11-07-2019 Parks_Rec Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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STAFF REPORT TO: Parks & Recreation Commission FROM: Bryce Shearen, Parks & Recreation Community Services Manager DATE: November 7, 2019 RE: Thunder Bay/Westwinds Linear Park Update BACKGROUND Staff met with Xcel and a representative from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife (USFWS) on Friday, October 11, to discuss the next steps for the priority site between Arcade and Greenbrier that was clear-cut. The plan for this area is to plant a pollinator seed mix this winter over the snow. The site was sprayed on October 7 with glyphosate and has been mowed and tilled in preparation for winter seed application. USFWS will order the pollinator seed mix and Xcel will pay up to $2000.00 of that cost. The goal of the seed application will be to sow the seed on snow and have it covered by new snow soon after sowing. The seed will be hand broadcast with a team of volunteers from Xcel, USFWS, and the City. Signs have been put up along the trail (see attached image) for public communication. The signage was designed by Xcel and sent to USFWS and the City for review and revisions. Staff had the signs made and installed. City maintenance staff will mow the site as directed by USFWS for ongoing maintenance. The timing of mowing will depend on the height of vegetation and will likely be two to three times per year. Staff will be working with Xcel and USFWS to host a plug planting event next spring to supplement the seeding. A small plot to the west (near the playground) may be added to this effort. Xcel will likely contribute to the funding of the plug planting efforts. This will be a fantastic project and partnership with Xcel and USFWS, with an interesting seeding application in a highly visible area in the community. ATTACHMENTS • Pictures • Seed Mix