Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 01/03/2011

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Observations: Recommendation EPB Action Based on discussion. EPB: 1/3/11 2011 Work Plan By: Chris Anderson, Environmental Coordinator CASE # 1 Background: As outlined in City Code, the Environmental Policy Board is responsible for developing an annual work plan that is subject to City Council review and approval. Now that 2011 has arrived, it's time for the Board to begin considering ideas /topics for an updated work plan. As a reminder, the primary goal of the Board is to "...review, consider, initiate and recommend to City Council such policies, plans or projects which will enhance and preserve the natural environment of the City ". The Board's scope shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, matters of the preservation of the community forest, water quality, wetland preservation, ground water protection, control of soil erosion and air, noise and light pollution. It's always good to take a moment and review the accomplishments of the past year prior to considering what to tackle in the upcoming year. Following are the highlights of the Board's 2010 accomplishments: • Arbor Day Tree Planting. Board members, in conjunction with Anoka High School football team members, planted numerous seedlings at Forest Hideaway Park and at the community garden site near the intersection of Nowthen Blvd and Dysprosium St. • 2010 Environmental Expo. The Board assisted in the planning, setup and take down of the 2010 Environmental Expo and Tree Sale, which was a great success this year! • Water Conservation Tool Box. The Board compiled a wealth of information regarding yard establishment, irrigation, water conserving ideas, alternative landscapes and more to help educate residents about the importance of water conservation. Staff is just about finished adapting it for the City's newly formatted website. • Invasive Species Webpage. The Board completed work on an invasive species webpage to help residents identify and address invasive species on their property. • Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan. The Board assisted with the development of an EAB Management Plan that, if approved by City Council, will help prepare the City for this invasive pest. • Yard Waste Disposal Site Research & Discussion. After reviewing multiple scenarios for possible yard waste disposal options, the Board concluded that a leaf collection event in the fall of 2011 should SCORE funding be available, would be beneficial to determine whether there's truly a demand for an alternative to current yard waste disposal options. The Board also concluded that the City should continue to explore potential public /private partnerships. The Board should be prepared to consider and discuss possible topics /projects for inclusion in the 2011 EPB work plan.