11-06-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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6. Eradicate the grapevines that are killing the trees. Vines are killing more trees and bushes than bugs or campers. It's their weight and sun blocking that do it. Some vines have been growing for a long time and have 6 inch diameter bases. a. Response: The County does not typically address grapevines as they are not considered an invasive species and are native to the state. While they may add to the decline of some trees, they are also a valuable food source for birds and other animals in the park. The only vine the County currently actively seeks out and destroys is Oriental Bittersweet, which is on the MN Department of Agriculture's 'Eradication' list. 7. Address the buckthorn issue. a. Response: Buckthorn is a very large problem throughout the park system. Unfortunately, there is not enough time, materials or staff to address this completely, but in general, the County's focus is on eliminating new infestations so that area's not currently over -run with buckthorn can be managed and infested area's can be contained. As time and funding allows, the County does work to remove it in infested areas. 8. Add severe weather shelters. a. Response: The County currently utilizes the existing campground restroom for severe weather shelters and when necessary, the visitor center building. The County follows State requirements for severe weather shelters for campgrounds. Relating to Wargo Nature Center: 1. Improve Wargo's canoe/kayak entrance so it is more accessible and inviting. It's hard to get in and out of canoe/kayak's for able bodied people. a. Response: This master plan amendment proposes to add two accessible canoe/kayak launches within the park and the County will consider adding these at additional locations throughout the system. 2. Get a pontoon for programming classes out on the water — birding, fishing, seniors, etc. a. Response: The County is reviewing funding options and staffing levels to be able to provide this type of programming. 3. Wargo is understaffed on weekends a. Response: The County is reviewing options to fund additional staff on weekends. 4. Expand the boardwalks at Wargo a. Response: Expanding the boardwalks at Wargo Nature Center is included in this master plan amendment. Relating to trails: 1. Designated bike lanes or additional trails are needed along roads that connect to trails. At minimum, pave the shoulders so bikers can use them. a. Response: This item relates more to residential and county roads. This information was shared with the local cities and the County Highway Department. 2. Need more residential trail connections to parks. a. Response: This information was shared with the local cities. 3. More drinking water along trails a. Response: While the County understands the convenience of having drinking water/fountains available along the trails, it is not economically feasible. The County