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