Agenda - Council - 02/08/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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2. Incompatible Use and Development Natural and scenic areas should not be developed for more active outdoor recreational uses, such as athletic fields and courts, campgrounds, motorized sports, etc. Any use or development that could result in damage to significant natural and/or scenic resources must be avoided. In some cases, it may be necessary to prohibit access to certain portions of the property to avoid damage to highly sensitive or rare resources. Protective fencing may be used when appropriate. Natural and Scenic Areas sites may not be used for a wetland mitigation or banking area. The intent of this program is to expand and protect natural and scenic areas and not provide areas that can be used for replacement of natural areas lost through development. H. APPLICATION PROCESS The application is available to download from the Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program web page. We urge applicants to begin the application process early in order to allow time to complete application requirements such as obtaining community involvement and completion of appraisals. Completed applications are to be submitted electronically in a ".pdf' format by March 31, 2021 using the instructions in the application form. Staff members are available to discuss your project or review application materials. You are encouraged to submit any draft application or materials by March loth if you would like staff to provide comments. Incomplete applications or applications received after the deadline will not be eligible for funding consideration. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND COMMENTS Prior to the submission of your application, it is our expectation that you have engaged the general public, especially those homeowners and businesses near the proposed project. You may do this through public meetings, announcements in the newspaper, letters or flyers, newsletters, an announcement on your website, emails, or face-to-face meetings. The public must have an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed project. Information detailing your public participation process and comments received are required in your application. All facilities within the park must be designed and available for general public use and open during typical park hours. APPRAISAL REQUIREMENTS The application must include an appraisal report by a general real property appraiser licensed by the State of MN and meet the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisition (UASFLA). The appraisal must include the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the National Park Service (NPS) as intended users and the landowner or designated representative must be given an opportunity to accompany the appraiser during the inspection of the property. Appraisals must have an effective date within 13 months of the application deadline. If your application is selected for funding, you may be required to submit a technical review of the appraisal report conducted by an appraiser who is not associated with the original appraiser and who is qualified to perform technical reviews under the UASFLA and 49 CFR Part 24.104. NS November 2020 5