage
• Access to the park’s signature features: Cannon River, Trout Brook, and upland prairies
• Rustic camping
The attached Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Plan Options Summary outlines 1) existing park development, 2) recommendations in the 2005 plan, and 3) a 2023 draft park program scaled to provide basic visitor services for consideration by the Dakota County Physical Development Committee of the Whole. Staff will present the potential park program options to the Committee for discussion and seeks guidance on the park program.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Information only; staff seeks guidance from Dakota County Physical Development Committee of the Whole.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
None.
☒ None ☐ Current budget ☐ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
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Information only; no action requested.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Plan Options Summary
BOARD GOALS
☒ A Great Place to Live ☒ A Healthy Environment
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☐ Excellence in Public Service
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT LEVEL
☐ Inform and Listen ☐ Discuss ☒ Involve ☐ N/A
CONTACT
Department Head: Erin Stwora
Author: Lillian Leatham