5. SR 04-25-1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Project Descri lion: Goal: Acquire, from the J.L. Shiely Company, 30 acres of dry subtype oak forest identified as naturally significant by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources through the Minnesota County Biological Survey. The property is a unique landform and would be a valuable asset to the Elk River City Park System because of its location as well as its biological, geological and aesthetic qualities. Development of the site would emphasize the following uses: Environmental Education Outdoor Recreation Through Two Trail Systems Major East-West Off Road Asphalt Trail Corridor (4 Season Usage) (Watching Wildlife, Hiking, Biking, Running, Skiing, Iniine Skating) Grass Trail System (4 Season Usage) (Watching Wildlife, Hiking, Running, Skiing) Community Quiet Space Location Dualities: West Side Adjacent to approximately 210 acres of parkland called the Woodland Trails City Park. (Woodland Trails City Park is within an eighth of a mile of the Elk River Sand Dunes presently owned by the St. Anthony Sportsman Club. The Elk River Sand Dunes is a naturally significant Oak Savanna which the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has been interested in acquiring as a Scientific and Natural Area.) Adjacent to 100 acre golf course called the Elk River Country Club Golf Course. • South Side Adjacent to a developed housing area of 66 lots. North Slde Adjacent to approximately 300 Acres of Gravel Mine which will open in 1995. East Slde Adjacent to a 50 Acre undeveloped parcel of property. Biological ~ualltles: The entire acquisition site consists of a dry subtype oak forest. Most of this oak forest type, in Sherburne county, has been eliminated through various land development activities. If this site acquisition process is successful, the largest continuous expanse of remaining dry subtype oak forest in Sherburne County will be preserved. Geological Qualities: The acquisition site has geological significance because it is part of an end moraine. The site has many ridges and valleys of geological significance. Preservation of the geological qualities of the region are very significant because most of the remaining portions of the moraine are presently being mined or will be mined in the very near future. Aesthetic Qualities: The acquisition site consists of rolling wooded hills at elevations ranging from 1000 to 1102 feet, one of the highest points in Sherburne county. If the site is acquired and added to the Woodland Trails Park system the total relief would exceed 170 feet. Community Dynamics: Elk River is located in the quickest growing region in the state of Minnesota. The present population of Elk River is 13,000 with an estimated maximum population of 40,000. . Development in Elk River is quickly changing the landscape of our community.