Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/10/2008

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. Identify and acquire underutilized and blighted parcels . Consider implementing fiber optic and/or wi-fi technologies community wide* . Consider options for increasing and/or improving signage at City limits and other strategic locations* NATURAL RESOURCES Goals . Balance private property rights with natural resource protection* . Preserve in perpetuity Ramsey's high value natural areas and wildlife habitat identified in the NRI . Preserve rivers, streams, wetlands, and lakes while promoting shared uses, such as trails, wherever possible, and coordinate with neighboring communities* . Preserve existing tree canopy and promote additional tree planting in new development . Protect, preserve, and enhance the supply of clean water and clean air for the current and future generations of Ramsey citizens and businesses* . Protect people and property from natural hazard . Reduce the percentage of the waste stream being landfilled from both private and public property Policies . Explore other options beyond ground water for municipal water supply* . Monetize the value of habitat and other natural areas* . Explore options to compensate property owners for development rights to protect natural resources* . Keep local ordinances up to date and in conformance with other regulatory jurisdictions . Assist residents and private owners in identifying and protecting natural resources* . Develop a suitability analysis method for reviewing new development that measures both environmental suitability and efficiency of infrastructure use* . Seek out alliances and partnerships with non-profit and governmental agencies to assist in securing funding and other resources to assist in implementing the final plan Strategies . Implement the surface water management plan . Use the NRI as a tool for assessing development suitability and prioritizing the protection of natural areas . Use clustering, flexible zoning, density credits or other development techniques* . Prioritize the preservation of large, contiguous natural areas (greenways) that provide the greatest opportunities for animal and plant habitat (as well as a contiguous trail system)* . Manage invasive species and promote the use and protection of native species* . Manage stormwater on site by using alternative stormwater treatment systems, as described in the Storm Water Management Plan* . Monitor the quality and quantity of groundwater in aquifers and adopt measures to ensure long-term sustainability* . Continue to participate in the North Metro Water Supply Group organized by the Metropolitan Council