Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 02/11/2016

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acres. Future plans include woodland restoration, bluff/riparian edge restoration and completing the remaining grassland prairie restoration. Currently, there is a Parks and Recreation staff member who lives in the existing house and serves as caretaker for the park. This staff member has been able to notify the Department of any maintenance or operations issues that arise, allowing quick resolution. Future park development would require balancing the impacts of recreational development with the restored natural resources in the park and sustainable development. V. DEMAND FORECAST Regional parks and trails have been increasing in popularity and as the population grows, the need for additional recreation sources and amenities grows as well. The population in Anoka County has been growing steadily and is predicted to grow 38% in the next 25 years. The City of Ramsey is predicted to grow approximately 32% from the year 2010 to the year 2030. This will create a very high demand for recreational opportunities. Population Forecast* City of Ramsey 2010 30,000 2020 43,000 2030 44,000 *Metropolitan Council 2030 Regional Development Framework — System Statement The outdoor recreational use patterns in the metropolitan area have been growing steadily. From 1995 to 2009, recreational visits to Anoka County regional parks and trails increased by almost 70% and is currently over 3.0 million visits per year. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 2004 Outdoor Recreation Participation Survey of Minnesotans, nearly 82% indicated that outdoor recreation is "very important" or "moderately important" in their lives. Popular trail related activities are walking, hiking, biking, running, jogging or inline skating. In addition, the Statewide Health Initiative Program (SHIP) is promoting living longer, healthier lives through the reduction in obesity and increased physical activity. Currently, Anoka County has received a SHIP grant to increase access to parks and trails and increase education regarding health, wellness and outdoor recreation. With the population growth expected, the increase in recreational visits to regional parks and trails, and the increased concern for health and wellness, the demand for additional recreational facilities will increase. Page 11 of 22