8.0. PRSR 09-10-1997 - Laserfiche WebLink

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IV TYPES OF PARKS, TRAILS, AND OPEN SPACES • A. TYPES OF PARKS The following types of parks are found in many county park systems: 1. General Purpose Parks These parks are used for a variety of activities such as picnics, play, hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, etc. They may include picnic tables, picnic shelters, playground equipment for children, hiking trails, camping sites, a fishing dock, a swimming beach, etc. These parks are normally developed gradually over a long period of time. 2. Parks to Preserve Natural Environments These parks are primarily nature oriented; they protect significant natural resources, wildlife habitat, etc. The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and the Sand Dunes State Forest presently serve in this function. However, if opportunities are presented, it might be reasonable for Sherburne County to acquire areas of this type. B. TYPES OF TRAILS The most common types of multi-use trails are: 1. Paved Shoulders Paved shoulders on roadways are not "trails" in a technical sense; they are included in this plan because they may serve the same function as trails, and they serve many of the same users. The use of paved shoulders is governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota. A width of eight feet is generally considered adequate for walking, jogging, biking, roller blading, and similar uses. The width of paved shoulders will be determined by the Minnesota Department of Transportation traffic volumes, need, and available funds. 2. Off-Road Trails Off-road trails run approximately parallel to adjacent roadways, and are separated from the roadways by strips of land or physical structures. They usually have a bituminous surface and a minimum width of ten feet for two-way traffic. They are generally located within the roadway right-of-way. • SHERBURNE COUNTY PARKS, TRAILS & OPEN SPACE PLAN 7