Parks & Natural Resources Commission

Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Agenda July 13, 2021 | 7 p.m. Ash North/South Conference Rooms City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road The Parks and Natural Resources Commission meeting is taking place virtually and at Woodbury City Hall in the Ash North and South Conference Rooms. Members of the public may attend the meeting in-person and may also join the meeting using a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device. Public comments will be accepted during the meeting by using the link to the virtual meeting to join the meeting and then submit your questions via the online Q&A feature within the meeting. Highcroft Park Tour 6:00 1. Highcroft Park Tour – Directions 6:45 2. Travel to City Hall * Please note that all agenda times are estimates. 7:00* 1. Call to Order 7:05 2. Open Forum 7:10 3. Approval of the Minutes – June 1, 2021 7:15 4. Sustainability Initiative - Memorandum No. 21 – 16 Jennifer McLoughlin, Sustainability Specialist 7:25 5. Phase II Development Update – Memorandum No. 21 – 17 Eric Searles, Senior Planner 7:55 6. Park Communication Boards – Memorandum No. 21 – 18 Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager 8:00 7. Discussion Items – (Identify/Discuss any Recent Changes) A. Current Projects • Briarcroft Park • Central Park • Fair Haven Park • Highcroft Park • Summerlin Park • Valley Creek Park 8:15 8. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 21 - 19 8:20 9. Council Report – Councilmember Wilson 8:25 10. Announcements/Miscellaneous 8:30 11. Adjourn If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Belinda Reed at 651-714-3584 by Monday, July 12, 2021. Thank you. The City of Woodbury is subject to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by public entities. The City is committed to full implementation of the Act to our services, programs, and activities. Information regarding the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the City Administrator's office at 651-714-3500. Auxiliary aids for disabled persons are available upon request at least 72 hours in advance of an event. Please call the ADA Coordinator, at 651-714-3500 (TDD 651-714-3568) to make arrangements.  Woodbury Drive Bailey Road N W E Street Parking S Trailhead PNRC Highcroft Park Tour Tuesday, July 13, 2021 6-6:45 p.m. Driving Directions from City Hall to Highcroft Park • Valley Creek Road east to Woodbury Drive (County Rd. 19). Bailey Lake • Turn right (west) on Arrowwood Trail. • Third right (north) on Iron Horse Road. (Street Parking) (gather at trailhead) • Note: Highcroft Development is situated between Bailey Road to the north and Dale Road to the south on the west side of Woodbury Drive. Electrical Overhead Highlines City Parkland  City of Woodbury Woodbury City Hall 8301 Valley Creek Road Woodbury, MN 55125 651-714-3583 Minutes of Parks and Natural Resources Commission Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 1, 2021 Commission Members Present: Karin Freymann, Arin Kurttila (Co-chair), Bruce Montgomery, Deborah Musser, Rachel Nelson, Benjamin Sayers Commission Member(s) Absent: None Commission Member Virtual: Greta Bjerkness (Chair), Timothy Brewington, II, Isaac Eikenberry, Councilmember Present: Kimberly Wilson Staff Present: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director Belinda Reed, Administrative Assistant Reed Smidt, Recreation Manager Kristin Seaman, Environmental Resource Specialist Staff Virtual: Jodi Sauro, Parks and Recreation Coordinator Robert James, Information & Communications Technology Director Ben Strobach, IT Manager Call to Order Chair Bjerkness called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Open Forum None Action Items A. May 4, 2021, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Chair Bjerkness asked for the approval of the Minutes of the May 4, 2021, meeting of the Parks and Natural Resources Commission. Motion: Moved by Commissioner Montgomery, seconded by Commissioner Musser, to approve the May 4, 2021, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes. Vote: In favor All In-person and/or Virtual Against None Absent None B. NPDES Annual Report – Memorandum No. 21 - 13 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 1, 2021 Page 2 Ms. Okada introduced Environmental Resource Specialist, Kristin Seaman, noting that Kristin and her teammates, as part of the Engineering Department’s City Environmental Division, work closely with the Parks and Recreation staff by providing input on new park development, existing parkland and open space, using an environmental and stormwater lens. Ms. Seaman provided an overview of the city’s stormwater, water quality and water initiative and efficiency programs, the NPDES Phase II Permit, following the “One Water Update” PowerPoint, which was included in the Commission’s meeting packet. NPDES Annual Report Ms. Seaman noted that one of the responsibilities of staff is to track and insure that the city is meeting all of the requirements for the stormwater permit. The city is permitted through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The main component of the permit is the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). Ms. Seaman reviewed the 2020 Environmental Division’s accomplishments and tasks including highlighting a number of education efforts the city participates in through the East Metro Water Resources Education Program (EMWREP), including virtual pollinator gardening workshops. The city is also a Watershed Partner and involved in the Adopt-a-Drain program, www.adopt-a-drain.org and Minnesota Water Stewards. The city also partners with South Washington County Watershed District (SWWD) to complete inspections of construction sites to insure stormwater design standards meet the city’s requirements up front, and to monitor stormwater runoff for conformance standards. In 2020, staff updated the Stormwater Ordinance, including more specific detail with regard to Karst bedrock layer requirements. Other accomplishments in the prior year included staff training on salt usage for snow and ice removal, completing pond assessments and drafting a Stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP) maintenance plan, which will be presented to the City Council for approval. Ms. Seaman highlighted some of the in-house stormwater maintenance and contracted grant projects including, the Marsh Creek neighborhood creek and a total of ten city ponds, including sites at Ojibway and Carver Lake Park, as well as the addition of a rain garden at the newly constructed parking lot at Carver Lake Park. Ms. Okada noted that this new rain garden will help with decreasing algae bloom in Carver Lake. A discussion took place with regard to regional stormwater treatment with Ms. Seaman noting that the Seasons Park stormwater filter, which was discussed at the July, 2020 PNRC’s meeting, is scheduled to be constructed this year. With regard to vegetation management projects, Ms. Seaman noted that different basins around the city are selected, grouped and then work is contracted out for completion. It was noted that a management plan has been drafted for the open space at Valley Creek Park. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 1, 2021 Page 3 Ms. Seaman noted that staff has been working on playlists with the Telecommunications Commission for the sustainability channel on YouTube, which include topics on how residents can help with the initiatives. Ms. Seaman highlighted the city’s water efficiency incentive programs, including the commercial and association irrigation cost share program, as well as the residential irrigation controller program. The city purchases irrigation controllers in bulk from the distributor and makes them available for purchase by residents at a discount. To date, approximately 2,900 controllers have been purchased. Each household controller is estimated to reduce water usage by 30,000 gallons per year. Ms. Seaman noted that the city has been recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minnesota Department of Health for water conservation programming. A discussion took place with regard to lowering lawn irrigation water usage such as raising mower blades to mow grass at a higher height and seeding with fescue rather than Kentucky bluegrass. C. 2020 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report – Memorandum No. 21 - 14 Ms. Okada noted that the department’s annual report documents the year in review, highlighting key items and statistics for each division within the department. Ms. Okada noted that the Parks and Recreation Department once again in 2020, was voted by Woodbury Magazine’s readers in the Best of Woodbury category “Best Place for Kids’ Activities.” Ms. Okada noted that social media use continues to grow as one source of staying connected with the community residents and that staff is studying area demographics to identify not only whom we are reaching, but also whom we might not be reaching or interacting with. Mr. Smidt noted that the sponsors’ support is not only advertised at the events, but each sponsor is also recognized in the recreation program brochures and on social media as well. Recreation Division - Ms. Okada noted that the Recreation Division team members were utilized this past year at many city locations including: EVGC, HSC, Central Park and Public Safety. In addition, those special events or programs we were able to provide, reached maximum capacity. One program offered: Recess Reimagined, a school day program hybrid of childcare, held in the 90,000-square-foot field house at held, was very well received with over 500 participants. This program was run by Recreation’s full-time professional staff members. Central Park - Ms. Okada noted that planning for the revitalization of Central Park is ongoing. Eagle Valley Golf Course (EVGC) - Eagle Valley Golf Course experienced one huge milestone in 2020, with the most rounds every played since the course opened; almost 40,000 rounds of golf. HealthEast Sports Center (HSC) - The HealthEast Sports Center was shutdown, for a total of 18 weeks, two separate times, with one shutdown occurring during peak season, following Thanksgiving. HSC started the year very strong so staff was able to compensate a little for that lost revenue. Both times HSC reopened after each shutdown, the users came right back with 89 percent of available ice rental hours being utilized, which exceeded 2019, when 82 percent of available ice rental hours were utilized. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 1, 2021 Page 4 The Commission thanked staff noting they appreciated the creativity during the last year and enjoyed reading the report. Chair Bjerkness asked for approval of the 2020 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report – Memorandum No. 21 – 14. Motion: Moved by Commissioner Kurttila, seconded by Commissioner Brewington, to approve the 2020 Parks and Recreation Department Annual Report – Memorandum No. 21 - 14. Vote: In favor All In-person and/or Virtual Against None Absent None D. Discussion Items Aside from the projects highlighted in the Monthly Update, Ms. Okada noted that at the Council meeting Wednesday, May 26, the Council approved the contract for hiring the firm for facilitation of sending to bid and construction administration for Summerlin and Fair Haven Park. The Council also approved the contractors for Valley Creek Park and the pre-construction kick-off meeting is scheduled to take place this week. The Miller Barn grant date extension and final scope, were also approved. Mr. Smidt noted that staff is currently working on concept plans for Briarcroft and Highcroft parks. Ms. Okada noted the staff gathered a list of nature-themed parks located in the metro area while working on planning for future play features at Glacial Valley Park and Valley Creek Park, including a park in Elk River, which was visited recently with parks maintenance staff. Mr. Smidt noted that staff has been working on and moving forward with park and wayfinding signage to help visitors navigate the Tamarack Nature Preserve, Ojibway Park and Carver Lake Park. Mr. Smidt noted that staff has uploaded georeferenced digital maps to Avenza Maps, a popular app for runners, hikers and cyclists, to help with wayfinding on some of the favorite trail routes in the community. The app will assist anyone wanting to explore some of Woodbury's most popular trails at avenzamaps.com or by downloading and using the Avenza Maps app on a mobile device. The city will continue to add more routes to Avenza Maps. Community members can submit trail requests to bikefriendly@woodburymn.gov. Ms. Okada noted that the Council recently reviewed the updated Central Park plans. Staff will be working with partners at the County, to prepare and send out a Request for Proposal (RFP) over the next month, selecting an architect to work with. The schematic design will be brought back to the Council and PNRC later this year, with construction anticipated in 2023. Ms. Okada highlighted the temporary Phase II map provided, to reference during discussions on new park development. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes June 1, 2021 Page 5 E. Monthly Update – Memorandum No. 21 – 15 Ms. Okada noted that recreation seasonal positions are still available and asked that if anyone has an interest in applying, to contact the city’s Human Resources Division. Mr. Smidt highlighted the July 4, fireworks to be held at the HealthEast Sports Center. Council Report – Councilmember Wilson Ms. Wilson noted Pioneer Park improvements were approved by the Council in May. The June 2, 6:30 p.m., Council workshop is scheduled to be held at La Lake Park. The Council calendar for June includes meetings on June 9, and June 23, with a workshop on June 16. Announcements/Miscellaneous Highcroft Park was chosen for the Commission’s July Park tour, prior to the July 13, PNRC meeting. A suggesting was made for a tour of La Lake prior to the August 10, PNRC meeting. Ms. Okada noted that once the Governor’s Executive Orders are lifted, open meeting laws pertaining to appointed and elected officials’ virtual attendance may change. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ________________________________ Belinda Reed Administrative Assistant Approved by the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on July 13, 2021.  City Of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 - 16 July 13, 2021 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Sustainability Initiatives The City of Woodbury has been proactive in a number of initiatives and programs related to sustainability. Each year staff provides an update to the Parks and Natural Resources Commission, including information on new programs, as well as summaries of ongoing actions related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, recycling and waste management. This memo outlines the annual savings associated with the city’s community solar garden subscriptions, and provides an update on other initiatives related to sustainability. Minnesota GreenStep Cities Minnesota GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program that helps cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of-life goals. In May 2020, Woodbury was recognized for the third consecutive year for advancing to a Step 4 and 5 city in the program, which is the highest step offered. To maintain Step 5 recognition, cities must improve in any three of the eligible metric elements each year. Woodbury improved in twelve metrics, and is among 25 Minnesota cities recognized for achieving Step 5 based on 2020 data. Community Solar Garden Subscriptions The city receives monthly credits on its Xcel Energy bills based on electricity produced from community solar gardens (CSGs) located in Dakota, Chisago, and Washington Counties. A CSG is a centralized solar photovoltaic system that produces electricity for subscribers. The program allows the city an opportunity to save on electricity bills, while supporting the development of renewable energy in Minnesota. The city has a number of Community Solar Garden (CSG) subscriptions associated with nearly 50 electric meters, which are assigned to 37 different solar gardens. The agreements were first initiated in January 2017, and have secured direct savings to the city of $396,000 through April 2021. 2020 Solar installations and Renewable Energy investment in Woodbury In addition to the city’s CSG subscriptions, a 40-kilowatt solar array is installed at the city’s Public Safety Building, and a solar thermal array is located on the south side of HealthEast Sports Center. In 2021/2022, staff will evaluate the potential for a solar array to be installed on the roof of the city’s Fleet Services Building. Xcel Energy provides annual community energy reports with information on renewable energy installation. As of 2020, nearly 1,600 Woodbury residents and businesses either have installed solar on their roof, or support renewable energy through Excel Energy’s Windsource® and Solar*Rewards® community programs. Plug-In hybrid electric vehicles in the city fleet The city’s vehicle fleet provides an opportunity to reduce fuel use through the transition to purchasing and utilizing more efficient vehicles. In 2020, the city expanded the number of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) from six to eight vehicles. The PHEVs are used by utility, building inspections and public safety staff. The city’s fleet also includes five electric vehicles used for parks Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 16 July 13, 2021 Page | 2 maintenance and seven hybrid vehicles. In 2020, the city installed a Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging station at its Fleet Services Building. In 2022, five dual EV charging stations will be installed at City Hall (10 chargers total) to charge EVs within the city’s fleet. According to Xcel Energy, the number of public EV charging stations installed in the city increased from 11 stations in 2019 to 28 stations in 2020. Xcel Energy’s Fleet Electrification Advisory Program At the June 23, 2021 City Council meeting, Council authorized staff to participate in Xcel Energy’s Fleet Electrification Advisory Program. Through the program, Sawatch Labs, Xcel’s preferred vendor, will perform an Electric Vehicle Suitability assessment, providing internal combustion engine fleets with specific recommendations regarding which vehicles are good candidates for replacement with an electric vehicle. This is determined by an economics comparison, and by analyzing the operational impacts of daily driving behavior for each vehicle. The results provide decision-makers with a vehicle-specific Total Cost of Operation (TCO) comparison, and metrics on the environmental benefits. For EVs that are already in the city’s fleet, Sawatch Labs will provide analytics data and consultation to observe and maximize EV performance, and will provide recommendations to increase EV performance and optimize economic savings. Public works, fleet and sustainability staff worked with Sawatch Labs to identify thirty-one vehicles in the fleet to be evaluated through the program. Vehicles include the eight plug-in hybrid EVs currently in the fleet, and twenty-three internal combustion engine vehicles. Smart irrigation controller program for residential properties Due to the pandemic, the irrigation controller program changed in 2020, to have controllers shipped directly to Woodbury homes from Rachio. In 2021, the program is managed in the same way. Since the pilot program in 2016, over 2,900 Water Sense Certified controllers have been installed in Woodbury homes, saving approximately 87 million gallons of water each year. Within the first few months of the 2021 program, approximately 320 controllers have been shipped to qualified Woodbury residents. Water efficiency incentive program for commercial properties Since the cost-share program for commercial properties started in 2017, 62 properties have participated in the program, saving an estimated 13.4 million gallons of water to date. Estimated savings going forward is approximately 3 million gallons of water per year. The program is designed for customers paying commercial and residential irrigation rates, including businesses and homeowner associations. Approved projects receive 50 percent funding assistance up to $8,000 for eligible improvements. 2020 program for discounted Home Energy Squad visits Since July 2018, the city has partnered with a local nonprofit, Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), to offer discounted Home Energy Squad (HES) “Enhanced” visits, valued at $600 to Woodbury homeowners for just $70. Each visit includes the installation of LED light bulbs, weather-stripping, a programmable thermostat, high efficiency faucet aerators and showerheads, and an insulated water heater blanket. Homeowners may also receive recommendations on the home’s potential for additional Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 16 July 13, 2021 Page | 3 efficiency upgrades. Since 2019, CEE has conducted 653 home visits in Woodbury, which includes free visits to income- qualified households and those subsidized by the city. SWCTC videos on sustainability programs City staff is working with the South Washington County Telecommunication Commission (SWCTC) to produce videos on the city’s sustainability initiatives. The most current video highlighted the city’s solar arrays and community solar garden subscriptions. Monthly videos will be produced, and may be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0NKaJmpwfZyg5mta5VfTWid8I60FwbG5 The videos may also be viewed by going to the “City of Woodbury” YouTube page, and searching the playlists for “sustainability.” Green Times Environmental Newsletter The city’s Green Times newsletter is published three times per year as an insert in the City Update Newsletter, and provides information on environmental topics, events and programs. The next issue of the Green Times was mailed July 7. The two most recent publications are attached. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Jennifer McLoughlin Sustainability Specialist Attachments: March 2021 Green Times Newsletter July 2021 Green Times Newsletter  GreenTimes A special environmental edition March 2021 Purchase discounted compost bins and rain barrels Composting fruit and vegetable scraps with Washington County to host yard waste at home helps you protect FREE document shredding events the environment and recover value Residents and businesses are invited to shred z Due to COVID-19, the county is not able to from your waste. their personal and confidential papers during five offer witnessed destruction. Finished compost upcoming shredding events at the Washington is an important z Do not put documents in plastic bags; use County Environmental Center in Woodbury. resource that can boxes or paper bags. Totes and reusable bags improve your soil, The events are free. Participants will be allowed will be returned. reduce erosion and to drop off up to six boxes weighing no more than z Staples, paper clips and rubber bands do not decrease the need 30 pounds each for shredding. This limit will be have to be removed. Please remove three- for fertilizers. strictly enforced. ring binders, large binder clips, plastics or metals. Washington County Documents will be shredded on site by Shred is excited to partner with Right and recycled. CDs and other media will be z Do not tape boxes shut because it slows the Recycling Association of Minnesota to accepted for off-site destruction. down the process. offer county residents discounted compost z Do not mix confidential paper with items bins and rain barrels. Date Time that do not require shredding such as news- papers or magazines. z Home Composter Compost Bin Wednesday, April 21 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. $64 full price | $44 after resident The Washington County Environmental Center Wednesday, June 16 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. discount is located at 4039 Cottage Grove Drive in Currently available Wednesday, Aug. 4 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Woodbury. z Rain Catcher Rain Barrel Wednesday, Sept. 29 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Learn more at www.co.washington.mn.us (select $79 full price | $59 after resident “Environmental Center,” then “Shredding discount (Limited discounts Wednesday, Nov. 17 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Events”). available) Sales begin March Visit co.washington. mn.us/2813/Backyard- Composting for ordering details. Proof of residency is required at pur- chase. Limit two rain barrels and two compost bins per household. Pre-ordered items will be avail- able for pick-up at the Washington County Environmental Center, 4039 Cottage Grove Drive, in Woodbury, during regular busi- ness hours. South Washington Watershed District receives 2021 Climate Adaptation Award Along the border of Woodbury and Cottage The district’s Climate Resiliency Plan identifies Grove, black-eyed susans, bergamot and adaptation strategies with multiple benefits, grey-headed coneflowers bloom in an 80-acre such as reducing stormwater pollution, protect- expanse of oak-savanna and prairie. The pre- ing homes from flooding, and improving habitat serve doubles as a regional infiltration basin, for wildlife. The district’s cornerstone project is a capable of capturing and infiltrating 1500 acre- multi-phase system, designed to alleviate flood- feet of water (enough to fill 740 Olympic-sized ing in Woodbury and Cottage Grove. swimming pools) after a large rainstorm or The watershed system begins with the 80-acre when snow melts in the spring. oak-savanna open space along the southern Further south in Cottage Grove, visitors can find border of Woodbury, continues through a series goats grazing on buckthorn and garlic mustard of basins, buried pipes and dry-stream beds, along the steep, wooded hillsides in Cottage down through Cottage Grove Ravine Regional partnership with the county, cities and other Grove Ravine Regional Park. A dry stream bed Park and, eventually, to the Mississippi River. local government, as well as with private land winds along a paved trail through the park, The system infiltrates large amounts of rainwa- owners and non-profit organizations includ- leading to the lake below. ter during smaller storms, helping to recharge ing Great River Greening and Friends of the aquifers, and also provides a safe route for Within the South Washington School District, Mississippi River. floodwater to reach the Mississippi River during seven schools are working to replace large 100-year mega-storm events. The oak savanna in The boundary of a watershed district does not expanses of turf grass with native flowers, Woodbury will eventually become a city park and follow political boundaries, but instead follows shrubs and trees. The “campus greening” proj- a hub for a regional trail connecting Lake Elmo the natural boundary of a watershed. Woodbury ects at Lake, Middleton, Nuevas Fronteras, Park Reserve to Cottage Grove Ravine Park. has three watershed districts, with SWWD being Valley Crossing, Crestview, Cottage Grove the largest, covering north, central and southern Middle, and Grey Cloud schools will help to In the coming year, SWWD will continue to work portions of Woodbury. infiltrate rainwater, reduce groundwater pump- with South Washington County Schools on cam- ing for irrigation, create habitat for birds and pus greening projects and continues funding to To learn more about the South Washington pollinators and offer unique learning opportuni- support city projects that improve water quality Watershed District and access interactive maps ties for the children. and increase climate resiliency. of projects in the district, visit swwdmn.org. These three examples, demonstrate some of About SWWD the many ways in which South Washington The SWWD is a special-purpose local unit of Watershed District (SWWD) is working to government that covers 110 square miles in build resiliency and protect local communities southern Washington County. The area includes against climate-related threats, including flood- 12 lakes, 120 miles of piped and natural streams, ing, aquifer draw-down and invasive species. 2,400 acres of wetlands, and the confluence of In recognition of its accomplishments, ongoing the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers. work, and leadership on climate adaptation and resiliency, SWWD earned the 2021 Organization The district works to protect communities Save the Date! Award from Minnesota Climate Adaptation against flooding and improve water quality in Curbside Recycling Event Partnership. lakes and streams. SWWD operates in close The 11th annual Curbside Recycling Event is scheduled May 17-20. Once again, the city will partner with licensed trash haulers to provide curbside recy- cling of appliances, tires and scrap metal at a one-time reduced rate. In 2020, the event was postponed to September, but this year, the event will resume its regu- lar timing in the spring. A flyer will be mailed to all households in early April with cost, participation deadlines and contact information to schedule your pick-up. Additional infor- This 80-acre prairie in southern Woodbury doubles as a regional infiltration basin. It is mation will be available online at one example of how the South Washington Watershed District (SWWD) is working to build woodburymn.gov. Questions should be resiliency and protect local communities against climate-related threats, including flooding. directed to Jennifer McLoughlin, SWWD was recently recognized for its leadership on climate adaptation and resiliency by sustainability specialist, at 651-714- earning the 2021 Organization Award from Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership. 3522 or you can send an email to jennifer.mcloughlin@woodburymn.gov. The Washington Conservation District and South Washington Watershed District contributed to this article.  GreenTimes A special environmental edition July 2021 Vegetation management helps improve Protect lakes water quality, protects wildlife The City of Woodbury owns and maintains more is treated the same based on design and location and wetlands than 800 stormwater basins for flood storage of the amenity. Keep grass clippings out of and water quality benefits. These basins were Through the study, more than 150 basins were streets designed to treat water, so it is important to note identified that would benefit from vegetation When you cut the grass or rake the yard that depending on environmental factors, they management and restoration. Project imple- this summer, remember how you care for may at times have low water levels and high algae mentation was initiated in 2018 with 18 of the your yard affects the water quality in our or plant growth. Although they are a functional basins. Depending on the condition of the basin lakes and wetlands. part of the city, stormwater basins are often rec- area, project work can include a combination ognized as ecological and aesthetic amenities. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife of any of the following: removal and/or treat- In 2017, the city initiated a Public Stormwater ment of invasive species, mowing, selective tree Service, homeowners use up to 10 times Basin Study to develop goals for basins within the removal, installation of native plants and seed- more chemical pesticides per acre on their city, particularly those located along city trails ing, and controlled burning. Additional basins yards than farmers use on their crops. and parks. The purpose of the study was to sum- are added to the program each year. Rainwater running off your property into marize the ecological condition of stormwater the street and storm drains will carry any The area surrounding HealthEast Sports Center excess fertilizer into the city’s surface basins that may be considered amenities, and and East Ridge High School was included in the waters. recommend management activities to improve 2018 Vegetation Management Project. The 2021 vegetation resulting in improved water quality, When mowing, it is important to be con- work plan for the area, which is in its fourth aesthetics and the creation of beneficial habitat scious of where your grass clippings go, and year of maintenance, included prescribed prairie for pollinators, birds and other wildlife. This to sweep up any clippings left on the drive- burns to stimulate the growth of native plants. effort also included an analysis and prioritization way, sidewalk or street. Grass clippings are of basins, and recommended that not every basin continued on back a source of phosphorous, which is the nutri- ent that causes our ponds and lakes to turn green with algae. Clippings left on the lawn can provide the equivalent of approximately one application of fertilizer per year, so be sure to mow in a way that clippings are directed back onto the lawn and not into the street. Although phosphorous can be harmful to water quality, it is a nutrient that your lawn needs to grow, and is especially good for plant roots. Keeping the clippings on your lawn results in added phosphorous to your soil and a healthier root system that is par- ticularly important during times of drought. Remember the phrase: “Only rain down the drain.” When rainwater runs off your property, make sure it enters the storm drain without any pollutants it has picked Prairies During up along the way. For more information pull prairie fires, on your lawn and garden’s effect on the carbon minimal carbon is environment, visit the Minnesota Pollution out of the released compared Control Agency website at pca.state.mn.us. atmosphere. Carbon is stored in the plant mate- to what the plant rial we see, as well as in their deep pulled out of the growing roots. atmosphere. State recognizes Woodbury for Excellence in Recycling The City of Woodbury was recently recognized by Gov. Tim Walz for Excellence in Recycling for its innovative use of tire-derived aggregate (TDA) to manage and store stormwater in two underground systems at the city’s Public Works campus. The project, conducted in partnership with TDS Manufacturing/First State Tire Recycling, incor- porated efficient use of space, provided environ- mental protection and reduced the number of tires added to landfills. The city was recognized by the State of Minnesota for its innovative use of tire-derived Traditionally, stormwater is treated with wet aggregate (TDA) to manage and store stormwater in two underground systems at the city’s basins and vegetated infiltration basins. These Public Works campus. ponds treat and store water to protect the lakes, wetlands and rivers downstream. However, keeping them out of scrap tire yards. That is the The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency encour- space was limited at the Public Works site, so equivalent of three years of tires from Woodbury ages the use of TDA in construction activities the city implemented two TDA underground residents’ vehicles! These basins were paved over such as this. systems, one on each side of the Tower Drive with porous pavement to allow water to soak The TDA system on the Public Works campus is campus. TDA is made of used tires that are through slowly, infiltrating clean water back into the first time TDA has been used to treat storm- shredded down to between 1- and 2-foot-long the ground. Treating stormwater below parking water in the community. pieces. lots is typically a costly practice, but the TDA material is about $3 per yard, whereas the alter- The Certificate of Recognition from Gov. Walz Within the two underground basins at the was issued in November 2020 and later shared native fill materials run $25-35 per yard. Public Works campus, 210,000 tires were used, with city staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Vegetation management...from front Prescribed prairie burns timeline, natural conditions such as air tem- sible. Although carbon dioxide is released into Although prairie burns are not an annual event, perature, humidity, wind speed, and direction the atmosphere during a fire, it is not the fossil it is important to understand the advanced are taken into account. Experienced ecologists carbon that is responsible for the rising carbon planning and benefits to the ecosystem that can decide on what basins would benefit from a pre- dioxide levels in the atmosphere. The smoke result when an area is identified for a burn. scribed prairie burn. from prairie fires contains carbon that was One benefit of establishing native plants is their pulled out of the atmosphere by the plants with- Experienced professionals develop and submit in the last few years. The carbon that contributes burn plans to the Minnesota Department of ability to pull carbon out of the atmosphere, while one disadvantage of a burn is the amount to the increasing atmospheric carbon levels is Natural Resources for approval before prai- a result of the release of carbon that was stored rie burns can be conducted. Burn permits of smoke that can be generated. Paying care- ful attention to the evaluation factors helps to away in coal and oil deposits until it is used for are also required from the city’s Public Safety combustion. Department. When planning the actual burn minimize the amount of smoke as much as pos- The black ash emitted by the fire, Biochar, locks up carbon for decades, or some believe thou- sands to millions of years. Biochar has also been demonstrated to improve water and nutrient availability in soils. Burning prairies actually stimulates stronger vegetative growth, which sequesters even more carbon into the soil than if it were unburned. Fires also stimulate soil bacteria that provide more available nitrogen to plants. Notifications of prairie burns are sent via the city’s InTouch email notification system and posted on the city’s Facebook page. The next possibility for another burn is fall 2021 or spring 2022. To learn more about prairie burns, and to review the city’s frequently asked questions In 2020, the city conducted prescribed prairie burns in wetland areas near HealthEast Sports page, visit woodburymn.gov/PrescribedBurns. Center to help stimulate the growth of native plants.  Sustainability Update Jen McLoughlin Sustainability Specialist Parks and Natural Resources Commission July 13, 2021, 7pm City Environmental Division, Eng Department Emily Stephens, Water Resources Engineer Jennifer McLoughlin, Sustainability Specialist Kristin Seaman, Environmental Specialist  Minnesota GreenStep Cities • Step 5 City (2018-2020) • Must improve in 3 metrics • 2020- Woodbury improved in 12 metrics • Energy use in city buildings • MPG of city fleet • # Public EV charging stations • Trees planted • Stormwater • Renewable energy • Greenhouse gas emissions Community Solar Garden Subscriptions Subscriptions with two different companies • 50 electric meters • 37 different solar gardens • Total savings of $396,000  Solar Installations City-owned solar installations • Public Safety – 40-kilowatt solar array ($3,800/year) • HealthEast Sports Center – Solar thermal • Fleet Services – evaluating rooftop solar potential (2021/2022) Solar in the City – 1,699 residents and businesses • On site solar - 116 • Windsource – 1,355 customers • Community solar garden (CSG) subscriptions - 160 • Renewable Connect CSG program – 68 customers  Fleet Electric Vehicles Eight PHEVs in City Fleet • Six Mitsubishi Outlanders • Two Chevy Volts • Utilities, Building Inspections, Public Safety Fleet Services - Level 2 EV Charger City Hall parking lot project - 2022 • Xcel Energy Infrastructure Program • Installation of five dual EV Chargers  Xcel Fleet Electrification Program Electric Vehicle Suitability Assessment 21 Internal Combustion Engines (90 days) • Evaluate vehicles for EV replacement • Economics • Daily driving • Provide vehicle-specific total cost of operation 8 Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (1 year) • How to maximize EV performance • Optimize economic savings  Water Efficiency Programs Smart Irrigation Controller Program • Over 2,900 sold • 87 million gallons saved Commercial Properties • 62 properties • 13.4 million gallons saved Toilet Replacement Program • Valley Creek Apartments • Beginning in August  Home Energy Squad (HES) Program Discounted HES“Enhanced” visits (Valued at $600) • 653 visits to Woodbury homes • City subsidizes $30, resulting in $70 visit • Installation of LED light bulbs • Weather-stripping • Programmable thermostat • High efficiency water fixtures • Water heater evaluation • Insulation inspection (attic & walls) • Safety test on heating system and water heater • Recommendations for next steps  Promoting Sustainability Programs • SWCTC videos • Mayor’s Column • GreenTimes Newsletter • Facebook • Twitter • InTouch email  Thank you Jen McLoughlin Jennifer.mcloughlin@woodburymn.gov 651-714-3522  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 17 July 13, 2021 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Phase II Development Update The city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan was adopted in August 2019. As part of the implementation section of the Plan, the city must update its official policies and controls. Official controls are defined as ordinances and rules which control the physical development of a city, including development phasing. At the policy level, growth in Woodbury is managed by sub-phases to promote contiguous development and allow for appropriate staging and extension of infrastructure. A Phase II Growth Management Strategy has been adopted by the city and due to the continued residential growth in the community, additional development areas will need to be opened in 2021, to accommodate planned and consistent growth in 2022 and beyond. The presentation at the Parks and Natural Resources Commission will provide information on existing lot inventory, active project status and initial identification of future growth areas including a review of the South of Dale Master Plan. As of the end of this April, the lot inventory report showed there were 500 units of inventory existing with approximately 175 additional units in the development pipeline for 2021-2022 for a total of roughly 675 units. In comparison, Metrostudy, an independent leading housing data and research firm, considers a three-year lot inventory as healthy for a community during active markets. Since 2011, housing construction has been about 300 to 400 units of townhomes and single-family homes per year. The existing lot inventory of 675 units represents an approximate two year lot inventory necessitating the need to open additional development phases to accommodate planned growth in 2022-2024. The opening of additional development areas will occur via future Council review and action. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Eric Searles City Planner Phase 2 Update Eric Searles City Planner Agenda • Review of South of Dale Master Plan • Existing residential development status updates Phase 2 Update • Quick overview of existing developments Bailey Road South of Bailey Road and West of Radio Drive Woodlane Drive Development # of Units % Complete Arbor Ridge 176 8% Harvest View 179 100% and Harvest Commons Oak Hill 79 33% Autumn Bluff 12 75% Radio Drive Dominium 235 0% (affordable) Arbor Ridge • North Dayton Development City Park • Multiple Builders • 176 Units • 138 Single-family • 38 detached townhomes Oak Hill • Pulte Homes as Developer and builder • 79 detached townhomes City Park  North of Dale Road and East of Radio Drive Development # of Units % Complete Radio Drive Bridlewood 320 68% Farms Copper 383 99% Ridge Twenty One 129 91% Oaks Cardinal 30 87% Dale Road Crossing Bridlewood Farms • Lennar as builder and Developer • 320 Units • 179 Single- Family • 30 detached townhomes • 111 Townhomes City Park Copper Ridge • DR Horton as builder and Developer • 383 Units • 199 Single- Family • 69 detached townhomes City Park • 115 Townhomes  Development # of Units % Complete Glen View Farms 141 75% Highcroft 159 82% Dale Road Briarcroft 164 46% Summerhill 38 53% Woodbury Drive Summerlin 227 85% Fair Haven 102 96% Highcroft City Park • Tradition Development • Multiple Builders • 159 Units • 109 Single- Family • 50 detached townhomes Briarcroft • Tradition Development City Park • Canvas of Woodbury • 164 Units • 82 Rental Single-Family • 82 Single-Family  Eastview Road Settlers Ridge Parkway Development # of Units % Complete Spancil Hill 91 5% North Bluff 112 21% Dundalk 89 0% Green Spancil Hill, North Bluff and Dundalk Green • Spancil Hill • Lennar Brookview Elementary Recreation Area • 91 Single-Family • North Bluff • Pulte Homes • 39 Single-Family • 73 Townhomes • Dundalk Green • 89 Rental Single-Family City Park  Development # of Units % Complete Talamore of 200 0% Woodbury Edison 207 0% Apartments Settlers Ridge Parkway Sundance 218 *all permits Woodbury issued 2021-2025 Inventory Needs • South of Dale Master Plan Area • East of Woodbury Drive East of Woodbury Drive along Dale Road City Park Questions  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 18 July 13, 2021 Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members: Subject: Communication Boards Staff were recently contacted by the Family Achievement Center about adding communication boards to local parks and playgrounds. The Family Achievement Center is located in Woodbury and offers high quality occupational services to children and adults. Family Achievement Center staff have been long time supporters of the adaptive recreation programs, volunteer, and sponsor adaptive programming, including the East Metro Miracle League. A communication board is a sign that displays photos, symbols, or illustrations to help people with limited language skills express themselves. The user can gesture, point to, or blink at images to communicate with others. Communication boards are one type of augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) device. City staff along with Family Achievement Center staff have interest in adding a communication board to the Madison’s Place playground and the Woodbury Rotary Miracle Field. The communication boards and installation would be funded by the Family Achievement Center, with final designs and sign locations approved by city staff. Commissioners are asked to provide feedback and input on adding communication boards at Madison’s Place playground and the Woodbury Rotary Miracle Field. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Reed Smidt Recreation Manager Attachment: Communication Board Example Park Communication Boards  City of Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 19 July 13, 2021 Eagle Valley Golf Course (EVGC) – Dan Moris It is hard to believe we are approaching the mid-point of 2021. The golf season is in full swing with all programs up and running. It is fantastic seeing all the kids either participating in our lesson programs or playing in the junior league. Based on the traffic we have seen through the spring and early summer, this is going to be the best first-half Eagle Valley has experience both in rounds played and revenue generated. A Drive, Chip and Putt local competition was held at Eagle Valley on Monday, June 28. Competitors age seven through fifteen competed with the top three finishers in each age group advancing to a regional event later this summer. It is fun to see a few of our local kids compete and earn the right to advance to the next stage. For those contestants that make it past the regional, they will compete in Georgia next spring in conjunction with the Master’s Tournament. Our maintenance staff has been doing an exceptional job keeping the golf course in peak condition, even with all the rounds of golf that have been played. An additional challenge is the lack of precipitation for a long stretch between May and mid-June. Thank goodness for the few rain showers during the last week, the golf course definitely needs some help from Mother Nature. HealthEast Sports Center (HSC) – Katie Ryden June flew by and the sports center has been humming with activity! There will be a slight break in the action due to the Fourth of July holiday; however, the youth and high school camps will continue through the rest of the summer and all have had great enrollment. HSC will host two hockey tournaments in August, which will attract teams from several Minnesota cities and multiple states. Staff is busy onboarding and training new part-time staff in preparation for our busy season ahead. The additional full time Building Maintenance Technician position was posted and closed on July 8. Interviews are being held and we hope to make our final decision by the end of July. Anticipated start date for the newly hired technician is early August. This position will provide additional support and much needed staff coverage and depth for the operation of HSC. Scheduling of the facility for the 2021-2022 fall and winter seasons is underway and nearing completion. We have a jam-packed schedule filled with practices, games, activities and special events in both the field house and ice arenas. Breakaway Academy held its first open house at HSC on June 29. They are busy preparing for their first school year and are still actively seeking additional students for grades 3-6. Recreation Division – Reed Smidt Summer recreation programs are in full swing. Participation numbers have been fantastic this summer with many programs reaching their maximums. Additional programs and sections have been added to accommodate individuals on waitlists. Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 21 – 19 July 13, 2021 Page 2 of 2 The Kid’s Mud Run had record participation this year. This long-standing annual event is a collaboration with the City of Cottage Grove parks and recreation. A new youth cricket program was added this summer with over 30 kids participating in the program. Cricket is becoming more popular in Woodbury every year amongst youth and adults. The Starlight Cinema Summer Movie Series held two movies in the park during the month of June. Approximately 1,000 people attended each movie night. There are three more movies schedule for this summer. The Fourth of July Community Celebration took place on Sunday, July 4. Food trucks were on site and the firework display was the highlight of the evening. We estimate that over 10,000 people attend this event annually. Central Park – Polly Blom Central Park is getting busier after resuming pre-pandemic hours on June 1. • 55+ Driver Discount Programs are being held once a month again. • Mayer Arts Theater classes, which started the week of June 14, are well attended. • One full facility rental in May; three in June; and three wedding ceremonies were also held in June. • 55+ Adult games: Bridge, 500 and Mahjong will resume again the week of July 6. • R.H. Stafford Library is now hosting outdoor story time on the patio (rainout site is amphitheater) on Tuesday mornings from 10:30-11 a.m. • Lookout Ridge expanded its hours on June 7: appointments are no longer required. • We are slowly seeing more attendance, especially on rainy and hot days and interest in the current summer hours: Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-Noon Sunday Closed Facility and Project Updates • Highcroft and Briarcroft Parks – Park concept designs are being fine-tuned for both park locations. Final concepts will be presented to the PNRC for review and approval in August. • Park Monument and Wayfinding - Park monument signs, maps and wayfinding signs for the Tamarack Nature Preserve, Ojibway Park and Carver Lake Park have been approved and ordered. Additional park monuments signs will be ordered and installed this year. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Michelle Okada Parks and Recreation Director  Native Planting Restoration Area Tennis Court Tennis / Pickleball Courts Full Basketball Court Town Center Park, St Michael, MN Multipurpose Open Lawn Parking (48 spots, 2 ADA) Picnic Shelter Tot Lot (2,500 sq ft) K-5 Play (4,500 sq ft) Portable Toilet Enclosure Play Structure and Limestone Block Seating Town Center Park, St Michael, MN Turf, typ. 5’ Native Planting Restoration Area 22 Youth Soccer Field (120’ x 210’) Stormwater Bench, typ. Pond Softball Field Spectator Embankment Park Shelter 0 40 80 feet Otsego, MN N Concept A Briarcoft Park | City of Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14  Native Planting Restoration Area Full Basketball Court Multipurpose Open Lawn / Winter Skating Area Mound Play Tunnel Play Berms Tot Lot (1,500 sq ft) Tennis Court Picnic Shelter Entrance and Bicycle Parking Parking (36 spots, 2 ADA) K-5 Play (3,000 sq ft) Portable Toilet Enclosure Berm with Play Elements Frisco Lake Park, Olathe, KS Turf, typ. 5’ Native Planting Restoration Area 22 Stormwater Youth Soccer Field (120’ x 210’) Pond Softball Field Spectator Embankment Open Skating 0 40 80 feet Minneapolis, MN N Concept B Briarcoft Park | Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14  Native Planting Restoration Area Multipurpose Open Lawn Tennis Court Full Basketball Court Berms with Seating Elements Courthouse Plaza, Minneapolis, MN Turf, typ. Softball Field Parking (36 spots, 2 ADA) 22 5’ Portable Toilet Enclosure Youth Soccer Field (120’ x 210’) Berms with Winding Path Marina Linear Park, San Deigo, CA Native Planting Restoration Area Spectator Embankment Picnic Shelter Stormwater Pond Tot Lot (3,500 sq ft) K-5 Play (5,500 sq ft) Play Berms Berm Field 0 40 80 feet Chicago Botanic Garden Learning Campus, Chicago, IL N Concept C Briarcoft Park | Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14  Landscape Buffer Planting Terrace with Native Grasses Tot Lot (2,000 sq ft) Open Lawn Area Picnic Shelter Rock Scramble (Nature Play) K-5 Play (3,000 sq ft) Picnic Overlook Park Entrance + Bicycle Parking Portable Toilet Enclosure Rock Scramble (Nature Play) Native Planting Restoration Area Existing Tree Canopy 0 30 60 feet N Play Components Integrated with Topography Village of Batawa Nature Play Area, Quinte West, ON Concept A Highcoft Park | Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14  Landscape Buffer K-5 Play (4,000 sq ft) Picnicking Cast Stone Seating Terrace Amphitheater-Style Stone Seating Park Entrance Picnic Shelter Tot Lot (2,000 sq ft) Portable Toilet Enclosure Informal Stone Seating Play + Seating Amphitheater Manassas Park Elementary, Cougar, CT Native Planting Restoration Area Existing Tree Canopy 0 30 60 feet N Small Amphitheater Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield, MN Concept B Highcoft Park | Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14  Landscape Buffer Boardwalk Overlook Tot Lot (2,000 sq ft) K-5 Play (4,000 sq ft) Lawn Games Picnic Shelter Boardwalk Portable Toilet Enclosure Boardwalk Overlook Lake McCarrons County Park, Roseville, MN Native Planting Restoration Area Existing Tree Canopy 0 30 60 feet N Permanent Lawn Games + Picnic Shelter Meadows Park, Plymouth, MN Concept C Highcoft Park | Woodbury, MN 14425 | 2021.06.14