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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01.10.18 meeting packetANL6Y O F6VE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV Andover Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Agenda January 10, 2018 Andover City Hall Conference Room A&B 6:00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Resident Forum 3. Approval of Minutes: September 13, 2017 Regular Meeting 4. Update on Big Rivers grant with Great River Greening 5. Dalske Woodlands boardwalk/bridge update 6. Overview of Nature Preserves program with QCTV 7. Discussion of Commissioners' field observations of Nature Preserves 8. Discuss future of Open Space Advisory Commission (OSAC) 9. Other Business a. Next meeting? 10. Adjournment NOVE D 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes — September 13, 2017 Regular Meeting DATE: January 10, 2018 INTRODUCTION The Open Space Advisory Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the September 13, 2017 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, Kameron Kytonen Attachment September 13, 2017 meeting minutes REGULAR ANDOVER OPEN SPA CE AD VISORYCOMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 13, 2017 MINUTES The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by Chairperson Gretchen Sabel at 6:55 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. The Commission and staff met prior to the regular meeting to walk one of the preserves before convening at City Hall. Commissioners present: Rebecca Dahlberg, Joy Faherty, Aaron Jarson, Kim Kovich (arrived at 6:59 p.m.), and Jim Olson Commissioners absent: Anna Dirkswager Also present: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician RESIDENT FORUM No one wished to address the Commission. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — July 12, 2017 Motion by Commissioner Dahlberg, Second by Commissioner Faherty, to approve the minutes of July 12, 2017. Motion passed 4-0 (Janson present). UPDATE ON BIG RIVERS GRANT WITH GREAT RIVER GREENING Mr. Kytonen stated that the original grant was in the amount of $117,000 and the Commission currently has approximately $40,000 left that needs to be spent by June 30, 2018. He stated that he is going to meet with staff from Great River Greening to develop a plan to spend the remaining funds before the deadline. He stated that he was open to ideas from the Commission as to how to spend the remaining funds. He noted that the funds cannot be transferred to other preserves and must be spent in Martins Meadows. Chairperson Sabel asked what is next on the management plan. Mr. Kytonen stated that they are using a forestry mower to thin the prickly ash, which they hope will open a seed bank for the species they hope will come in. He noted that most likely they will do over seeding and planting with some of the remaining funds. Commissioner Kovich arrived at 6:59 p.m. Mr. Kytonen stated that native trees and woodland forbs would most likely be planted and would absorb a lot of the remaining funds. He stated that initially they were going to attempt to use volunteers for plantings but the funds need to be spent and therefore a contractor may be used. He noted that a good plan will be developed when he meets with Great River Greening staff. Commissioner Olson noted that they used to work with 4-H students to plant trees and shrubs and perhaps that would be an opportunity for volunteers. Commissioner Faherty asked when plantings wodld occur. Mr. Kytonen replied that the planting and seeding combination would be done in the spring. He stated that once he meets with staff Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes — September 13, 2017 Page 2 from Great River Greening he would provide the Commission with the draft schedule and budget. He stated that there is another potential grant opportunity for Maple View Preserve and stated that the budgeted amount for Maple View proposed was $102,000. He stated that there is still one more meeting before that grant would be known for sure. He noted that if the grant receives final approval, the City would have three years to use the grant funds within that preserve. Chairperson Sabel provided additional details on the process the grant would take through the legislature. She noted that there has been talk of thinning the timber stand in North Woods and asked if there is any progress with that. Mr. Kytonen noted that funds would be needed to complete that activity. Commissioner Kovich stated that the only capital funds the Commission requested is for the wetland crossing at Dalske Woodlands. Mr. Kytonen stated that perhaps he could research further to see if the potential grant funds for Maple View could be transferred to the other preserves as well. He noted that there would be a match requirement of ten percent for the grant opportunity. He stated that the City would have the available matching funds. DISCUSSION OF DOING SPOTS IN FIELD AT OUR PRESERVES WITH QCTV Chairperson Sabel stated that she spoke with Katherine Lenaberg at QCTV who stated that QCTV is excited to do this and would send two people into the field to two sites, so a total of four staff people. She stated that the Commission needs to organize who from the Commission would meet QCTV staff at each site. She stated that would be tentatively scheduled for September 28th and she would be willing to attend along with other Commissioners. Commissioner Olson stated that QCTV did some promos a few years ago and they are very organized and have questions ready to ask to help lead the discussion. He stated that he would Re more information, such as what time, how long it would last, how long the segment would be, and who determines the content. Chairperson Sabel stated that. she works a lot with QCTV and although the Commission will control the content, QCTV staff will provide input as well to help. Commissioner Faherty stated that it would be helpful to develop a list of questions that could be discussed for each site as the answers would vary for each site. Chairperson Sabel agreed and noted that the history of the preserves could be reviewed. Commissioner Kovich noted that the improvements that have been done could be discussed. Chairperson Sabel noted that tips could also be given, such as access for Dalske Woodlands and the hill at Martins Meadows. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes —September 13, 2017 Page 3 Commissioner Kovich stated that he would love to participate but would be working. Commissioner Jarson stated that he would also be working. Commissioner Dahlberg stated that she would be available but is concerned with her lack of knowledge. She stated that she would have no problem participating if there is a script to assist. Commissioner Faherty stated that she would assist with developing the questions/script but did not want to be on camera. Mr. Kytonen stated that he could also participate. Commissioner Olson stated that he may be available and could follow up. Mr. Kytonen stated that Commissioner Dirkswager would also be interested in attending. Commissioner Dahlberg stated that she would like to team up with Chairperson Sabel to ensure that they would have the sufficient knowledge. Commissioner Kovich stated that he could do an afternoon at 3:00 p.m. Chairperson Sabel stated that she would follow up with QCTV staff. It was confirmed that Commissioner Kovich could participate at 3:00 p.m. or later, Commissioner Olson can tentatively participate, Chairperson Sabel can participate, Commissioner Dahlberg can participate, and Commissioner Dirkswager can tentatively participate. The preserves were assigned as follows: Commissioner Dahlberg for Dalske Woodlands, Commissioner Kovich for Martin's Meadows, Commissioner Dirkswager for North Woods, and Commissioner Olson for Maple View. It was noted that Chairperson Sabel and Mr. Kytonen would split between the teams. Chairperson Sabel stated that she would work with QCTV staff to determine the timing for each preserve. She confirmed that the list of questions would include the history of the site and previous owners. She stated that Commissioners can also highlight aspects of the specific preserve and perhaps the kiosk locations. Mr. Kytonen noted that Commissioners can also mention management activities, current and future, as well as funding sources. He stated that site features and long-term goals could be mentioned as well. Chairperson Sabel stated that she would advise the Commission once she receives a response from QCTV. She noted that if it rains on the 28h, perhaps the next date would be the following Thursday. Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes —September 13, 2017 Page 4 KIOSK SIGNAGE UPDATE Commissioner Faherty stated that she did not find much history for Dalske, so she went to the library to find previous owners and was able to find a lot more information. She stated that she was unable to find the previous owner names for Maple View and therefore used the history she received from City staff and the ecological assessment. She stated that she had difficulty highlighting the site features. Mr. Kytonen suggested adding a tree as currently there are three shrubs listed. He advised of a semi -rare tree that is found in the preserve that could be included. The Commission also reviewed the site features for Maple View and suggested the addition of a tree species. The Commission thanked Commissioner Faherty for her contribution. The Commission provided input on the site features and poison ivy excerpts that will be posted in the kiosk. It was noted that any additional comments should be sent to Commissioner Faherty. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Kytonen read aloud comments he received from Commissioner Dirkswager via email. The Commission discussed the possible meeting schedule and determined the date for the next meeting. a. Next Meeting. January 10, 2018 Noted. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Chairperson Sabel, Second by Commissioner Kovich, to adjourn the meeting at 7:58 p.m. Motion passed 6-0. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen Natural Resources Technician Drafted by: Amanda Staple, Recording Secretary NO DVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 . (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Update on Big Rivers Grant with Great River Greening DATE: January 10, 2018 REQUEST The City has been partnering with Great River Greening (GRG) on a Big Rivers grant under the Lessard -Sams Outdoor Heritage Fund to knock back invasive species and enhance the overall quality of the preserve. To date, buckthorn control, Timber Stand Improvement (TSI) and prairie restoration activities have occurred under this grant. The grant expires in June of 2018. The Natural Resources Technician will give the Commission an update on the current status of this grant and gather ideas on how the remaining funds should be used. An update will also be given on another potential grant opportunity with GRG under the Big Rivers program for enhancement of habitat in Maple View Preserve. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen ANDOVEA, T Y O F 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 . WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Dalske Woodlands Boardwalk bridge Update DATE: January 10, 2018 INRODUCTION Dalske Woodlands Preserve is currently separated by a wetland area that encompasses a county ditch. This prevents users from being able to safely cross into the upland area, which is situated on the southern half. DISCUSSION The OSAC has developed a priority list for the four Nature Preserves, which includes a compilation of various management activities that hope to be accomplished on the sites. The highest priority is to have a crossing, such as a boardwalk or bridge, to connect the north and south portions of Dalske Woodlands. The Natural Resources Technician has been researching potential grant opportunities and has found a potential program worth seeking -the DNR Federal Recreational Trail Program. The thought is to apply for this grant with the hopes of helping to fund a crossing at Dalske Woodlands. The City received authorization to proceed with applying for the grant at the December 19, 2017 City Council meeting. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is requested to discuss this potential grant opportunity with staff. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen Attachments Federal Recreational Trail Program overview Federal recreational trail program - Grants: Minnesota DNR Pagel of 3 Federal Recreational Trait Program Program purpose: To encourage the maintenance and development of motorized, non -motorized, and diversified trails by providing funding assistance. Eligible projects: Motorized and non -motorized trail projects; maintenance/ restoration of existing recreational trails; development/ rehabilitation of recreational trail linkages, including trail side and trail head facilities; environmental awareness and safety education programs relating to the use of recreational trails; and redesign/ relocation of trails to benefit/minimize the impact to the natural environment. Ineligible activities: Condemnation, trail construction in federally designated wilderness areas, and facilitating motorized trail use on trails predominantly used by non motorized users prior to May 1, 1991. Who may apply: All projects must be sponsored by a unit of government, preferably in cooperation with a local trail organization. Priorities: The Minnesota Recreational Trail Users Association annually prioritizes funding categories prior to the solicitation process. Projects that involve urban youth corps workers such as the Conservation Corps Minnesota or will be given special consideration. (Download the Conservation Corps Minnesota Fact Sheet rpul for more information.) Level of assistance: A 25% cash or in-kind match for eligible elements of the project proposal is required. Costs must be incurred and paid for before reimbursement. Neither this funding source nor the cash match may be used to meet existing payroll; only contract services, materials and supplies are reimbursable. Federal funds can in some cases be used as match for this program. httn•//vjww dnr stnte mn_ns/arnnt-/recreation/trail-, federal.html 1/2/2018 C I T Y O F ND OVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Overview of Nature Preserves program with QCTV DATE: January 10, 2018 INTRODUCTION The OSAC and QCTV worked together to coordinate a program on the network featuring the four Nature Preserves. The roles and format were discussed at the September 2017 meeting. DISCUSSION In October 2017, QCTV came out on two different occasions and took footage of the four preserves while asking questions of the OSAC members. The final, half-hour long product has been airing on QCTV and helps showcase the significant features of the preserves and what they have to offer for users. ACTION REQUESTED No action required. Respectfully submitted, Kameron Kytonen C I T Y O F ND OVE: 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discussion of Commissioners' Field Observations of Nature Preserves DATE: January 10, 2018 REQUEST The Commissioners are welcome to discuss any significant findings, experiences, observations, etc. while visiting any of the four preserves over the past year. . Respectfully submitted, �VLjl� Kameron Kytonen NOVE D 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. • ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 • (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 • WWW.ANDOVERMN.GOV TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Kameron Kytonen, Natural Resources Technician SUBJECT: Discussion Future of Open Space Advisory Commission (OSAC) DATE: January 10, 2018 REQUEST Since its inception in 2006, the OSAC has been a key player in finding land to purchase, visiting potential properties to buy, rating potential properties, meeting with landowners, advising the City Council, working with City staff, etc. Now that the funds to buy land have been used up and the focus has switched to management, it's a good time to look at future goals and objectives of the commission and the future of the four Nature Preserves. Respectfully submitted, Kameron 6Kytonen