11-06-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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PROGRAMS Existing Program' Wargo Nature Center is home base for Anoka County Parks and Recreation program staff. Programs are offered both at Wargo Nature Center and other locations throughout Anoka County's parks system. Current program offerings focus on outdoor recreation, environmental education, outreach, cultural heritage, and special events (see Figure 3.4 on page 16). The outreach program, where Anoka County staff conduct environmental education in area schools, is one of the most successful programs. In total, there are approximately 40,000 annual program and event participants. This is an impressive number, given the County's relatively small programming staff. Many of programs and events are the result of partnerships with area organizations, including: • Local schools • Connexus Energy • School Forest Partnership Program • YMCA Camp Heritage • Anoka County Libraries • Local park and recreation departments • Volunteers Programs are developed by staff based on current recreation trends, equipment availability, and the interests of staff and visitors. Staff capacity, budget, and equipment needs are all considered during the program development process. Participant feedback is collected via survey monkey and informal oral feedback. Paper surveys distributed to summer camp parents is one of the more successful mechanisms currently used. Programs are monitored and adapted based on numbers of participants and participant feedback. While programs are offered for all age groups, the County's most successful programs are focused on preschool and school age children. Wargo Nature Center Master Plan - March 2015 Summary of the Online Survey Results Conducted spring of 2014 with 61 responses » » » Why people visit Wargo: • Trails • Bird watching • Special events • Family program/activities Why people don't visit Wargo: • Unaware of Wargo or programs • Location not convenient What people like most about Wargo: • Nature center building • Natural character • Birding • George Watch Lake • Programs • Trails Suggested Improvements: • Observation dock at lake • Expand hours (weekends and evenings) • More trails/connectivity • Cross country ski rental • Enhanced nature play area • Entry experience and character Most visitors learn about Wargo and Programs through the Anoka County Parks website People list email as their preferred communication method to learn about Wargo Chapter 3: Existing Conditions & Needs 15