6.2 at 1 Camp Cozy Park_NRMP_2023

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12 Friends of the Mississippi River Camp Cozy Park NRMP Camp Cozy Park presents a unique opportunity to preserve remnant prairies of which only 0.1% remains from the original prairie extent at the time of European colonization. Prairie plant communities, because of their rarity and unique plant structure composition, provide vital habitat for many declining species. As an example, grassland bird species show the greatest rate of decline of any group in North America. Diverse prairies with blooms throughout the year also provide a consistent source of nectar and pollen for the federally endangered rusty-patch bumblebee among other important pollinators. Given Camp Cozy’s unique position on the landscape – on the Elk River and located within the Metro Conservation Corridors – restoration and protection of this property would have a large impact on migrating species by providing high-quality habitat. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) recommends stabilizing and increasing SGCN populations in oak savanna and prairie areas by managing invasive species, using prescribed fire and other practices to maintain savanna and prairie, to encourage restoration efforts, to manage grasslands adjacent to native prairie to enhance habitat, and to provide technical assistance and protection opportunities to interested individuals and organizations. Based on information derived from public land surveys of Minnesota in the late 19th century, the pre-settlement vegetation for this site was largely “oak openings and barrens.” In its current state, the site has been greatly altered by the expansion of forest as a result of fire suppression and non-native woody species. Restoring prairie and other native plant communities within the park will be one of the top priorities of this management plan. The purposes of this management plan are to: • Document the existing ecological conditions within the park • Identify and recommend best management practices to maximize habitat values and retain and improve water quality and increase plant community diversity • Identify uses of the park that are compatible with natural resources goals and provide unique recreational opportunities to the community Specific ecological and cultural goals for this property are to: • Maximize coverage and diversity of native plant species and minimize non-native, invasive species • Provide connectivity with other natural areas in the landscape and along the river corridor • Maintain and manage the property for water quality through thoughtful trail planning and by remaining responsive to the effects of floodwaters • Create a model for responsible public land stewardship • Utilize this property to guide surface water management activities on adjacent land in a manner that protects and fosters natural community establishment • Utilize this property to enhance and expand the ecological functions of the area