Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 11/05/2012

Home

The Board Members brainstormed to develop a list of tasks focused on the tree sale including vendor selection, marketing efforts, development of the pre -order voucher system to be used for tree pickup, weather options, and discussions with local businesses for cross marketing or sponsorship opportunities. It was the consensus of the Environmental Policy Board to hold the tree sale on the last Saturday in April, or first weekend in May; to use a voucher system for the tree sale, with pickup to occur at a preselected site; and utilization of Bailey's as the vendor. The Tree Sale Subcommittee will meet the following Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. at Caribou Coffee. 5.02: Rain Garden Demonstration Project Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson presented the staff report. He displayed an aerial photograph of the Alpine Park site that he felt could accommodate a rain garden project, highlighting the features that would assist in the process. He stated that he has spoken with the Parks Supervisor, who also believes this would be an ideal site, because of the existing conditions and the high amount of traffic the park receives. He noted that there are some Siberian Elms popping up in the swale that would need to be removed, cleaning out the culverts, and removing sediment build -up at the curb cuts to assist in the water drainage. He stated that because of the existing elements, the project could focus more on species enhancement and educational aspects. He displayed an existing sign kiosk that is located at Alpine Park and noted that the project signage could tie in with the existing sign design, noting specific locations signs could be installed if desired. He summarized the project components discussed. He confirmed that there is not a budget for this project but noted elements that he may be able to work with. Chairperson Max questioned the ideal time of year to conduct this activity. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson confirmed that spring would be the best time for this activity. He recommended this site for the project. Chairperson Max suggested tying this event to the tree sale, noting that volunteers could be gathered from the tree sale for this rain garden project. Board Member Lewis believed that the rain garden project would be a good tie in with the Ramsey Garden Club. Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson confirmed that he would develop the species composition for the rain garden with likely assistance from the Conservation District. He noted that he could also explore the potential of students assisting with sign design as was done for Sunfish Park. He confirmed that most of the labor could be completed by volunteers and there would be a nominal cost for materials. Board Member Stodola commented that this may be a good opportunity to partner with a local business for sponsorship or assistance. Environmental Policy Board / November 5, 2012 Page 5 of 7