3.8. SR 06-09-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: MEMORANDUM Mayor and City Council Stephen Rohlf June 9, 2003 DNR Forestry ReLeaf Grant Program Item #3.8. City staff attended a meeting at the Sherburne County Government Center on June 5th, with representatives of Livonia and Big Lake Townships as well as county staff to discuss grant funds that are available through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Specifically, using the grant monies to conduct an inventory of woodland areas, do an assessment of oak wilt, develop a plan and implement mitigative measures to control oak wilt. Although not represented at the meeting, Baldwin Township is also interested in participating in a joint effort. The grant, which for up to $15,000, requires a 50/50 match. The majority of the money will be spent on vibratory plowing on specific sites to control oak wilt. The property owners will pay half the cost of the plowing, which will cover the 50% match for that work. By working jointly with surrounding jurisdictions, the actual cash match the city will need is estimated at $500 over a two year period. This money would be spent on the inventory, assessment and plan. In kind services, e.g. staff and tree board time, will provide the rest of the match for this work. Tim Edgeton, Sherburne County Forester, has offered to coordinate the program. Staff sees this grant as an opportunity to identify the city's wooded resources and a logical step in developing a tree management plan. Another logical future step is developing a tree ordinance. Other than spending $500 cash and in-kind services time, staff sees no down side to this grant. The grant will provide money to assist our citizens with oak wilt control, the county is willing to coordinate the program and united with other communities our efforts will go a lot further. Staff recommends the City of Elk River apply for a $15,000 DNR Forestry Releaf Grant and devote $500 toward matching funds.