9.2.A. PRSR 12 08 2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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EIkRi~er Recreation 7636351155 11!24/04 12:57P P.005 November 23, 2004 __... ... ERNSC William Macrtz Parks and Recreation Director 1104 Irons Park Drive $llc River, MN 55330 Dear Bill, The Ells River Nordic Ski Ciub would like to offer this letter of support for the acquisition of the additional land purchaec adjoining Top-of-the-World Pack in Ells River. As you know, this property is very diverse in both topography and vegetation. In coopcratiou with the previous and current owner, this arcs has already been partially developed for recreation. Twelve years ago, we assisted the local Biathlon group in developing which was at the time one of only two Biathlon ranges in the State. Since that time, we have added 2.9 IGlomctcrs of ski and hiking trail. These trails are attached to those in Woodland Trails, Top-of-the-World, and the Great Northern Trail to foxm across-country ski trial network that is used by skiers from all over Minnesota and occasionally from Wisconsin, Iowa and North Dakota. '~ The ski trails and Biadilon range were carefully sited and constructed to fit into the natural features of the property. The Biathlon range uses a lead collection system to prevent lead contamination of the soil behind the targCts. The trails were planned at a very low density to give quality to the trail using experience and to minimize the impact to the properties value as a wildlife corridor and natural area. In closing, this property will be great addition to the park land we already have in the area and as stewards of the property akeady, we support this effort to acquire thin ~ property to preserve it £or current and £uturc residents of the area. We also pledge our continued volunteer support to continue to preserve and enhance this property in the future. S,ir<cei~l~~ Aavid .A.nderso Elk River Nordic Ski Club 14845 County Road 30 Elk River, MN 55330