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2004-07-26 EC Agenda Packetf �o AGENDA GOLDEN VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION Regular Meeting Golden Valley City Hall, 7800 Golden Valley Road Council Conference Room Monday, June 28, 2004 — J IAA e. ;utGh ca v,,Gvl ( � 7:00 P.M. 4T I&,(Az- of KOLA . "ASA& " I:, &V r o"/Z0/0 nA e'er " " () I. Call to Order II. Approval of Minutes — May 24, 2004 III. Management Plans for Golden Valley Nature Areas IV. Buckthorn Discussion V. Program/Project Updates — ➢ Hennepin County Sheriff's Site );,, Sunnyridge Lane Soil Contaminants ➢ TH 55/Boone Avenue/General Mills Boulevard ➢ Wirth Lake Berm Repair ➢ Recycling Program ➢ Proposed Developments VI. Commission Member Council Reports VII. Other Business VIII. Adjourn GAEnvironmental Commission\Agendas\062804.doc GOLDEN VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION Regular Meeting Minutes July 26, 2004 Present: Richard Baker, Christopher Kaisershot, Alan Kuentz, Jon Pawluk, Sara Peterson Absent: Tracy Anderson, Dawn Hill City Staff: Al Lundstrom, Environmental Coordinator; Jeff Oliver, City Engineer; Tracy Pharr, Administrative Assistant Call to Order Baker called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm. II. Approval of Minutes - May 24, 2004 Revision to Agenda Item VII - Commission Member Council Reports, Paragraph 5. Change "Kaisershot" to "Pawluk" in the first sentence. No additional changes. MOVED by Kuentz, seconded by Pawluk, and the motion carried unanimously to approve the minutes of the May 24, 2004 meeting as amended above. III. Management Plans for Golden Valley Nature Areas This agenda item was tabled indefinitely to allow for focus on the Buckthorn Discussion agenda item. IV. Buckthorn Discussion Lundstrom stated that Jan Olfe's (South Rice Lake Neighborhood Association) request to remove buckthorn on public property (specifically, South Rice Lake Park) was addressed by the City Council. Lundstrom called attention to the attachments in the agenda packets that were presented to the Council. The City Council has requested that the Environmental Commission "evaluate code revisions, program requirements, financial impacts, re -vegetation requirements, etc., to support a buckthorn removal program." The Commission is asked to conclude their buckthorn removal study within six months. Peterson asked if anyone knew of other cities allowing private parties to remove buckthorn on public property. Lundstrom replied that he is aware of some counties that do. He stated these counties probably have their own guidelines for this, though. Kaisershot asked if the Council is looking for a "yes/no" answer, or if they want specific revisions to the ordinance. Lundstrom responded that he believed the Council needs to know, first, whether or not this is a legitimate issue and second, to direct staff to move forward with code revisions. Baker asked Lundstrom to explain the attachment items to the Commission. Lundstrom gave a brief explanation of each of the attachments. Lundstrom continued that the Commission could come up with some highlights and the Planning Department's intern would be able to draft a revised ordinance for the Commission's review. Lundstrom mentioned long-term management plans for buckthorn removal. He gave examples where follow-up treatment was not undertaken, and thus the buckthorn has taken over completely. Lundstrom stated that staff would like to see more of a commitment than a one-time treatment. Pawluk mentioned putting the onus of responsibility on the citizen group wishing to undertake a buckthorn removal project. He said he was unsure how effective this would be since there is no way to ensure a long- term commitment without a legally binding contract. Kaisershot asked Lundstrom for clarification on one-time treatment. Lundstrom replied that it can do more harm than good if a group comes in for a one -day cleanup with no follow-up than if the area was not treated at all. He gave specifics as to why and how this occurs. Kaisershot asked if the Commission wanted to undertake a broader revision, or limit the code revision to buckthorn or some other invasive species. Lundstrom agreed that this is something the Commission should decide. Baker asked if there are any model programs for examples of putting together a proposal and/or budgets and filling out a right-of-way permit. Oliver replied that the City has the catch basin stenciling program and the adopt -a -street program. Oliver also discussed liability issues and insurance risks. Kuentz mentioned that Jim Vaughan (Open Space & Recreation Commission) is the Environmental Coordinator in St. Louis Park. Lundstrom said that it would be nice to have Vaughan talk to the Commission about St. Louis Park's policies on buckthorn removal. Baker suggested seeing if Vaughan could attend the August Environmental Commission meeting and bring examples of what St. Louis Park has done in the past. Further discussion ensued about the direction the Commission wants to proceed, setting goals for the project, types of treatment available, equipment required and project costs and budgeting and the timeline for the City's CIP. Baker asked for a motion that staff report back to the Commission at its August meeting on a recommendation on funding for a private buckthorn program to be included in the City's budget for 2005. No additional changes. MOVED by Pawluk, seconded by Kaisershot, and the motion carried unanimously to ask staff for a funding recommendation at the August 30, 2004 Commission meeting. l+• Baker would like someone to get in touch with Jim Vaughan to see if he would be available to come to the August Environmental Commission meeting and discuss St. Louis Park's program. Oliver said that staff would make this request. Baker stated he would develop and provide an outline (at the August meeting) of what the Commission may be interested in presenting to the City Council. Lundstrom asked if the Commission wanted staff to provide a simplified, draft Code revision. Baker said yes. Lundstrom said that he would check with the supervisor for the intern in the Planning Department. Kuentz asked if staff would contact the Cities of St. Louis Park and Minneapolis about the language used in their ordinances. V. Program/Project Updates Hennepin County Sheriff's Site — Lundstrom and Oliver gave a brief overview of the project, now called Golden Ridge Development. The preconstruction conference has been held, and work will begin on Tuesday. Lundstrom will be meeting with the contractor to discuss tree preservation issues. Sunnyridge Lane Soil Contaminants — Oliver said that the City has completed its investigative study of this area, and the soil contaminants are isolated to the street right- of-way. An action plan is now being developed with the MPCA. The City is also trying to determine if there are any private wells, and will be sending out a letter soon to residents in the area. If there are wells, samples will be taken. TH 55/Boone Avenue North/General Mills Boulevard — This project has been combined into one contract with two phases. A berm will be built on General Mills property from the excavated fill ("muck") from within the project area. This project has been awarded to Ames Construction, and the preconstruction conference will be held on Friday. Wirth Lake Berm Repair— Oliver said staff had met with representatives from the Minneapolis Parks' Board to discuss amending a feasibility report to repair this berm. Currently, the City does not have funding for this repair. Staff has also met with the BCWMC to look for other funding opportunities. This will be discussed further at the August Council/Manager meeting. Recycling Program — Staff will begin negotiations with Waste Management for an extension in the City's recycling contract. The City of Plymouth is sending out surveys to their residents to solicit input about recycling. Golden Valley will have access to the survey results. Proposed Developments — Oliver mentioned a lot that is being subdivided on Douglas Drive and that the HRA has plans to sell a parcel of property that may be developed as the North Wirth Business Center. 3 VI. Commission Member Council Reports No Commission Member had attended recent Council meetings. Baker asked for volunteers for the upcoming meetings. If there are agenda items of interest to the Environmental Commission, Kuentz will attend the August 2 meeting, and Pawluk will attend the August 17 meeting. VII. Other Business Items of Other Business: ➢ Peterson apologized for her absence at the meeting originally scheduled for June (this meeting was cancelled for lack of a quorum). She noted that she may have to resign in the near future, due to scheduling problems. Commission Members encouraged her to continue her appointment. ➢ Kuentz asked if it would be possible to change the next meeting date from August 23 to August 30, as he will be unable to attend on August 23 and wishes to participate in the Buckthorn Initiative discussion. MOVED by Kuentz, seconded by Peterson, and the motion carried unanimously to change the August Environmental Commission meeting date to August 30. ➢ Oliver noted that the South Tyrol Trail has been paved. No additional business was addressed. VIII. Adiourn The next scheduled meeting will be on August 30, 2004 at 7:00 p.m., and will be held in the Manager's Conference Room. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 1AA,(Zq � 1 "1� racy E. PharV Administrative Assistant Department of Public Works 4 Al Lundstrom - Re: Fwd: Tree/Shrub Removal on Public Property Page 1 From: Adam Fulton To: Lundstrom, Al Date: 8/19/2004 3:58:51 PM Subject: Re: Fwd: Tree/Shrub Removal on Public Property Thanks - I missed that regulation. I've attached a short revision to it, underline/overstrike. The change is minimal but very important to what we're trying to do. Adam >>> Al Lundstrom 8/19/2004 3:41:55 PM >>> Adam, Below is the e-mail you sent me in April regarding Tree/Shrub Removal on Public Property. Please look at 7.04 Specific Regulations. It seems that this section may need to be changed in order to allow the removal of buckthorn on public property. What are your thoughts? Al Adam Fulton 4/13/2004 3:47:02 PM >>> The following three sections are all that I found in the code regarding removal of noxious weeds/woody plants. I'd say that we could probably authorize the group to complete the buckthorn removal city-wide based on these regulations - 7.04 gives Public Works Director authority over ROW issues, which would include removal -Jeannine would simply have to authorize this group to do so; 10.51 requires that the city (owner of parks) remove any'plants detrimental to health' from its property, consequently, this group would be doing the City Council (Ultimately responsible for buckthorn in parks) a favor. If we wanted to address the issue more directly in the City Code, I'd recommend changing 10.51 to include something about removal of woody plants like buckthorn (noxious weeds). We could tie this into addressing the issue of an exemption for Native Landscape Plantings in the same Section. What sort of liability issues are there with this group doing volunteer removal work for the City? SECTION 7.04. SPECIFIC REGULATIONS. Subdivision 1. Trees and Plantings. The Director shall have control and supervision of all plantings, shrubs and trees upon or overhanging all right-of-way. It is unlawful for any person to plant or remove trees or other plants which are on city right -0f --way except sod and low lying plants not greater than 12 inches in height above the ground. SECTION 10.50. SHADE TREE DISEASES Subdivision 8. Public Property. Any elm tree, dead elm wood, oak tree or dead oak wood on property owned by the City which is a public nuisance as provided by Subdivisions 1 or 2 of this Section shall promptly be removed under the supervision of the City Manager at the expense of the City. SECTION 10.51. CONTROL OF WEEDS AND VEGETATION. Subdivision 1. Unlawful Acts. B. It is unlawful for any owner or occupant to cause, permit or allow poison ivy, ragweed, or other poisonous plants or plants detrimental to health to grow on any such lot or land Al Lundstrom - ORD 010a - Removal of Invasives.doc Page 1 SECTION 7.04. SPECIFIC REGULATIONS. Subdivision 1. Trees and Plantings. The Director shall have control and supervision of all plantings, shrubs and trees upon or overhanging all right-of- way. , The Director or his/her designee shall be resaonsible to plant or remove trees or other plants which are on city right-of-way except sod and low lying plants not greater than 12 inches in height above the ground. SECTION 10.51. LAWN MAINTENANCE. Subdivision 1. Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to establish minimum standards for lawn maintenance while recognizing that a variety of landscapes within a community adds diversity and richness to the quality of life for all residents. Turf grass lawns continue to be recognized as the dominant feature in the landscape; however, alternatives to this traditional type of lawn are recognized as important parts of a diverse and successful landscape. Subdivision 2. Definitions. A. "Native vegetation" — Those indigenous trees, shrubs, wildflowers, grasses and other plants that have naturally adapted themselves to the climate and soils of the area. B. "Natural habitat" — Specially valued and sensitive habitat whereupon native vegetation exists in a pristine state and provides habitat for a variety of species native to the area. Such vegetation shall maintain itself in a stable condition without human intervention. C. "Rank Vegetation" — Uncultivated vegetation growing at a rapid rate. D. "Turf grass" — Cultivated vegetation consisting of a highly maintained surface of dense grass underlain by a thick root system. E. "Weeds" — Unsuitable, unwanted, or uncultivated vegetation, often causing injury to the desired vegetation type. F. "Noxious Weeds" — An annual, biennial, or perennial plant designated by the MN Commissioner of Agriculture or the Council as injurious to public health, the environment, public roads, crops, livestock, or other property. Subdivision 3. General Requirements. A. All lot area not designated for buildings, circulation, parking, recreation, and storage shall be provided with turf grass, native vegetation, or combined ground cover of cultivated vegetation, garden, hedges, trees, and shrubbery. B. No owner or occupant of a lot shall allow to grow any noxious weeds on any part or portion of said lot as designated by MN Stat. §18.78. C. No owner or occupant shall allow any turf grass, weeds, or rank vegetation to grow to a height greater than eight (8) inches. Subdivision 4. Exemptions. A. The owner of vacant and unoccupied land consisting of a contiguous tract of one (1) acre or more is exempt from this Section, provided that weeds, turf grass, and rank vegetation thereon are cut twice annually. The first cutting shall not be later than June 1 and the second cutting shall be made between July 15 and September 15. B. All public and private lands designated by resolution of the Council as natural habitat need not be maintained in accordance with this Section. Subdivision 5. Native Vegetation. A. Council approval shall be required for any property owner or occupant interested in cultivating native vegetation on his/her property. Upon approval, the applicant shall be granted a Lawn Maintenance Waiver which shall expire five (5) years from the date of approval. Approval by Council motion shall be based on the following: 1. A completed Application for Native Vegetation. 2. Pending complaints or code violations involving the property, the property owner, or occupants. B. The Application for Native Vegetation and Renewal Application for Native Vegetation shall be provided by the Director of Public Works and shall contain the following: 1. Statement of intent and purpose in cultivating native vegetation; and 2. Site plan showing lot lines, buildings, location of proposed native vegetation, and including the property's legal description; and 3. Latin and common names of the species the property owner or occupant plans to cultivate; and 4. Maintenance requirements for said species; and 5. Name and address of the company hired to perform maintenance on the native vegetation; or the name, address, and qualifications of the person(s) who will be responsible for maintenance of the native vegetation. Subdivision 5. Violations. A. On or before June 1 of each year, the Clerk shall publish once in the official newspaper a notice directing owners and occupants of property within the City to remove all turf grass, weeds, noxious weeds, and rank vegetation exceeding eight (8) inches in height. Said notice shall state that if such vegetation is not removed within ten (10) days after publication of the notice, it shall be removed by the Weed Inspector or his/her designee at the expense of the owner. Property owners shall be notified by mail immediately thereafter of any work performed and costs involved. The Weed Inspector or his/her designee shall keep a record of all properties whereupon removal was necessary and the number of times it was necessary, and, by October 1St of each year, he/she shall give copies of such records to the Clerk to file as special assessments against each said property. City n o enValley OPEN SPACE & RECREATION COMMISSION Meeting Minutes Brookview Community Center Monday, June 28, 2004 5:15 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER Sandler called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. I1. ROLL CALL Present: Open Space and Recreation Commission: Liz Elder, Roger McConico, Tom Zins, Chuck Cahill, Jerry Sandler, Jim Johnson, James Heine and Tom Keulbs, Jr. City Staff: Rick Jacobson, Director of Park and Recreation; Tom Klatt, Public Works Maintenance Manager; and Sheila Van Sloun, Park and Recreation Administrative Assistant. Absent: Open Space and Recreation Commission: Jim Vaughan 111. AGENDA CHANGES OR ADDITIONS None. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES— May 24, 2004 MOTION: Moved by Zins and seconded by McConico to approve the minutes. Motion carried unanimously. V. LUCE LINE TRAIL DISCUSSION Jacobson reviewed with the Commission the latest details as provided by SRF Consulting group to the Three Rivers Park District. Most of the discussion centered around the recommendation pertaining to the trial following Country Club Drive from Pennsylvania to Douglas. Following the discussion and the on-site tour, the Commission concurred that the Country Club option was the best choice. Other portions of the trail through Golden Valley were discussed and visited. VI. PARK & OPEN SPACE BUS TOUR The Open Space and Recreation Commission visited the following areas: Future Luce Line Trail, Golden Oaks Park, Wesley Park, General Mills Research Area, Medley Park, Hampshire Park, Wildwood Park/Olson School, Pennsylvania Woods, Honeywell Little League Area, Sandburg Ball Fields, St. Croix Park/Bassett Creek Trail, Scheid Park, Briarwood/Unity Ave., Trail/Minnagua Pond Area, Gearty Park, Stockman Park, Rice Lake Trail, Mary Hills Nature Area, Glenview Park, Natchez Park, Davis Community Center, Lions Park, Western Avenue Marsh and Brookview Park. 11. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Moved by Johnson, seconded by McConico to adjourn at 8:00 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. 4 cit Golden Valley Date: July 14, 2004 Public Works 763-593-8030 / 763-593-3988 (fax) To: Environmental Commission From: Jeff Oliver, PE, City Enginee �� Al Lundstrom, Environmental oordinator Subject: June and July 2004 Environmental Commission Meetings As you may be aware, the June 28, 2004 Environmental Commission meeting was cancelled due to the lack of a quorum. Please remember to contact Tracy Pharr, the Commission's Administrative Liaison, at 763.593.8027 if you will be unable to attend a meeting. Enclosed with this letter you will find two attachments that were to be distributed at the June meeting. Both items are for your information and review. The next Commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 28, 2004. We will use the June agenda for the July meeting. As such, you will not receive a new agenda packet in advance of the July meeting. However, if you would like another copy of the packet, please give one of us a call. Lastly, if you wish to have any items added to the agenda, please contact one of us or Tracy Pharr by Wednesday, July 21 so that a revised one may be prepared. Attachments C: Tom Burt, City Manager Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works GAEnvironmental Commission\Memos\June04MtgCancelNoQuorum.doc I. Call to Order II. Roll Call Liz Elder Chuck Cahill _ Jim Johnson _ III. Agenda Changes or Additions Roger McConico Jim Vaughan James Heine Approval of Minutes — May 24, 2004 Virtual Tour — Luce Line Trail — Boe Carlson Park & Open Space Bus Tour Future Luce Line Trail Golden Oaks Park Wesley Park General Mills Research Area Medley Park Hampshire Park Wildwood Park/Olson School Pennsylvania Woods Honeywell Little League Area Sandburg Ball Fields St. Croix Park/Bassett Creek Trail Scheid Park Briarwood/Unity Ave. Trail/Minnagua Pond Area Gearty Park Stockman Park Rice Lake Trail Mary Hills Nature Area Glenview Park Natchez Park Davis Community Center Lions Park Western Avenue Marsh Brookview Park VII. Adjournment Tom Zins Jerry Sandler Tom Kuelbs, Jr. a� a11ey OPEN SPACE & RECREATION COMMISSION Meeting Minutes Brookview Community Center Monday, May 24, 2004 7:00 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER Sandler called meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. 11. ROLL CALL Present: Open Space and Recreation Commission: Jim Vaughan, Tom Zins, Jim Johnson, Liz Elder, James Heine, Chuck Cahill, Jerry Sandler City Staff.- Rick Jacobson, Director of Parks and Recreation; Sue Cook, Recreation Supervisor; Sheila Van Sloun, Parks and Recreation Administrative Assistant Others: Jim Slettebak, Golden Valley Little League Absent: Open Space and Recreation Commission: Tom Kuelbs, Roger McConico 111. AGENDA CHANGES OR ADDITIONS None. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES —April 26, 2004 MOTION: Moved by Cahill and seconded by Johnson to approve the minutes. Motion carried unanimously. V. GOLDEN VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE UPDATE — Jim Slettebak Jim Slettebak gave details on the program and updated the Commission on its events. He stated that participant numbers have gone up in the last few years, and added that Little League has been in Golden Valley for 49 years. Slettebak said the league is for Golden Valley boys and girls ages 7-12 and consists of three divisions. The Major League is for ages 10-12 and consists of 5 teams with 12 participants on each. The Minor League is for ages 9-12 and consists of 4 teams with 12-13 participants on each, and the Blue League is for ages 7-8 and consists of 8 teams with 12 participants on each. He stated that there are 208 participants registered this year, adding that 208 also registered in 2003, 196 in 2002, there are 208 participants registered this year, adding that 208 also registered in 2003, 196 in 2002, and 188 in 2001. Sandler added that in the 70's there were 300+ registered participants. He believes the current numbers are a result of community population changes and the addition of many more youth activities. Slettebak stated that end of season tournaments are usually done by July 4. He said that they usually have 3 teams that participate in post -season tournaments after July 4. Slettebak said that Little League also has a Gold League tournament for the Minor League division which consists of 40 teams from 6 surrounding cities and takes place late June and early July on fields from participating cities. Slettebak explained that the league uses numerous fields throughout the city and stated that the league is pleased with the support from the Golden Valley Recreation staff, as well as, for the outstanding condition of the fields by the Maintenance staff. Slettebak then gave details on long and short term goals for the league including the impact on the Honeywell field area if the water treatment plant becomes a reality and how that would affect the ability to add a second little league filed, a second batting cage, permanent restrooms and off street parking. Slettebak then mentioned the possibility of lighting additional fields and adding concessions. Vaughan asked about female participants. Slettebak stated that there are currently about 10-14 in the league, one of which is 12 years old and plays in the Major League. Tom Zins added that he feels that Little League is a really good program and is to be commended. 1. RECREATION REPORT — Sue Cook Cook updated the Commission on programs going on in the following areas: Davis Community Center, Youth and Mites Basketball, Adopt -a -Park, Adult Softball Leagues, Tennis activities, Concerts in the Park, and NEW Summer Day Camps. Cook then gave details on the upcoming "Welcome Back to Brookview" event to be held on June 7 at Brookview Park. She discussed the Concerts in the Park and distributed flyers advertising summer programs and happenings. Vaughan asked Cook if signs were provided for those that adopt a park. Cook explained that signs are provided, as well as, recognition in the brochure and on the City's website. Sandler asked about the responsibilities of the Adopt -a -Park participants. Cook stated that at a minimum they do general clean-up of their areas in the spring and fall, as well as, keep city staff informed on concerns regarding the parks. Sandler inquired about funding for the Concerts in the Park. Cook stated that the Golden Valley Federated Women's Club made a generous donation for the Concerts. The Commission thanked Sue for an outstanding job. 11. OLD BUSINESS 1) Sidewalk & Trail Policy Sandler and Jacobson reviewed with the Commission the revised Sidewalk and Trail Policy as approved by the Council at their May 18 Council meeting. The policy incorporates input from 2 both the Open Space and Recreation and Environmental Commissions, along with language pertaining to state and federal accessibility requirements. Sandler then asked the commission how they felt regarding the paving of the trail in South Tyrol Park, discussion then focused on the Commissions previous recommendation to the Council regarding the paving of the South Tyrol trail. Discussion then focused on the Commission's previous recommendation to the Council regarding the paving of the trail. MOTION: Moved by Zins and seconded by Johnson to reaffirm the Commission's previous recommendation to the Council to pave the South Tyrol Park trail. Motion carried with six ayes and Commissioner Heine abstained from voting as he was just recently appointed. 2) Envision Golden Vallev No report. VIII. OTHER BUSINESS None. X1. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Moved by Johnson, seconded by Elder to adjourn at 8:15 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. 3 AI Lundstrom 06 18 04 pdf � a N. Page 1 .�.. Memorandum a 11ey City Administration/Council 763-593-80031763-593-8109 (fax) Date: June 18, 2004 To: Mayor and City Council From: Thomas D. Burt Subject: Weekly Report Weekly Report Managers Office Training Attached is a copy of upcoming training that is available through Government Training Services (GTS). If you are interested in any of the classes please contact Judy and she will take care of the registration. Tentative Cleanup Day—Staff has been working on a plan in response to Council's 2004 goal of developing programs for improved housing maintenance. One of the ideas is for a City-wide cleanup day. Attached is a memo that discusses the possibility of hosting such an event this fall. Staff will bring this to a future Council/Manager meeting to discuss the idea with Council. Public Safety Upcoming Events—Council Members are welcome and encouraged to attend the following upcoming Public Safety event: • National Night Out- Evening of Tuesday, August 3. Public Safety Open House—On Wednesday evening, June 16, Public Safety conducted its annual open house. All three fire stations and the police station were open to the public. During the evening, various safety demonstrations were conducted along with informational stations on safety programs offered by the departments. Staff estimates that a total of 500 people visited during the 2 hour event. AlfLundstrom 06 18 04 pdf Page 3 Tree Trust—The Tree Trust's youth summer employment program started this past week. Youth are working in the Rice Lake Nature Area. Plans include creating a woodchip trail with an overlook at the creek. Woodchips are being used because this is a nature area which cannot be accessed by heavy equipment and the soils are less suitable for paving. On June 21, the bridge over Bassett Creek in the nature area will be removed so abutments can be rebuilt. This will take two to three weeks. Buckthorn Removal Proposal—Ms. Jan Olfe, South Rice Lake Neighborhood Association, has requested that the City allow her and members of the Association to begin removing buckthorn from South Rice Lake Park. Current city ordinance does not allow the City to permit this type of activity. The Environmental Commission is studying this issue, and will be asked to conclude their study by December 2004. A memo is attached which provides more information on this item. AI Lundstrom - OEi-18-04.pdf age Date: June 18, 2004 To: Thomas Burt, City Manager From: Adam W. Fulton, Planning Intern Subject: Tentative Cleanup Day Information Memorandum Planning 763-593-8039/ 763-593-8109 (fax) In response to the Council's 2004 goal of developing programs for improved housing maintenance, staff has developed a proposal for a city-wide cleanup day. The idea of a cleanup day has been discussed as a means for residents to dispose of waste that cannot be handled using their weekly garbage service. In this scenario, a single site within Golden Valley will host a one -day event where residents can drop of debris, allowing for the safe and timely disposal of solid waste, old furniture or appliances, tires, and electronics. Staff is pursuing an approach that requires payment of a small fee for many items. Such an approach will minimize the cost to the City of sponsoring the cleanup day. The possibility of hosting a yearly event in Golden Valley will be considered in next year's budget process. However, the City has the opportunity to begin an annual event this fall. Staff has indicated that there are funds available in the Recycling Fund to finance a cleanup day. While no specific proposal is yet in place, preliminary staff discussion has led to the selection of October 16 as the optimal date for the event, based on the Public Works schedule (occurring prior to the leaf drop-off) and the ability to promote the event in the September/October CityNews Newsletter. Preliminary site selection has led a probable venue at Brookview Park, due to its particular setup and vehicular queuing potential. Holding a cleanup day would not be unique to Golden Valley. St. Louis Park and Plymouth, for example, both conduct an annual spring cleanup event. If a cleanup day in Golden Valley is as popular as in Plymouth and St. Louis Park, the City can expect up to 4,000 residents to participate in this one day event. Only Golden Valley residents will be allowed to participate in a City sponsored cleanup day. cit 0) Golden Valley Date: June 17, 2004 To: Thomas Burt, City Manager T. M Public Works 763.593.8030 1763.593.3988 (fax) Through: Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works From: Al Lundstrom, Environmental Coordinator Subject: Buckthorn Removal Proposal Staff has completed a Natural Resource Inventory for the City of Golden Valley. The inventory provides detailed information including the location and quantity of invasive species throughout the community. The City's Environmental Commission has reviewed the inventory and is in the process of developing a- program and recommendation -to the City Council regarding the management of buckthorn on public and private property within the City. In the meantime, Jan Olfe, a member of the South Rice Lake Association has submitted a proposal to staff and the Environmental Commission to remove buckthorn within the South Rice Nature Area during the summer and fall of this year. The Association is planning to use the expertise of Janet Larson, BS Urban and Community Forestry, who is recognized as an expert in the management of buckthorn in the Minneapolis area. The written proposal and verbal conversations with Ms. Olfe have resulted in a request for assistance from the City for the following: 1. Permission to remove buckthorn and other invasive species from public property. 2. Funding for the chemical treatment of the larger stumps that cannot be removed by a stump/root puller. 3. Funding and assistance with the hauling of the brush piles generated by the removal projects. 4. A staff person to attend and assist with the proposed summer and fall projects. Ms. Olfe would like to begin the South Rice Lake project in June or July. The existing City Code, attached for reference, currently does not allow for the removal of trees and other plants on City right-of-way at this time. G:'Buddhom%BuddhomRemovalProposal.doc Staff would also like to note that no budget exists for the other items requested by Ms. Olfe. Given the proposal from Ms. Olfe and the status of the Environmental Commission's study, staff will: 1. Inform Ms. Olfe that permission cannot be granted to her under the current ordinance to remove buckthorn from City property. 2. Request that the Environmental Commission conclude their study in six months. The Commission will be asked to evaluate code revisions, program requirements, financial impacts, re -vegetation requirements, etc. to support a buckthorn removal program. Attachments Buckthorn Removal Proposal, Janet Olfe, South Rice Lake Association (1 page) Buckthorn can be controlled or reduced, Janet R. Larson (4 pages) List of City Code Sections related to this discussion (1 page) Proposed Project Location Map (1 page) AI Lundstrom 06-18-0 pdf Page 9 SECTIONS OF GOLDEN VALLEY CITY CODE RELATED TO PLANT REMOVAL SECTION 7.04. SPECIFIC REGULATIONS. Subdivision 1. Trees and Plantings. The Director shall have control and supervision of all plantings, shrubs and trees upon or overhanging all right-of-way. It is unlawful for any person to plant or remove trees or other plants which are on city right-of-way except sod and low lying plants not greater than 12 inches in height above the ground. SECTION 10.50. SHADE TREE DISEASES Subdivision 8. Public Property. Any elm tree, dead elm wood, oak tree or dead oak wood on property owned by the City which is a public nuisance as provided by Subdivisions 1 or 2 of this Section shall promptly be removed under the supervision of the City Manager at the expense of the City. SECTION 10.51. CONTROL OF WEEDS AND VEGETATION. Subdivision 1. Unlawful Acts. B. It is unlawful for any owner or occupant to cause, permit or allow poison ivy, ragweed, or other poisonous plants or plants detrimental to health to grow on any such lot or land. G:1Execullve Summary%2004113uddhom Removal Proposal.doc I.Yu12Luiviii uuu uv wuuvuou V1 ICUMCu rage 1 01 1+ Buckthorn can be controlled or reduced Janet R. Larson, Spring 2002, Minnesota Plant Press 21(3) Control or reduction? Where buckthorn has not completely infested an area, control is a reality. Where it has created a near monoculture throughout a sizable area, reduction might be a better reality than control. A single stem of buckthorn cut down to the ground and not chemically treated will re -sprout from the stump and grow many new stems up to six feet in a single season. In one to two years, the plant can be producing fait again. "If you cut it, you just anger it," says Norm Erickson of Rochester. This aggressive re -growth must be stopped or the plant will soon reach its former size, take up more space, and continue to exist indefinitely. Chemical treatments For larger buckthorn control projects, some type of chemical treatment is the best control method. It is important not to treat during the spring -flush growth period. This is a time when the plant is using its stored energy reserves to grow, from the break of dormancy in late March until about June 1. During the spring -flush, the plant generally does not store energy, it spends energy. Chemical treatments work best when the plant is dormant or transporting sugars to its root system (storing energy). Summer, autumn, and winter are the three seasons when chemical treatment of buckthorn is effective. Late September through November is a convenient time, since buckthorn leaves remain green and attached, while leaves of our native plants are turning color, falling, and gone.When using herbicides, always follow label instructions and take recommended precautions; be certain that your chemical is -- labeled for your site. Cut stump treatment During cutting and brush -hauling operations, stumps are easily lost under leaves and debris. Marking stump locations with wire flags, similar to those used by utilities to mark underground pipes or wires, is helpful when it comes time to locate the stump for treatment after an area has been cleared. Secure the flags well, so they will not be dragged away with the brush. Stumps can be chemically treated with a paint brush, a wick applicator, or with an ultra low volume spray nozzle and wand. It is very important that bark on the sides of the stump, including exposed root flares, be treated as well as the top of the stump. Under the bark, many latent buds have the capability to re -sprout with vigor. Chemicals are most effective if applied within 24 hours, but can be applied up to 48 hours after the cutting. Frill cuts with chemical spray Wound the bark with an axe at a 45 -degree angle around the circumference of the tree, to create a frill. It's not necessary to girdle the stem completely. Then apply herbicide spray to exposed cut areas and adjacent bark. This is an effective method when trees can be left standing. Consider this method especially when buckthorn has overtaken steep slopes. If you physically remove all the buckthorn, you set the site up for erosion. This method works well on stems greater than 4 inches in diameter. Basal bark treatment http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/biology/mnps/papers/Larson2002213.html 4/12/2004 .1)LR+1lU1V111 VQII UG VVUUV11G1 V1 1GUUUVU rage Z or 4 When mixed with a diluent (a solvent that may contain dye that can be mixed with some herbicides), ester formulations of Triclopyr can be applied directly to the bark at the base of the tree to provide effective control. Spray the lowest 1 1/2 feet of bark around the entire circumference of the tree. For diameters 2 inches or less, only one side of the stem needs to be sprayed. This is a fast, effective way of controlling trees up to 6 inches in diameter on large sites. Dead trees can be left standing or cut at a later time. Garlon 4 and Crossbow are effective brand-name chemicals for basal bark treatment. Herbicides that work well 1. Roundup (now off patent; Glyphosate active ingredient) = Razor, GlyStar Plus, others. Mix with water for stump, frill and foliar applications. A 25 percent solution is needed for stump and frill methods. • A 3 percent solution is needed for foliar spray. 2. Rodeo (now off patent; for aquatic use; Glyphosate active ingredient) = Aqua Neat, others. • Same rates as Roundup apply for Rodeo 3. Garlon 3A (Triclopyramine active ingredient) = Ortho Brush B-Gon - Mix with water for stump and frill applications. 4. Garlon 4 (Triclopyr ester active ingredient) = Crossbow, (Pathfinder is ready -to -use) - Mix with diluent or kerosene for stump, frill, and basal bark treatments • Mix with water for foliar applications Tordon is not recommended. Spraying in a buckthorn thicket 1. In densely infested areas, use a hand-held tank sprayer; backpack sprayers can be difficult to negotiate through the woods. 2. An ultra low volume spray wand can cut chemical use by 75 percent. 3. Wear appropriate clothing when using chemicals, especially when mixing concentrate. Use neoprene gloves; not latex, cloth, or leather. Wear goggles or safety glasses when mixing chemicals. Be sure to read and follow label instructions. Mechanical control Mechanical control is not possible with large infestations of buckthorn; it is extraordinarily labor- intensive. The following methods are recommended for people who wish to avoid chemicals and have small areas to clear. Hand pulling Pulling plants out of the ground by hand works well for stems 1/2 -inch diameter or less. The soil must be moist, or your efforts will be frustrating and with very little result. When the soil is dry, the plants won't budge. If they do budge, they break off, leaving the root system intact. To remove, pull at the base of the stem lightly to loosen the soil, then pull again to dislodge the plant from the ground. When you pull buckthorn, you will discover buckthorn's dense, black, highly successful, fibrous, root system. Digging With a sharp shovel blade, it is possible to cut the roots around small stems (about l inch in diameter or less). Stomp your shovel blade into the ground up to a foot away from the stem, and pull the shovel handle back; this will sever roots, but may need to be repeated. Do this all around the stem until all lateral roots are severed. There will likely be a couple of central roots to cut, too. This method works well with single -stemmed plants, but is quite difficult with shrubby individuals that have re -sprouted after a previous cutting. Wrenching http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/biology/mnps/papers/Larson2002213.html 4/12/2004 1JUVELUIV111 VQll UV VV11L1V111;.N,t Vl Lvuu%1V1u raga ..3 01'+ A few tools are available on the market to facilitate the manual leveraging of a woody stem or stems out of the ground. With a steel clamp or claw, a stem is grasped; then the tool handle becomes a lever, bending the stem down and lifting the roots out of the ground. Tools range in size and will pull stems up to 2 inches in diameter. The largest tools are heavy and need to be wielded by large, strong individuals. Some communities have organized to purchase various wrench sizes and have made them available for free rental from local hardware stores. Continuous cutting Cutting buckthorn without chemically treating the stump is not recommended unless there are only a few plants to remove and you are willing to re -cut new sprout -growth nearly every week for the entire growing season and beyond. Continuous cutting will exhaust the plant of its extensive energy reserves. It may exhaust you, too! Tin can method This approach, developed by Steve Glass, University of Wisconsin Arboretum, is only recommended for very small removal projects and for stump sizes small enough to fit under a metal can. Find a can large enough -to fit over the stump and root flare. Cut the stump 1 to 2 inches shorter than the height of the can. Since buckthorn re -sprouts from latent buds under the bark, including stump bark, it is important that the inverted can cover all exposed bark. Drive long nails through the can into the stump to secure it in place. Sprouts that grow into the can will not have enough light and will die. Leave the can in place for one to two complete growing seasons. Burning John Moriarty, Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Department, reported on a study he conducted with Hennepin Parks to control buckthorn in Carver Park. Burning can be a good technique for forest or park -like settings, but is not really practical for homeowners. Bum timing is very critical, and it may be difficult to coordinate factors such as ground fuel, moisture, wind speed in the woods, and approval from the -local -fire department: Fire is a management tool; but -it---will not eliminate buckthorn. A -recent study out of DePaul University explains why it is difficult to bum in buckthorn -infested sites, due to the rapid degradation of the leaf litter. Overwhelmed by it all? If you've worked in a heavily buckthorn -infested area, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Don't give up. Buckthorn has had decades to get a root -hold ahead of those of us who would like to eliminate it. However, with the control methods described here, total elimination is not really a possibility. These plants are simply too widespread, and the volume of their biomass is staggering. The cost in terms of human -power, time, equipment and funds is unreasonably high in economic terms. Reduction of the critical mass is a possibility. Following are my suggestions for those who would like to do something, but have limited time and budget Prioritize. Doing something is far better than leaving the invasion unchecked. Priorities for a limited budget 1. Partner with conservation groups; neighborhood groups, your municipality, volunteers. 2. Search locally for potential grant funding, then write grant proposals. Ask local businesses and foundations for assistance. 3. Survey your site to find treasure pockets of remaining native plants. Clear around these plants first to release them from their buckthorn competition. Protect them during cutting and removal. Sometimes these natives are very, very small, but when they are freed, they bounce back with new growth. Find a local native plant expert to help you with identification. Mark them with flags. 4. Protect quality areas that are only marginally infested. http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/biology/mnps/papers/Larson2002213.html 4/12/2004 — ---------- -_._ .. _,,..w................w..... rags + ui + 5. Remove female buckthorn first. Mark them in late fall, when full of fruit, for later removal. 6. Prioritize removals to be in high-profile areas (along bike paths, parkways, play areas). 7. Publicize what you're doing. Put up informational signs in the project area, distribute flyers to nearby residents, write an article for your local paper or association. 8. Stop to answer questions of all those who inquire. Hope for a biological control "Good news came this month," wrote Cynthia Boyd in the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Sept. 26, 2001, "in a $20,000 report commissioned by the state Department of Natural Resources from the Center for Applied Bioscience International in Delmont, Switzerland. The 100 -page research paper includes a list of 14 insects that are possible natural predators (of buckthorn), thus potential control agents." According to Luke Skinner and Jay Rendall, coordinators in the DNR's exotic species program, the feasibility study was completed in August, but the entire study may take up to 10 years to complete, provided funds to continue the research materialize. The next step will be to test the 14 species and determine which ones harm buckthorn exclusively. Tax-deductible contributions can be made to: DNR Buckthorn Research Fund, Exotic Species Program, 500 Lafayette Rd., St. Paul, MN 55155-4025. A Web page within the MN DNR Web site contains buckthorn biocontrol research updates at: www.dnr.state.mn.us. (Search on buckthorn biocontrol). The herbicide information given in this article is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement is implied. http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/biology/mnps/papers/Larson2002213.html 4/12/2004 :t=!