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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03.09.16 meeting packetANL6D 06 WE jol I 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US Andover Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Agenda March 9, 2016 Andover City Hall Conference Room A &B 5.00 P.M. 1. Tour of Martin's Meadows 2. Return to City Hall for regular meeting 6.00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Oath of Office for Commissioners Kim Kovich, Joy Faherty and Anna Dirkswager 3. Resident Forum 4. Approval of Minutes: October 14, 2015 Regular Meeting 5. Martin's Meadows Management Plan 6. Other Business a. Next meeting: May 11, 2016 7. Adjournment Note: City Council has been invited to attend this meeting. There maybe a quorum of the Council members present at the tour and meeting. No decisions or official actions by the Council will be made. 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: David L. Carlberg, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes — October 14, 2015 Regular Meeting DATE: March 9, 2016 INTRODUCTION The Open Space Advisory Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the October 14, 2015 Regular Meeting. DISCUSSION Please share any changes to the minutes at the meeting. ACTION REQUESTED A motion, second, and vote are necessary to approve the minutes. Respectfully submitted, David L. Carlberg Attachment October 14, 2015 meeting minutes REGULARANDOVER OPENSPACEADVISORYCOMMISSIONMEETING OCTOBER 14, 2015 MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by Chairperson Gretchen Sabel at 7:00 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Aaron Jarson, Kim Kovich, Jim Myers, Jim Olson and Suzanne Van Hecke Commissioners absent: None Also present: David Carlberg, Community Development Director Jason Husveth, Critical Connections Ecological Services Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician RESIDENT FORUM No one wished to address the Commission. APPROVAL OFMINUTES— September 9, 2015 Chairperson Sabel stated that the minutes appeared to make it seem that she was trying to circumvent the open meeting laws by suggesting the Commission meet in groups of three to tour the open space properties. Mr. Carlberg stated that it was accurate that the question was asked and the Commission can meet in smaller groups. Commissioner Kovich stated that the Commission could have the tour noticed as a work session. Mr. Carlberg noted that the meeting would simply need to be posted and minutes would need to be taken, noting that the minutes could be a brief description of what occurred. No final decisions should be made. Commissioner Van Hecke arrived. Motion by Commissioner Jarson, Second by Commissioner Olson, to approve the minutes of September 9, 2015. Motion passed 5 -0 -1 ( Kovich present). OPEN SPACE ECOLOGICAL FIELD ASSESSMENT AND VEGETATIONSURVEYS Jason Husveth introduced himself and stated that he is present to review the summary reports for each of the open space properties and share what they observed during the process. He began with Maple View, noting that site has the least going on ecologically. He stated that the methods and objectives for Maple View are very similar to the methods and objectives for each of the open space areas. He reviewed the soil conditions for Maple View, which ranges from dry to wetland areas. He explained that classification of the vegetation was done in order to learn the history of the vegetation, the current condition, and how the City might manage those systems in the future. He stated that they can do that by comparing how the vegetation exists in the current condition to the reference condition. He stated that once the classification is done they identify and delineate plant types; detect and document special protected or rare animals, such as the Red Shouldered Hawk that was identified at Martin's Meadows; identify unique or sensitive priority Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — October 14, 2015 Page 2 features in the open space. He noted that this process and information can be used to develop long -term management plans. Mr. Carlberg introduced Mr. Kytonen who will be working closer with the group with the transition from acquisition and towards management of the open space properties. He advised that the Commission already developed a management plan for Martin's Meadows and North Woods Preserve and would do the same for the other open space areas. Mr. Husveth explained the process that his staff follows in order to gather and document the necessary information, noting the use of GIS. He noted that assessments were done during different times in the growing season to gain a full understanding of the rare and sensitive features. He stated that the results of the field work are a native plant community mapping and descriptions. He displayed mapping of the site and provided additional details regarding the site and soil conditions and native plant community types. He stated that because of the site conditions within Maple View there are more contiguous communities of plants. He stated that the dryer portion of the property would be managed through fire while the wetter soils would be managed in a different way. He noted that buckthorn should be managed in the mesic hardwood forest area and provided more details about problems that can arise from earthworms. Commissioner Kovich asked if a decision had been made regarding the ten acre parcel to the south. Mr. Carlberg stated that he recently drafted the Purchase Agreement for that parcel and confirmed that the area would be developed as a part of the Country Oaks North 2nd Addition plat. He stated that one acre lots would abut the road that is being built and noted that the one acre lots abutting Maple View would be custom built lots in an effort to preserve trees in the rear of the lots. Mr. Husveth noted that development does help to fund management of parks and open space. He stated that the goal would be to develop a plan to manage all of those aspects. Commissioner Van Hecke asked if the creation of a trail could create gaps in the canopy, which would assist in the spread of buckthorn. Mr. Husveth agreed that could be a factor and noted that the location, design and construction of trails would all need to be considered in order to prevent disruption. Mr. Carlberg stated that trails would simply be mowed and would meander through the property in order to prevent disruption. He identified the location of future trail connections to the open space area with a small parking area, similar to what exists at North Woods Preserve. Mr. Husveth stated that there are some existing trail remnants that could be mapped and followed, where it makes sense. He stated that the other portion of the property, the dry -mesic forest would benefit from being more open. He stated that the summary recommendations are provided in the report for the Commission and City to review. He stated that Maple View is a Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — October 14, 2015 Page 3 relatively small open space that will be surrounded by development and that should be considered when thinking of short and long -term management plans. He noted that some of the "heavy lifting" should be done before development moves forward. Commissioner Olson referenced the statement that the existing conditions are due to deer and earthworms and asked if the human influence also had an impact. Mr. Husveth noted that the cutting of firewood changed the landscape from a more wooded landscape to a more slashed appearance. He stated that the lack of fire tells a story about that site and reintroducing fire is probably the most effective thing that could be done. Commissioner Myers asked what the plan would be for the non -native elements. Mr. Husveth stated that the non - native area mapped at Maple View is a very small area that was seeded with a wildlife mix as a food plot for deer and noted that part of restoration for that area would be to herbicide that area and reseed with native seeds found onsite in order to remove the non - native elements. He stated that the deer are having a large impact on the flora in that site. He provided additional information on earthworms and the problems they cause, noting that forests across central Minnesota are failing and they will eventually convert to savannahs and grasslands. He stated that there is no way to eradicate earthworms and there is not sufficient research on how to replenish forest soils in a quick amount of time. He moved on to Martin's Meadows and stated that he was pleasantly surprised with this property. He displayed an aerial map of the property and identified unique and rare features within the open space. He stated that the site conditions lend it to being diverse in plant communities. He noted that the river system lends itself to being a great habitat for the Red Shoulder Hawk. He provided additional information on the Cardinal Flower, which was found on the site and stated that it is rare and significant enough that he will report it to the State. He identified an area that is in need of mowing. Mr. Kytonen stated that the City received a grant and is partnering with Great River Greening, noting that one of the first items will be to mow down the Prickly Ash in that location. Mr. Husveth stated that when you move towards herbaceous systems the earthworm problems become lesser because they prefer the shaded areas. He stated that with the use of fire and herbaceous systems the level of diversity increases. He identified an area that seemed to be previously wooded. Mr. Kytonen stated that the City actually out down some trees in that area a few years ago and plan to have a burn in that location as well. Mr. Husveth identified areas of oak wilt on the property and noted that there are ways to manage that. Mr. Kytonen advised of the upcoming management activities that are already planned for the property. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — October 14, 2015 Page 4 Mr. Husveth confirmed that areas of the property are full of poison ivy. Mr. Kytonen stated that perhaps an informational brochure could be placed in the kiosk that would help visitors identify poison ivy. Mr. Husveth stated that fire is an effective management tool for controlling poison ivy. Mr. Kytonen agreed that fire can be an effective management tool but acknowledged that public relations are one of the biggest elements. Mr. Husveth stated that Martin's Meadows has some pretty established trails with the electrical power line right -of -way providing a pseudo trail as well. He suggested that wetlands not be filled when creating trails through the wetlands to avoid problems with flooding. He moved on to the North Woods Preserve site and provided an aerial map of the property, describing the site conditions. He identified the native plant community types found within the open space parcel and stated that it appears to him that there had been an attempt to cultivate a portion of the site. He stated that the site could be easily restored by collecting seeds from the species already existing on the site. He stated that although the parking lot was probably needed, it did encroach on a more sensitive area of the site. He stated that any type of disturbance should be considered as the species native to that area will reestablish and hold the soil relatively quickly and he would recommend against using non - native seed to prevent erosion. He identified areas on the site, which are fire dependent and could benefit from being managed with fire. He referenced the non - native section of the property and stated that the City could either choose to manage that as a pine forest or could reestablish that as native plantings. He identified a created wetland on the parcel, which has all the signs of a dug down and excavated basin, and noted that the wetland is now relatively high quality. He identified the rare and unique features found in North Woods Preserve. He provided additional information on a book he purchased through the DNR, which provides information on native plant communities of Minnesota, noting that there are three different regions available. He stated that there are threatened species on the North Woods Preserve area and noted that there are special steps that you should follow if working in those areas. He stated that outside of the scope of what has been provided, he would like to visit these sites with the Commission next field season as he was not able to do that this year. He noted that late June to early July would be the best timing. Commissioner Myers stated that perhaps signage should be placed in the open space areas asking people not to introduce new plant species to the area. Mr. Carlberg referenced the prairie area and noted that there was thought to completing prairie restoration and asked for the input of Mr. Husveth. Mr. Husveth stated that the best method for management would be to collect seeds from the site and then conduct a burn followed by spreading the seed to reestablish in that area. Chairperson Sabel and the Commission thanked Mr. Husveth for his time. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — October 14, 2015 Page 5 Mr. Husveth noted that the tour this next summer would be a courtesy. He provided additional detail on the reason for the higher cost estimate for the Dalske Woodland open space assessment and survey. 2016 MEETING SCHEDULE — SELECT DATES Mr. Carlberg stated that Mr. Kytonen will begin attending the open space meetings next year and noted that perhaps he himself would continue to work with the Commission in some aspect. He stated that it could be helpful to have the input of Mr. Husveth in developing the management plans. Chairperson Sabel stated that there would be an option to meet the second Wednesday of every third month, which would be January, April, July and October. Mr. Carlberg noted that the Commission would not have to meet quarterly but could meet in times during the growing season. He stated that the Commission could also choose to hold volunteer type walks of the properties. He did not believe that the Commission would need to meet during the cold weather months and could meet in March, May, July, and September. He noted that these meetings would not be the typical hour long meeting and would more likely be a few hours long. The Commission agreed to meet in March, May, July, and September next year. OTHER BUSINESS There was none. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Kovich, Second by Commissioner Van Hecke, to adjourn the meeting at 8:55 p.m. Motion passed 6 -0. Respectfully submitted, David Carlberg Community Development Director Drafted by: Amanda Staple, Recording Secretary W T Y O F 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755 -5100 FAX (763) 755 -8923 • WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: David L. Carlberg, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Martin's Meadows Management Plan Review DATE: March 9, 2016 REQUEST The Commission is requested to advise staff of any changes needed in the Martin's Meadows Management Plan. Attached is the most current plan for Commission review. Also attached is the Ecological Assessment and Survey prepared by Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. dated October 6, 2015. Attachments Martin's Meadows Management Plan Martin's Meadows Ecological Assessment and Survey Respectfully submitted, -r-)4 4 ft we, aja-� David L. Carlberg Martin's Meadows Open Space Management Plan CITY OF ANDOVER 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD NW ANDOVER, MINNESOTA, 55304 (763) 755 -5100 MAIN (763) 755 -8923 FAX WWW.AN DOVER MN.GOV Table of Contents Land CovcrlypesMap ...~___..~......~~...........~. 1 Land Coverlypes Description .......................................................... 2 Management Tasks Summary .~~~..~~..~...~..~~~~~~~5 Site Recommendations Description ................................................. 6 VisitorsMap ......................................................................................... 1O TopographicMap ................................................................................ 11 PropertySurvey ................................................................................... 12 C I ' T F Martin's Meadows Management Plan T Y o 0 Land Cover Types Land Cover Types Aspen Forest Black Ash Swamp Floodplain Forest, Silver Maple Subtype Mixed Hardwood Swamp, seasonally flooded Non - native Grassland Oak Forest, Dry Subtype Sedge Meadow Wet Meadow Wet Meadow, Shrub Subtype Martin's Meadows Management Plan Land Cover Types Description Aspen Forest This aspen forest is of recent origin and characterized by a nearly uniform stand of quaking aspen, with generally dense amounts of brush. Interestingly, the landowner notes that the area was historically a prairie hay meadow up until the last 30 or 40 years, after which it was no longer hayed and quickly grew up to brush and trees. As evidence, where there are still some gaps in tree and shrub cover there is a good representation of mesic prairie grasses and forbs including Indian grass, big bluestem, switch grass, bottle gentian, ironweed, Canada anemone, and others. Black Ash Swamp This small forest area has a canopy dominated by black and green ash. It lies along the bluff, south of the electrical line that traverses the north end of the site in an east -west fashion. This area has a spring /seep area at the base of the bluff that is reported to flow in most years, with exception to instances of severe drought. In the past several years there have been minor amounts of water being discharged from the seep, a reflection of the below average annual precipitation in 2008 and 2009 and perhaps an indication of recharge area and residence time of groundwater prior to discharge. Floodplain Forest, Silver Maple Subtype The floodplain forest and associated wetlands along the Rum River represent the best quality natural community on the northwest side of this site. Although there are some areas with moderately young trees, many of the silver maple canopy trees are over 15 -20 inches in diameter and in places form a cathedral -like canopy. The subcanopy and shrub layer include boxelder, silver maple where canopy gaps occur, as well as black ash, green ash, basswood and elm in slightly higher elevations of the floodplain. The ground layer here is generally diverse for the community type and exhibits overall good quality with only minor amounts of nonnative species. Common native grasses encountered here include wood reed, prairie cordgrass, giant manna grass, white grass, and Virginia wildrye, as well as several species of sedges. Observed native forb species richness was very good and includes spotted touch -me- not, toothed sage, water pepper, veiny pea, blue flag iris, sneezeweed, ironweed, several species of aster, and others. Mixed Hardwood Swamp This area of Grow Oak View Park and the adjacent residential properties is a shallow wetland that is densely populated by a canopy of paper birch, tamarack, red maple, American elm and black ash trees. The understory plants include a combination of grasses sedges and shrubs also found in the adjacent wet meadow. z Martin's Meadows Management Plan Non - native Grassland Areas of non - native grassland are located in the southeasterly portion of the site which was cleared for farming many years ago as well as along the transmission line corridors and in Grow Oak View Park. Several groups cedar trees are located along northerly and easterly side of this area bordered by oak forest. Oak Forest, Dry Subtype These two oak- dominated community types occur on somewhat rolling upland areas at this site and are characterized by having relatively closed to fully closed canopies. In oak woodland areas larger bur and pin oak trees are scattered, or occur in groups. These older trees have moderately dense to very dense growth of younger trees and shrubs. Other species found include black cherry, hackberry, basswood and paper birch. The shrub layer is moderately thick to very thick with the most common shrub species including common elder and to a lesser extent species that are tolerant of grazing (thorny, e.g. prickly ash, raspberry and gooseberry), spread by runners and are vigorous resprouters (e.g. chokecherry), are unpalatable to most cattle (eastern red cedar), and/or demonstrate the ability to colonize sites following moderate to severe disturbance. Sedge Meadow Sedges and grasses dominate the south end of the large wetland where the ground remains saturated throughout the year and restricts the growth of trees. Wet Meadow The floodplain wet meadow is nice quality with several species of sedges, giant manna grass, white grass, wool grass and common sweet flag. Wet Meadow, Shrub Subtype The larger wet meadow is dominated by lakebank sedge, tussock sedge, water dock, marsh fern, spotted joe -pye weed, sensitive fern, arrowleaf tearthumb, water hemlock and many others characteristic for wet meadows. Past attempts to drain the south wet meadow through ditching appear to still be affecting the hydrology and plant community composition of this wetland. This is evidenced in part by the large amount of red raspberry in some areas as well as some other shrubs that appear to be on the increase. Martin's Meadows Management Plan Ecological Assessment and Survey In 2015, the City commissioned the preparation of an Ecological Assessment and Survey. Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. was retained by the City and prepared the assessment and survey. This survey identified the native plant community types; detected and document any species listed by the State of Minnesota as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern; identified any unique or sensitive priority natural features within the open space and provided initial management recommendations specific to the site based on the field assessments. The Final Report dated October 6, 2015 is on file at the City. Management Tasks Summary Martin's Meadows Management Plan Location Task Description Timeframe Cost Prairie areas Prescribed burn Burn off the prairies to Spring 2015 $2,000 knock back weeds, encourage native vegetation and prepare seed bank Prairie areas Plant (orbs Broadcast seed (orbs Spring 2014 (completed) $300 Prairie areas Prep for Prepare good seed beds Spring 2015 -fall 2015 $10,000 seeding/seeding seeding/seeding after burn and seed Woodland areas Thin stand Hire a logger to come in Winter 2015 -2016 $10,000 and remove the marked trees (by project staff) to improve health of stand and allow for more diverse, native plantings to occur; logger will utilize the timber Woodland areas Tree plantings Purchase and plant a Fall 2015, spring 2016 $10,000 variety of native trees; utilize volunteer groups to perform the plantings Floodplain Manage invasives such Try and limit the invasives Spring 2015 -fall 2015 $10,000 as reed canary grass from taking over area by strategically spraying them accordin I Mixed hardwood swamp Buckthorn control Continue efforts with On -going $5,000 buckthorn control by cutting and chemical applications Sedge meadow Boardwalk Construct a boardwalk $100,000 across sedge meadow to improve access and allow for maximum enjoyment and use of open space; City would apply for grant if we choose to do this Entire open space Signage Maintain signage and add On -going $500 signs as needed Entire open space Trail maintenance Maintain trail system for On -going $1,000 users Martin's Meadows Management Plan Site Recommendations Description Access The primary overland access to the site is from the cul -de- sac at the end of Navajo Street NW. The site can also be accessed from the Rum River. Entering the site off of Navajo Street NW, there is a relatively steep slope leading into the site that descends approximately twenty feet into a wetland. In 2012 -13, the City re- graded the slope to provide a switch back to provide easier public access. A split rail fence was also added to define the access trail and to provide to the general public a safer traveled route. A direct route across the wetland is approximately 520 feet. There is a dense cover of understory vegetation and saturated soils in this area, which makes navigation by foot challenging. In the winter of 2010 -11 a route through the wetland was created by thinning the vegetation through higher areas of the wetland. In the short term, this route will provide access to the site. Light trimming of vegetation will be needed periodically to maintain the access. The success of this method of access will be evaluated as the general public makes more use of the site to determine if it can continue to provide sufficient access to the site. Should this natural trail access become problematic due to intermittent areas of surface water or saturated soils, a second option is to construct sections of boardwalk to bridge any gaps. The City will apply for grant money if the boardwalk idea is pursued. The applicable permits thru the DNR and the LRRWMO will be pulled prior to any activity occurring. Trails A series of natural trails within the site were created and maintained by the Luedtke family over many years. The highest priority is to continue to maintain these trails to provide a variety of routes through the site. Maintenance of these trails will involve occasional mowing and trimming of brush and tree branches. The trail routes will be evaluated periodically to determine if additional trail connections through the site are desirable. Signage Entrance and boundary signage installation began in the fall of 2010 and was completed in the spring of 2011. An entrance sign is located at the end of the Navajo Street NW cul -de -sac as well as along the Rum River at a point where the site is accessible by watercraft. The entrance sign summarizes the regulations established for open space properties by City Code 8 -4. Boundary signage was installed along the perimeter of the property at locations where they would be visible to visitors. Trimming of vegetation around the signs will be necessary to ensure that they remain visible. The signs will be evaluated periodically to ensure they remain in good condition as well as to determine if the use of the site requires additional signs to be installed. One potential issue is at the southern boundary of the site along the access road that continues onto the Luedtke 0 Martin's Meadows Management Plan property to the south. Boundary signs have been placed on either side of the road at the property line to clearly delineate the property boundary. A gate has also been installed at this location. Additionally, snowmobile traffic from the river and transmission line corridors has been an issue in the past and continued to be an issue. Snowmobiles traversing the slopes of the site have disturbed the ground cover and left areas of bare ground susceptible to erosion of the scenic overlook. No motorized vehicle signs were provided at these entrance points. In the summer and fall of 2012, native shrubs were planted by City staff and an Eagle Scout group to help stabilize the slope, deter snowmobiles and provide additional wildlife habitat. Finally, in 2013 -14 additional measures were taken on the slope's west side with the boarding or terracing and snow fence installation. An informational kiosk was installed at the entrance to the site off of Navajo Street NW as a part of an Eagle Scout project. The planned three sided structure has been equipped with site trail maps, birding information and other resources in an effort to enhance the visitor's experience of the site. The project was completed in 2014 -15. Management of Invasive Species The highest priority is to remove invasive species from the wooded areas of the site to allow the native plant communities to continue to prosper. Areas of Buckthorn and Honeysuckle have been identified and several approaches for removal have been discussed. Over the past couple years, City staff has done buckthorn management in the heavily infested mixed hardwood swamp area. Plants were cut and chipped up with a wood chipper as needed (fall 2012). Other seedless plants were left in the woods. In addition, grant funds were used to contract for the spraying of plants by Great River Greening staff. A second priority is to manage Reed Canary Grass within the floodplain along the river. While total eradication may be very difficult, the goal is to prevent these grasses from hindering the natural growth of the floodplain forest species, which includes trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses. A third priority is to mange reed canary grasses and purple loosestrife within the wetland along the western boundary of the site. Due to the dense vegetation within the wetland and the overall difficulty of controlling these species, eradication will be a great challenge. The goal is to reduce the amount of invasive species to allow native wetland plant species to continue to be successful. Management of Native Species The overall site has a solid foundation of indigenous plant material and maintaining its integrity is the most important goal. This will primarily be attained by the activities mentioned above. If funding or other resources can be identified, there are areas that can actually be enhanced. In general, this means a combination of management of unwanted species and introduction of native plant material. If successful, benefits include but are not 7 Martin's Meadows Management Plan limited to improved aesthetics, improved wildlife habitat, improved diversity and greater long -term sustainability. All of the different plant communities, including the prairie, woodland and floodplain have opportunities for enhancement. The design and implementation of enhancement projects will be based on available resources. Prairie The prairie area contained a significant amount of Eastern Red Cedar trees. Despite being a native tree, it is not a preferred species in a native prairie. In addition, there are several non- native grass and flower species that make up the prairie. Thus, a large scale cedar removal occurred in December 2013. Prairie restoration is a long -term commitment. In order to get the prairie to be fully functional and self sustaining, it could be a 5 to 7 year process. Once it's started, it's very important to continue, as stopping efforts could cause a major setback and end up being more costly in the long run. Management activities that should be considered include prescribed burning, mowing, weeding and spot spraying. These all fall under a category of management termed Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Over - seeding the site with a pre - determined mix of native grasses and flowers would also greatly benefit the site. A prescribed bum would most likely be contracted out. It would knock back the unwanted vegetation and give the natives (warm season grasses) an advantage. The best time to perform this is in late April or early May. The highest priority is to establish native prairie within the non - native grassland areas of the site. Emphasis will be placed on maximizing plants that benefit pollinators such as bees, birds, etc. Wooded Areas The wooded areas are in pretty good shape overall. Under the latest grant received, these areas could benefit from Timber Stand Improvement (TSI), involving the thinning of the stand and the incorporation of more native trees and shrubs. This will involve involving a logger to remove the marked trees and utilizing the product. This will diversify the forest and prevent insects and diseases from having a big impact on its health. Volunteers could be recruited by staff, and bare root stock could be purchased at a discount rate. This can be an inexpensive way to immediately improve a woodland area. In winter of 2015 -2016, a logger was hired with the grant funds received through the Metro Big Rivers Phase 4 grant program administered by Great River Greening (GRG). Trees infected with Oak wilt were removed and the rest of the stand was selectively thinned with a "timber stand improvement" approach. Select trees were removed including disease -prone trees (ash), trees that don't belong in an oak forest setting (red cedar) and co- dominant trees. In addition, the prickly ash and buckthorn were mowed down. This operation will benefit the long -term health of the residual stand and improve the diversity of the understory. 8 Martin's Meadows Management Plan Floodplain Areas Due to access challenges, the complex nature of such projects and varying conditions of these areas, improvements to the floodplain areas are the lowest priority for management. This isn't to say things can't be done, but enhancing the other areas would most likely take precedent. With adequate resources, many types of projects could be done. A few examples include tree and shrub planting projects and bank stabilization projects involving biologs and native seed blankets. Erosion Control An ongoing concern will be the potential for erosion and its effect on the river and the site as a whole. This is a secondary concern, however, as the site is well vegetated and currently does not have any major issues with respect to this. Big Rivers Grant and Current Management Goals With the latest grant the City received under the Metro Big Rivers Phase 4 grant program, staff is currently working with its partner, Great River Greening (GRG), to prioritize management activities and utilize the $117,000 it received. The City has until June 30, 2016 to improve the different parts of Martin's Meadows under this grant. More details of proposed activities are ensuing as discussions between the City and GRG occur. Martin's Meadows Management Plan I T Y ° F Visitors Map NDOVE DU" Nature Trail • 'v Entrance Sign X Property Boundary Sign No Motorized Vehicles Sign Note: Signage partially installed in 2010, remainder completed in the spring of 2011 10 a c d E 0 rn c m N 3 0 ca m N _C fC r� U ..0 cd W O CL O s i @ 4 \; on S.— \ f 22) f �\ ! ■ l N -7 -§� Rs � || ( a°\ % \�\ k\� | § \ °2— /�� z§ e § (90 OeD !3© ° ||,■ ® !!7!! ® § \£§! ) }}� \� !\ ! ! ( }\ 2�7 \ }{ (!\ mui E i| q\ | ! ~ $E q a d & EL E&0 !! 3MR;! / \\ (m 3 et k/ !,!; § f! ;2} \- , Rb R/ wo x0 fD jD ƒ} \� / { / / \ � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � City of Andover Ecological Assessment and Survey Martin's Meadows Township 32 North, Range 24 West, Section 07 Andover, Anoka County, Minnesota October 6, 2015 Prepared For: The City of Andover Mr. Dave Carlberg 1685 Crosstown Blvd. NW Andover. MN 55304 ' IDOVER. Prepared By: Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. 21150 Ozark Trail P.O. Box 184 Scandia, MN 55073 Critical Connections Ecological5ervices, Inc. City of Andover -Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Introduction Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. (CCES) was retained by the City of Andover (City) to conduct an ecological assessment and vegetative survey of Martin's Meadows, a City owned open space. Martins Meadows is approximately 54 -acres in size and is located along the Rum River (see Appendix A, Figure 1). The western twelve acres of Martin's Meadows was dedicated to the City as park land with the Grow Oak View Estates plat in 1977 and is classified as City park land. The City purchased the remainder of the acreage, now City open space, in 2009 from the Luedtke Family. Martin's Meadows is located within the Anoka Sand Plain Subsection of the Minnesota and Northeast Iowa Morainal (MIM) Section and is within the Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province of Minnesota. The Anoka Sand Plain Subsection mainly consists of flat, sandy lake plains and terraces. Topography of the area is gently rolling. Soils are derived primary from fine sands and most are excessively drained. There are areas of poorly drained soils which support mesic to wet plant community types. Martin's Meadows exhibits a variety of plant community types including: dry prairies, oak woodlands, mesic oak woodlands, floodplain forests, wet meadows, and shrub carrs, as well as other small inclusions. This variety of plant community types provides habitat for a number of plant and animal species, as well as a variety of unique natural features. The goals and objectives of this project were as follows: 1. Complete early and late season botanical surveys in an effort to classify native plant community types within the City owned open space. 2. Identify, delineate, and map in a GIS based format all plant community types identified within Martin's Meadows. 3. Detect and document any species listed by the State of Minnesota as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern. 4. Identify any unique or sensitive priority natural features within the open space. 5. Provide initial management recommendations specific to the site based on the field assessments completed as part of this project. Project Methodology Gathering of Site Specific Information To begin this project, CCES first compiled existing and relevant information associated with the site including GIS -based data layers such as recent aerial photographs (true color and infrared), 10 -foot contours and LiDAR topographic data, soils information, and known rare species locations (if present). Using available desktop information, CCES created GIS -based shapefiles of proposed plant community boundaries which would likely be encountered on site. The draft boundaries were to be field verified and edited during the site visits. Page 1 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Using these available data, CCES generated field maps for Martin's Meadows which were printed at a 1:3,000 scale. These field maps were utilized for note taking as well as for delineating plant community types during the field survey portions of this project. Generated field maps contained the project boundaries, contour lines, draft delineations of proposed plant community boundaries, as well as soil types. Field maps helped to guide the site survey process to ensure all native plant communities and unique areas of the site were evaluated in detail. Field Surveys CCES visited Martin's Meadows on three separate occasions during the 2015 growing season. Field visit dates were scheduled based on plant phenology to ensure any potential rare species could be detected during the visits. Field dates were also scheduled to ensure plant community types could be accurately classified based on dominant vegetation during different times during the growing season. Each visit to the site included a floristic inventory of dominant vegetation which was completed through a targeted meander survey effort. When areas with a higher potential to support rare or unique features were encountered, a more focused and detailed survey effort was completed in order to detect any inconspicuous, rare, or otherwise unique species. Native Plant Community (NPC) classification work was also competed for the entire site using the Minnesota DNR's Field Guide to the Native Plant Communities of Minnesota: The Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province (2005). The classification is hierarchical, with vegetation units described at levels ranging from broad landscape -scale ecological systems to local communities. The classification system is driven by plant species composition and was developed from analysis of extensive field plot data. The classification relates the vegetation units to geography and to important environmental conditions and processes. Plant communities located within Martin's Meadows were classified to the NPC Type level. Additional information on the Minnesota DNR's Native Plant Community Classification System can be found by visiting the followingwebsite: http: / /www.dnr. state .mn.us /npc /classification.htm]. CCES ecologists also assigned a plant community quality ranking and noted the presence of any invasive plant species. Plant community quality rankings range from an A ranking through a D ranking. An "A" rank would indicate an excellent quality plant community with no disturbance and natural processes intact. A "B" rank would indicate a good quality plant community with natural processes intact, and minimal disturbances by humans and exotic species. A "C" rank would indicate a moderate quality plant community with obvious past disturbance, but is still recognizable as a native plant community. A "D" rank indicates a poor quality natural community with some natives present but is highly altered or disturbed. CCES carefully surveyed for the presence of any State - listed, rare species whenever unique habitats with the potential to support rare species were encountered. CCES also noted the occurrence of invasive or aggressive non - native plant species which may be targeted for future management. Page 2 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 During each site visit, CCES also collected high resolution digital photographs of the site for use by land managers. Select photographs are provided in this report. Project Results: Native Plant Community Mapping and Descriptions: CCES ecologists identified and mapped a total of six (6) native plant community types within Martin's Meadows. A figure depicting the location and extent of each of these plant community types can be found in Appendix A, Figure 2. Plant community quality rankings are also provided in Appendix A, Figure 3. Below, a short description of each plant community type documented within the City open space is provided. Dominant species in each community are listed, a full list of dominant species can be found in Appendix B. Southern Dry -Mesic Oak (Maple) Woodland - FDs37 Approximately fourteen and a half (14.5) acres within Martin's Meadows were classified as Southern Dry-Mesic Oak (Maple) Woodland. This native plant community type was documented in upland areas with dry, sandy soils. Dominant species included Quercus rubra (red oak), Quercus marcrocarpa (bur oak), Prunus serotina (black cherry), Zonthoxylum americanum (prickly ash), Cornus racemosa (grey dogwood), Rubus idaeus (red raspberry), Rubus allegheniensis (tall blackberry), Rhamnus cathartica (common buckthorn), Corylus americana (American hazelnut), luniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar), Galium triflorum (Sweet- scented bedstraw), Desmodium glutinosum (pointed - leaved tick trefoil), Carex radiato (eastern star sedge) Carex deweyana (Dewey's sedge), Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania sedge), Toxicodendron radicons (poison ivy), Maionthemum canadense (Canada mayflower), and Vitis riparia (riverbank grape). Southern Mesic Oak- Basswood Forest - MHs38 Approximately nine (9) acres within Martin's Meadows were classified as Southern Mesic Oak- Basswood Forest (MHs38). This native plant community type was documented in upland areas with 6 -12 percent slopes on Sartell Series sandy soils. Dominant plant species included Tilia americana (basswood), Quercus rubra (red oak), Ostrya virginiano (ironwood), Quercus macrocarpa (bur oak), Fraxinus pennsylvanico (green ash), Ulmus americana (American elm), Rhamnus cathartica (common buckthorn), Hydrophyllum virginianum (Virginia waterleaf), Geranium moculatum (wild geranium), Desmodium glutinosum (pointed tick trefoil), Geum canadense (white avens), Gallium aparine (cleavers), Elymus hystrix (bottlebrush grass), Carex blanda (charming sedge), Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania sedge), Carex radiata (eastern star sedge), and Athyrium filix femina (lady fern). Southern Floodplain Forest - FFs68 Approximately nine (9) acres within Martin's Meadows were classified as Southern Floodplain Forest (FFs68). This native plant community type was located along the Rum River on alluvial, frequently Page 3 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 flooded soils. Soils are characteristically level and poorly drained. Dominant species recorded within the floodplain forest included Acer saccharinum (silver maple), Acer negundo (boxelder), Zanthoxylum americanum (prickly ash), Elymus virginicus (Virginia wildrye), Leersia oryzoides (rice cut grass), Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass) Carex lupulina (hop umbrella sedge), Carex tenera (remote sedge), Laportea canadensis (wood nettle), Pilea pumila (clearweed), Impatiens copensis (jewelweed), Rudbeckio lociniato (tall coneflower), Boehmeria cylindrica (false nettle), Penthorum sedoides (ditch stonecrop), Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern), Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal flower),Platonthera psycodes (purple fringed orchid), Echinocystis lobota (wild cucumber), and Vitis riparia (riverbank grape). Southern Dry Prairie - UPs13 Approximately five (5) acres within Martin's Meadow's were classified as Southern Dry Prairie (UPs13). This native plant community type was generally located on steeper slopes with a west, southwest facing aspect. A portion of this plant community is located under overhead utility lines. Soils were classified as Sartell fine sands on 12 -24 percent slopes which are excessively drained. Dominant species documented were typical of disturbed, dry prairies and included Stipa sportea (porcupine grass), Koeleria pyromidata (Junegrass), Bouteloua hirsuta (hairy grama), Cyperus schweinitzii (Schweinitz's flatsedge), Solidago ridgida (stiff goldenrod), Viola pedatifida (birdsfoot violet), Helianthus helianthoides (stiff sunflower) Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly milkweed), Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot), Geum triflorum (prairie smoke), Solidago canadensis (canada goldenrod), Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweet clover), Berteroa incana (hoary alyssum), Artemisia compestris (tall wormwood), Artemisia ludoviciana (prairie sage), Verbascum thapsus (common mullein), Trodescantia bracteata (long - bracted spiderwort), luniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar), Rhus glabra (smooth sumac), and Quercus macrocarpa (bur oak - shrubs). Southern Wet Aspen Forest - WFs55 Approximately eight (8) acres within Martin's Meadows have been classified as Southern Wet Aspen Forest (WFs55). This plant community type was found in low -lying areas on poorly drained Markey Muck soils, Isanti fine sandy loam, or Lino Loamy fine sand. Dominant species included Populus temuloides (quaking aspen), Zanthoxylum americanum (prickly ash), Rhamnus cathartica (common buckthorn), Acer negundo (boxelder), Sambucus racemosa (red elderberry), Corylus americana (American hazelnut), Fraxinus pennsylvanica (green ash), Urtica dioica (stinging nettle), Agastache schrophulariifolia (purple giant hyssop), Fragaria virginiana (wild strawberry), Cicuta moculata (water hemlock), Rumex orbiculatus (greater water dock), Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern), Mimulus ringens (monkey flower), Lysimachia punctata (yellow loosetrife), Verbena hastata (blue vervain), Carex vesicaria (tufted lake sedge), Carex stipata (awlfruit sedge), Carex tribuloides (blunt broom sedge), Carex stricta (tussock sedge), and Carex bebbii (Bebb's sedge), Northern Wet Meadow /Carr - WMn82 Approximately nine (9) acres within Martin's Meadows have been classified as Northern Wet Meadow /Carr (WMn82). Wet meadow communities were found in low -lying areas on poorly drained Page 4 of 13 City of Andover -Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Markey Mucks and Rifle Mucks. Dominant species recorded included Carex sartwellii (Sartwell's sedge), Carex stricta (tussock sedge), Carex lacustris (lake sedge), Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass), Calamogrostis canadensis (Canada bluejoint), Glyceria grandis (giant manna grass), Solidago gigantea (giant goldenrod), Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed), Thelypteris polustris (northern marsh fern), Cicuta maculata (water hemlock), Eupatorium purpureum (purple Joe -pye weed), Symphyotrichum ericoides (heath aster), Polygonum amphibium (water smartweed), Spiraea tomentosa (steeplebush), Salix amygdaloides (peach - leaved willow), and Salix petiolaris (slender - leaved willow). Rare Species and Sensitive Features Buteo lineatus (Red Shouldered Hawk; MN- Special Concern Species) CCES ecologists noted one State - listed species while completing inventory and assessment work at Martin's Meadows. One individual of the Minnesota Special Concern species Buteo lineatus (red - shouldered hawk) was detected in the Floodplain Forest along the Rum River. According to the Minnesota DNR's Rare Species Guide, "the red - shouldered hawk is a medium -sized Buteo with relatively long wings. The rufous (reddish brown) shoulder patches, which give the species its name, are diagnostic when visible, but only present in adults. In flight, the red - shouldered hawk is best distinguished by its black- and -white checkered flight feathers and the whitish crescent at the base of the primaries. The adult's underparts and wing linings are extensively barred with rufous. The red - shouldered hawk's tail has alternating black and white bands, in which the white bands are narrower than the black. This feature distinguishes it from the similar broad - winged hawk ( Buteo platypterus), which has white tail bands that are wider and fewer in number. Immature red - shouldered hawks are very difficult to distinguish from immature broad - winged hawks." CCES ecologists positively identified the red - shouldered hawk at Martin's Meadows by its distinct call, as well as through visual observations of the above mentioned distinguishing morphological features. Red - shouldered hawks are most commonly found in large tracts of mature deciduous forest with scattered wetland openings. Suitable habitat typically occurs in uplands with diverse topography characterized by numerous small hills, ridges, and depressional wetlands or small lakes. Red - shouldered hawks also frequent mature floodplain forests. Researchers have found that nesting sites include high, thick canopies and trees with large diameters (McLeod and Andersen 1996). Bosakowski and Smith (1997) found that the number of red - shouldered hawks increased with increasing size of wilderness areas. A mosaic of appropriate habitat types are found throughout Martin's Meadows. Retaining large amounts of mature deciduous forest and limiting the amount of non - forest are both important in promoting nesting and occupancy by red - shouldered hawks in central Minnesota. Land managers hoping to promote occupancy by red - shouldered hawks should avoid creating large clear -cut areas and instead use management practices that preserve the characteristics of forested landscapes Page 5 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 (e.g., thinning and light- selection cuts). Within forested landscapes, there may be potential for small areas of intense timber harvest, as long as sufficient amounts of mature forest ( >50% of the landscape), particularly hardwoods, remain (Moorman and Chapman 1996; Henneman 2006). Forest cover of sufficient maturity and extent must be maintained in close proximity to wetland openings if red - shouldered hawks are to persist in an area. Canopy closure also appears to be a critical nest -site characteristic, and some studies recommend maintaining a canopy closure of >70% for nesting habitat. Forest clearing can cause red - shouldered hawks to be out - competed by red - tailed hawks (Moorman and Chapman 1996). Red - shouldered hawks are also sensitive to human disturbance, so activity within 300 m (984 ft.) of nest sites should be minimized during the breeding season (April 1 to June 30). Because red - shouldered hawks often nest in the same site as in past years, retention of nest trees may facilitate subsequent nesting on a site. Red - shouldered hawk nesting sites were not observed by CCES during the 2015 assessment period. Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower), Range Extension A single large population with many individuals of Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower) was detected within the Floodplain Forest on the shore of the Rum River at the northern edge of the open space property. While this species is not considered to be rare or listed in the State of Minnesota, it is generally known to occur only on the eastern boundary of the State along the St. Croix River. Should this population be confirmed, it will be one of only two known locations in Anoka County. Furthermore, this Anoka County record would be a northern and western range extension for the species' known range in North America. Cardinal flower is a native perennial plant. It prefers part shade to sun and moist, sandy, loamy soil. Mature plants can reach a height of one to three feet. It often occurs along shorelines of rivers. Cardinal flowers exhibit long flower stalks with vibrant crimson red flowers. The flowering period is between July and September. Carex assiniboinensis (Assiniboine Sedge), New Anoka County Record A single population of Assiniboine sedge was detected in the southern mesic oak - basswood forest on a northwest facing slope along a drainage way. While this sedge is not listed as rare in the State, it has not yet been detected in Anoka County. It does occur in Chisago County as well as several counties to the south of Anoka County. Assiniboine sedge is rare in the state of Wisconsin and occurs only in a few states in the upper Midwest, including the Dakota's, Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota. Assiniboine sedge prefers mesic hardwood forest habitat types, and moist loam soils. It is a perennial species and can reproduce and spread through underground rhizomes, through above ground stolons, or by seed. Carex assiniboinesis exhibits some tip- rooting stolons which can be two meters in length (a rather unique and distinguishing character for the genus Carex). Page 6 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Minnesota Native Orchids: CCES ecologists detected populations of two species of Minnesota native orchids within the Martin's Meadows Open Space. The two species included Plotanthero psycodes (small purple fringed orchid), and Liparis liliifolia (Lily - leaved twayblade). P. psycodes was detected in a Northern Wet Meadow /Carr (WMn82) near the Rum River. L. liliifolia was detected in a Southern Wet Aspen Forest (WFs55) in shaded openings. P. psycodes generally prefers wet woods, lakes shores, meadows or shrub thickets. It flowers July through August and has vibrant to pale purple flowers. It is a relatively conspicuous orchid and is often seen along roadsides, especially when roads dissect a wetland community. Purple Pinged orchid is pollinated by butterflies and moths (Welby Smith, 1993). Liparis liliifolia prefers mature mesic moist oak or mixed deciduous forest. It seems to prefer acidic soil and was found amongst eastern red cedar at Martin's Meadows. It flowers June through July and exhibits a flower with a purple lip. While not rare in the State, Lily- leaved twayblade is a rather infrequent plant species (Welby Smith, 2003), and is currently tracked by the Minnesota DNR. Discussion Management Recommendations: During each field visit CCES ecologist noted areas of the site in need of future land management activities. The following are management recommendations for Martin's Meadow's: 1. Monitoring and control of non - native /invasive plant species: while completing the site assessment work, CCES ecologists noted a number of non - native and invasive plant species which should be targeted for treatment in the near future to prevent further spread and displacement of native plant species. Invasive plant species noted within Martin's Meadows included: Rhamnus cathartica (common buckthorn), Zonthoxylum omericonum (prickly ash), Pholaris arundinacea (reed canary grass), Melilotus olbo (white sweet clover), Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweet clover), and Berteroo incono (hoary alyssum). Common buckthorn and prickly ash were common throughout the wooded and forested native plant community types. Prickly ash and buckthorn could be controlled through manual cutting and a targeted application of a woody specific herbicide. Sweet clover and hoary alyssum were found in dry prairie openings. In populations with small numbers of these two prairie invasives, individuals could be hand pulled, bagged and removed from the site. In areas with more dense infestations, mowing followed by herbicide applications and native plant community restoration efforts (prescribed burning and seeding) would be necessary. Reed canary grass was confined to moist areas with poorly drained soils in wetland plant community types and within the floodplain forest. Removal of reed canary grass would require a long term plan for its control as Page 7 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 well as the implementation of follow -up restoration activities. A long -term commitment (of five to ten years) to this effort would be needed to ensure success. Poison Ivy, a noxious weed was also documented within several of the wooded native plant communities. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), while native to Minnesota, is classified as State Prohibited as it can be harmful to humans. Poison ivy populations could be toxic and problematic to park users and should be targeted for management and /or removal due to this potential threat. 2. In addition to invasive species control, all native plant community types within Martin's Meadows would benefit from plant community management and restoration activities. A lack of natural disturbance and management has resulted in overgrown plant communities with reduced native plant diversity. Reintroduction of natural processes through prescribed fire, winter mowing or woody species, and overseeding with appropriate native species would be essential to maintain and /or elevate native species diversity and improve the overall ecological health of this City owned open space. Reintroduction of appropriate native species through planting of live material (or seeding) would also be beneficial in several areas of the preserve. 3. Issues related to stream bank erosion were also noted within Martin's Meadows. Areas denuded of vegetation along the Rum River are susceptible to erosion and cutting during times of high water. Restoration and management practices that stabilize and restore the natural streambank within the open space along the rum river would help prevent further erosion and bank cutting. Additional areas of erosion and sediment movement were observed along small streams draining to the Rum River. Stabilization and streambank work could be completed along these channels to stabilize the banks and prevent movement of sediment into the Rum River. 4. Oak Wilt was detected within the Southern Dry -Mesic Oak (Maple) Woodland (FDs37) native plant community. Oak wilt is caused by the fungus Ceratocystis fagacearum, and may cause additional problems for the open space in the future as there is a heavy oak component within the preserve. Red Oak (Quercus rubro) is most susceptible to the fungus within the preserve, but bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) and white oak (Quercus alba) are also susceptible to the fungus. If detected early, Oak Wilt can be controlled with mechanical root cutting techniques, making monitoring of the infestation an important first step in the management or Oak Wilt. S. A final management consideration would be to monitor the single population of the State - special concern species Buteo lineotus (Red - shouldered Hawk) that was detected within Martin's Meadow. Monitoring of the population will help to ensure the long -term viability of the population. Habitat needs of this species should be considered when developing restoration implementation plans and when installing new trails, amenities, or park features. Page 8 of 13 City of Andover -Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Summary and Next Steps: Martin's Meadows contains a variety of native plant community types which contain a number of native plant species, as well as a variety of unique natural features. Within the open space, there are a number of opportunities for the implementation of prescribed restoration and management activities which would greatly enhance the ecological integrity of Martin's Meadows. The planning of future open space uses and amenities should consider the location and quality of the natural features within the open space, to capitalize on and enhance the quality of these resources and incorporate them into the long term open space plan. As a next step, CCES recommends that the City consider the completion of a more detailed restoration and management plan which would assist the City in planning for future restoration efforts as well as necessary long -term maintenance activities. A restoration and management plan should include a five to ten year implementation schedule, management priorities, and an anticipated budget for completing the tasks. Such a plan is essential to assisting the City to plan and prioritize management of the Martin's Meadows open space and other adjacent City open spaces. A restoration and management plan should also include an evaluation of potential grant programs and cost -share opportunities which are likely available to the City. Outside funding sources can provide financial support for completing initial restoration efforts of City owned open spaces. Page 9 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 SELECT SITE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM MARTIN'S MEADOWS Photograph 1: Example of Southern Wet Aspen Forest at Martin's Meadows (WFs55). Photograph 2: Example of Southern Mesic Oak - Basswood Forest (MHs38). Page 10 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 5, 2015 Photograph 3: Example of Northern Wet Meadow /Carr (WMn82). Photograph 4: Example of Southern Dry Prairie (UPs13), beneath overhead utility lines. Page 11 of 13 City of Andover -Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Photograph 5: Photograph of Plantanthera psycodes, not yet in bloom at Martin's Meadows. Page 12 of 13 City of Andover - Ecological Assessment of Martin's Meadows Open Space Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. Final Report October 6, 2015 Photograph 6: Photograph of Uparis liliifolio at Martin's Meadows. Page 13 of 13 APPENDIX A FIGURES Appendix A, Figure 1 Project Location Map City of Andover - Martin's Meadows 2015 Ecological Assessment and Survey Martin's Meadows v CdNml Cannecdons Emlogi[a! Servi[q Inc 0 0.25 0.5 1 APPENDIX B DOMINANT SPECIES LIST Martin's Meadows - City of Andover - Dominant Species List - 2015 Column Definition box elder Nomenclature follows that of published volumes N of "Flora of North Amerlm "(FNA). For those MN DNR Scientific families notyetpublished by FNA .nomenclature Name follows that of Gleason & Cronquises "Manual D of Vascular Pionts of Northeastern United States and Canada ". Common name The preferred MNDNR common name. common yarrow B = broodkof evergreen, D = broadleaf U deciduous, E= needleleof evergreen, G = Physicgnamy graminoid, H = forb, L= lichens and moss, C= Agastache foenimlum climber, K= stem succulent X = epiphyte, F= H floating aquatle, S= submerged aquatic N = active to the state of MN, 1= Introduced, U Native Status = Undetermined canada anemone State Rarity Status: Ex Endangered, T= Rarity Status Threatened, SC= Special Concern, W =Watch List, N= Mstorfcol FN= Federal noxious weed, SN= State prohiblied noxious weed, RN =State restricted Imasive Status noxfous weed, PJ= DNR Prohibited lnvmhw species, PS =State prohibited weed seed, RS = State restricted weed seed MN DNR Scientific Name Common name Phvsioanomv Native Status Rarity Status Invasive Status Acer negundo box elder D N Acersamharmum silver maple D N Achillea millefolium common yarrow H U Agastache foenimlum blue giant hyssop H N Anemone canadensis canada anemone H N Anemone cylindrica long - headed thimbleweed H N Arisaema triphyllum lack -in- the - pulpit H N Artemisia ludoviciana subsp. ludoviciana white sage H N Asclepiaz incamata var. incarata swamp milkweed H N Asde iaz synaca common milkweed H N Asde iaz tuberosa var. interior butterflyweed H N Asparagus offcinalis asparagus H I Athyrium flix- femina var. angustum lady fern H N Berteroaincana hoary alyssum H I RS Boehmeria cylindrica false nettle H N Bromus inermis smooth brome G I Bromus kalmh Kalm's brome G N Calamagrostis canadensis bluejoint G N Carex assiniboinensis assinibolne sedge G N Carex bebbii Bebb's sedge G N Carex blanda charming sedge G N Carex deweyanavar. deweyana Dewey's sedge G N Carex lacustris lake sedge G N Carex lupulina hop umbrella sedge G N Carex pellita woolly sedge G N Carex pensylvanica Pennsylvania sedge G N Carex radiata eastern star sedge G N Carex retrorsa retrorse sedge G N Carex sartwellii Sartwell's sedge G N Carex stipata var. sti ata awl - fruited sedge G N Carex stricta tussock sedge G N Carex tenera marsh straw sedge G N Carex tribulaides var. tribuloides blunt broom sedge G N Carex vesicar'la inflated sedge G N Cicuta buibifera bulb - bearing water hemlock H N Cicuta maculata var. maculata spotted water hemlock H N Cirsium arvense Canada thistle H I SN,PS Comandra umbellate lbastard toadflax H N Convolvulus arvensis Ifield bindweed H I PS Cornus racemosa gray dogwood D N Corylus americana American hazelnut D N Cyperus schweinitzli Schweinitz's nut sedge G N Dalea purpurea var. purpurea purple prairie clover H N Desmodlum canadense Canada tick trefoil H N Desmodium glutinosum pointed - leaved ticktrefoil H N Dianthus armeria subs . armeria Deptford pink H I Echinocystis lobata wild cucumber H N Elymus virginlcus var. vir inicus Virginia wild rye G N Equisetum arvense field horsetail H N Eutrochium maculatum spotted Joe pye weed H N Fraainus pennsylvanica green ash D N Galium aparine cleavers H N Geum canadense white avers H N Geum triflorum prairiesmoke H N Glechom a hederacea creeping charlie H I Glyceria grandis var. grandis tall manna grass G N Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra ox -eye H N Hesperostipa spartea porcupine grass G N Ilex verticillata var. verticillata winterberry D N Juniperus virginiana var. virginiana eastern red cedar E N Lactuca canadensis Canada wild lettuce H N Laportea canadensis woodnettle H N Leersia oryzoides rice cut grass G N Lespedeza capitata round- headed bush clover H N Lilium michiganense Michigan lily H N Liparis liiiifolia lily-leaved two blade H N Lobelia ardinalis var. cardinalis cardinal flower H N Lycopus americanus at- leaved bugleweed H N Lysimachia terrestris yellow loosestrife H N Maianthemum canadense Canada mayflower H N Melilotus officinalis yellow sweet clover H I Menispermum canadense Canada moonseed C N Mimulus ringers var. ringens blue monkey flower H N Monarda fistulosa var. fistulosa wild bergamot H N Onocleasensibilis sensitive fern H N Osmorhiza claytonii Clayton's sweet cicely H N Osmunda claytoniana interrupted fern H N Ostrya virginiana ironwood D N Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper C N Parthenocissus vitacea woodbine C N Penthorum sedoides ditch stonecrop H N Persicaria amphibia watersmartweed F,H N Persicaria sagittata arrow - leaved tearthumb H N Phalaris arundinacea reed canary grass G I Phleum pretense subs p. praterse timothy G I Pilea pumila dwarf clearweed H N Platanthera psycodes small purple fringed orchid H N Polygala polygama var. obtusata racemed milkwort H N Potentilla simplex oldfield cinquefoil H N Prunus serotma black cherry D N Quercus macrocarpa buroak D N Quercus rubra northern red oak D N Ratibida columnifera 1prairie coneflower H N Rhamnus cathartics Icommon buckthorn D I RN Rhus glabra smooth sumac D I N Ribes americanum wild black currant D N Rubus idaeus var. strigosus red raspberry D N Rubus occidentalis black raspberry D N Rubus uoiformis bristle-berry D N Rudbeckia hirta var. pulcherrima black-eyed susan H N Rudbeckia lacinlata var. ladniata tall coneflower H N Rumex britannica great water dock H N Rumex crispus curly dock H I Sagittaria latifolia broad - leaved arrowhead H N Salix interior sandbar willow D N Sambucus canadensis var. canadensis common elder D N Sambucus racemosa var. pubens red - berried elder D N ' Scirpus pedicellatus stalked bulrush G N Scrophularia lanceolate lance - leaved figwort H N Solidago canadensis var. canadensis Canada goldenrod H N Solidago gigantea giant goldenrod H N S artina pectinata prairie cordgrass G N 5 iraea alba white meadowsweet D N Symphyatrichum ericoides heath aster H N Thalictrum dasycarpum tall meadow -rue H N Thelypteris palustris var. pubescens northern marsh fern H N Tilia americana basswood D N Toxicodendron radicans subsp. negundo common poison ivy D, C N SN Tradescantla ohiensis Ohio spiderwort H N Tra o 0 on dubius yellowgoat's beard H I Ulmus americana American elm D N Urtica dioica subsp. gracilis stinging nettle H I Verbascum thapsus common mullein H I Verbena hastata blue vervain H N Vernonia fasciculata bunched ironweed H N Veronicastrum virginicum Culver's root H N Vitis riparia wild grape C N Zanthoxylum americanum prickly ash D N 6uteo lineotus Red - shouldered hawk Sc