8.0. PRSR 07-08-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ESSAY QUESTIONS 1. Describe how the nominee's advocacy for parks and recreation has contributed to the NRPA mission to advance parks,recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people. (250 word maximum) For over 30 years,Dave Anderson has actively worked to improve Elk River's parks and recreation program. He has served as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner since 1987,with 17 years as the commission chair. Under his leadership and advocacy, Elk River's park system has grown from a handful of parks covering less than 50 acres to a comprehensive and diverse system comprised of 44 parks, over 1,000 acres of parkland, and 44 miles of paved trails. His dedication and enthusiasm has motivated elected officials and city staff to acquire and develop playfields and nature preserves for current and future generations. His vision and devotion has inspired hundreds of volunteers to commit thousands of hours to maintaining parks. Dave played a critical role in the City of Elk River acquiring the Houlton Farm property, a 336-acre parcel of land with more than 3 miles of river frontage on the Elk and Mississippi rivers, in the fall of 2014. He testified on Elk River's behalf before the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council,a panel established by the Minnesota legislature to provide recommendations regarding the acquisition, restoration, and protection of natural habitat, helping secure a $3.1 million grant to purchase the pristine property located just two blocks from downtown Elk River. Representing the culmination of over two decades of work between the city and multiple local and state agencies,the Houlton farm property has become Elk River's crown jewel,as the first-ever municipal conservation area in the State of Minnesota. .S .`' 441 a i x., LAKE ORONO *et gni ro :s HOULTON FARM PROPERTY`'- " 1 . MISSISSIPPI RIVER Robert M.Artz Citizen Advocacy Award Application 2015 I Elk River Parks and Recreation