07/28/1999 Agenda & Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• private lands around the pond should be discouraged so as not to delay geese during migration. 2 . Upland Nest Cover Plantings .47Upland nesting cover would be further enhanced if some areas of dense, native grass cover were established in close proximity to the pond. One potentially suitable .area would be the the large hills at the south end of Silver View Park ( see Figure 9) . Dense nesting cover would also act to minimize erosion on these steep slopes . Seeding of such material is not proposed in the immediate area of the park' s amphitheater, since it would be incompatible with heavy human use . Also, if such seeding were done around the in place landscape plantings, mulching around the bases of trees will be necessary to prevent grasses from competing with the trees for moisture . Again, any areas seeded in this manner should be mowed every 4 to 5 years to minimize woody competition. Prescribed burning is normally the preferred method for periodically rejuvenating such stands ; however, this method may not be compatible in the area of the pond. • 3 . Additional Nest Structures There is presently one wood duck nesting structure on Silver View Pond near the junction of the three arms . At least two additional structures could be reasonably added, preferably one near the south end of the south arm and another at the east end of the east arm. If possible the existing structure should be relocated to the west end of the west arm . In this manner, the nesting structures will be placed to be as far apart as possible , providing the hen wood ducks with ample space to nest and raise broods without interacting with each other . Wood duck nest structures should be placed in sheltered areas to blend in with existing trees . Other types of nesting structures , such as purple martin and/or bluebird houses , might also be considered to maximize the interpretive value of the pond area. 4 . Monitor Canada Goose Use and Prevent Nesting Canada goose use in the pond area is already high and is likely to increase in the future . In order to reduce the likelihood of future goose problems , goose use should be monitored to determine if deterrence or control measures should be undertaken. Of particular importance is the need • to prevent goose nesting on the pond, since any goslings produced will return to the same location to nest themselves , thus aggravating any problems that may arise . Should geese begin nesting , the Minnesota DNR Area Wildlife Manager should be consulted on deterrence methods . 92