Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 01/13/2025

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most part, defers to the underlying zoning district standards. However, the project will have to comply with the vegetation management standards of the MRRCA, as the upland forest is also designated as a Significant Existing Vegetative Stand. This upland forest is part of a larger, connected woodland on a parcel that is owned by the City. So, while a small portion of the upland forest will be removed to accommodate the proposed development, the remaining stand will still provide wildlife habitat and serve as an important wildlife corridor. Staff has forwarded the plans to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for review and comment. As of the writing of this case, Staff has not received a response. Tree Inventory and Preservation Plan The submittal does include a Tree Inventory and Preservation Plan. The site is dominated by bur oak, but also includes white oak, American elm, red cedar, and some Siberian Elm (invasive). Approximately forty-six percent (46%) of the existing diameter at breast height (DBH) inches will be preserved, which satisfies the tree preservation standards. However, some of the removal work involves oaks. Therefore, in an attempt to minimize the potential introduction of oak wilt into the area, any clearing work involving oaks needs to be done before April 15 or after July 15. Landscape Plan The Landscape Plan includes plantings within the boulevard, on the outlot along Riverdale Drive, and in the rear yards of a few of the lots. All proposed species and sizes are acceptable. The Applicant is proposing a six (6) foot tall vinyl privacy fence that parallels Riverdale, consistent with what was installed further east along Riverdale Drive (still within Riverstone South). The Landscape Plan calls for portions of the outlot to be sodded with other portions being seeded with a native seed mix. Staff is recommending that the ground cover between the privacy fence and the existing trail be turf grass rather than a native seed mix. This will be more consistent with the established landscape to the east (installed with earlier additions of Riverstone South). Additionally, a native seed mix is also being proposed in the rear yards of Lots 9 and 10. Again, Staff is recommending that these areas be finished with sod. The Applicant is providing some trees along the western boundary of the plat (rear yards of Lots 9 & 10, as well as part of Outlot A) to offer some screening for the existing home to the west (although it is zoned the same, so no screening or density transitioning is required). Staff has suggested that some of the rear yard plantings be moved into the boulevard area to create a more consistent spacing of street trees. Otherwise, the Landscape Plan is generally acceptable. Funding Source: The Applicant is responsible for all costs associated with this application. Recommendation: Staff recommends approving the plans contingent upon compliance with Staffs review comments. Outcome/Action: Motion to recommend approval of the plans, contingent upon compliance with Staffs review comments. Attachments Site Location Map Preliminary Plat Landscape Plan with Staffs Comments Tree Inventory and Preservation Plan