Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 08/11/1994

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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I RRCMP, p. t-2 Upland vegetation types include Burr and Red Oak-dominated woodland, some of which may be overgrown savannah, some open upland sites which are Oak-savannah and prairie remnants, and abandoned ~gricultural land which is covered with dry meadow, brushy overgrown meadow and some Oak-aspen woodland. Birch, Sugar Maple, Basswood, and a few other tree species have established in the older woods. Several stands of mature Large- toothed Aspen are found at woodland edges. This location is near the southern range boundary for the species in Minnesota. Wetlands fill the basins where ground water is at or near the surface and organic soils have accumulated. Some of the wetlands may have held moist prairie, a few remnant species are found. Most were ~owed or cultivated during past dry spells, which has worked in favor of Reed Canary Grass and other invasive wetland species. Vegetation cover types are outlined on the aerial photo, Fig. I-3. The park supports a diversity of wildlife populations. Floodplain forest has a well-known assemblage of animal species, including species such as Wood Ducks, White Tailed Deer and Raccoons. Less often mentioned are Red-shouldered Hawks, Common and Hooded Mergansers, and many reptiles and amphibians. Wetlands including swamps, fens, marshes and moist prairies, are important to nesting waterfowl and to songbirds and wading birds as well. Amphibians and reptiles need wetlands, and also serve as indicators for water quality. Many of the upland habitats in the park are in succession from abandoned farmland and support an animal cormmunity typical of old fields, brushlmnds mhd woodlots. There are management implications. Certain bird and mammal populations, Canada Goose and White Tailed Deer for example, can b~come problems if left unmanaged for too long. Much Of the park's uplands were savannah or prairie prior to agriculture. There is some evidence that groves of conifers, mostly White Pine, occurred along the Rum in Anoka County, though no sign has been found in the park. Discovery of promising prairie or pine remnant areas will prompt an active restoration plan. Forested areas, especially those with a high per cent of Red Oak, may require management to control Oak Wilt and other diseases. Recreation use areas will require tree planting and maintenance, turf management and wildlife plantings to maintain a good appearance and serve their outdoor recreation purposes.