The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutResolution 2022 (06) Resolution No. 6 (2022) ST. RO UNTY RESOLUTION TO ADOPT AMENDED ST. CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN - 2022-2026 COVER MEMO TO: County Board of Supervisors FROM: Ken Witt, County Administrator Ellen Denzer, Director, Community Development DATE: February 1, 2022 AGENDA ITEM: Resolution to adopt amended St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan - 2022-2026 BACKGROUND INFORMATION The Community Development Department (CDD) and HKGI park planning consultants have completed the draft Eckert Blufflands Master Plan including an amendment from the public hearing held at the January 20, 2022 Community Development Committee (CDC) meeting, where the Committee voted to move the amended master plan to the County Board for action. Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan documents in the agenda packet include: 1. The Park Master Plan 2. The Park Master Plan Map 3. Appendix to Master Plan 4. The Master Plan Powerpoint presentation 5. Public hearing comment summary and individual public hearing comments The resolution to adopt the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan will be incorporated into the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan.The Outdoor Recreation Plan is an element of the County Comprehensive Plan, so a Class 1 public hearing was held. The public hearing notice was published in the various county newspapers, on the County website and the Parks project webpage,promoted on Facebook and emailed to 290 persons signed up on the master email list for the project. The Park Master Plan and associated documents is the culmination of 1-�/z years of collecting and analyzing public and agency input.Public outreach events conducted are detailed in the Park Master plan document, including an Open House on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. Approximately 50-60 people attended. Public comments were received and added to the meeting packet in two groups,January 19,2022 30 public comments were received, and are categorized as follows: 7 -great idea, support park 4 - support park,build now 4 -hunting/trespassing concerns onto adjacent property 4 -hunting should not be allowed 2 - can small trailer camp sites be added 2 -promote dark sky protocol to enhance stargazing 2 - can disc golf be added 1 -promote safe trail access into park 1 - look forward to ski and snow shoeing,willing to volunteer to build trails 1 - connecting park to regional trail system will be positive 1 -use more for hunting and less park development 1 -insure access for residents and guests to inholding properties Additional comments received from January 19'through the end of the public hearing have been added to the agenda packet as Exhibit 5 and are categorized as follows: 51 -build park to include a disc golf course 9 -do not develop/keep for hunting 2 - trespass concerns/comments 2 -build park The Master Plan provides basic guidelines for future development of the park. Future steps in the park development process include funding for the park which would allow money for specific design and construction of park improvements to take place. This phase would also include a number of entitlements that would have to be obtained including working with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)and the Town of St.Joseph on vacating a portion of Old Highway 935 to allow for a new access into the park property, securing permits from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) for the hike-in camp sites, applying for building permits from the Towns of Hudson and St. Joseph for the camper cabins, entry station and maintenance building and other permits as needed. Public hearing questions and staff responses: Q: What is the percentage of the park that will be developed? A: Approximately 5%, 9 acres, of the park's 170 acres will be developed(with 65%of this amount attributable to hiking and biking trails only), 95%will be undeveloped. This calculation is based on the Master Plan and is subject to variations+/- during final design. The entrance access,park drives,parking areas,paved trails,unpaved trails, entry station, maintenance building, cabins,yurts,hike-in camp sites, and picnic/playground areas were included in the estimated 9 acres. Q:A number of concerns were raised about hunting and proximity to residences? A: Due to Wisconsin DNR grant funding received by St. Croix County to purchase portions of the park property, the following activities are required at Eckert Blufflands: hiking, cross-country skiing, fishing, bow and gun hunting and trapping. Hunting and trapping activities are required to follow state hunting regulations. As the park develops, the County may petition the Wisconsin Natural Resource Board, to reduce some of the activity requirements, especially hunting and trapping, required by the grant funding. This process requires Park Ordinance amendments,identification of conflicts and justification for proposed limitations and public support. Q: Can the County add disc golf or RV camper sites as activities in the park? A:Disc Golf and other activities,such as RV camping,were reviewed as part of the master planning process and determined to not be a good fit due steep terrain,sensitive bluff areas,and limited suitable space.These uses are already in existence at nearby parks and/or are being planned in other areas of the County. In preparing the Master Plan, public feedback was provided, and attention was given to establishing adequate buffers between park activities and abutting residences. For example, the setback from the playground to the in-holding property lines is 400+ feet. Distances to the camper cabins from in-holding property lines and the Starwood Conservancy property to the south are 350+ feet and 200+ feet, respectively.The setbacks for the trails range anywhere from 225 to 350 feet from residential property lines. These distances coupled with landscaping and existing vegetation provide substantial buffers between private properties. This limits the number of activities allowed in the park. Q: What about security and safety of abutting residential parcels to the park boundaries? A:At this point,the County anticipates the Park will be run,maintained,and overseen by County Park staff. This includes administering the County's Park Ordinance and other park operation rules.This also includes routine checking of the park quiet hours, disturbances, maintenance issues, inspecting equipment and structures, reminding patrons of park rules, collecting trash and recyclables, and checking on the various areas of the property.Park visitors will be provided park maps that indicate park activities and boundaries of the park and the statement to respect those boundaries. The Master plan currently shows generalized signage for park boundary markers, Park staff have been installing boundary markers and will continue. The number, type and location of additional signage will be determined in the design phase of the project. St. Croix County Sheriff's Department, including Water Patrol, provides assistance with enforcement of the Park Ordinance, and enforcement of trespassing and nuisance issues at all existing county parks and will provide the same for Eckert Blufflands. Wisconsin DNR Park Rangers provide enforcement for State of Wisconsin hunting and fishing concerns/complaints and violations. Q: What about fire%mergency response at park? A: Staff met with City of Hudson and Town of St. Joseph Emergency Response personnel regarding park layout,emergency access,and addressing/numbering of new structures.Staff will continue to review design of the park with emergency personnel when final design is authorized. Q: How will mail, sanitation, delivery, and other service vehicles be able to access the inholding properties? What about guests to in-holding properties -will they have to pay to visit? A: None of the above scenarios will need to pay to pass the entry station. The entrance station will include two or three lanes of incoming traffic - one for people needing to stop to pay an entrance fee and one or two lanes for bypass traffic with a seasonal pass and for those not intending on visiting the park. This traffic will not need to stop at the gate. This includes in-holding residents, their guests, and service/delivery vehicles. Visitors who choose to use a bypass lane and not pay the fee but park their vehicle on park property, are required to have a seasonal pass or daily sticker displayed on their vehicle. Staff will check parking lots periodically for vehicles without a pass or sticker displayed,will be ticketed,resulting in a fine and penalty under the County Park ordinance. Please contact Project Manager, John Hilgers with any questions on the Eckert Blufflands Master Plan document, Map or Appendices: John Hilgers Senior Planner �olrn.lrilers a>sccv�i. ov cn�ailto �ohn hil Hers a>sccv�i. vy 715-386-4672 Resolution No. 6 (2022) ST. RO LINTY RESOLUTION TO ADOPT AMENDED ST. CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN - 2022-2026 1 WHEREAS, Wis. Stat. § 59.69(1) and (3) authorizes counties to prepare and adopt a 2 county development plan under the county's planning and zoning authority; and 3 4 WHEREAS, the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan is an element of the St. 5 Croix County Comprehensive Plan; and 6 7 WHEREAS, St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreation Plan was last updated in 2019; and 8 9 WHEREAS, the Community Development Committee desires to apply to the Wisconsin 10 Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for matching grants to assist in funding projects 11 identified in the Plan; and 12 13 WHEREAS, the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan must be amended as needed, 14 updated, and adopted by the County to maintain eligibility for WDNR grant funding assistance; 15 and 16 17 WHEREAS, St. Croix County provides outdoor recreational opportunities to its residents 18 and visitors to promote public health and well-being of individuals and families, improve the 19 attractiveness of the county and contribute to the social and economic health of the county and its 20 communities; and 21 22 WHEREAS, the Community Development Committee, HKGI Consulting, and county 23 Community Development staff have gathered input from residents and the greater St. Croix 24 County community regarding the creation of the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan over the 25 course of 1 1/2 -years; and 26 27 WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee and county staff have created the 28 public hearing documents for the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan, the Eckert Blufflands Park 29 Master Plan Map and the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan Appendices (attached) and intend 30 to incorporate these documents into the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan; and 31 32 WHEREAS,the Community Development Department hosted a public open house on 33 January 11, 2022; and 34 35 WHEREAS, the Community Development Committee held a public hearing to amend 36 the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan on January 20, 2022. 37 38 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Croix County Board of 39 Supervisors hereby amends the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2022-2026 by 40 incorporating the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan, the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan 41 Map and the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan Appendices into the St. Croix County Outdoor 42 Recreation Plan,pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 59.69(1) and (3). Legal—Fiscal—Administrative Approvals: Legal Note: Fiscal Impact: No Financial Impact until the County Board takes action to fund the park development. cott .Cax,Corporation C n /18/2022 4"I'o �h� L n on, Finance Dir car 1/18/2022 Kt&4tulwlyll dmin r r 1/18/2022 01/20/22 Community Development Committee RECOMMENDED ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... RESULT: RECOMMENDED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Scott Counter, Supervisor SECONDER: Daniel Hansen, Chair AYES: Schachtner, Anderson, Counter, Hansen,Achterhof, Hesselink Vote Confirmation. r' �A Hansen Comri7unityDevelopmient,Chairman 11241202.2 St. Croix County Board of Supervisors Action: Roll Call -Vote Requirement— Majority of Supervisors Present RESULT: ADOPTED [18 TO 1] MOVER: Daniel Hansen, Supervisor SECONDER: Shelly Tomtschik, Supervisor AYES: Schachtner, Anderson, Long, Koch, Hall, Berning, Ottino, Feidler, Ostness, Counter, Hansen, Ard, Tellijohn, Peterson, Anderson, Achterhof, Tomtschik, Peavey NAYS: Cathy Leaf This Resolution was Adopted by the St. Croix County Board of Supervisors on February 1, 2022 Cindy Campbell, County Clerk p f / / / , l o r r/ / r r , f r � r / r o r N � 6 rr/, „ 1 c r,_r r r py W i 1, w w rY ,1,w f � � µ J o Y fx 1, , u r f I.rr w v I n r� r l > „s pp I dL Lr 1 �r n,r y I n,� . r r �r a � I r vV r � r,d , 4 w, k r r r / I u � i i I 9 I N d I r �n f r / � k v C � rr , I i r / Fn (,�; ,, � ��.;^ /icrr„r,✓��r ri%,,,,,,,,.. //ioi%rpirnri/i,r/I%//i9igl%/'1 f!i G✓%/// %/1l!��!%/✓J/�l ri,(/�i rl�r%, ��✓1f 11r° �.. ;�' ,. V ,. .�.,, i, it rrii,; .rr/�l/� rr�//iii/ � ✓li/ ✓ /,,,, - w� .� /wn. r/i�l/l//�/i�//r!/ll / ,rrr,r l/ /. � rr.././��.. f /�(,..�+,f✓1.9r.. w. ,. ^, , ,,,,,�.. ;:. ff,,.. f/ /r�r/..r /.'r//r �(l rr �// ,/ ✓l/i m..r, !�lirL.////;Lr'r� a ,.«, ., m. ,..,.� ,,, u�^ ,a:.,w,,: f/i 1�� r<••L.l r ��;r. ��il�y//r�r�lr// �v.Ir1 r /f(l/C 7� / Fr rr/Jrr/i �.✓ '� � a .. w✓iif r/�// rft(f it/�f/rr,G �1V�JGrfiir rrJril/f��;�yr!�/ri%7r+ ./ !/r / r✓r fr / ^!�,n ,n ,,, �,al',."..,. .:. � ,. „ �,•, y,,� F✓.r f%�i�rrN�r (r //L/%,... 11�/l r�/f.✓�rfrJipr��/h/ jfy/.kalrl /�!f(i��.�cJwfrryi /(/,.r�J�IS%lr✓�f// ,r r .:. m� ,, > ,�. ri rr✓ i/ /;✓ lY�yr bvt.ui of r/rlrj��iiJ>w / dr/ rw mff � t///ff✓,,-.:r r///Il%ruiinw�/ / tt ✓ v ""d:'r�, r�� ,::::.. ,.a't:.m„ws � ,.. / r 9�F/ir/;,-, «m✓ / /f./,w M a�oy(w,;w �v,f��, � r ✓i.1:,. rxld,.rrlr,,,,;,;rubGcM lM .' y„ ra,.,, .,,, V�A IWYi �."7 i,, Amrtl.r' ,, y/fl(/,l„r u`r�r�/r/rs� r/'"�%�Wia�'�" �ou✓1 rf�r a/„�,r„r��✓r .:i✓rIr�YA Npf4a�rlrrrm''If�l�r%w�r"cnws�yirvr`a/�"irrM'IY `3�' rnmm i.... ;, >�'m ,ww,„„.. „cueww„ -:.,.,,,... . NW,�// lyk�l � "r'^/r M�Ii��/ap ryx��Anrrnrr��l�l�i�°}�k41 Fb✓tl�P�r;��,,/'M� r � �!r i sx� d"�," �,,, � ,�.,,n�rr.,- ,,::, �x ixalry ^r ,�r w ,i r � > ✓� ��✓ H a 11r /( rtxm c -�yra :e•�w�"` x ,,, ,�,r..M.,,, � ,,, ,m !r (,,, ,e ,.f,.; r 'ur uw ✓ r/4 t/ ll /JFrr J4�,."rM�.r.✓1 r�'rmii�mlurwYn,(�laF d "7�" r>aw aJ".*"`�~�s „,��...,.,„;,,,, �- ,,: .,r„„,w„ �,,,,., ,,::. o �. !''." ;, ,.;< .,I a'I �ilml)�rU'✓/r„�lll7 J f Yf)fN/�lJsr�rUr r,: ✓alr,-tl�//,u�✓ar rf(.,vny� Iru� �urlMir°' Yrf��f��J�l �r�roynl��Aan 9 �n I4WYyl1 cr'YJ;ry�N'(! , r �: ,� i, "' „.n•-°w..., ,,, r r' ,��; .,, �-i✓ �� "� c, ,,,,: � 7X r� %I/,«� .r:",Jlt/Pr lur�u��,r(Mnv✓FvpY Y%�1V rd Ip�um�7lua A,,,..,rM ✓ y Nm w4, a� � �; x� „ ,,, �, �;, fi?'y� PY' vi/� ✓ tw�f�yll yl fw..err li�/�if�I� ,�Yi�/�lllllli"�rr�»m�yj ir+�lkr�"' I l� xrr� ,mr,;"1rr, ,', r;�wxay'ar'. , ,.,, ' ,,�; „ ,, x, :'. � ,,,.` ,'tr.r'n�r I�Imr„rro/r p, ;�j�11� �r�JM r Y%' /r/ ,.✓,�� f�°v )fi YAK rrpru,"w'"fr+,mdA�'"�"`r��mf fir✓ nr rr N. �wr "W��'°�u�-0 ra,�� i °!n r r �„� ii�„ f✓ 'fi s />✓ ��91�!'Y" ✓h~ „ ,.r", � x, ,,..�, ,;a,'"', ,r,,:`:; +A,./,,.: ,,; ,x ,,'r✓ r ,r✓v��r /�1JIr✓/ A�16J/lr,..l�ll�/ / T�ieX�6 'r N gtl ir,w�f��"r/ rrnrti"'"rr n,,� �Y7�l4N�l � o�Y r u,✓Af,, ,. i r �' a N I�rW��/ /%n/l�la r !f?hr'r��Jyr� r i , "� „, /d ✓'� F r r v�" r�� oJ. rll�r��m°ryu rrr ulr. "'%�nJr f 9' :!'"�^�a"r("�*"',rn✓J"✓,'%* ,Y%� y�,>��r"u„'"e:wm"" .s°r,r .., wr�vl �m r,,�'.qr � � J." � e,'--, r �'"'hir �I,`y"a� ✓��/f�r✓��y)v� 'fY�f��iJ�"'"rw"�a,?.».J""'� ,��r�„�w"""r r�57 ��Y ,,,,,,, ,;,, ,G@.. �c, ;. r.. ,, ,,.r, d-�„�� a�,...gl ✓�w'�,. ;ww✓;� Y w��r��l��u pfli ��'�,r/,!��fflrXdfH lrr� �� JIiiN1Y>!^c' r�' '`�„11�41�1 wt� � f("f��n�� a � � � I 1 YU IBVrwrrP r M ,yFV'�1, � ✓Y � t i�`l,mm r ��r�?fG✓,�➢,a y��„,wy ��;an✓ a f ,� 9"'� '��Y �" �i ,nr. Y�-.W /// � /ri r/r�,,: ir�l�li� � r r°7��i wf,�r r✓rwH F �Yrr'r O 4w! ✓ n✓r ,,:tr 3nr�%C �r V"� ✓ r r a�Nw � Y a ro r ,If e✓,�`.M7,!,: ' „,...,, .., u r 1 ��+ x4 :� ✓ .�:Nk'A7 c N swum, I IIIIW I� I � t ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ST. CROIX COUNTY STAFF 1 John HiIgers,Senior Planner and Project Manager �A Ellen Denzer,Director of(orar unity Development Dennis Merkel,Parks Administrator(beginning April,2021) Aaron Mason,Interim Parks Administrator(until April,2021) e Brett Budrow,Planning&Land Information Supervisor Tamara TraxIer,Conservation Planner l t � 1 Ryan B rat ha1,Parks Property Manager �� l Joseph Ayers,61SSpeclallst Robbie Krejci,Highway(ommissloner Jeffrey Durkee,(ountyEngineer Travis Fountaine,Parks Property Manager Hannah Wirth,Plar►ning/GISTechniclan CONSULTANTS Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. Emmons and Olivier Resources M IN Im[a E07 q WaItgr m CONTENTS 01 llllq'TIROIDUC'TIIOIlq IPIROA CT „„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„„ Introduction I History....... ..........................................................................................2 RegionalContext....................................................................................4 Existing Site Conditions..........................................................................5 Projected Park Users...............................................................................7 Summary of Previous Planning.....................................................................8 02 IP U 113 11 11 C & STA IK IE 114011 ID IE'IR IE IINGAGIE W I IVTI� -11 Goals of Engagement..................................................................................I I Engagement Process...................................................................................I I Summary of Phase I Input....................................................................12 Summary of Phase 2 Input....................................................................14 03 ID IE VlE II,,,,0 IP M IE IIVT IP II.....A IN 17 Concept Development................................................................................17 Eckert Blufflands Park Development Master Plan.....................................18 Interpretation Plan......................................................................................30 ProgrammingPlan......................................................................................31 04 IN AT U IR A I[ IR IE SOIJIRCIE IP II.....A IN 2 Overview 32 Proposed Restoration and Habitat Transition..........................................32 Current Ecological Conditions................................................................32 Long-term Natural Resource Management Best Practices,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, .34 Invasive Management Approach...........................................................34 Other Natural Resource Recommendations 36 05 11 M IP I[ IE IE II TAT 110 IN IP II.....A IN A IN ID C 0 ST IE ST 11 M AT E 38 Introduction 38 Development Costs.............................................................................40. .N.at.u.r.al.R.e.so.u.rc.e.Costs.........................................................................42. Funding Options and Sources................................................................43. Operations and Maintenance Considerations..........................................4.5. !i f a ti. u t � pia ro� J ��u` j3 aff ry l b G M 4s w WA � Y� ry i M °w if r f� g N r IV m INTRODUCTION & /iPROJECT BACKGROUND III I OA .l.. III U IR I 0S�I The Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan describes the history, existing conditions, public input, recommendations for Master, Sections natural resources and development, proposed park program, implementation actions,and costs for the proposed park's 011 Introduction$ Project development and management. Background This new St.Croix County Park was made available through the 021 Public 6,Stakeholder purchase of several properties along the St.Croix River.Together, Engagement the park will provide public access to 2,800 feet of shoreline and 170 acres of greenspace in the St.Croix Valley.The master planning 031 Development Plan process allowed the public to weigh in on the park's design, and 041 Natural Resources Plan will ensure that St.Croix County can properly plan for the funding and construction of the park. '05 1 Implementation Plan'& Cost Estimate I. Appendices A. County Natural Resource Reports B. Hwy 35 Entrance Road study exhibits C. Inventory Report/Site Analysis Maps and Diagrams (including" Project Limitations and Opportunities) D. 3 Draft Development i DWG r Concepts �r E. Phase 1 Public Input Summary F. Phase 2 Public Input Summary HIS""III III In 2018,the family of Josefine and Ernst Eckert sold 114 acres of property to St.Croix County so that it could be enjoyed as public parkland.The Eckerts cherished and cared for the land for more than 50 years,following its use as farmland and pasture,and thousands of years of stewardship by native tribes.Now,fittingly,it is going to be preserved for all to enjoy. Figure 11 Timeline LATE 1600s: 500000,000YEARS 10,000YEARS AGO:. Native Americans maintained.a AGO: The St.Croix River served presence in the area Sand and sediment from as a major drainage for The name St.Croix for the river shallow seas formed the glacial melt waters, was first recorded. Many stories bedrock we see today: Native Americans began concerning the name St.Croix link 140 acres 1 marine sandstones, occupying the St.Croix it to the early French missionaries, res of the shales,and limestones River valley. or to a French fur trader who died property acperty were used from the Cambrian and at the 'river's mouth, as a dairy faarm, "�� which included a Ordovician periods. ;,�� ,r ✓ �„ y�� small farmhouse, ;y barn,and silo.Cows Mi, were pastured in the uplands and used the land's ravines to get to and from the'river for water. 1939: 1,000,000- 14,000 YEARS �� Over 80 years '� ago,the property AGO: j was farmed and At least 4 glacial epochs i/ deposited additional silt ttr i1tt, the surrounding and sand,while ice and landscape consisted water shaped and wore of many more open ��%%/%� �'�%� away the rock formations s % /� farm fields and in the St Croix River valley �i � � fewer woodlands i ��/�i � �/ion,,,, y than today. gg :. iYd ,,,,v, 6l f1Irwrii m 1970: The Eckerts constructed their cabin overlooking the St.Croix based on a home in California that was featured in House Beautiful. r a , 1957: Ernst and Josa Eckert bought the farm with another couple,and 2018: 2021: later became the sole St.Croix County receives a grant Eckert Blufflands owners, to purchase the 114-acre Eckert Park Master Plan property for public recreation, adopted 2015: 2020: The Ec erts01 St.Croix County 2-acre Zappa with S kerts worked purchases the property acquired. with St.Croix 1950s: 53-acre Richards Initial concepts some of Mid-century,two pine plantations were County eof the park place he land Property for the p planted,creating densely shaded monoculture ` stands on site into managed developed. forestry i �i � t �i r�d �f�� 'oaf 4 U + e � � ✓' o r if l I11TIEGIONA11, C0114°"III CIE, III ' Figure 2 I Regio of Context Map �i k�I fP aw. (✓!i �aw"i a Fi u o ,� �C lu¢aix i.„u ,iiwgar 6 M d sl g'C fwu ri aai°rirririr � �� W�ti�r�uc�raral fr:rvrP lit nxi � . �„ �� i USrraarr"f�rral mw xEunr�s 16 i 5C Pecreotjran Area wtwm�teat N lM 06 al ��l Lrarw nail ftstern Pra ie "r o-iaiartuat r� rxatirara rara 15 1 r'ki vva u a a.,t nCA i w^ �Ciu aw — � I � �� a' S�L u';Kmi °rrr.Raw,�6�bll"U ri , � 6 i � Crux aivaC IU w° r �w C 5) L m rr �Y- 9 wow i6r l I,V q l 4,a.:�wYr � rra�.a 13 IJFFL/kN�D 5 4( Pa C M�j+mra ref i�WY4Ratll5i 91'oY. 61ni � IOO IrUIIIII� �. f '^ y i I M1'xCb�'1du�r51 `• ""' .,"" I� ,rntufklr S4rtr*r Park, �- Ci id Cwi+irrlllbua 6 a �e_ aaosaN ir�if i' �ih ga �w,�Mirri rr 1 „ d !f m a � � u Po. i �;�aa4w � u VwNwr i i 's;,,. _.........._ ..�......�... s ............ ........ . OW P [ Legend i 1 a Q fl%ion Eckert Blufflands Park 6 Mile Radius City Boundaries Go1/G// _ M. t J"v, �� Open Water Of r ,. , .I Scenic&Wild River Designatlen Parks P g �olieeu'o �,R �rrD aw� �' i'.4uri ruc i�&a"ul lf�f„` Patapicttat Access F'a ri is,a�,9 u Proposed Regional 1"'raite � _ T w'r r;,C Existing Regional grails r w rdiraa.!'ff,ai M r i al r hit 1 A � o.�a �U _.....��._._. ..._ �I � 4 5 MI eq, Within a five-mile radius of Eckert Blufflands Park,there are several recreation options to connect to in Wisconsin and across the river in Minnesota: • Regional bike trail connections (Lift Bridge Loop • Willow River State Park Trail, Brown's Creek MN State Trail, and several . St.Croix National Scenic Riverway planned regional trails in WI and MN) • City parks in Hudson and North Hudson • St.Croix County parks A, m F p � Eckert Blufflands Park is located on the St.Croix River,just ,,q north of Hudson,Wisconsin,and across the river from � Bayport, Minnesota.The park area covers approximately 170 acres between the St.Croix River and Hwy 35, ' contains steep bluffs and several ravines,and is adjacent to several private home sites and agricultural land. ' The parks upland contains former agricultural fields that will be restored to prairie landscape. Dense tree stands exist throughout the upland,the ravines,and on the bluffs.A cabin formerly owned by the Eckert family is the only existing structure on the park site today.Several deep ravines cross the park descending to the St.Croix River.The shoreline provides spectacular views in all directions and a sandy beach to hike along and explore. r ,rll 4� f m Figure 3 Existing Conditions , r .:/ ' !/�. �.. � � %'//� l�,l/.:� it//,/. ��N r ,✓ i�„ /,fy/ ✓ J N,'v J1 Legend Sensitive Ravines and � 4 o it Steep Slopes �i��%✓/�/r��//� /��/ ' / / /i'// / , /„ ir, o Pine Plantations � �� %// �� f% l%�� i r! "�j"",r�ru�^� ��r,I�'; ✓✓�r„�?�' � ��r Prairie Restoration Areas �. Power Lines ' 4 4� r� r II I r� r, „„ / //ii,„./ ,,�/ /✓r, /> r, ,il/ /, /, /i,� ..,ir�a r�ri�ruoif / ',� /A „// ri I / /i, / >fl/ ,� ......._._ m ��J ��~�� U� N�� mm�� m �� m��m�� m�� St.Croix County isone of Wisconsin's top population centers,and with the population expected to increase bv4l96 between 2010 and 2040 (gain in g nearly 35,000 peop I e), recreation a I demand is only rising.Accord in g to the Wisconsin State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP),the recreational opportunities in highest demand on county- managed properties are: ~ campsites ~ hiking/walking/running on trails ~ mountain biking and recreational biking trails ~ motorized trails ~ shore access ho lakes, rivers and streams St.Croix County will offer all but motorized and equestrian trail usage at Eckert Blufflands Park.Mountain biking usage would be limited Lothe mountain bike course and paved trails. With nearly 175 proposed parking spaces for cars and space for buses,the park has the potential to accommodate over llOO people aLa time.A future bike trail connection Lothe park along Hwy 35 would increase this capacity. The park's 38proposed campsites (this includes Eckert Cabin)will encourage multi-day use of the park.Campsite bookings aL other St.Croix County parks average two to three days,and work is being done to increase average stays. The park's four proposed picnic areas with seven shelters will be able accommodate nearly 200 picnickers at a time. Peak use will likely occur during summer weekends,but with seasonal offerings,visitors will have things to do at Eckert Blufflands year round. Peak use on weekends,if the parking lots are 75%full,cars bring an average of three people and turnover twice/day, and all campsites are booked (averaging two campers),will result in nearly 700 visitors to the park per day.(]n the average weekday,the park might see over lOO visits,assuming six campsites are booked (averaging two campers),and 50cars carrying two passengers each visit the park(about 3O96 parking capacity). Fie|dLrips during the school year oras part of summer camp programs have the potential Lo increase these numbers significantly. SUMMAIRY OF II IIITI III IN[ III III TII III Y O U N"l Y 0 U"I DOOR I I �L.. I �L.� �..�L.lI 0 N III lI AN R� ,o«U^rhu i 113 202 • County Bike/Ped Plan integration is a continuous theme across the document. Includes integration with XCSkiing,snowmobile,horse trails, w y greenway corridors, wildlife corridors,and drainage way corridors • Consideration of long term maintenance costs and non--duplication of existing programming (whether by a county facility or other provider, public or private)was a common theme • Preserve, protect, and provide access to habitat and natural areas Croixunty • Integrate education, interpretation, and promote public awareness Outdoor Recreation through signage and facilities Plan • Follow--up on County level of service recreation standards,are their gaps this facility can bridge? 2018 COUNTYA U Y : • Hiking trails was by far the most popular facility identified by the County Park and Rec survey for expansion/investment • Camper cabins were the most preferred facility at Glen Hills Park, which is the most used and highest rated of the County's park facilities per the survey „„..... m ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... January 8,2019 Administration Richards & Eckert Properties �i�aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa In 2015,the County purchased 53 acres of land from C.A.and Jeanette Richards (see map on page 22).This property has access off State Highway 35,is located along the St.Croix River in the Town of St.Joseph and includes 1,300 feet of river shoreline and 2,000 feet of bluff line. The county purchased the Eckert Family property in 2018.This 114-acre parcel is located in the Towns of Hudson and St.Joseph and includes 1,550 feet of shoreline and bluff line along the St.Croix River.The parcel is south and adjacent to the Richards property.Combined,these acquisitions protect over 2,800 feet of shoreline and provide public access to over 167 acres of greenspace in the St.Croix Valley. Other property features include acres of old growth woods,areas with habitat for migratory waterfowl and songbirds.A natural hard water springs are on premise. Portions of the site include ravines with erosion occurring and the potential exists for bluff line damage.Adjacent properties with development potential would increase erosion without intervention.The areas along the river contain steep bluff frontage with interior ravines on the south end.The steep and rugged topography provides scenic views of the river corridor and the new St.Croix River Crossing Bridge.A small cabin on the premises may have a variety of uses as a rental cabin,office space,meeting site,historic site.The purchase agreement requires it be maintained for 5 years. Possible uses on the property could include scenic overlooks,swimming,fishing,picnicking, limited cabin camping,hiking,snowshoeing,bird watching,hunting and trapping,boat-in access,and other outdoor recreation activities.Access to the properties will also need to be evaluated.Effort is needed to protect several ravines from additional erosion by restoring upland native plant communities.Uses and site preservation practices will be analyzed and identified through the master planning process which will include surveying and plant inventory,it is projected to begin in 2019-2020. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St.Crollx County 27 Seethe Inventory andAnalysis Report in the Appendix for more information on site conditions and site analysis. ri 1 i1 r � Y r i rr a a+� i 10 w w ^ w w w m PUBLIC & STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT At the beginning of the master planning process,a Public Engagement Plan was developed that outlined several goals for engagement during the project.The goals are as follows: • Provide information to the public and project stakeholders to make them aware of Eckert Blufflands Park and the master planning process • Obtain feedback from the public and project stakeholders related to � �� potential facilities,amenities,and values for the future of the Eckert lE ffects on. Blufflands Park rl • Engage the public and stakeholders to consult on and discuss issues The Eckert Blufflands Park and opportunities for the park site master planning process • Discover potential partners that may be involved with future project began in early 2020,just as implementation at Eckert Blufflands Park the COVID-1 9 pandemic was affecting daily life around • Update the St.Croix County Community Development Committee as the world.Initial plans for needed at appropriate times throughout the process engagement included in- person events,such as E 114 GAG E M E 114°°Ir 11 11R 0 C E S S community workshops, pop up meetings at events Three phases of engagement were held during the master planning process: and outdoor locations, • Phase 1 was held from July to September,2020.This phase was and stakeholder meetings. designed to reach out to the general public,St.Croix County residents Due to the pandemic, engagement shifted mostly and visitors, and stakeholders to make them aware of the project and to online methods, including ask for input on issues and opportunities for the future of the park. questionnaires,interactive • Phase 2 was held from January to February,2021,following the mapping,and GIS Storymaps. development of three park development concepts.This phase asked Some in-person stakeholder for the public and stakeholders to review and provide feedback on the meetings were held with safety concepts. measures,such as face masks and social distancing. • The final phase in the master planning process was a public hearing conducted by the St.Croix County Community Development Committee to amend the St.Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan.The Committee recommended to the County Board approval of the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan and added the Master Plan as an appendix to the St.Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan. SUMMAIRY OF IINIHASIE 1 11PUB11 III & EC KEPT BLUFFLANDS PAIIII S 11rXI CIE,H011 DEIR CIE,III GA CIE, CIE,III Ir OU"I IR A C & N G A G NA N"II... NA "I {GD S 7 Outreach Method Audience Piress IRdIea.se I ocall media;St. Ciroix County residents and business owineirs St. Choi x County Pairks St. Choi x County residents aind interested pairk useirs ........... .................... Facebook page ..... St. Ciroix County website St. Ciroix County Ireslidelnts and Ibusliness owineirs lnfoirimatliona� IIFfieir lin Ilane A,une,2020,a ffleir was sent t�o 590 Iredpeints Malifling indluding Ilocall Ilalrndowineirs;interest giroups;County Board Irmembeirs;'lowin of'Hudsoin;'lowin of St. Joseph;afll Cities,'to wins,aind WHIages in St. Choix County Engagement Method Input Received Natlx4l Resource Groups and Thiree(3)stakehokiers provided Agencies Stakehokier Meeting corniments via eimaH J si�'- us........ �®ph Thiree(3)stakehokiers attended the I ocall Goveirinim ent and (JUlities I Stakehokier Meeting meeding oin August 6,2020,aind provided corniments Adjacent I aindowineirs Six(6)IlalndovwlneIrs attended two Stakehokier Meeting meedings oin August 17,2020 at St. Ciroix County Government Center aind provided input Oinhine Survey(Survey Monkey) 647 respoinses,suirvey open From Hate June through eaidy September,2020 Oinhine Illinteiract live Mapping 35 comments weire placed oin the map; Inplu-11L(SocW Pinpolint) the site Irecelived 3,412 total)site visits P1npn n)" Nord cioud I'M4M Of""d" ',[h projen"mleb 17 filNJ l fI/11 111 /, �'a rl U ra'!�' ll allow vievifs -h (J'$1 D f) Cr 211 c a b i n t -Iz............... m U) 0 W -1 Ln 1< wool m a gra poll C 0' 11011! 111 !Wml'�vli htzgej 0 je, am"/OP ANN, Aff w'f t r ail s "'n 111P, x i s t ii ff//g people , ' Calm, Ic o rn rn tj n i t n Ln Ib r at e c t a 1�1�o,v,�e! C crob(coum")l Parh'�F(Xebonh paqe boater-s .......... S U NA NA A ICY 0l" lI N P U"I... Almost 650 people provided responses to the Suiirv,ey Moiinkey online Surveyl ts survey. Respondents were asked which facilities and amenities they would be 647 total responses Interested In seeing at Eckert Blufflands Park.The following were the top minutes typical time responses: spent taking survey • 90%of respondents indicated interest in hiking trails in the park 1 responses received on • 80%indicated interest in scenic vistas/overlooks Monday,July 13 2020 • 70%indicated interest in picnic areas 10 weeks the survey was • 63%Indicated Interest In flush restrooms open for responses • 62%indicated interest in shoreline exploration 8 survey questions • 61%indicated interest in winter activities--snowshoeing • 57%indicated interest in local and regional bike trail connection along Hwy 35 The items that received the lowest number of positive responses t. Croix County included:camper cabins (24%interested),showers (19%),and hunting/ trapping (14%). Facebook When factoring in the required park entry fee,the following features Participation were the most desired facilities among survey respondents: The County posted content • hiking trails with river overlooks (73%interested) related to the master plan on • water access/stairs or trail from bluff area (63%Interested) their Facebook page three times during Phase 1 of public • winter hiking or snowshoeing (48%interested) engagement,and saw the • camping/overnight use/remote tent camping or camper cabins following results; (48%interested) Over 80%of respondents selected the St.Croix River bluffs,views,and Post 1 7.13.2020 shoreline as key unique features of the Eckert Blufflands site that should Reached:32,297 be preserved and promoted. Hundreds of write--in comments were included in the survey responses, Engagements:8,165 which Included significant Interest In a disc golf course,mountain bike trails, boat launch,along with concerns about hunting/trapping and Post 2 7.27.2020 private property,among other comments. The SocWll F"Ihnpohnt site included over 30 comments posted. In addition Reached:'8,014 to the comments, many people"liked"or"disliked"the posted comments. Engagements:486 The input indicated interest in a disc golf course, handicapped accessible facilities, boat--in access, bike trails,and bike--in camping.There were also concerns listed regarding managing the park boundary,avoiding Post 3 9.04.2020 conflicts between hunting and adjacent residences,and building camper Reached:6606 cabins away from sensitive ravines. Engagements: 17 SUMMAIRY OF IINIHASIE 2 11PUB11 III 1EINGAGIEWEIN°"IIIr ro O U.IL.,I N G A G NA N"I... NA I {GIDS Outreach Method Audience Pire.s.s IRdlea.se...adveirb.sed in County I....racall imedia;t.Croix County rye w.spapeir.s with Ikink to PII"rase 2 residents and Ibusiness o wir eir.s engagement nt and.su irvey St.¢,uiroix County Pairlks I==acebook page St. ¢,uiroix County residents and uinteire sled pairlk u, seir.s St.Croix County vwelbsite...piroject web St.Croix County residents,Ibusiness page o wir eir.s„aind inteire.sted pairlk u, seir.s Diirect eirmaull sent out.to 85 St.Croix County residents and uinteire sled pairtue.s who pirovided the it uinteire sled pairlk u, seir.s eirmaull duiruirng Phase I IEingageirnein�t I..inks f it phase 2 engagement sent to C:ii�ty,C:cau.uin�ty,and S�taat�e stua0f and County boalyd lrme mbeir.s„Community repireseIn�tatiW'es;i lre.sou irces c ind Devellolpinneir t staaff,all goveirir inneir t spoirding girou, ps 6 ju iru.sd"ucturan.s in St Croix County, Natu, 14l I-esou irce Groups, DINIR„Ilracall tii oirgairnuzaturan.s„Spuirt.sirmair s NIllluairce Engagement Method Input Received 4 Stoiryirmap lCWelbsite showing wing 142 respondents between imid backgirou nd info,3 concepts,aired air) Jairnu airy 2021 aired the eind ol"I==ebiru airy Oirnlluir e Su irwey(Su irveyl 23) 2021 U11,111— yt, v�,�Prrrerrnl .larr w67+ ,Pab,Ar 1(Yn+iwula wmwr prapar, R,0im Ilr'Ar N Dual R"." PW W"k r O 4 rdwVA 151,rr For,ryuarrx. fvlw ,ryPdmpr afa67,rrw l rtuLlr^ I",w rri Proww � y ru�p ra.:kNt rprlr o-f. n nod i PAIR IW Fh "rinoll,n✓p ✓Y✓da0d(,()h,1 IYI'�-lYll�f`!✓,r Y'�-FI✓iV✓l�r�✓�JVlr,�r'/1✓1�FIr '✓1✓�y, m S U IT V l", l",S P 0 N S S III .IL. lI lI.. An eight--question survey was available online from mid--January through ResultsSurvey the end of February,2021.The Survey123 survey was posted on a Storymap that provided background information on the park property and outlines of 142total responses the three concepts. 142 people responded to the survey,which included the option to provide open--ended comments. 6 weeks the survey Respondents indicated that a mixture of recreation types were desired, was span especially those that encourage exploration of the natural environment 8 survey questions through trails, river access,and scenic overlooks.The following pages include tallies of responses to each question. ?. St. Croix County .. li Illy � .° .. ..:. r .. I111 Ira.f ................,, would fl�lr a� nlix of features IWIIIINIFAIIIIIINJINJIM 411 (30.8%) Participation flroirn the r:oinr:a.jpt.s The County pasted content related to the master plan t a°alllr;a:�ll� t %///%%oOa,//% „ % : �1(21. r�/�) can their Facebaak page three times during Phase 2 of public engagement,and t°oinr:a.jpt.2 saw the following results: Post 1 1.18.2021 t°a'°binr:a.jpt. 11 20(115%) Reached:30,379 Engagements: �O� Via, 4D 3,587 0 N C lE" P"I.. III �L..�L..�L.. �h �. SUMMARY Post 2 2.4.2021 Almost 150 people provided responses to the surv'ey"1 3 online survey. Reached:7,070 Respondents were asked to review three concepts and provide feedback on Engagements:326 the overall concepts,and the proposed programming, recreation, picnicking, camping,trails, and natural resource management shown in each: Post3 2.282021 • There was no clear preference between the concepts,with a plurality of Reached:5434 respondents indicating that a mixture of features from the three concepts would be ideal (41). Engagements: 161 • Concept 1,which included the most camping, received the least votes(20). Opponents to this cited the amount of hunting as a concern and believed the lack of things to do would make visiting unappealing.Supporters appreciated the mix of camping options and the shoreline access for wading. • Concept 2,which included the most adventure recreation, received the middle amount of votes (34). People liked it for the family--friendly activities that make the park an attraction for all ages. Folks who like this concept want to see the park become a destination with different amenities than they can find at their local parks.Respondents liked the opportunities for adventurous recreation and camping,which set it apart from other parks along the St.Croix. • Concept 3 was less development intensive than the other concepts,and received slightly more votes than either of the other individual concepts(38). Respondents appreciated the low--impact road network and the natural-- resource focus. r, r r a, + r/v •^ r a + �� /��l� i r %�� .,V r��r� Jii �AJ��;F. u r m/ f i f ill W. � w xr °ry I u� d Uv, i✓ � �9M� �f �r If �� )��h'„ d ,�/ •,�1// ,r ��if rl�i�ii/��!r %l iiiiii�%�ii //1��//�� , �� r ' '^vJ��; !�✓ ,. .„., rr� ,,,: r fk�lr,r�/%%,i'�9�ii ��y �ju� r � �fi; r r MIIr Ia J r I w , r r Y a rc 16 m Park Program Requirements r Due to grant funding received DEVELOPMENT PLAN by St.Croix County to purchase portions of the park property, the following program elements are required at Eckert 11401 ',I Ir MIME[ 01PNEIN Ir BI uffla n ds Park: • Hiking Public and stakeholder input received during August and September . Cross country skiing of 2020,through online surveys and stakeholder meetings,was used to develop three different concepts for park development. • Fishing • Bow and Gun Hunting III to A lL...I.. 0 N C l", P .I..,S l"O to l", lI lh��,. .,,Trapping Three draft concept plans were developed that included slightly different The above activities are circulation layouts and mixes of facilities and amenities.All concepts allowed per the DNR grant included various configurations of multi-use paved trails,natural surface funds used to purchase the hiking trails,shoreline access,camping facilities, picnic facilities,overlooks, property. access drives, parking areas,and other features.Cross country skiing, fishing,hiking, bow and gun hunting,and trapping are allowed activities in all concepts per the DNR grant funds used to purchase the property. Figure DroftConcepts nz r r r- e o, Girl(',P), ,r IYIdud d),h had)"he hd/Ins/ Mrll;, V✓N p)/(:)Wr ol/Fr(y)"hr(( v✓ar)he up), err''-,wi'h rr erial rrl,/ �:�rr�r�'r1 wr/Fr r� r',', Jrrvr /�aFrry rrrlvr� ti/rr lr�rti/rr, rri��i/rr/ lrr Irrkr {,kill{; v✓r 11 ,rrliri� - rr irulr� rrrl �l r� vr'J n rr��rlFrr°rrr�'rrrr �llFrr�r"�rrrk, rrrrrl,rl rrr�lu�lr'J C OU'r'W, rrrrrl,ra rop(', (J par'k'. Iridud d an Al,0 n p)"� nri)"rr qe)" lFrry�,Fr�err Il r v✓h'h ra lrl!';)run "u're and Ir nq)"h Ol nem/yr Frig e roadmla)l' I1111r U:'VA I(:' Ire ardmlalk rrinn(O"h ',11 e, 011("re mlerr ai';(:' ',r vIeral ('Jrnpinq np)"l :'rr'';rndud d' ('Jr,v✓r II('Jr, Vr'Y' l(("/I rlp n np)"1 :7rr`;In r"/6V(')(1,P( /I rl "'';Ill near)"he park l rrl"r7an ('. I III MASTER PLAN E KE III ""IIIr 11 WHIR[ A11WDS II III K DEVELOPMENT CIE, CIE,11, OIRKE114""IIIr MAS IIIr I ,III IIINIIn A114 SUMMARY After obtaining feedback from the public during the second phase of engagement, meeting with stakeholders,and working with 5t.Croix Circulation County staff,a preferred concept was developed.This master plan for » Gated entry station development of Eckert Blu ands Park represents the preferred mix of �s 7 parking areas;'! amenities, programming,and natural resource restoration for the park. » ;; miles pf paved du vesA C C 0 NA NA 0 ILl A'lI lI0 N S A N�ILl NA l N lI"I...lI lL"S 1,51'miles,paved,Apd acc ssjble trails THE BCKBRT CABIN an Eckert Cabin, built in 1970, is a one--room, hexagonal structure with a » ;55 mf� satural sufa trails; fireplace,small kitchen,and a half bath.The septic system was new at » 4Nrngrrdges ass snsat ue the time of purchase by the County.This unique structure is envisioned rVmes" , as a flexible space for the following potential uses (depending on programming and demand): >5 2-stairways d /fjthepluffto��the , h0relrne�� %� ��r/�' Center for nature/interpretive programming in the park Home to an Artist--in--Residence on the 5t.Croix program feaereational Futures' p g 4 pin « rea a fi 7 otal shelters Rental for overnight use R 5i/ Pla}fr ,ncf j Day use rental for meetings or gatherings >s ,Adve��Ur�1l�lat�r�playare� > aw roped eo}rre wrfih ropm for Ji19h ropes exp [ stori area �> MoGn ai ,bke skids course �� 1N d 64ar`gaval hg facet fjne, » S,hore g �` f /%% 5) S�eddihl5ill 1px moynls � ,Vt/i1dlie��uathrrYg.oedaks Acaommoda#earns 13 hike-in tent campsftes 17 camper cabins �> 7 ydrts Eckert Cabfn rental Natural Resources: w ,Prairie and'savanna restoration and i hme ` »;=Invasive species monitoring and ; ` Management m - EXISTING36 RCP CULVERT - ,! EXISTING DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE Xry„rrlfjT�r 11 '�N TO REMAIN DYF"1)nY'wxYi'" rll//0//`l+Ycl9l TRAIL CROSSING (ATGRADEI) TE Jlll�i " "" xti GRADING LIMITS P � i /✓ m') � �')��---� � it �•• �, �.iyn �� EXISTING42 RCP CULVERT / '""'" � -. % -TO BE EXTENDED F POTENTIAL STORMWATER i TAREA CULO-DOE-SAC TERMINATING AT TREATMEN RIGHT TURN LANE 1- ---" � W r REMOVE ROAD NORTH NORTH DRIVEWAY PROPOSED CULVERT w, y f 3s t� — —� � PROPOSED CULVERT '. ; / GRADING LIMITS ❑ EXISTING BITUMINOUS - EXISTING CULVERT PROPOSED CULVERT PROPOSED BITUMINOUS a -- EXTENSION - - —a—�— EXISTING GUARDRAIL EXISTING GRAVEL PROPOSED GUARDRAIL PROPOSED GRAVEL PROPOSED TRAIL (APPROX.ALIGNMENT) SCALE IN FEET P DRAFT HOISI GROU KOEGLER ECKERT eLTER PLAN PARK GROUPING. Iv1ASTER PLAN HIGHVIAY 35 ENTRANCEIEXIT CONCEPT e 123 N 3RD STREET,#133 ST.CROIXCOUNTY,WISCONSR MINNEAPOLIS,MN 55401 SHEET 010E 01 SHEETS Figure Hwy 35 Entrance Access:Engineering Study III'''' Access to the park will occur via a new driveway entrance off of Hwy 35. An engineering study to determine feasibility and suggested location for the new entry was conducted as a part of the park planning process.The alignment of the new drive creates a single vehicular entrance with good visibility and easy access for those arriving from either the north or the south,which the current configuration does not provide.The alignment also clarifies public park access and private residence access through road removals and the creation of a cul de sac on Cold Hwy 35.Current inholdings along the St.Croix River will use the reconfigured entrance drive to reach their residences.Private road signs will be installed and intersections realigned as needed to reinforce the distinction between public and private. Park boundary since,fencing,and/or vegetative buffers will be employed at specific locations along the ar 's perimeter,in addition to the inholding°s property perimeter,in order to prevent park visitors from mistakenly trespassing onto adjacent properties. Entrance drives will be renamed,where needed,to honor purchase agreement requirements. The County°s revised park access will impact the existing property owners utilizing River Heights Trail.The realignment of the current access easement will necessitate a new easement agreement to be negotiated with those property owners utilizing River Heights Trail.The negotiation will address realignment,maintenance,construction standards, naming of drives,etc.and will be completed prior to moving forward. Once the proposed bike trail along Hwy 35 is constructed,a connecting trail and safe highway crossing for access to Eckert Blufflands Park will be built.The location shown in the above figure is approximate.P,final location will be selected during design development. The Hwy 35 trail was identified as a priority route in the 2017 St.Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.The County has pursued funding for this route,with the first phase to be completed in 2023.Phase II funding will be pursued during the next DOT grant application cycle. I I �u w w w 19 Figure E I Eckert 66ufflands Bark Development Master Plan ILegend jj j ,f>, I f r.✓, � ,� I rj 1-.. �� /,��'��1ji' �/ by,'� /�� °D/%/ii,,,,, w6wf�rlwrwsa;a ! 6 Eckert BlufFlands Park © Natural Surface Hlking'frail MAN, use " j Pay.dTrail //r Asphalt Drive Gravel Roadway r I Parking Shower Facilities Restrooms 0 Potable WaterEN Picnic Shelter Z Bench Firearm Rest estrictions �I ;I Activity Area tlotwth a+Cri ,rdbdr ares d d ,.cc,for hncampers FIk h R strooms and Water P Shehers(4) P Area Sp th erred Playground Ad t /Nature Play T'lh d / f Pave dloopTra'Is J t ^ 1)f I I 1 /U r lu CAMPER CABINS AND YU TS Twenty-four camper cabins/yurts are proposed on the southern third of the park,two of which will be ADA-accessible.These types of camping offerings expand the outdoor experience beyond traditional"outdoors 1 i, types"to people who may be interested but are less comfortable, lack the equipment,or don't yet have camping experience.Camper cabins/ f yurts are also attractive to those who would like to camp, but aren't in l ; a life stage that makes tent camping convenient or accessible,such as older adults and families with young children.The ratio of camper cabins to yurts shown on the maps may change slightly due to construction costs and maintenance considerations. », , RUSTIC CAMPING The development master plan proposes creating 13 hike-in tent campsites in the northern half of the park.The County will seek a 9' variance to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DNS) code 178.27 (3)that requires a minimum 400'distance between rustic fl campsites.The proposed campsites average about 200'apart(see Figure 6). If the variance is denied, the rustic camping area on the north side of Eckert 8lufflands Park will be able to accommodate 7 hike-in campsites no more than 400'apart according to the code. Dedicated parking for campers, along with water, restrooms,and garbage/recycling will all be located near the activity area parking lot. In the future, if trail access is extended from Hwy 35 to the northern half of the park and can be constructed to accommodate occasional vehicles, x� r„ an additional vault toilet should be constructed to more conveniently serve these campsites. PICNIC GROUNDS The park will feature four separate picnic areas throughout the park.On the northern third of the park, a rentable 25-person shelter will cater to the rustic campsite and natural surface trail users.The primary picnic v grounds at the park's main activity area includes four shelters:two first- come-first served two-table shelters,one rentable 25-person shelter,and a 75--person rentable shelter with restrooms and water.On the south third of the park,two 25--person rentable shelters are available:one with restrooms and water south of the entry road, and another set in an open play area northeast of Eckert Cabin. ELECTRIC Y ICL CHARGING STAI Electric vehicle (EV)charging stations should be a design option in the Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan.EV charging stations will likely be located at the Entrance Station and rely on credit card or prepaid usage card readers that enable s to their vehicles for fee.These chargers be mapped dsion state and charge reg onal databases providing travelers with location information. Having charging stations in parks allows visitors to enjoy park amenities while recharging their vehicle.St. Croix Electric Cooperative or Excel Energy may have funding available to assist with purchase and installation of EV charging stations and should be contacted during design phases. �ytr� w w a G I Eckert Blufflands Park will provide recreation to suit a variety of visitors, from families spending an afternoon picnicking and playing together,to hikers and campers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty I of the St.Croix,to those seeking adventurous outdoor recreation that builds skill and promotes fitness. PLAYGROUND The park's primary activity area and picnic grounds is anchored by a playground that will attract and engage families. Design of the playground presents an opportunity to interpret the history and impact of the land's previous owner, Ernst Eckert,who was a renowned scientist in heat transfer and thermodynamics. In his work at the University 0 of Minnesota and at NACA(now NASA), he helped develop ways for spacecraft to safely return to earth and to cool turbine blades in jet engines. For this reason,this playground is envisioned to have a space, flight,and STEM (science,technology,engineering,and mathematics) theme. ADVENTURE/NATURE PLAY AREA In order to expand play opportunities and emphasize the park's natural 'I setting,an adventure/nature play area is proposed between the picnic f � and playground area and the low ropes course.This area could include a bouldering course and play elements like rocks,stumps, logs,climbing nets,and landform features constructed of natural materials. r LOW ROPES COURSE A roughly 1--acre area of the former pine plantation is suggested to dl include a variety of low--ropes course features that could be utilized by school groups and others to promote teamwork,cooperation,and physical fitness.There is also space for a 0.70 acre expansion of the course that could be built out in the future with high ropes features and operated by a partner entity. MOUNTAIN I TRAINING COURSE A nearly 5--acre area of the park is designated as a mountain bike skills training course,winding through a pine plantation and oak woodland. The course should include sustainably built single--track trails,feature �ry a variety of challenge elements(like see--saws,jumps,and rollers),and cater to multiple skillsets to introduce new participants to the sport, encourage learning,and promote opportunities for advancement. No additional mountain bike trails will be provided in the park. WADING AREAS Wading areas will be signed along two areas of shoreline to take advantage of the park's access to the St.Croix River and its long stretches of beach. No lifeguards will be provided,so they will not be advertised as swimming areas. ^"...._._ m SLEDDING A As hill will be constructed southeast of River Heights TraiI with ILL parking available just across the read,adjacent to the Mountain Bike, Skills Course.Some clearing will need to take place, but the natural topography and slope orientation provide a solid foundation that minor �� grading will only enhance. STARGAZING MOUNDS . + Two areas for stargazing will help campers take advantage of the park's rural environs.These flat-topped mounds,one in the center of the park set into restored prairie, and another on the south third of the park ,ar �`r° ti; � �t�, ,n� ' flanked by woodland,could have interpretive panels suggesting ways that visitors can identify constellations above,and feature posts for hanging hammocks to make looking up at the stars a comfortable and awe--inspiring experience. For those without hammocks,the slope of the mounds should be a comfortable angle for stargazers to lay and look up at the stars. WILDLIFE WATCHING Y L The north half of the park features three proposed overlooks,designed to highlight views offered by the more than 15 'high river bluffs across the St.Croix River valley.Peering down the bluffs'forested slopes,visitors will have a prime spot to birdwatch. PAYED ADA-ACCESSIBLE MULTI-USE TRAILS The park proposes 1.56 miles of paved, multi--use trails that will provide N an ADA--accessible surface for visitors of all abilities to explore the park. NATURAL lJ FAC AIL 3.65 miles of natural surface trails will allow visitors to explore all of the park's various habitats.Trail surfacing will vary based on the location, but may include packed earth,evergreen needles, mulch, mown turf, or crushed aggregate. Eckert Blu ands Park aims to take advantage of the seasonalityof its setting by offering use throughout all seasons,including:• Winter camping• Cross-country skiing Snowshoeing and winter hiking r, Wm • Sledding • Birding I III ^^pp w w a G3 Az.tpvl ky Area Parking Lot with expansion �artdl bus dropoff areas+ ! � ��, �� q�®Y gr dedicated spaces p'or C C E S S IIII i hike,in caismpers Fluor Re5trocrrms and Water p �PUNT Picnic Shelters(4) 1/� f �V Picnic Area Spade-therned Playground ✓j Adventurel Nature Nay Tradhead � Pavcc!poop Trails v u + l Figure7l Central Bluffkands Master Plan Diagram Legend N"II.. M. U F..F.. NII.. 'S VV 5 ACC I I % 0a Park Entering the park off of Hwy 35 at the new access point,visitors arriving by automobile will Natutat Surface pass through the entry station,where they can purchase a parks pass, use the restroom,and lh n_'Te access information about this and other St.Croix County parks.Shower facilities will also be PavedTrail included in the building. From here,they can drive to the Activity Area and park, or take River Asphalt Drive Heights Trail and park at one of the many small lots in the south half of the park.Once the on= Giravel Roadway proposed Hwy 35 bike trail goes in, a designated bike connection across Hwy 35 into the park 0 Prising will be constructed, and cyclists will be able to enter the park on a paved bike trail that leads bprpwer Facilities directly to the Activity Area. Future detailed design of the Entry Station and abutting areas will kestrramris be designed to ensure safe and convenient access for the inholding residents. cttaNe Water CENTRAL ACTIVITY AREA ' f1knic,Shefter With access to the largest cross-section of things to do at Eckert Rlufflands Park,the Central 0 sench Activity Area will be a hub for visitors, providing access to: Firearm stri0ons • The parks largest parking lot with a bus dropoff and space to expand . • The main picnic grounds with 4 picnic shelters (2 rentable,2 first-come first-served) • Lots of opportunities for play,with both a traditional playground and a nature/adventure play area • A low-ropes course with an area to create a high-ropes course in the future • The paved trail loop through the prairie,and an overlook where visitors can head down to the shoreline of the St. Croix River • Access to the natural surface trail network, overlooks, and rustic camping to the north OAK SAVANNA TRAIL LOOP South of the Central Activity Area is roughly 18 acres of land that will be restored to a mix of tall-grass prairie and oak savanna.A paved trail loop through this habitat leads to stargazing mounds,the mountain bike skills course,and across River Heights Trail to the south end of the park. Park boundary signage and vegetative buffers will be used to deter trespassing onto adjacent properties. m yM m� "' r'F p „ ' rt�.w,rtn /j4' ➢J' I � r,// y y I Vi, � � y n � r y n+ rr � mom A�Irrr�ry/I lip{� /'� 17VI IFrr irir rl,I r�:aund N/I( un)"ar n 1"il�r �� Hurl v�vv 'aa. 4 ^menu I 1- I pp I�uIIVI III' �I�I _ 11 �r r r r FNu q iir rr�r� a - Yl�/�C:V(rllllY('P(% �q ON r �n r r t t V4 a� 9 %n y �////�ii✓; n P�� 11+�� l➢V'rn"1`a nt"+,�f G � r ��,� I .nViy rr. 1� if�4�, II �YI,'IIiVV�YII� R'fl nm/ f ollmj'y SON"I I� �� BU NI"I' U ANDS The southern third of Eckert Blufflands Park will be the home base for most visitors camping at the park,with 17 camper cabins and seven yurts available for overnight rental.The existing Eckert Cabin,built in 1970,will offer flexible space that at various points throughout the year maybe avail a b I e for meetings or other day use renta Is,overnight stays,orLo house anardsL-in-residence. Each pocket of rentals will have a designated parking area accessible from River Heights Trail, restrooms,and water access.Wherever possible,cabins and yurts should be sited Lominimize visibility from the natural surface trail network, in order Lo create awelcoming and innnnersive environment for trail users exploring the park, regardless of whether they may be staying the night. RIVER HEIGHTS pI(-NI(- SHELTER AND CABINS While most ofthe park's lodging is sited along natural surface trails,along the paved loop trail,two ADA-accessib|e camper cabins are proposed.The remaining four camper cabins at the River Heights camping area make a total of 6 rentable campsites here, adjacent to two small parking areas and a 25-person rentable picnic shelter with nesLnoonns and drinking water.Southeast ofthe cabins,a group of stargazing mounds will provide a secluded spot,framed by forest,to gaze upaL the night sky. THE SWING BRIDGE TRAIL Ravines thread through this portion ofthe park, providing an opportunity for some interesting bridge crossings Lo animate the natural surface trail network. Envisioned as swing bridges,the three ravine crossings in the southeast of the park would bea unique destination for trail users. ECKERT CABIN PICNIC SHELTER AND CAMPING /\RE/\ Here,visitors can access Eckert Cabin, rent yurts (6) or camper cabins (7),and relax at a picnic grounds. A small parking lot and a nesLnoonn building with drinking water is centrally located for campers.Arentable 25-person picnic shelter is proposed to be set into a forest clearing which can be used as an open play area for campers where they can gather for recreation or picnicking. SOUTH BLUFFL/\N[}S SHORELINE LOOP Access to the shoreline of the St.Croix River is also available on the south side of Eckert Blufflands Park via proposed natural surface trails and a stairway.This loop trail takes visitors down the bluff to the sandy shores of the river,where an area for wading will be marked with signage. Private property signs and fencing will be employed where the beach meets adjacent properties, in order Lo reinforce the park'sboundaries. SOUTH OAKS CAMPSITES An existing gravel roadway is proposed to be paved to provide access to the southernmost camping area's four camper cabins and single yurt.These sites overlook a large,forested ravine. Park boundary signage will be used in this area to deter trespassing onto adjacent properties. Currently,the southerly 1.98 acres of the South Oaks Campsites may be |innihsd to single-family residential use through Starr Wood Plat Covenants and Restrictions. |f necessary,the County will pursue options to remove restrictions which were placed on the property after the County negotiated the purchase and shortly before closing on the property. O�enPiayA/eu 1"""/0ge ��u//Acceys&nR/ve/ ............ Legilend ! �/f/,,/ // f� �� i,,,, dmmtlilllfuiuulllllll Illllf'��i��fm�� lilaluu Olufflands Faaau,„k NaturaO Surface ulfi-use INS Parking l r Shower Facilities 0 TF �` � . u / BLUFFLAN WF asa Paitable Water Pinar Sh ke OD Bench Firearm Restrictions CI IF / �nU i Figure S South 6iufflcands MasterPlan Diagram � k i , 4 II F, �/ , I I!I w.n Jr"/Yr]�,'IYlr�a i u � r I arlll'In aArl a/ vvIl llid",1P1�()W and 41(""/)"(yr cal'p,"r'cr b/ rr`: N 0 R'l l� �� BU Nl"l' U ANDS NORTH BLUFFL/\N[}S NATURE TRAILS The northern third ofthe park maintains the most low-impact development,which suits its natural resources and wooded topography.A sustainably constructed natural surface trail leads from the Activity Area's parking lot,across asvving bridge Loa hiking loop,for nearly l-nni|e ofinnnnersive nature trails in this part ofthe park. Benches will be provided mt comfortable intervals for resting and will he sited to highlight vievvs.Two overlooks offering wildlife observation and vistas of the St.Croix will also be constructed along the trail loop. RUSTIC CAMPSITES AND NORTH pI(-NI(- SHELTER Thirteen sensitive|y-siLed rustic campsites are proposed around the trail loop for those seeking a backpack camping experience. ResLroonns,water,waste disposal, and electricity will be available aL the Activity Area, but will not be provided at the campsites,as vehicular and utility access to these campsites is difficult.Trash will be pack-in pack- out.Showers for the park's campers will be located aLthe entry station. If, in the future,a bike connection from the proposed trail along Hwy 35 or from adjacent development can be made,the trail should be sized and constructed to accommodate regular park service vehicular traffic so that mvault toilet and picnic shelter can he built near the campsites and serviced using the trail asan access poinL.The proposed 25-person North Picnic Shelter will serve the campers in this area, and will be available Loreserve. NORTH BLUFFL/\N[}S SHORELINE /\(-(-ESS A 1/4-nni|e long switchback trail provides access Lo and from the St.Croix River here,enabling visitors Lo make a loop back to the Activity Area using the stairs.Areas for wading and shoreline fishing will be signed along the shoreline. Depending on the river's water level,the sandy shoreline offers easy exploration without requiring built paths.Private property signs and fencing will be erected along the park's beach boundary Lo discourage trespassing onto adjacent private properties. Rus�cH/6e-/n�ucn�s/�s ��u//Acceys&nR/ve/ ..........................................................................................................: Legend Eckert uffland!5 Park a rir Natural Seca"fac HflkingTra AsphaRDrive mmm Gravel Roadway Parking Shower Facilities Prarea:b9ie WaterBench Picnic Shelter Fireairmi yRestrictions ur VON i y / r /r r �111� t fot ��u �sfltM� pnsiiz n � , uYrra n dspaces for r,�ar,tiu, m m au✓ ,1ar �, �, ✓�,:,' � Figure 91 North 6iufficands Master Purr Diagram �a F " III IN°"III III ,III III III III "'Ir III V E 11P 11 AIM Interpretation at Eckert Blufflands Park will take several forms. It will be woven into the design of park amenities, like overlooks,or the space/ flight/STEM-theme flight/STEM-themed playground that will celebrate the lands prior owner, Ernst Eckert. It will also be available at points along the trail " network in the form of interpretive panels covering educational topics ° on the geology,hydrology,habitat,flora,and fauna of the St.Croix river valley;the history of the land,from its stewardship by indigenous peoples,to its settlement and prior use;to outdoor recreation and its health benefits.The Eckert Cabin may be made available to artists for an artist-in-residence program,which could result in sculptures and other artworks displayed around the park,or in exhibits on display at the Eckert Cabin. The topics and specific content of interpretive features will be decided on at the time of their implementation.The cost estimate has identified lump sums for individual areas where interpretive elements are d proposed.Applying a percentage of the funds allocated for interpretive features toward the development of an interpretive plan may help to retive strategy gy for the p formulate a more cohesive inter ark. As society moves toward a higher level of digital literacy, interpretive panels might offer additional content to explore by linking visitors to information and interactive experiences through apps or other websites. Audio samples could assist with identifying local birds, story walks on varying topics could be developed for download,and apps could be suggested to complement park activities like identifying constellations at the stargazing mounds. m I11PIROGIRAMMIHING IIINI III Programming-or the variety of activities that Eckert Blufflands Park plays host to-is a way to ensure that the park is active and well-used by its ,+ visitors.With amenities for families, adventure recreation seekers,and passive outdoor explorers,there are opportunities for many different ) groups to adopt Eckert Blufflands Parkas a place to recreate.The , following groups and activities are potential options for programming the park: y • Master Naturalist programming ' � • Creation of a Friends of Eckert Blufflands Park group(hosting ;; " similar activities as the nearby Homestead Park and Willow River Park Friends groups) • Prairie Enthusiasts (partner for prairie stewardship) • St.Croix River Association (youth programming,canoe programs) • Birding walks • Bike clubs ,; • School and summer program field trips • Ceocaching • Bio-blitzes using apps like iNaturalist • Orienteering • Scout programs • Artist-in-Residence on the St.Croix at Eckert Cabin • Fun Runs and other events (twice around the paved prairie loop trail is a 5k) • Food trucks to support family and organizational gatherings gip. • Celestial observation events (meteor showers,eclipses) • Buckthorn busts and garlic mustard pulls • Educational youth-oriented hunting and trapping programs . I III �.y NATURALRESOURCESPLAN " 4 OVERVIEW u Site visits were conducted by FOR staff at Eckert Rlufflands Park in the spring and summer of 2020 to evaluate the land's natural r resources. Proper stewardship of the variety of habitat types found in the park will make Eckert Rlufflands a fascinating place to explore. IIIR IIR 0 IIR 0 S III ,ID III III ,S II ,,,, III °"III III IN IN III III°"III "1IIr °"III III III III III III III As explored in the development master plan,the primary natural " resources development at Eckert Rlufflands Park is the restoration of roughly 22--acres of "surrogate grassland"in the center of the park to a mix of tallgrass prairie and dry oak savanna.Additional restoration of the narrow strip of grassland north of the conifer plantation may be undertaken when the bike trail is constructed.A more naturalized woodland edge transition should be encouraged between the restored savanna and the surrounding forest in order to soften the rigid geometries that currently exist. Clearing a portion of the conifer plantation will be required to construct the park's Activity Area. Management of the remaining pine stands should include additional selective clearing to encourage the growth of early successional forest that would diversify and add habitat value to the monoculture. The remainder of the park has native plant communities that span various ecological conditions,and should be maintained over time to bring those habitats up to the highest manageable quality. 1IR II III ,IN°1IIr ECO11 OGICAII CO IN ID III°"III III III While much of the uplands were formerly grazed,farmed,or planted for timber,the ar 's steep forested ravines and bluffs have limited human disturbance in some areas, preserving plant communities in moderate to good ecological condition. The highest quality native plant community on the site is a dry-- mesic forest located on the side slopes of the major ravine in the north/central part of the park.This area was likely never grazed and has a sensitive forest floor. The lowest quality natural communities are the surrogate grasslands (former crop fields) and pine plantations,along with some of the forested areas that have been degraded by invasive species. Illl�lll�ll�lll��mm�� w w �I MI O IL."R AMD COMD['I �O N Map ID Condition Comment II',/A& I(: otr )" Historical grazing, suppression,P Y ressian,and woad invasive species have resulted in dense, Park 6ouada ��,//f ///i� degraded understory. Oak Openings are common within the park,but i riAaderate ;%%1//7!�%/�f � generally degraded or threatened by tree/shrub / i` / ///r encroachment and oak wilt / /i/ r #CIA-N�otahNat�uraVCgrnrmunik �/ U Y r/i ,1 �i/� ?'� Pine plantations provide little habitat value and include: jack pine planted in 1990s western stand -red pine planted in mid-1900S(central stand red pine planted in 1990s(eastern stand) Oah Noodiand Prairie restoration in progress on former P 9 agricultural fields Very degraded forest,significant black locust r ,' infestation y Recent woody invasive management,but invasives remain a significant component w`A Highest plant Community quality in park along 9 north-facing ravine slope;likely never or infrequently grazed Dominated by native species but with high density of garlic mustard and buckthorn Packets.of D Prairie remain,but encroachingI woody species fragment and threaten habitat o, Ukility corridor dominated by invasive species I I ry I I rn r l e Ft r i ri rrr✓�r>" v r1 Y � U�fant COamhlOe�rct�rore�tf Cover Dj'fl i i� 14 /�/' Oak Woodland Oak openoo �j I r i� Prairie ie Remnant w=laodirlain and deeps Ephemeral Forested ftband 1w4h1YfeY F'"hin1Ya4Yoti f /�,. ✓ ii/1 i/�,'�/ // /� //� � ,�� ail i �/ ,. i Figure 70 Land Cover and Ecological Conditions Map oel IIII III °' r 11E III M II "'r III IIII IRIESOURCIE MAIMAGIENE11Y"Ir III S"Ir 11PIRAC°"III III III Adaptive management it is a systematic approach that emphasizes learning from management outcomes on a yearly basis.Applied at Eckert Blufflands,adaptive management can improve the efficiency of resource management over time.The maintenance regime will 7 fluctuate as the landscape areas and/or park uses evolve,but in general,should include: • An annual spring site assessment by a natural resource professional who can identify issues and define goals for management throughout the year. • Development of a maintenance plan each year that specifies timing and activities involved. • Vegetation monitoring at multiple points throughout each growing season. Inspect for invasive weed encroachment, dead or diseased specimens,and erosion problems.This can be done informally as a part of other work being done in the park,or aided by volunteers who can report their findings to be - recorded. - , • - , • - , - 1111YVASIVIE MAIMAGIENE11Y Ir AIRIPIROACH ` •" • The site's natural resources informed the design of the site,and • ` ° • "• • management of its natural resources is an integral part of providing • a high quality visitor experience and supporting healthy habitat for • • • ` •• • wildlife. Because management of a park of this size can be resource "• ` •• intensive, it is suggested that efforts be prioritized in the following • • • ways: • The primary focus should be on preserving the integrity of the remaining native land cover types by eliminating populations of garlic mustard, buckthorn, barberry,and black locust within the areas listed as good quality. o • - • • - • • • Once small,outlying populations of invasives are well managed • - • - . , • in the high quality areas,work managing invasive species within ® • , •- • • the moderate quality native plant communities should begin. • • • • • Infestations that abut already managed and good quality areas ••• , • , -, -• should be prioritized, in order to maintain the status of work •, o • o - that has already been accomplished. • • ` •° • Habitat areas that exist in poor quality and altered/non--native • •• ` land cover types, like the black locust dominated woodland •` • •° `••® on the south and the pine plantations,are the lowest priority. •° ° •• ` ` •° •" Eliminating invasives where they are dominant and well-- • • " • •` established requires a significant effort.Preventing spread of •• ` • invasive populations to adjacent, higher quality habitats is • •• generally a more reasonable approach. • Work with Xcel energy to encourage invasive species management where the utility corridor passes through park property. IIII�III�II�iII�� 4 w w ................................................................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................................................................. Black Locust Robinia pseudoacocio Common Buckthorn Rhomnus Frongulo Garlic Mustard Alliario petioloto Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin November 2019 November 2019 November 2019 Ecro hme Level -- % E ma n tL vel vH l / E n tL vel riiiiiiii llflv H gl v v ti gl --.l M d < Ffgn / M d t High M d ate H gl N.oe«ado„ w % / N.oe<e�no� P �<eA�IPI P k g ... P t A.. R ad jje� P. p ktgq___.Mad --R-d —dated Access Mad r/ --G t dAccess Mad x %/%// � " 100 P %��/7//// rill ra/iiiiiDa t�� zoo 30� aa�yd. goo ago 40 yd Japanese Hedge parsley Torilis japonica Japanese Barberry Berberis thunbergii Leafy Spurge Euphorbia virgoto Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin Eckert-Richards Blufflands,St.Croix County,Wisconsin November 2019 November 2019 November 2019 E cr h tLevel E roach tLevel E.ohmeot Level i��ve v ti gl / IDIM v v ftI v e gl � /i M d < High i IIIIIIIU M de to-High �od m Ffgn No oe<eado� N.o te,No„ No Detecdo� OIIIIIIB�� /rr/�/// Access // ❑ Park /// P kt A----R ad P P k g //% j Psi-A.___R ad - P t A----R-d Gat dA... Mad �� —Gated Access Mad %%/ --d<d A111,Mad �•. �%%�� /ii/ r//�/////r nil � � a iao �o0 3oa aoavd a too zot Figure 11 November 2079(nvosive Species Mopping III I IIIr 1 �I III III °°III III 11 III TIC III CIE I11TIECOMWEINDA III III III IUD I ��I � �� II�I� �n�ihs iof The park's most intensive development occurs within attilr �`�'IIiasoI !I�fl�'ce low quality or already disturbed landscapes that are ,%/// proposed to undergo restoration and associated 0 a00 400 Age "1l� 00 maintenance.Where trails and other features providef sot: '%access to higher quality areas,extra care must be �" Sensitive ravine llandsca a Higher �uMi t oo mid' taken to preserve the quality of the parks habitat.The p following recommendations will help to ensure this: with fewer invasive species;lncredibl+ hsltiv 1 As development occurs,evaluate native plant soils/slopes communities for high--quality or rare species and Actively eroding ravine warrants stabilize t�o adjust the location/design of the feature(s)to minimize impacts species dareNkn rvn to inhabit shoreline nauvugt /��; • Field locate all trails,and utilize sustainable trail conflicts with program design principles in the construction of the parks natural surface trails,especially where they traverse 0 higher quality woodland with'fewer lnvasive p dw�0 a 1/ sensitive slopes and high quality areas -Rcwllingtupe • Monitor highly trafficked areas for invasive species Consider off-site ravines as part of drainage and and educate about ways to prevent invasive spread 0 erosion control)issues • Consider organizing a Friends of Eckert Blufflands � Park group that can help to coordinate volunteer 0 Pine pl'antation--needsforest rnanagem nt monitoring and invasive species removal efforts • Incorporate programming and interpretation that Interesting ephemeral landlocked wetlaih' emphasizes a stewardship ethic Ravines contain mvaisive species and dunrpin ,S nd i Locust dominate o a r p o �tiG (Lead batteries observed in this ravine Open corridor/old fiend road , I 1 Agriculture Melds—Future prairie restoration Mixed Forest/ "oodl nd--rolling terrain: ! Open ling(shioreline,ag�.fiends,grassland)", j 1 �11D1 p p luffsltee Flo es Moderate-High Quality Woodland Lovr Quality Woodland(nvasives) ; // gg f, --site)Ravines Mixed Forest/Woodland r. , pine plantation Z�iirii//11% IIII�III�iIiI� �� ........_._ m a WIN / I�IC„" yuu r'i lyl �I V IVI � /PI / f% 111 „/ � r i /FAVI I Y r i I,I I I .I ®r 1/111MINOix / r 15 Figure 12 1 Natural Resources Inventory and Analysis Map 1 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN n & COST ESTIMATES P, 1114 IINIRUDUC°°III III III �' , "✓, �� ' �� e � �0 �.. Sh� kart Blufflands Park Master Plan is a guide for future park development.Plans are t wl subject to change based on financial resources.For instance,Homestead Park Master Plan was adopted in 1999,the majority of which was constructed within 5 years.The ✓ entrance station,while planned for in the 1999 Master Plan,was not built until 2021.This section of the plan includes a recommended phasing plan for park development and r � natural resource preservation using estimated costs in 2021 construction dollars and reflects recent inflationary impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjustments to construction phases and cost estimates may need to be made in the R' future based on budget considerations, site conditions,changes in costs,or funding " opportunities. For instance the Glen Hills Park Master Plan,adopted in 2017, planned for the relocation and construction of a group camp area to allow for other uses.A DNR Stewardship Grant was obtained to assist in funding of the project.Costs were adjusted to account for the grant and price inflation in the 5 years since the cost estimates were generated. Eckert Blufflands Par 's construction over a 5-10 year period could occur in three phases. The bulk of the ar 's construction occurs in the first phase,in order to create an attractive and inviting park with a variety of recreational amenities,and the potential to start generating revenue. 'yn eWfWr,� .' �U /041 ,i ✓� SHORT—TERM DEVELOPMENT INCLUDES: „ ,q s All paved drives and road removals o The Hwy 35 access point and entry station o The Central Activity Area's parking lot, playground,and picnic facilities An overlook of the St.Croix River y The Oak Savanna Trail Loop The entire South Blufflands area except for the Swing Bridge Trail MID—TERM DEVELOPMENT IS PROPOSED TO INCLUDE: • Remaining items in the Central Blufflands Area to provide more active recreation " n ✓� » ✓ � r J�f� options: AdventurelNoture PloyAreo - Low Ropes Course with High Ropes Exponsion - Mountoin Bike Skills Course dog - Sledding Hill • The Swing Bridge Trail through the South Blufflands • Bluff Stairway access to the St.Croix River in the North Blufflands LONG—TERM DEVELOPMENT INCLUDES THE REMAINING ITEMS, WITH A FOCUS ON THE NORTH BLUFFLANDS. The phasing Ian may be affected b development of adjacent lands. p g p y y p j m Legend Phasing Eckert Blufflands park Natural S,i a H k y'rra'l �111111111/////lll0, Short term M It Paved ha'I Asphalt Drive Gravel R.adway ..'f Mid-term Parking � , ® vault 41M Long-term Potable Water fur FSk.f' if Coy e:tron Picnic.Shelter Bench j rty jN,*5f db �jvc Activity Area ,mm. ,` •Cos my P rkng lot wth expa i.n arn' bus dropoff areas+ d d cated spaces for h'ke ncampers FI sh Restroo..and Water )�� I Of OttO�� P 'Shen ,(4) v6m6� zro ' TFSFJ Picnic Area Sp a th—d Playground Ad enture/Nature Play 4 Tra'Ihead ) Paved loop Tra Is Ilpo p r)t / dSignFence Jl d � in�fwaead. u 7 hr r mm R70tS�Wkkr�� caBC�wpt'�wH� 'I`!s�aooSO�aai1a�, b' f I j � 0 j j it n P vM Property in v d � Signs(N�3 F,t,m oe 0 200 400 800 1,200 1,600 2,000 Peet Figure 131 Development Phosing Pion MIMI , [ OIRKE114""IIIr COS""III Area Item Quantity Unit Unit Price Estimated Cost Notes Hwy 35 Access Point and Entry Station Remove northern segment of Old Hwy 35 926 LF $ 5.00 $ 4,630.00 Remove eastern segment of River Heights Trail 474 LF $ 5.00 $ 2,370.00 Hwy35 Access Point 1 IS $ 780,487.50 $ 780,487.50 Engineer's Estimate Entry drive(Hwy35 Access Pointto entry station) 1400 IF $ 120.00 $ 168,000.00 18'pavementsection with 2'compacted gravel on sides Entry station 1 LS $ 650,000.00 $ 650,000.00 Bus/Maintenance Parking Lot 5200 SF $ 6.00 $ 31,200.00 Maintenance building 1 IS $ 400,000.00 $ 400,000.00 Ca r Parking Spaces(17 spaces) 3940 SF $ 6.00 $ 23,640.00 Signage 1 LS $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 Hwy 35 Access Point and Entry Station Cost $ 2,080,327.50 Central Activity Area Clearing of Pine Plantation 1 IS $ 15,000.00 $ 15,000.00 Drive from entry station to Central Activity Area 1725 LF $ 120.00 $ 207,000.00 18'pavement section with 2'compacted gravel on sides Play equipment-space/flight/STEM the me 1 IS $ 250,000.00 $ 250,000.00 Paved trails around play and picnic area 1075 LF $ 40.00 $ 43,000.00 paved,ADA-accessible 75-person picnic shelter with flush restrooms 1 IS $ 650,000.00 $ 650,000.00 25-person picnic shelter 1 EACH $ 350,000.00 $ 350,000.00 Small(first-come-firstserved)picnic shelters 2 EACH $ 125,000.00 $ 250,000.00 Parking Lot(45 spaces and 1 bus dropoff space) 19800 SF $ 6.00 $ 118,800.00 Picn is to bles 8 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 20,000.00 Trailhead-kiosk,benches,bike racks 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Trees 20 EACH $ 400.00 $ 8,000.00 Lawn/open play area seeding/erosion control 1 ACRE $ 20,000.00 $ 20,000.00 St.Croix River Overlook 1 EACH $ 80,000.00 $ 80,000.00 Benches 3 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 7,500.00 Trail from Oak Savanna Trail Loop and Playground to Overlook 1125 LF $ 40.00 $ 45,000.00 paved,ADA-accessible Central Activity Area Phase 1 Cost $ 2,114,300.00 Oak Savanna Trail Loop Oak Savanna Trail north of River Heights Trail 2500 LF $ 40.00 $ 100,000.00 paved,ADA-accessible Tree-line Buffer along Private Road 1 IS $ 35,000.00 $ 35,000.00 87 evergreens at 16'spacing Conversion offormer ag.fields north of river heights trail and Oak Savanna/Tall-grass Prairie Restoration 18.5 ACRE $ 5,000.00 $ 92 500.Co north ofthe pine plantation near Hwy35.Soften the hard treeline edge between the restoration and activity area by converting some of the plantation to prairie. Benches 4 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 10,000.00 Interpretive Signage 1 IS $ 15,000.00 $ 15,000.00 panel signs along trails:natural resources,health Stargazing Mounds 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 grading,turf establishment,hammock posts Oak Savanna Trail Loop Cost $ 302,500.00 River Heights Picnic Shelter and Cabins Oak Savanna Trail south of River Heights Trail 1065 LF $ 40.00 $ 42,600.00 paved,ADA-accessible Oak Savanna/Tall-grass Prairie Restoration 3.5 ACRE $ 5'000.00 $ 17,500.00 south of river heights trail 25-person Shelter with flush restrooms 1 EACH $ 350,000.00 $ 350,000.00 East Parking Lot(13 spaces) 4200 SF $ 6.00 $ 25,200.00 at the River Heights Picnic Shelter West Parking Lot(10 spaces) 3000 SF $ 6.00 $ 18,000.00 west ofthe River Heights Picnic Shelter Natural surface trails to camper cabins 540 LF $ 15.00 $ 8,100.00 Camper Cabins(non-ADA) 4 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 200,000.00 Camper Cabins(ADA-accessible) 2 EACH $ 60,000.00 $ 120,000.00 yd„ Stargazing Mounds 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Y Benches 2 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 5,000.00 t River Heights Picnic Shelterand Cabins Cost $ 836,400.00 on Eckert Cabin Picnic Shelter and Camping Area Widen the roadway2'and add a 2'gravel shoulder on either Widen existing River Heights Trail from 16'wide to 18'wide with a 2' 2170 LF $ 97.00 $ 210,490.00 side ofthe existing 16'roadwayand repave entire surfaceto gravel shoulder on either side(where itisto remain) create an 18'pavement section with 2 compacted gravel on sides Extend entry drvefrom Entry Station to River Heights Trail and from 690 LF $ 120.00 $ 82,800.00 18' tsecton with 2'com ted gravel on sides River Heights Trail to Eckert cabin pavemen pac grave Parking Lot at Eckert Cabin(14 spaces) 2800 SF $ 6.00 $ 16,800.00 Vault Toilets 1 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Potable water/well 1 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Camper Ca bins(non-ADA) 7 EACH $ 50:000.00 $ 350,000.00 Vurts 6 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 300:000.00 m Eckert Cabin Improvements 1 IS $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000.00 Furnish for flexible rental �. 25-person Picnic Shelter 1 EACH $ 350,000.00 $ 350,000.00 Open Play Area 0.5 ACRE $ 20,000.00 $ 10,000.00 Tree Clearing,Lawn seeding/erosion control Natural Surface Trails 3850 LF $ 25.00 $ 96,250.00 add'I cost for field siting and selective clearing Interpretive Signage 1 IS $ 15,000.00 $ 15,000.00 panel signs along trails.Eckert history Benches 3 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 7,500.00 Eckert Cabin Picnic Shelter and Camping Area Cost $ 1,563,840.00 South Blufflands Shoreline Loop Sustainably-built Natural Surface Trails 925 LF $ 40.00 $ 37:000.00 steep area,sustainably designed trail with erosion control Natural Surface Trails along Shoreline 600 LF $ 15.00 $ 9000.00 Bluff Stairway 200 LF $ 200.00 $ 40,000.00 Benches 2 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 5,000.00 Signage 1 IS $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 For wading area and property boundaries Fencing 300 LF $ 50.00 $ 15,000.00 Along beach where park abuts private properties South Blufflands Shoreline Loop Cost $ 1,808,590.00 South Oaks Campsites Road extension to South Oaks Parking and homes 895 LF $ 120.00 $ 107,400.00 18'pavement section with 2'compacted gravel on sides Natural Surface Trails 1000 LF $ 15.00 $ 15,000.00 Camper Cabins(non-ADA) 4 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 200,000.00 Vurts 1 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 South Parking Lot(27 spaces) 8120 SF $ 6.00 $ 48,720.00 Signage 1 IS $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 For property boundaries,9 signs Vault Toilets 1 EACH $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 South Oaks Campsites Cost $ 481,120.00 Short-term Construction Cost Short-term Subtotal $ 9,187,077.50 Short-term Construction Cost $ 12,402,554.63 Table 1.1 DevelopmentMoster Pion Costs:Short-term 40 w w ^ w w w m Area Item Quantity Unit Unit Price Estimated Cost Notes Central Activity Area Central Activity Area Parking Lot Expansion 750.00 includes pa rking for rustic campsites(to be signed once (38 spaces and 2 additional bus dropoff spaces) 8625 SF $ 6.00 $ 51, camping is built) Paved bike connection from Hwy 35 to Activity Area parking lot 1600 LF 40 $ 64,000.00 Adventure/Nature Play Area 1 IS $ 150,000.00 $ 150,000.00 Natural Surface Trails 3650 LF $ 25.00 $ 91,250.00 add'I cost for field siting and selective clearing Trailhead Parking Lot(14 spaces) 2100 SF $ 6.00 $ 12,600.00 Serves bike skills park and sledding hill h Sledding Hill 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Low-ropes Course 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 High-ropes Course expansion 1 IS $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Mountain Bike Skills Course 1 IS $ 150,000.00 $ 150,000.00 Benches 3 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 7,500.00 Central Activity Area Phase 2 Cost $ 677,100.00 North Blufflands Shoreline Access Bluff Stairway 400 LF $ 200.00 $ 80,000.00 Benches 3 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 7,500.00 Shoreline Fishing 1 IS $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 Signage 1 IS $ 10,000.00 $ 10,000.00 For wading area and property boundaries z Fencing 150 LF $ 50.00 $ 7,500.00 Along beach where park abuts private properties North Blufflands Shoreline Access Cost $ 115,000.00 The Swing Bridge Trail Natural Surface Trails 2230 LF $ 25.00 $ 55,750.00 add'I cost for field siting and selective clearing Swing Bridges 3 EACH $ 25,000.00 $ 75,000.00 $ Benches 2 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 5,000.00 South Blufflands Phase 2 Cost $ 135,750.00 POWWOW Mid-term Subtotal 927 850.00 i.l 1 it,. ,'i i'"'j//S0 .,v .i r �,JN '1" o,311S0 l'ci�r 1 y;)0 r„ 11,I8,00 3J,r 50 f f Area Item Quantity Unit Unit Price Estimated Cost Notes North Blufflands Nature Trails Natu ral Surface Trails-flat areas 4925 LF $ 25.00 $ 123,125.00 add'I cost for field siting and selective clearing Natural Surface Trails across ravine 1050 LF $ 30.00 $ 31,500.00 sustainably designed tra I with erosion control Swing Bridge 1 EACH $ 25,000.00 $ 25,000.00 Overlooks 2 EACH $ 80,000.00 $ 160,000.00 v Interpretive Signage 1 IS $ 15,000.00 $ 15,00000 pa nel signs at overlooks,along tra is natural resources, h story,health m Benches 7 EACH $ 2,500.00 $ 17,500.00 North Blufflands Shoreline Access Z Switch back Trail to Shoreline 865 LF $ 45.00 $ 38,925.00 steep area,sustainably designed trail with erosion control Rustic Campsites and North Picnic Shelter Hike-in Rustic Campsites 13 EACH $ 5,000.00 $ 65,000.00 25-person Picnic Shelter 1 EACH $ 350,000.00 $ 350,000.00 North Blufflands Shoreline Access Cost $ 826,050.00 Long-term Subtotal $ 826,050.00 Table 1.2 DevelopmentMoster Plan Costs:Mid-term,Long-term,and Total N��U��N ��U��u�� m��m ��m��m� m��m�� m �� Restoration of the LaUgnass prairie and savanna in the center ofthe park is the most significant natural resource investment planned at Eckert 0u0lmnds and is accounted for in the short-term cost estimate.|tshould be followed by3 years of establishment maintenance and then less intensive annual maintenance thereafter(as shown in the table be|ow). Remaining natural resource work mt Eckert 0u0lmnds should he identified onmn annual basis,per the recommendations inthis document's Natural Resources P|an.The bulk of the work will involve invasive species monitoring and removal,especially of buckthorn and garlic mustard,throughout the park'svvood|ands. Managing native habitats ina park of this size can benesounce-inLensive; ms such,we've identified m $25.008 annual budget for targeted invasive species management across lO years. Directed by the annual site assessment and maintenance plan,these funds should ensure that the areas most in need of work are addressed,and gradually,the park can be restored hoa certain standard ofecological health and function.After lO years,there will besome on-going maintenance costs ofnatural resources. As with all adaptive management plans,this annual budget isa p|aceho|der,and could be adjusted in the future as needs arise,or invasive species become adequately managed. Natural Resources Management Costs F U 114 ID III III IIIP 11IN110114S AIND SOURCES III O"I �M D' V GP' 1\M"N"1 �R V N U ST. CROIX COUNTY CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FUNDING The County can provide funding through the CIP process which identifies capital projects,provides a planning schedule and identifies sources of funding for the improvements. ST. CROIX COUNTY BONDING AUTHORITY The County has authority to issue General Obligation (GO) Bonds.These bonds can fund capital improvement projects such as roads,facilities and parks.As a result, GO bonds are used to fund projects that will serve the County.Typically, bonds are paid back through the ability of the County to collect property taxes or through the collection of other forms of revenue.The bond term can vary from 10 to 20 years. VOTER REFERENDUM The County Board can choose to place the question of funding park improvements as a ballot question during an election,commonly known as a referendum. Prior to the referendum, information about the ballot measure is provided regarding the specific improvements being contemplated,the cost of the project and how the project is to be paid for. SPONSORSHIP OF SPECIFIC PARK IMPROVEMENTS Sponsorship is the right of an external entity(for-profit or not-for-profit)to associate its name or products on County facilities.Sponsorship is a business relationship in which St.Croix County and the external entity would exchange goods, services and/or donations for the public display of advertising on County property acknowledging private support.St.Croix County would need to adopt a sponsorship policy with guidelines and procedures. WISCONSIN DNR The Wisconsin DNR has a variety of grants that may provide funding options for development, restoration, and management of Eckert Blufflands Park through its Stewardship Program.They also work with the National Park Service to administer Land and Wildlife Conservation Funds (LWCF). INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS It's possible that individuals may come forward to donate funds or land to the park,as in the case of Gary Zappa,who donated $339,500. OTHER RESOURCES The St.Croix County Soil and Water Conservation District may have resources for water quality and vegetation restoration projects on the site. Local and national outdoor recreation groups and organizations may be sought out to partner on implementation of recreation facilities.The Prairie Enthusiasts may be a good contact for stewardship of the remnant bluff prairie in the North Blufflands,and the central tallgrass prairie and oak savanna restoration. PO"I �N"l UM GP�RXI UONM �R V NN�Eckert Blufflands Park,once built out,will have the ability to generate revenue from the following sources: ENTRANCE FEES All St.Croix County parks require the purchase ofa daily use pass,oran annual pass. Fees for entry will beconsisLenL with other County parks. CAMPING Camping permits will be available Lo purchase year-round for overnight use of the park'sl7 camper cabins, 7yurLs, and l3 rustic hike-in campsites. E(-KERT CABIN RENTAL Eckert Cabin may be made available for day-use rental for meetings and gatherings,overnight use,or as housing for an artist-in-residence. pI(-NI(- SHELTER RENTAL Eckert Blufflands will have one 75-person picnic shelter available for rent,and four 25-person shelters for rent. EVENTS St.Croix County is open to hosting events at their parks, including but not limited Lofun runs,5ks,vveddings,scouting he|dtrips,fnrmging or plant|D walks,hunting and trapping education,food trucks,yoga,and more.The County has special event applications,commercial use applications,and non-profit event applications available on their website. ROPES COURSE FIELD TRIPS The low ropes course and eventual high ropes expansion will be available to reserve for field trips.St.Croix County will look Lo partner with an aerial adventure experience company Lo help design and contract Lo operate a high ropes course mt Eckert 0u0lmndsPark. HARVEST OF THE PINE PLANTATIONS The County should be able Lo recoup some dollars bvbidding out the right Lo harvest the timber from the pine plantations as they are developed. 01REIRA""IIIr 10 IN III IN""IIINIEII III III , COINSIDEIRA""IIIN1 III .I..,I III �h�"�.S A NIII: S U I �" NA A N A G NA N"I.. Elm Tm7 A trail Depends on amount ofNeeds to be regraded and compacted from maint erosion and use;regrade andA accetime to time,bike tires WIII dig In If Wet resurface every 5 25 years AC�A accessible-less u�1J»�U�1y��iJ/�l/rr ��li alfi�Gl�l;elrrr�i Less erosion potential than crushed Depends on amount of Use; maintenance needed rI�UI1D 1��I,O-GIO�G�IlP/0�'�lplll//U�I�IIIIIUr , to keep ADA accessible granite/limestone approx.20 25 years Most ADA accessible Crack seal every 4-5 years;Seal coat every Replace every 20-25 years 8-10 years Not considered ADA Mulch is highly mobile and can be washed Replenish mulch as needed, accessible away.Use double shredded if possible every 2-4 years.Consider full replacement every 5. Not considered ADA Must be sustainably built to ensure proper Should be monitored annually accessible drainage and prevent erosion and repaired accordingly Not considered ADA Mowing multiple times through the May need to address drainage accessible season.Route can be easily adjusted. issues,roots,weeds over time St.Croix County Parks has received funding for Phase 1 of the off-road bike trail within the Hwy 35 right-of-way from the Village of North Hudson,northward,to Eckert Bluffland Park.This Hwy 35 off-road trail will eventually connect North Hudson from Sommers Street North to the St.Croix River Crossing Loop Trail Blue Star Trailhead located in Holton.Te first phase of trail development is planned to be complete in 2023.Phase 2 of the trail will be built from Eckert Blufflands Park to Willow River State Park. Phase 3 of the trail project will be built from Willow River State Park to the Hwy 35 roundabout in Houlton. A safe trail connection across Hwy 35 into the park is not factored into the Master Plan's development cost estimates for the new entrance drive location.This trail connection into the park should be advocated for during design and construction of a future phase of the Hwy 35 trail development. Once Phase 2 of the Hwy 35 trail is constructed,a potential connection to the North Blufflands area,across from County Road W River Road,should be explored.A future easement or right of way could allow a vault toilet and picnic shelter to be added near the open meadow to better serve the rustic campsites in this area. XCEL ENERGY EASEMENT The utility easement allows Xcel Energy to be on the property to maintain or rebuild the line as needed.While there's not a formal list of activities that are not allowed within the easement area,any plans for work within the easement should consult Xcel Energy Engineering for review to ensure the proposed work does not impact the utility lines. Key concerns include protection of the utility poles and ensuring that adequate clearances between the conductors are maintained.As noted in the Natural Resource Management Plan,St.Croix County should work with Xcel Energy to ensure that the corridor is properly managed for invasive species,whose excessive presence will otherwise threaten the success of adjacent habitat management and restoration efforts within the park. I III�II w III �II w IIIIIII w w 45 a , a �a ;r a � +Ws w r p dv w�. mi yy a w a pe UM n � i'"� � ✓ �s a�„"'� � i i�� " � �,w:may � �' � �r w mry � � � �� µ �� "�� fir rz' �� ,� ✓u �rv' ✓ "e.�... ..aMw a o iwum� IIIIIIIII APPE N D ICES A COUNTY IINATUIRAII IR IE SOUIRCIE IN Traffic Avoidance Areas I Black Locust Robinio pseucloococio........................................................2 Common Buckthorn Rhomnus frongulo......................................................3 Condition of natural communities 4 Eckert blufflands Covertypes.........................................................................5 Garlic mustard Alliorio petioloto..................................................................6 Japanese hedge parsley Torilisjoponico......................................................7 Japanese barberry Berberis thunbergii....................................................8 Leafy spurge Euphorbio virgoto..............................................................9 Rare or sensitive natural communities 10 Inventorypriority........................................................................................I I Garlic mustard priority..........................................................................12 Herpetological survey Report.....................................................................13 Field notes: exploratory survey (phase 1)...................................................25 113 I 35 IE IIVT IR A IN C IE I ROAD STUDY IE XIHIIIBIITS 27 Turn lane Concept................................................................................27 C 11 IN V IE IIVTOIRY IN I IP 0 I 28 InventoryReport.........................................................................................28 ID ID IR A IFT ID IE VlE II,,,,0 IPM IE IIVT C 0 IN C IE I IPT S 47 Concept ]....................................................................................................47 Concept2....................................................................................................48 Concept3....................................................................................................49 E., IP IH A S IE I IIIINIPUT SUMMARY 50 Phase I stakeholder input...........................................................................50 Phase I public input summary....................................................................61 IF IP IH A S IE 2 IIIINIPUT SUMMARY 74 Phase 2 public input summary....................................................................74 Stakeholder er-nail comments 85 COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCE REPORTS TRAFFIC AVOIDANCE AREAS Avoid Use Caution AccessFota Machinery Traffic N P Y 11 ACK I OCUS"Ir ROBINIA PS :UC._: OACACI,A Encroachment Level Very High Moderate- High LOW No Detection Access Parking Private Access Road Gated Access Road Ul j% P 0 100 200 300 400 yd IIIIIII ""^^""pp' COMMOIN BUCK""IIINI III III RI-JAMNUS FRANG UL.,A Encroachment Level Very High Moderate- High Low No Detection Access © Parking Private Access Road — Gated Access Road ,/ rz �m v River Heigh 0 100 200 300 400 yd m III ° III""IIIr 10 114 0 F 114 A 11WIRA11 COMMU11411""IIINII CIE, Mostly Intact- Stable Mostly Intact- Declining Partially Intact- Declining r Highly Altered/Invaded Mostly Absent Access rrr © Parking - - - Private Access Road Gated Access Road EN 0 100 200 300 400 yd ,� ay ECKERT BLUFFLpNDS COVERTVPES JSa v a.na Forest SFloodplain„nn raer,. Prairie� Conifer Plantation Surrogate Grassland m Review Boundary Gate 1 Parking Access Road 0 210 100 710 1000 R IIIIIIII GAIT[ IC MUS IIAIRD ALLIARIA P TIOLATA Encroachment Level Very High Moderate- High /,/ V..............� Low i No Detection /��iarrr Access P Parking Private Access Road Gated Access Road Ul / k0 ri 0 100 200 300 400 yd v, 1pPpNESE HEDGE IIPA 1IR S 11 1EYTORILISJAPONICA Encroachmentevel Very High Moderate- High N \ � No Detection Acc ss CeP= rking - - - Private Access 3 e Gated Access r IIIII �Iml JAIRAITIESIE BAIRBEITIRY B R RI S Tl--JUNB :1 G 11 //rrrrrrrrrrrr/// " Encroachment Level Very High Moderate- High / rrrrrrrrrri��/� E] Low No Detection Access Parking Private Access Road Gated Access Road Ul %/ r rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr y iI 0 100 200 300 400 yd IIIIIII ""�°""qq' 11 EXIFY SIRUIRGIE :UPI--JORBIA VIR ATA Encroachment Level Very High Moderate- High Low No Detection Access Parkin g _ _ _ Private Access Road — Gated Access Road /// W Ln /iiii -; 0 100 200 300 400 yd N Denotes photo-confirmed location m I1IR A II III , 0 II III ,IN III""IIIr III V III , IN IlrUIRAIIn IN III""IIIrIII III , Oak Opening Dry-Mesic Forest Floodplain and Seeps Prairie Null N Access © Parking - - - Private Access Road Gated Access Road m im x d i Nq 0 100 200 300 , �400 500 yd IIIIIII "9"""' III IN III ,IN""IIIrO 1IRY IIP 1IR 10 II III IN ........................................................................................... Inventory Priority N 1 2 1 3 4 .........1 5 Rare Community D State Listed Plant 11 1, 0 500 1000 ft m GAIT[ IC MUS IIA II ID IIIP 1IR 10 II III IN Garlic Mustard Priority N 1 2 3 Q 4 .................... � 5 r; ate/ IIIIIII "g"""'^p 1H E 11R II E 11r011 0GICA11 SURVEY II E III III ""IIIr HERPETOLOGICAL SURVEY OF MITIGATION PROPERTY FOR THE ST. CROIX RIVER CROSSING PROJECT The original contract engaged the contractor(Erik Wild)into an agreement with St.Croix County,WI,for the purpose of performing a herpetological survey of mitigation property for the St.Croix River Crossing Project(hereafter referred to as"the property").The property is as follows: 170 acres. Section 1 T29N R20W,Town of St.Joseph and Section 12 T29N R20W, Town of St.Joseph/Town of Hudson,St.Croix County,Wisconsin. Deliverables/desired outcomes: • Assessment of the herpetofauna present or potentially present on the property(including species lists with abundance data and database of observations). • Habitat assessment for potential/documented herpetofauna(habitats described and locations documented with GPS). • Land use management recommendations(e.g.,maintained for land and water conservation purposes,scenic protection and other compatible uses,including low-impact public recreation) • Any other information that may help determine future management and land use activities to be offered at this site. A total of 40.50 hours of active searching for reptiles and amphibians was performed on 12 days in May,July August and September 2019.Habitat assessment for making land use and management recommendations was made simultaneously.The following data were collected to address the deliverables: 1. Habitat assessment 2. Probable occurrence of species 3. Documented occurrence of species 4. Estimated abundance of species SUMMARY The reptile and amphibian fauna of the property is not particularly diverse;this is likely due to a combination of historical geological and vegetation factors and more recent anthropogenic use for agriculture and pine plantations.Of the eight species encountered,only one is under any state conservation status,and that is minimal.The most remarkable aspects of the property from an ecological/environmental point of view are the bluff ridge paralleling the river,the shoreline of the river itself and the ravines that lead into the river;the last are of particular relevance for water conservation purposes.There is evidence of past open bluff prairies,a rare habitat in Wisconsin, for which restoration is possible.The property lends itself to hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the range of its natural environs,while other areas are suitable for more general use. m ASSESSMENT OF THE HERPETOFAIJNA Out of a total of 21 species determined to be of probable occurrence(known from St.Croix County or with other reason for consideration;see Table 1)on the property,eight were documented:three amphibians—the American Toad,Gray Treefrog and Wood Frog—and five reptiles—the Painted Turtle,False Map Turtle,Map Turtle,Prairie Skink and Red-bellied Snake (STC Photo 3)(Table 1). Of these,only the Prairie Skink is under any conservation/protection status,while all are generalists known to occupy a wide variety of habitats.The most abundant species was the American Toad,due to the near ubiquitous occurrence of newly metamorphosed toadlets throughout the property.Next were the Gray Treefrog,with individuals commonly heard calling,the Red-bellied Snake,and the Painted Turtle,False Map Turtle and Map Turtle,which were regularly seen basking on emergent logs in the St.Croix River. Figure 1.Locations(GPS waypoints)of reptile and amphibian observations(see Appendix 1).PI—P6= parcels 1-6. Amphibians(frogs,salamanders)—The limited number of amphibian species found,in spite of many species occurring elsewhere in the County,is likely due to the absence of suitable breeding sites on the property(Table 1).Most of the probable amphibians depend on predator(fish)-free aquatic habitats for breeding,such as ephemeral pools,ponds, marshes or even continually running streams that offer protection for their eggs and the development of their larvae.Given the absence of suitable breeding sites for the Gray Treefrog and Wood Frog,their occurrence on the property is most likely due to their high capacity for dispersal during spring and summer months when they forage. The American Toad is likely the only amphibian to breed on the property.This species has a reproductive strategy that as provides defense from predators(fish)during early developmental stages—rapid development and thus a short larval period; tadpoles that are noxious to predators;tadpoles with black coloration and schooling behavior, which combined with occurrence in warmer extremely shallow water increases temperature and thus developmental rate—which allows them to occupy aquatic habitats that other amphibians could not use due to predators and time limitations due to drying. One amphibian species,the Red-backed Salamander,does not depend on aquatic habitats for reproduction because its eggs,which are laid in moist places,such as under downed-logs etc.,in A w w nn � 14 the forest interior,develop directly into small salamanders with no water-dependent larval stage. Such habitat exists on the property(shaded north facing steep slopes of ravines),but the lack of historical records for the county,probably because of the ecological history of St.Croix County as prairie,precluded its inclusion as probable.Nonetheless,considerable effort to find the species,which usually occurs in high abundance and is easy to find,was unsuccessful. Reptiles(turtles,lizard and snakes)—The limited number of reptile species found,in spite of many species occurring elsewhere in the county,is more difficult to explain. Two of the probable species of turtles were not documented,likely due to the absence of significant bodies of water. These species—Snapping Turtle and Spiny Softshell Turtle—are present in the St.Croix River and may use the shoreline of the property to bask and/or nest,although no evidence of turtle nesting was observed. The lack of observations of the Western Foxsnake,Milksnake,Gartersnake and Northern Watersnake is particularly puzzling given that these species are larger snakes,generalists in habitat and diet,and are usually easily documented by active searches.Furthermore,the absence of the Eastern Hognose Snake,another large-bodied snake,is even more puzzling.Although the species has yet to be documented for St. Croix County,it almost assuredly occurs there.This species prefers sandy,open habitat and specializes on eating toads(tolerant to the noxious secretions of adults),which are all characteristics possessed by the surveyed property. Species of conservation/protection significance The protected categories considered here are the following state level designations of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources(WDNR),in increasing order of protection: Special Concern,Threatened and Endangered(further information can be found at hops://dnr.wi.gov/topic NHI/WList.html).None of the Federally protected herp species in Wisconsin are likely to occur in the property. The Prairie Skink is the only herp species documented on the property that has been placed in a protected category by the WDNR.The species is considered Special Concern.This status was likely given due to historical lack of information regarding the distribution of the species in the State.More recent data and personal experience indicate that this species can be quite abundant where suitable habitat exists,such as prairie with sandy soil,which once encompassed much of St.Croix County.Indeed,WDNR surveys during the same time period for another project in and near Willow River State Park found the species to be quite abundant. Only a single record was found for the studied property,and so its abundance was considered"rare".This individual was under a board laying in an open meadow.This lack of additional records should not be considered evidence that the species is not common since the species can often go undetected by active searches because it occupies the soil surface often hidden by vegetation.It is likely that surveys using cover boards would document a greater abundance of this species on the property. Thus,in spite of its conservation status,no particular conservation concern should be had for this species on the property. Other herp species given conservation status in Wisconsin deserve comment,even though they are not probable for the present property(Table 1).There is a set of species of Wisconsin reptiles that have restricted and discontinuous distributions along bluff prairies in the driftless area—an m area encompassing much of the southwestern portion of the state that was not reached by the most recent glaciation,and thus is characterized by high relief with numerous streams and a lack of ponds and lakes.Bluff prairies of the driftless area have experienced habitat alteration due to fire suppression and subsequent encroachment of woody vegetation,as well as agricultural exploitation,all of which have increased their conservation concern.The northern extreme of the driftless area is considered to occur in southeastern-most St.Croix County and northern Pierce County,with Kinnickinnic State Park representing the most northern extreme site for several bluff prairie reptile species.Although the reptile species that occur on these bluff prairies have low likelihood of occurring on the studied property,given their conservation concern,the historical presence of open prairie in St.Croix County,and evidence of bluff prairies on the property,the potential for some of these species deserves discussion. The Timber Rattlesnake,North American Racer,Gopher Snake,and Six-lined Racerunner are all species accorded conservation status by the WDNR and known to occur on or in association with bluff prairies.The northern-most known Timber Rattlesnake population in Wisconsin is/was at Kinnickinnic State Park(KKSP).In addition to requiring open bluff-prairie habitat,these snakes require exposed rocky outcrops for,among other things,reproduction and hibernation. Such rock exposure is not present on the property and likely does not occur north of KKSP.Thus,the Timber Rattlesnake can be considered absent from the property. The distribution of the North American Racer among bluff prairies closely parallels that of the Timber Rattlesnake;however,this snake is less dependent on exposed rock outcrops and may occur on bluff prairies lacking this structure.Given the occurrence of such prairies just south of the property,the evidence of the past occurrence of these prairies within the property,and the occurrence of the species in St. Croix County,there was hope for this species to be present.The species was not found,but due to its elusive nature the possibility remains. The distribution of the Gopher Snake differs from that of the previous two species.While it has been document in Pierce County and further southward along the bluffs of the Mississippi River, it has also been document in counties along the St. Croix to the north namely Polk and Barron. Thus, St. Croix County represents a disjunction in the species distribution.This species,like the North American Racer,is not solely dependent on the presence of rock outcrops.Unfortunately, the species was not located on the property. Lastly,the Racerunner has been documented in St.Croix County,but this lizard species is associated with drier habitats and was not found,nor is expected to occur,on the property. Two remaining species with conservation status in Wisconsin,and which have been recorded in St.Croix County,are turtles:the Wood Turtle(Threatened)and the Blanding's Turtle(Special Concern).Both of these turtles require specific types of aquatic habitats not present on the property.The Wood Turtle occupies small to medium-sized fast-flowing streams,which precludes its presence on or near the property.The Blanding's Turtle occupies swamps,bogs, ponds and lakes,but not major rivers like the St. Croix and so can be considered absent from the property. A w w nn � 16 Table 1.Amphibian and reptile species documented in St. Croix County and their conservation status,probable(bases on geographic distribution and habitat preference) and documented(field observations of the present study)occurrence on the property,estimated abundance and GPS waypoints for observations(Appendix I). 'Species indicated by an*have not been documented in St.Croix county,but occur in neighboring counties,are of high potential for occurring in the county,and/or are of conservation interest. 2The protected categories considered here are the following state level designations of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources(WDNR),in increasing order of protection:Special Concern,Threatened and Endangered). Special Concern species are those species about which some problem of abundance or distribution is suspected but not yet proven:SC/P=protected wild animal;SUN=no laws regulating use,possession,or harvesting;SC/H= take regulated by establishment of open closed seasons.Further information can be found at https://dnr w7.e,ov/topic NHI/WList.htmI 'Estimated abundance:Abundant(numerous individuals observed regularly),Common(more than one individual observation),Rare(single observation). Species' Conservation Probable Documented Estimated Observation registered for St_Croix Co. Staters' Occurrence Occurrence Abundance' Waypoints AMPHIBIANS Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander.Ainbystoina laterale X Eastern Tiger Salamander.Arnb ystwna fi rinann MucIptippy,Nectarrns rnacadosars X Frogs American Toad,Ana gars arnericanns X X Abundant STC 11,12,17 Boreal Chorus Frog.Psendacris rnacadata X Spring Peeper,Psendacris crucifer X Gray Treefrog,H Ala versicolor X X Common STC 6 Co e's Gray Treefrog.H Ala ch yeoscelis American Bul(frog.Lithobatea catesbetanns Green Frog.Lithobatea clarnttans X Northern Leopard Frog.Lithobatea pipiens X Wood Frog.Lithobatea a Imocars X X Rare STC 16 REPTILES Turtles Snapping Turtle.Chel Odra ser enfina X Wood Turtle.Gl p ternys inscul to TER Blanding's Turtle.Ern doidea blandin n SC/P Painted Turtle.Chrraernp picta X X Common STC 15 Northern Map Turtle.Gra ternys geographica X X Common STC 15 False Map Turtle.Gra ternp psendogeogrophica X X Common STC 15 Ouachita Map Turtle.Gra ternys onachitensis Spiny Softshell.A alones iniera X Lizards Six-lined Raceru mer.As idoacelis sezlineatars SC/H Prairie Slink.Plestiodon se tentrionalis SC/H X X Rare STC 18 Snakes Eastern Hog-nosed Snake.Heterodon plaorhillos* X Smooth Green Snake.O heodr ys vernalia North American Racer.Cohrber constrictor SC/P Western Foxsnake.Panthero hisvul inars X Gopher Snake.Pituo his cateni er* SC/P Mi lksnake.Larn ro elfistrian arhnn X Gartersnake.Thanmo his sirtaha X Delta 's Brownsnake.Storerta dek..i Red-bellied Snake.Storerta occi iton-cadata X X Common STC 10,18 Northern Watersnake.Nerodia si edon X Timber Rattlesnake.Crotahrs horridars* SC/P Total 7 21 8 m HABITAT ASSESSMENT FOR POTENTIAL/DOCUMENTED REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS Eleven general habitat types were recognized on the property(Figure 1),with varying relevance for reptiles and amphibians,as follows(with relevant waypoints in parentheses): Pine plantation—monoculture of planted pines.Habitat generally unsuitable for reptiles and amphibians,and no reptiles or amphibians were found.Any alteration that would diversify the vegetation of these habitats would improve suitability for reptiles and amphibians. Fallow field—previous agriculture(corn)field.Although no species were observed,this habitat has potential for use by a variety of species of snakes,particularly along the border(ecotone)with forest,as it ages.Maintenance as open grassland/prairie(e.g., prevent encroachment by shrubs and trees)would benefit reptiles. Grassy meadow(STC 18)—open grassy area devoid of shrubby vegetation and trees. Habitat typically used by skinks and a variety of snakes.Red-bellied Snake and Prairie Skink were documented in this habitat.Maintenance of the open nature of these habitats on the property is important since they are uncommon and used by the Special Concern Prairie Skink.Encroachment by shrubby and tree vegetation(particularly sumac, buckthorn,etc.)is a particular threat and should be managed. Potential ephemeral wetland(STC 3,21,22)—low areas with evidence of accumulated water.Although no water was present early in spring,despite it being a wetter than normal season,standing water may form with snow melt and frozen ground to provide a short window for some amphibians to breed.Maintain forest cover and prevent invasion by buckthorn. Ephemeral stream—base of ravine fed by rainwater runoff. Some temporary pools may form providing habitat for amphibians,but too short term for them to be suitable for breeding except for perhaps the American Toad. Bluff prairie(STC 1,7,8,9,10,11,12,13)—evidence of previous open prairies with potential to house bluff prairie and generalist snakes.Presently are encroached with tree (oaks,cedars)and shrubby vegetation.No longer possessing character of prairie.If any bluff prairie reptiles still occur in the area,management to re-establish(remove invasives, shrubs,trees)these habitats would be beneficial. Oak savanna(STC 5,20)—evidence of open grass/sedge areas with scattered mature oak trees usually bordering open prairie patches.Vulnerable to invasion by shrubby vegetation. Dry forest(STC 2,19)—forest on south/southwest facing slopes of ravines with regular direct sun exposure.Potential habitat for many snake species.Potential for turtle nesting where close to the St.Croix River. A w w nn � ICJ Mesic(wet)forest(STC 17)—forest on north facing slopes of ravines with minimal direct sun exposure.Potential habitat for some amphibians.Adult American Toad was found in mesic forest. Mixed forest—young re-growth forest with invasive plants(e.g.,buckthorn).Not suitable for most reptiles and amphibians. Riverside lowland(STC 14,15)—sandy shoreline and adjacent vegetated bank. Potential use by turtles for basking and nesting.Formation of isolated pools with potential for amphibian breeding(STC Photo 6).False Map Turtle,Map Turtle and Painted Turtle were observed basking on emergent logs offshore in the St.Croix River (STC Photo 1,2,5).Maintain down woody debris on the beach and in the water because such structures are likely rare elsewhere along the river and are important for turtles. Figure 1.Map of property showing general habitat types:pine plantation v (pink),fallow field(gray),grassy meadow(light green),potential ephemeral wetland(light blue dot), ephemeral stream(dashed yellow line),bluff prairie(yellow),oak savanna(light brown),dry forest (orange),mesic forest(blue). Riverside lowland is not indicated. Areas not shaded are generally mixed forest.P 1—P6=Parcels 1-6. m LAND USE MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS The most remarkable aspects of the property from an ecological/environmental point of view are the bluff ridge paralleling the river,the shoreline of the river itself and the ravines that lead into the river. Bluff ridge—the bluff ridge that parallels the St. Croix River is the trademark of the terrestrial component of the riverway.With southern/southwestern exposure,the bluff ridge receives abundant sun exposure and historically/presently comprises habitats/vegetation components that are limited in Wisconsin to such sites along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers.Former/current bluff prairies and the associated oak savannah habitat are foremost among these.Although these habitats on the properly have suffered encroachment by woody vegetation including invasives, management for restoration could at least recreate a sense of the original landscape if not allow regrowth of original vegetation remaining either above ground or in the seedbank.A botanist with more experience with the vegetation present on bluff prairies and potential recovery should be consulted,but practices employed for restoring other such habitats in Wisconsin by the WDNR include manual removal of invasives and encroaching woody vegetation,application of herbicides,girdling larger trees and burning.Restoration of these open habitats would not only recover the original landscape but would also provide areas with grand natural vistas of the St. Croix River itself. River shoreline—as the most direct link between the property and the St. Croix River,the shoreline should be maintained in the most natural state as possible.This seems to be particularly important as there appears to be few stretches in the area without human structures and/or traffic. The presence of downed woody debris along the shoreline is important for turtles and seems to be lest abundant elsewhere in the region(STC Photo 1,2,5).Threats to the shoreline include excessive boat traffic and human use.Limited daytime use via hike-in or boats anchored offshore is recommended. Strict enforcement of pollution violations is encouraged.A significant amount of debris washes up on the shoreline,some natural and some not,particularly after spring highwater/flood,which is unavoidable due to the nature of the river.However,to enrichen scenic experiences for visitors,removal of unnatural debris is advised after highwater in the spring. Such an effort could be easily done by a volunteer group(such as highway cleanups are done), with the aid of a boat,due to the amount and size of debris and the steep bluff. Ravines—The ravines that feed into the St. Croix river are another important and unique aspect of the properly.These ravines are essential for water conservation and proper drainage of the surrounding upland landscape.As such,they are vulnerable to erosion if vegetation is lost. Vegetation must be maintained along the steep slopes and upland surrounding these ravines.The current vegetation of these ravines appears to be in a good state of conservation and there appears to be limited erosion.The vegetation of these ravines also provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to see and appreciating the difference between northward and southward facing slopes via the contrast between the mesic(wet)forest with loamy soil,ferns,mosses and other herbaceous vegetation on the former and dry forest with sandy soil,grasses and sparse trees (including oak savanna)on the latter. One apparent threat to these ravines and the quality of the water they deliver to the river is the occurrence of dumps at their upper-most reaches. Such dumps are common at the tops of such ravines(even present in Kinnickinnic State Park),due to A w w nn �V L.O them being historical disposal sites for upland farmers.Much of the debris in these dumps appears largely inert(metal),and will not threaten habitat or water quality,and thus could remain.However,these dumps should at least be inspected for the occurrence of other more threatening materials,which should be removed. In general terms,the mixed forests and pine plantations located on the property could be managed as general use areas for the public with minimal environmental impact as these areas have minimal ecological value other than being protection buffers for the more central habitats of the property.The fallow fields,on the other hand,should be managed as open areas.Planting as prairie is one possibility that would allow easy access and immediate view/visitation by the general public to a landscape that is rare in Wisconsin but originally encompassed much of St. Croix County. Given these considerations,the properly lends itself well to the development of scenic trails that would allow visitors to experience all these unique aspects of the properly. The routes suggested below allow relatively easy access to all three of the previously mentioned remarkable aspects of the property—bluff ridge,shoreline and ravines.Indeed,some paths/deer trails already exist in some of the following suggested routes. One such trail would could pass along the top of the ridge of the ravine at the northern most edge of Parcel 1.Upon reaching near the St. Croix it would then pass southward through Parcel 2 along the main river bluff where it would come across several areas with the appearance of past open prairie patches(or perhaps restored prairie patches in the future).The trail would then reach the site with what seems to be the best prairie potential above the junction of the property's largest ravine and the St.Croix River(STC 1). Descending to this junction would allow visitors to explore the shoreline and the ravine itself and appreciate the contrast between the northern and southern slopes of the ravine as they ascend the other side.From this point several exit routes could be offered,including following the southern edge of the ravine,following the main river bluff or exiting straight to old Hwy 35 through open meadows. A similar such trail could enter along the ridge of the ravine that runs along the northern edge of Parcel 6(a trail and bench(es)are already present; STC Photo 4).Upon reaching the St. Croix the trail would allow the opportunity for visitors to descend to the shoreline and/or up the ravine. The trail would then continue southward to a prime prairie patch(STC 13)near the building that m remains on the property(which would make an excellent St.Croix River nature center if under ownership of the County).Another option for reaching the building and the nearby prairie patch, and which would provide maximum accessibility,is via the road to the building itself.From the building,the trail would descend southward through the prairie patch to a second ravine and return following the ridge on its southern border. OTHER INFORMATION REGARDING FUTURE MANAGEMENT AND LAND USE ACTIVITIES Although the herpetofauna of the property appears to be not particularly diverse or abundant,this is not the case for other wildlife.Indeed,casual observations during survey work documented a variety of wildlife.Numerous bird species were observed,including bald eagle,pileated woodpecker(indicator of mature forest)and scarlet tanager,to name a few.The property would offer tremendous opportunities for bird watchers.White tail deer use the property,and numerous turkeys and gray squirrels were seen,making hunting a possibility,particularly bow hunting.In spite of the property's proximity to homes,towns and a large metropolitan area,it possesses isolation and remoteness due to its topography.Furthermore,the riverway serves as a dispersal corridor for wildlife moving north and south.Thus,the occasional occurrence of other wildlife on the property is likely.Indeed,the landowner neighboring the southern edge of Parcel 6 reported a sow and cub black bear passing through on May during survey work. Non-reptile and amphibian wildlife observed Bald Eagle Gray squirrel Wild Turkey Whitetail deer Scarlet Tanager Black bear Bluejay Crow Cardinal Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Nuthatch Pileated Woodpecker Red-tailed Hawk American Robin APPENDIX I:WAYPOINTS (reptile and amphibian records in bold) SITE Waypoint Latitude Longitude Date Description and significance Number (N) (W) Parcel 2 STC 1 45,02264 -92,75411 5,25,19 Top of prominence overlooking ravine-river confluence_Could clear cedars to open prairie for nice scenic overlook Parcel 2 STC 2 45,02203 -92,75372 5,25,19 South facing sandy knob/prominence over ravine. A bit open,could be open more, Parcel 2 STC 3 45,02359 -92,75327 5,25,19 Unusual lower area looking as if held water as an ephemeral wetland Parcel 1 STC 4 45,02591 -92,75332 5,25,19 Grass patch with cedar encroaching above NW facing slope(ganie caniera present). Parcel 6 STC 5 45,01430 -92,75491 5,26,19 Oaks savanna-like opening(red flagging)with good semi-open prominence below. Parcel STC 6 45.01950 -92.74861 5.26.19 1 Gray Treefrog(Hvla sp.);dead under recently fallen dead pine bow at edge of pine plantation and powerline right-of-way. Parcel 2 STC 7 45,02425 -92,75477 7,31,19 Top of long,narrow opening on slope with significant woody debris;being encroached with buckthorn. Parcel 2 STC 8 45,02368 -92,75437 7,31,19 Top of another opening,fence posts and barbed wire seem to mark the upper lip of bluff. Parcel 2 STC 9 45,02294 -92,75472 7,31,19 Southern end of string of open patches/areas on slope. Parcel STC 10 45.02486 -92.75526 7.31.19 4 Red-bellied Snakes(2 adults,2 subadults); W-NW facing opening at the far NW corner of Parcel or SW corner of Parcel 1;under logs on sandy ground. Parcel STC 11 45.02438 -92.75512 7.31.19 American Toad(metamorph)near open, sandy/grassy area on bluff facing river. Parcel STC 12 45.02410 -92.75465 7.31.19 Numerous American Toads(metamorphs); among sedge at top of sandy somewhat open bluff facing river Parcel STC13 45,01565 -92,75765 8,14,19 South facing prominence over ravine near house_ Parcel 6 STC 14 45,01466 -92,75945 8,14,19 River side dime pool. Parcel STC 15 45.01707 -92.75826 8.14.19 1 Map Turtle(Graplernvs sp.;adult),1 Painted Turtle(adult);basking on emergent log—20m offshore.Off NW corner of Parcel Parcel STC 16 45.02234 -92.75137 8/15/19 1 Wood Frog(adult);powerline right-of-way. Parcel STC 17 45.02174 -92.75500 8/15/19 1 American Toad;hidden under bark of down tree trunk on N facing slop at the mouth of a ravine. Parcel STC 18 45.02088 -92.75004 8123119 1 Red-bellied Snake(subadult);1 Prairie Skink (adult);both under board in open field. (Coordinates from google earth Parcel 2 STC 19 45,02259 -92,75222 8,23,19 Interesting open prominence between two ravines facing W-SW,open,sedges Parcel 2 STC 20 45,02234 -92,75340 8,23,19 S-facing banks over gully,many open,sandy, sedgy areas in vicinity;many big scattered oaks, especially further up. Parcel STC21 45,02299 -92,75373 8,23,19 Low wet area Parcel 2 STC 22 45,02434 -92,75368 8,23,19 Large bowl m APPENDIX II:PHOTOGRAPH CATALOG Photo Date Location(waypoint) Description Number STC Photo 1 7/30/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2 Natural woody debris on shoreline useful to turtles as basking sites. STC Photo 2 7/30/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2 Map Turtle basking on emergent log off shoreline_ STC Photo 3 5/31/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property(STC 10) Two adult Red-bellied snakes.Note color variation.Snake on the right(redder individual)appears to be a pregnant female_ STC Photo 4 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6 Bench on hail along the ridge of the ravine that inns along the northern edge of Parcel 6. STC Photo 5 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6 Northern Map Turtle and False Map Turtle basking on emergent log off shoreline. STC Photo 6 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6(STC 14) Example of shoreline pool with potential for aniphibian breeding. STC Photo 7 8/15/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2(STC 17) American Toad hidden under bark of down tine hunk on N facing slop at the mouth of a ravine. I11F III 11E II1 IID Iiimo""'r III : III III IIII GIRA""'raIRY SURVEYIII III°°IIII III 'l Field Notes: Exploratory Survey(Phase 1) Search Units at a Glance 1. Top priority search units are dominated by a widely varied mix of native overstory and understory species.No remnant prairie vegetation was obvious in the area,but is still expected to be present. 2. Second priority search areas are still worthy of closer inspection as a variety of native species were present,despite high levels of encroachment by a number of invasive that are described in greater detail below. 3. Native vegetation within this third priority unit is largely eliminated.We will scan this area briefly another time or two to ensure that noteworthy features or species are not overlooked. 4. The fourth priority search is predominantly agricultural land,so the only potential habitat for desirable native vegetation would be along field edges or roadsides,but the sliver of potential habitat that is available appeared to be thoroughly colonized by a variety of invasives and agricultural weeds. Note:boundaries of priority search areas are likely to change during the next(recon)phase of our inventory. Priority Invasives Garlic mustard is present in in higher quality habitats,but no extensive colonies were found.Taking immediate steps to prevent the expansion of small populations within predominantly native cover-types is highly recommended because this is a species that can spread rapidly from year to year.Initial control efforts for this species could be added to phase 2 of inventory(recommended). Buckthorn widespread and serious issue.It is a codominant species throughout a large portion of property,especially where black locust or red pine are the predominant overstory trees,but it is still relatively uncommon in many of the higher quality habitats. Eliminating small or outlying populations anywhere on the property should be a high priority,especially where they occur within native cover-types.The more severe issues within the plantation and beneath black locust don't appear to be jeopardizing anything unique,so dealing with those problems is not recommended as an immediate priority. Japanese barberry is was present as scattered patches and individual throughout the much of the area surveyed,but appeared to me most common within predominantly native cover-types.While it does not present as significant of a barrier to management as the other three species listed described here,preventing any invasives from becoming widespread within native cover-types should be a top management priority. Black locust is present as a dominant or co-dominant species in part of the property,but is uncommon or absent elsewhere. Eliminating this species where it is well-established will be a challenge,but it is not an immediate or urgent priority throughout areas where it already taken over.Eliminating this species from predominantly native cover-types should be the top priority for dealing with this species early on. m APPENDIX II:PHOTOGRAPH CATALOG Photo Date Location(waypoint) Description Number STC Photo 1 7/30/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2 Natural woody debris on shoreline useful to turtles as basking sites. STC Photo 2 7/30/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2 Map Turtle basking on emergent log off shoreline_ STC Photo 3 5/31/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property(STC 10) Two adult Red-bellied snakes.Note color variation.Snake on the right(redder individual)appears to be a pregnant female_ STC Photo 4 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6 Bench on hail along the ridge of the ravine that inns along the northern edge of Parcel 6. STC Photo 5 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6 Northern Map Turtle and False Map Turtle basking on emergent log off shoreline. STC Photo 6 8/14/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 6(STC 14) Example of shoreline pool with potential for aniphibian breeding. STC Photo 7 8/15/19 St_Croix Co.mitigation property,Parcel 2(STC 17) American Toad hidden under bark of down tine hunk on N facing slop at the mouth of a ravine. A w w nn �V L.6 HWY 35 ENTRANCE ROAD STUDY EXHIBITS "I11WITIN 11 A IN E CO IN E III ""IIIr EXISTING 36'RCP CULVERT EXISTING DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE�� ' TO REMAIN v J��yfpleff T NB BYPASS LANE / V N��pwi"sJ/frr7�I'l�f)�; TRAIL CROSSING (AT GRADE') N . GRADING LIMITS(TYP) ' / -� � 1A; �� f - EXISTING 42 RGP CULVERT '�� POTENT AL STORM WATER .� URN LANE k - J ^" °° t -� TREATMENT AREA PROPOSED L-DETERMINATING{ �. TERMINATING AT SB RIGHT-TURN l REMOVE ROAD NORTH i NORTH DRNEWAY t OF GUL-DE-SAG 0� PROPOSED'ti24 ERT �j, �qy !T -- r ry Tr� PROPOSEDCULVE RT ——— GRADING LIMITS ❑ EXISTING BITUMINOUS EXISTING CULVERT PROPOSED CULVERT ❑ PROPOSED BITUMINOUS EXTENSION ` —a—a— EXISTING GUARDRAIL ❑ EXISTING GRAVEL PROPOSED GUARDRAIL �,' i PROPOSED GRAVEL T/ PROPOSED TRAIL - (APPROX.ALIGNMENT) SCALE IN FEET e o .o goo zoo HOISINGTON KOEGLER ECKERT BLUFFIANDS PARK DRAFT 6M GROUPINC PIASTER GHINAV35ENTRANCEIEXITCONCEPT pP§ ST.CROIX COUNTY.WISCONSIN eeee 12 RD STREET.#too aaaE...ao SHEET 01 OF015TEETS lu INVENTORY REPORT 1114 V E 114 11rGIRY II 1I r III III ""IIIr 11 E III II L CONTEXT Regional Context Map u r�rn�r� Vr aotoprlrr t.�rnix hrc uj. mr rrr drrsrr,�a j �y um{ l✓ ^" u ', f. P w 5A M V iN n p 6PrY�s,p�9easW�a,zeisurm nrra^m �u r V W' Vw n d 6 pp Y u w, xAi � A � II Illlliiiii e �. 141 Of ,I Legend r r ZONE eokem gluft"do port 5 Wk Radlrue II 12 r6 .� City 800nd3r7aS Gn-1'VN'mlwc �! i f�r�mnl.c NMYud Xi&wwr IF 1 me �ha�i�irna¢dCnna 8✓�17� � l r� nE L&�b� Wsakv a t�r�r �4%!@BG'BCtnM llCCpa& .nJ f,lop{: �Jh, Propo%6d Roglornml 7mllns �.w Existing R)gional Trafle — -- Wes Within a five-mile radius of Eckert Blufflands Park,there are several recreation options to connect to in Wisconsin and across the river in Minnesota: Regional bike trail connections(Lift Bridge Loop Willow River State Park Trail,Brown's Creek MN State Trail,and several St.Croix National Scenic Riverway planned regional trails in WI and MN) City parks in Hudson and North Hudson St.Croix County parks a w w nn � GCJ EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS � Eckert Blufflands Park is a new County Park in St.Croix County,Wisconsin.The park is located on the St.Croix & River,just north of Hudson and across the river from Bayport,Minnesota.The park area covers approximately 270 acres between the St.Croix River and Hwy 35; , contains steep bluffs and several ravines;and is adjacent to several private home sites and agricultural Iand.The park's upland contains farmer agricultural fields that will be restored to prairie landscape.Dense tree stands exist throughout the upland,the ravines,and on the bluffs. A cabin formerly owned by the Eckert family is the only existing structure on the park site today.Several deep ravines cross the park descending to the St.Croix River. The shoreline provides spectacular views in all directions and a sandy beach to hike along and explore. i r, 1 m HISTORICAL SITE CONDITIONS to ply r / �, fly/��, � G/i��✓� �////r 9� / ` �� G , 1 !r /rN III IIIIII III i'+gjal CONTIEUPOIRAIRY SITE CONDITIONS Sensitive Ra vines and sr pslopes rnepfardaiions Prairie Restoration Areas Pr e"Lines � fJ' r w INVENTORY & , ,- / 9 NAL YSIII The following pages feature Y of ma a varlet s that p illustrate key considerations at Eckert Blufflands related /r'//%✓ / „ /i%/ /"%r /' ' // to the following categories: Natural Resources ACCe55 Recreation Facilities rG r r r r/ j rr /�t/� !Di'riF a/ii, a Y'? i rG/!ii.//i%�/ r f„ / %%, ,// Acquisition Existing Conditions Map 3 m NATURAL Ill lE III E Legend' within the Eckert site, m Pa ---r ua ri � �� ravines and ridges divide � ca�lchonenC ,IL aarxilaulsadOaslrt-Inrr'aWuergova%Mow l ` � the land into multiple �w Draffiage Area LkandlooK.edBoWn.Impropbableoverflow ,�.,,,,,, �, � drainage areas.Some of Fra , the upland drainage areas i uaCJ are landlocked,while major H c rd ravines and the bluffs drain runoff to the St.Croix River. � is It will be important to 22A consider these drainage areas when planning r modifications to the park in ', terms of roadway corridors, K ll]�7h�V d grading for parking areas or other facilities,and when constructing trails along r� steep slopes and through wet areas. 4" /oor"p`u fm( /7, i r ' r ' �QH Ira, IrA zip WT 4 del r k /! ! Falb ?A ,,Liiii/, //' 1��%✓✓/ iiO✓ are c, Land Covet and Ecological Conditions Map 4 IIIIIII """"'^^pp I AM) COVER Map uo Cmdit,apcor, r9rt N9iroLumai girdxdorq..fins,skpalaa�nYudr,.And'wdnx'atdyr f nuwan rwt Species have nesultea if,demx J(Nranej uil sko v. d P IEpdvWglaAQ r7bk cfp0,muragx raeA mmOmmn wuwarm tkO pn* Mwd y q 2 aweral0 danarvrate birw' sknrits � �d� d+d Tr �t I 4 f +,F"..aan I i � dsu rraurd2rmyw�p�t 6r.1 oAk w ilt J' '1 / �/ ....... bier lar^4afllunr5 VIerviM1ln^ViM14l laabdha'l wroNuie aur+7 �l A,Not a l'Nalm al CpMYMbMbMlky /r/lfr /�%� �/; Ip, include: d i*uwk.p1m hated Ina 199as scmt stmrci�il aa+J�ia>�p�lainkarS rvrr rrw9rd•&4�ts dc�rnlral stand)ram?pi6 ,slanted do 194;%dpawte+n w(,Wd ak vvoorfla (' 4 As!eicarltural fgr:9c0s pwrrnrYaVe 49tk9P kaakrPo'&at value ///r�� '`•; ,,,, ,,,mfk�taknurn d, VerydeR'raule+d Gmnwsk„yl�,Mifkramt Mack locust Recent woo y��r tmnaa emarnt,but MC'main t g � ,y Woest plaint¢mnnmunky quality M park along I north facing ra'vh e slope;lardy nem or i infrequcotlygrazed! 8 dksrnfriated by mtWe spa iem but with nigh �!/ 8 dennAy of goad[m v,,wrd and buckthorn Oak Op /i5 packets eP Dry 9araide rwanmin,Unit em machfin,d. wlm dp sfne+..rrn dragninart and timeat"v lrafsktat 1/l H ii �J!f/ ��/' ,�/�,,.��%�/l j� �%i i aka Y xvi✓ r�� pf'aartaarnmrmuiyd,andGd3Ycr y-Walcfnreal /o raK'Wobdfarol.., (onil. Nug aY rr G1'adcCJpanireig �rr/ Airy Prairko RmnijianO i FtlpprJplaprw Ind; pa' f� �% J / ' erptlrveroapmp4�rgaaacecp kYsnd i�, Land Covet and Ecological Conditions Map 5 m The highest quality native plant community on the site is Ilan Analysis of �� 111 rI a dr -mesic forest located on the side slopes of the majorNatural ravine in the north/central part of the park.This area was iii likely never grazed and has a sensitive forest floor. _ The lowest quality natural communities are the surrogate 0 "D 400 aeon 9 � ,'705 '� grasslands(former crop fields)and pine plantations �// along with some of the forested areas that contain Sensitive ravine landscape.,Higherqcalll �� numerous invasive species within them. with fnt rinvaslvespecies; ncredibl � ys�EF� The river bluffs and floodplain are of moderate ecological soils/slopes quality with several native species present. Aft The site's natural resources inform the potential design of the rvl�teti� ru�INfs�wll� 1�t11 p g the site,and considerations include: Aft Evaluating existing vegetation for high quality or Rare sp i known toitatb'abitshoiiali Ti�aYvff# conflhcts with program i rare species in certain areas Mapping invasive species:black locust in southern lmk Higher stall woodlandwu with Bolling ta�p woodland;buckthorn and garlic mustard o o throughout woodlands Integrating ongoing/planned habitat restoration Consider off-site ravinesas,partef�I�lll�a and management erosion,control:issues Evaluating ravines for erosion and sensitivity to future trails/use Pine plantation--needs forestman ibC1�' Balancing protection with providing access down/ across steep slopes and bluffs Interesting ephemeral VantlleClfli Protecting shoreline habitat while providing access Ravines contain invaslye species MW clow"A", Locust dominate woodland o- rn Lead batteries observed In this ravine Open corridor/old field road Agriculture fields-Futureprblr➢e resto 9 Nixed Forest/Woodland-rolling tertaln Opening(shoreline,ag,fields,grasslija JI�JJJ aluffs/Steep Slopes R/N0, Moderate-High QualftyWoodiand Low Quality Woodland(nnv sives) """ Off-site Ravines Nixed Forest P Woodlandmrd ' Pine Plantation IIIIIII """"' r, , r I r AAf l wwiwi,,: r� �%/ %' All; %i, Natural Resources Inventotyand Analysis Map 7 m ACCESSCONNECTIONS �� Currently,there are two existing access points to the sib of park-at either end of Old Hwy 35.When considering i adding or altering access and connections to and within Eckert Blufflands,the following issues and pp 0 ortunities arise: ; Could reconfigure the northern intersection at Hwy 35 and Old Hwy 35 and create a new park �� entrance road along the property line Consider easennentfor access tt�N��p� �u pn A potential future access aligned with Cty Rd V at and potential road alignment ttr'theo0to", o� a the north end of park Align with intersection,sightllnes 710 A gated entry is required to collect entry fees lanes,etc will need to be considered, ioi e„ �////�� River access points are controversial and could �% protection from steep slopes end invite trespassing—likely consider for the grading northern stretch of shoreline only grading / Consider stairs,zip lines,and other access �, Consider stairs,zip lines,or ether e4 odt methods to navigate topography within the park rowideaccess u and tee loft$ Connect to the regional bike trail along Hwy 35 p p ME M Be sensitive to adjacent private homeowners and their views and need for access Consideranuenitiesalongsha for karatinand • Include a parking area for 20 30 vehicles near the Hawwillaecessd"ront'the wa'teM"be 0104y '1 ` main entrance/entry station Consider several small parking areas located 0 Consider limiting public se/accessWW"Utd 2�� throughout the park,for convenience shoreline ,�% ADA accessible parking needs may require 2-3 .// spaces near the cabin Aft Sensitive ravine landscape reqmirOoustain M Consider maintenance vehicle access to use areas designed trails or bridgesinordertoAll 1W 0/ (camper cabins,campsites,picnic areas) access Explore corridors and areas for potential ~ Consider new rkentr maid easements for road aCCe55 yi Evaluate sites for potential acquisition and future park expansion in order to provide access to to 0 Gated entry required to collect entry fed' the northern half of the site around the steep northern ravine Potential Parking and Entry Station, r �,, „a,,„• Roads that service private residenraess !fot p' ' create confusion as to what Is ptt'bdi� I 1 � Additional potential access route, "cnndi gr Old Hwy 35 and lM'wy 35 Inte'dr"s9e ion w woo"$1,t- Reconfigure intersection to bepe eliditt� l /j Futureof•road hike tirail(fttndfed) /, c,i r r oh r;t,r off-road bilke trap(pldnn$di j r �r� r�l��r, a i �r ro th, FtNtl9teo�°- a w w nn IW �6 � "'/, '";":%o '' '% 'r////�%oi//�/% �u%:Yo r/i„-/rig rir i;;%i/i// it"", ,"� ," ,,,".,,,r ✓ I r/r, /,• reel D��/i �/ �� J%� v/ r/��r/��fr/%,r ,, /�!j rri,,, ,," ,;rL� r r/,��l% ,. 1/55 //;IV6, is «IC 12 Access and Parking Inventory and Analysis Map 9 m 11RECIREATIONI The recreation program consists of planned park lilinvan sir. v sand iiliii activities(hiking,observing nature,picnicking, Recreational Pro �� "� , camping,etc.).DNR grant funding that was used to " acquire portions of the park requires that the following !""' GNP- recreational activities be included: 0 20B UO MUO HuntHikining g Consider r+smote/hike•in camp sltosalopc, ON Trapping northern bluff Fishing Cross-county skiing Hi hll ht A ews of the river with ado Considerations related to programming and recreation natural interpretation at Eckert Bluftlands include: Aft Consider shoreline activities:boating Promoting sustainable recreation that can provide and kaytak/'taneei,fishing,and hiking, revenue for the County Providing various types of hiking trails—natural Consider unique'access tosborellneAtilo, (110(l surface,bridges,boardwalks,paved to suit a eriunicular/litt i variety of ability levels and site conditions % Consider placing use area in oakopeninrgtr"rilitAl Explore options for camping—camper cabins, yurts,hike in sites,remote sites of iven picnicking,camping,andhilldr% Include picnicking areas—shelter,tables, Potential trailhead and/or outldootesi designated areas along trails Consider options for beach use—only consider AftPotential camping in the pines shoreline access and exploration,no swimming Consider if boating—non-motorized and Eckert cabin:enhance and take adva�gn motorized—access should be provided at the park ; views,consider reuse of cabin or 1000.10i The Eckert family has requested that options for historic interpretation be included replacement with picnicshelterorot Pert t9r Ir fr% Provide facilities and access to viewsheds— consider interpretive elements(hl ark#N /i maintain existing views,selective clearing to enhance and direct views 0 Considerped bridge over ravine,for biIdO ttaljlt Include sites for potential river and ravine Provide hiking trails throughouttbO#Arkt0644'f`§ overlooks,especially on the north part of the '1AI sustainably designed trails and bridgldttbron� property and overthe sensitive ravine Consider activities for winter use—cross-country skiing,snowshoeing,winter camping Potential 115 mile hiking loop i-N LJ N'TN N Firearm hunting restrictions J101i p1t�c ( The most likely hunting season to overlap with park use is archery and crossbow hunting of deer during the fall and winter.Rifle huntingof deer is also like) at the ark, Y p 1�- Area of park purchased with DNA�grantfu"Oln' i% which occurs later in the fall.Considerations related to fishing,activities required: g,cro rtntk t ki�rN �1% hunting include: rm , The need to clearly delineate hunting areas from hunting,trapping,and hiking day-use recreation areas and camping areas There may be a possibility to request that hunting is limited to bow hunting only in the future. The area northern part of the property is not required to be hunted lltof �l�IO, � A r 4 I i I &rll "°Y✓ r/�/iiOjii�r� F w ��/ r /j� 10/11 Recreational Activities Inventory and Analysis Map 11 m FACII IL III III ICI j% In order to provide access and services to park users, I'nventoryl g o 1; several facilities will be necessaryin the ark,such asFacilities p an entry station building,restrooms,picnic shelter, �� j and utility connections to support those facilities. AM Considerations related to proposed facilities at Eckert Bluffland include: Explore potential sites for a formal park entry that will include an office/fee collection booth, Consider maintenance an ere iii loll,�� restrooms,and parking. power,water,wastewater It should beat least 750'from the turn off of Hwy 35to allow for vehicle stacking,but close Potential parkinu ,Entry Station,A enough to the main entrance to collect fees and provide park information.! Consider seasonal restrooms—portable or pit Potential Picnic area er+rm ercbin Mae toilet,at the shoreline and near camping advantage of views Consider a separate shower building for campers or include a shower building as part of the park entry Consider seasonal toilets atsharreiiirre facilities Difficulty providing maintenance services at the Aft Eckertca bin--consider reuse shoreline precludes formal boat access ✓' p Power exists and the septic fieldteeksre�autt Steep slopes make getting equipment down the Consider maxi mum Capacity for p enddii R541/, bluff to install and remove docks and manage waste receptacles excessively difficult 1 , A strong current makes swimming risky-it should Consider'relocation ofexist1q,,poweN WOOMaJO, not be promoted Hwy 35 roadway corridor Consider one or two locations for picnic shelters Eckert cabin has a small kitchen,new septic system, half bath,one-room.Consider options for reuse ofi the cabin ... ElectricalDistributiontirres(St.( ix i k°wo Artist in Residence on the St.Croix program Cooperative) Rental for private overnight use Nature/interpretive center Consider a site for maintenance and utilities x �/ �� ✓�j//��;5� ��1%ram�f' IJ /,o, �� '�i 3 y4: %�.... /,•, ��o t I V�p III+�i � I�!�� ' O��J'��%%��i� r »�/�'j /1 I � r Facilities Inventory and Analysis Map 13 m IF III E ACQUISITION � I III IEXPANSIONIInv Ana� pis..... F._. bl. `_.� This topic considers potential areas where the park could ftqIsitionand �Park�mExpton .._m._._ be expanded in the future if opportunities arise,such as a willingseller,an access easement,or a development p 200 A�abm nod that may want park access.The graphic on the following page: Identifies adjacent sites and corridors for potential Consider easement or acqui sitionfor atces acquisition or easement to provide access designed for circulation toavcwN $Npes�h Evaluates beneficial property acquisition(near- term or Iona-term)for nark exnansion the access from view of the farmstead and W,4�� out of the steeper topography to the aw st and rve� flex!laNNNt for gnterse�ctNen�designs onMg I %��% Aft Evaluate intersection for potential parNr rNccest j Private homes require access through the Park, Eva]u ate for tutu reacquisition (1 � �� ;/�%/j"�� farrsNde�ru^ecguestrnr N�ceN Errer��tM r�llrbtx� trarrsrn>Issrrrn aorrrdvr to Hwy 35 road corridor � / OP, a�i I u , iis� r, �Cr, rr,r�✓, � ��^I?i�� 'r,L�r�lfr,7ni 00011 ........... 14 Ir w a w w nn � 4G V, %j , � ' �) �IU�)�11)Ill)Ill(1111)1111111111111J1J)l �l/lll�f � � '/// II 11)�l� 11.11a1111lllllllll�'1�N(IC(1(I( / /liar i /ji / � /� / a//�/!i/ r //i�ir// L I G 01 ✓, ,/i p j Omo ff Figure I.I Potential Futune Acquisition and Park Expansion Map 15 m SUMMAIRYF` IIIF E L ATED BACKGROUND N IDOCUMENTS 9 2023 e GOALS: County Bike/Ped Plan integration is a continuous theme across the document. P i y - Includes integration with XCSkiing,snow �• � a��a�J�� ,� mobile,horse trails,greenway corridors,wildlife corridors,and drainage way corridors Consideration of long term maintenance costs and Y �� non-duplication of existing programming(whether by a county facility or other provider,public or , private)was a common theme Preserve,protect,and provide access to habitat and natural areas " Integrate education,interpretation,and promote i��i i�i�i�i�i�fIf�lllll'llll �II�If �IlVuu �I�II��N �, public awareness through signage and facilities VVV �r P I�� '�d !'i�il� � • �a M Follow-up on County level of service recreation standards,are their gaps this facility can bridge? 2018 COUNTY PARK SURVEY: ® Hiking trails was by far the facility identified by the County Park and Rec survey for expansion/ investment Camper cabins were the most preferred facility at '^^^^^a'°" Glen Hills Park,the most used and highest rated of Richards&Eckert Properties the County's park facilities per the survey 1, 11,CC...I 1 ,I- -C.A.- rd/' s h ounry purchas d 3 so4landf and leave h ds(seem opem vas aaess of4 State Hignwav3s,is mntea amng the st.cmn Riverin the Town o4 sPmsepn and includes 1,300 feet of river shoreline and 2,000 feet of bluN Ime. The county purchased The Eckert Family properrym 2018.Th¢114�aae parcel is looted m the Towns o4 Hudson and S,. eph and incl Josudes 1,550 feet of shoreline and bluff Ime along the St.Roix River.The ouTh and ad)acentto the Richards property.combined,These acquisittons pmtec[over 2,800 feet o'sho lllne and provide publRaccess to over 16I acres o4greenspacem TheSt Roix Valley. oTher vdatu ndudeacres o4oldg 1h w ds.are wiffihabitatdrm terThwland,. ngbird,,-tunlharre,.vater,n r.onpremiseco1—hhThe cmde <nem�ion o andThepotential ex¢ta4orblo4f line damage Adfacent properties wi1h development potential woulgcrease erosron mrtThouanterventmn.The areas along The over contain steep bluff irnt with �n nThesouTh end.—1-p and rugged mpognphy proardes scenmarews o heriner —r-rand The new S1.Cr—River crossmg Bridge.Asmall nbin on the preen mayhave a vartery of uses as nbin,oHice space,meetmgsite,h�_ric site.The purchase agreement requrces it be maintained for 5 years. ossible uses on The property could include scenic ovehooks,swimming,fishing,picnicking,limited nbin c g,Mking,snowshoeing,bird watching,hu rating an d topping,boat+n access,and oTher oudoor. rec a to The properties will also need to be evaluated.Effort needed to protec[ seven ravines from additional erosion by r- 'gupland n,,-plant communities.Uses and site pre,ewill be analyzed and ld-I f.d Through the master plann ng process which w 11 include suroveyrtng a�ndsplant inventory,it is pr-led to beginm 2019-2020. 7 i mBmid i it i ilrl a ua �%/irryiy/�nilr�lyiim 'yJ a w w ran � 44 i � I � r�l .l r e. 7oilet/shower bldg.constructed 2017 Camper Cabin Concept f 1 J'. Small Shelter Concept Large Shelter Concept t,Croix County Properties Acquired Using Mitigation Funding t i ,T�n da iiAUNFAMN OIi flf�rt�glM :Adl d "�" ;. ••••••� ' 1e» � �� u , "I'llVVIS ad �., dri'l tl°nwwuGn wTIX.vxvx anal l'rrtaw " :f9.t".Hole m�.t;a—p i'AW*W �..�,a�n me�rmnlvuuo 1dK tmuwu"Orl—tiv rd &kl p tp '1F' 2fAuleiq EC; lnni 17 lu i, St.Croix County Residents Non St.Croix County Residents Leave Don't Highest Leave Don't Highest Facility/Amenity Expand Same Reduce Know Priority Expand Same Reduce Know Priority Hiking trails 55% 23% 1% 20% 39 1 34% 22% 2% 42% 11 Swimming beaches 40% 38% 0% 21% 14 23% 31% 0% 45% 7 Shoreline fishing 36% 33% 1% 29% 15 29% 22% 1% 48% 5 facilities Off-road bike trails 33% 32% 4% 32% 26 24% 24% 5% 46% 5 Campgrounds 32% 44% 1% 23% 16 29% 32% 0% 39% 8 Boat ramps 29% 43% 1% 26% 26 27% 28% 1% 44% 15 Snowshoe and cross country ski 29% 36% 1% 33% 6 26% 24% 3% 47% 2 trails On-road bike routes on existing 27% 35% 7% 32% 6 19% 31% 4% 45% 1 roads Playgrounds 27% 41% 2% 30% 5 21% 31% 0% 49% 0 Picnic facilities 26% 50% 1% 23% 6 23% 32% 1% 44% 2 Canoe,boat, paddleboat and 25% 38% 1% 35% 5 18% 30% 1% 51% 2 paddleboard rentals Snowmobile trails 15% 44% 6% 35% 7 15% 31% 7% 48% 2 Frisbee golf 14% 38% 8% 41% 4 11% 28% 6% 55% 3 Volleyball facilities 8% 46% 4% 43% 0 6% 35% 4% 55% 0 Horseshoe pits 6% 42% 7% 45% 5 3% 37% 5% 55% 1 Numbers in boldface represent the most frequent facility or amenity identified as"highest priority"for expansion by respondents. Table 8:St.Croix County Should Expand Outdoor Recreational Facility or Amenity,2004-2018 Facility or Amenity Hiking trails 55% 31% 34% 14% Swimming beaches 40% 27% 23% 20% Shoreline fishing facilities 36% 23% 29% 18% Off-road bike trails 33% 16% 24% 10% Campgrounds 32% 31% 29% 20% Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 29% 28% 26% 6% Boat ramps 29% 26% 27% 16% Playgrounds 27% 55% 21% 33% On-road bike routes on existing roads 27% 18% 19% 6% Picnic facilities 26% 33% 23% 18% Canoe/boat/paddleboat/board rentals 25% 11% 18% 10% Snowmobile trails 15% 28% 15% 16% Volleyball facilities 8% 9% 6% 4% Horseshoe pits 6% 6% 3% 2% a w w nn � 46 DRAFT DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS C011401EIR""IIIr I IIIII �N 0 �I � U U ,r/r 9G�%� �/, r✓r r a al �".� � Lei w hkTW1Iru Gvn r�rr,rrenr.. Ir f �I r m COINCEIR""IIIr 2 ffr W MAI Fa II p� a�r I f r 'f+ u / //� rrr ",,%iaa' � ✓ ov„� ¢I��n��f�f' ,�%'�� r�-'i ;///�fl 11,�fl1 /lllll>��r% �� r!- ,� �, 1 ri,/� //�� ' Sri/��r� /, 1��l ✓ , � f� /��-fir/ a w w nn � 4CJ COINCEIR""III rp o �� d� � rll'ril s (, �' old /s� �' "� uyy6nrllrlrl//rirN err✓///f�/ �s�i9//�1 �rflt„ �n lu�wli urTmcry ��'� ��%� � � �+ „�,�� 14?� ' ��ji�%%%//1 ✓ �,. � s w,v klwucw, i dl � � , II j �a If e ,a II t r �n PHASE I INPUT SUMMARY I11P 1H A S E 1 S 11rA K E 1H 0 11 ID E 11R 1114 II ""IIIr 5-4/'C'e BLUFFLANDS PARK ECKERT BLUFFLANDSPARK ,III IIIf;;;,IIII°°IIII II1 111 11R M Il11:..:°°1°'llll NG: MASTER PLANNING PROJECT OVERVIEW • Develop Master Plan to guide future investment at the Eckert Blufflands WEE III 1114IG M„ RPOSIE A14D AGEIVDAPark in St.Croix County • The process will seek public and PUJ!IPIPO&E: Solicit inputfrom stakeholders related to stakeholder input regarding park future park development development. CulF:lN` DA Recently acquired property includes • Present overview of project process 167 acres in the towns of Hudson and • Present initial findings and preliminary concept ideas St.Joseph with wooded bluffs over • Discussion Questions(See Map on following page) 100 feet high along more than a half- Do you have concerns or foresee any�Y u Y w Ith mile of St.Croix River shoreline. park.access along f-4� y3?(i.e.bike tunnel orat- The park will have a natural resource grade trail crossing;intersection reconfiguration at and outdoor recreation focus that f- 4� y35 and north end of Old 35) could include scenic overlooks, shoreline access and exploration, - Are there future plans or�Zrojec�tz within the area of fishing,picnicking,camping,hiking, tfaep (i.e. oc�c��Zaojectz,cferefo�Zrr��Wratz,c�tAfAty snowshoeing,bird watching,hunting updates)updates)teste.$) and trapping,boat-in access,and Isthere utilityacce.s.s on the site(electric;broadband) more. for future park.buildings and facilities:? RevAew concept ideas Are there any thoughts or concerns related to preliminary park.development IF YOU CAN'T ATTENDHE concept ideas:? MEETING: Are there any other.stakeholderyou are aware of Please email with your comments: that wp.should be engaging during this process? John Hilgers®Senior Planner® III*III,,,,III III III III III IP t.1 III St.Croix County If you haven't already shared your input online,please John.Hilgers@sccwi.gov do so by Monday,September 7,2020. USIhaire ideas oin the SoclaIll Pinpoint upa eW Gabrielle Grincle,Associate,HKGi https://hkai.mysocialpinpoint.com/eckert-blufflands#/ gabrielle@hkgi.cont r "11rallk a sIhoirt suuuury about�t h� aurlll u/lG� �`" III" https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Eckerti Page'l IIIIIII °°°° Creating Places that Enrich People's Lives Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. IM St.Croix County Eckert Blufflands Park Master Plan Stakeholder Meeting:Local Government&Utilities August 6,2020, 10:00-11:30am St.Croix County Government Center Meeting Purpose: Solicit input from stakeholders related to future park development Attendees: St.Croix County:John Hilgers,Ellen Denzer HKGi:Gabrielle Grinde St.Croix Electric Cooperative:Brian Zelenak,Brian Ferg Town of St.Joseph:Theresa Johnson NOTES *See attached map for site-based notes. Site Access • The park land was planned to be developed about 12 years ago,but was not developed due to site access issues with steep slopes and ravines • According to the Town of St.Joseph,the DOT has concerns about the safety of the north intersection of Old Hwy 35 and Hwy 35—it is a good idea to reconfigure this • Consider constructing a loop road within the park for greater accessibility for overnight guests and inholding residents • County prefers to maintain one primary entrance/exit point for the park • The Town of St.Joseph has concerns about using Old Hwy 35(township road)and River Heights Trail (private easements)for park access—they may need to be brought up to paved standards? • Ensure the Town of St.Joseph,the Town of Hudson,and the DOT are engaged in a discussion about road access and improvements on Hwy 35 and Old Hwy 35. • Consider engaging the Town of Hudson first responders as to site access and layout of roads Programming • Town of St.Joseph constituents'biggest concern with the park is the hunting/trapping aspect • There are concerns about docks or boat-in access along the shore—this maybe abused o NPS has advised the County against providing boat-in access Utilities • Electricity 1 m Eckert Bluff lands Park Master Plan—Stakeholder meeting—August 6,2020 o The large high voltage overhead line running through the park north and south is owned by Xcel Energy—this is a transmission line,members cannot be served electricity from this line,it only moves electricity from point A to point B o Xcel would likely not remove the transmission line through the park—but Xcel should be contacted to discuss potential relocation of line o Distribution lines are provided to all the homes on and around the park by St.Croix Electric Cooperative ■ Existing overhead line along River Heights Trail is a single phase line operated at 7200 volts o For future electric distribution within the park,the best option will be to ask Xcel if SCEC could add a distribution line to their transmission ROW or use new roadway ROW to add new lines o Camper cabins would assume to have underground distribution lines extended from existing lines—a transformer would need to be located either on a pole or on the ground for new service ■ Distance from transformer:assume 300'radius from transformer to each cabin ■ Assume heat and AC provided in each cabin ■ If the cabins are insulated,there are options for discounts for efficient equipment—ensure planning for the cabins includes engagement with SCEC ■ Precedents:Afton State Park cabins and yurts;Glen Hills Parkjust built camper cabins o FOLLOW UP ITEM:County should send letter to SCEC requesting assistance to work with SCEC to meet the electrical needs in the park,thus delaying upgrades to existing underground lines until next spring/summer when the master plan has identified proposed locations for camper cabins and other facilities. o Consider pedestrian-scale lighting and security lighting at programmed areas within the park • Broadband/WiFi o Baldwin LightStream provides broadband service in this area o WiFi could be located on a central post between camper cabins and at the main entry station. ■ WiFi could be accessible within up to a mile of a router if there is a clear line of sight 2 Illflll! IIII Illflll!IIII ""1 1: IIII, IIII°°IIII°°IIIL.... ,II III S IIII:) ,IIII IIII S""�I"'Illflll!IIII IIII:)IIIL.... III IF.II.....II i1 II III C III��IF.I ..I IIDEAS %. z Potential Park Entry �� ' i/' Potential Parkin Areas g I r% jPotential Camper Cabins jExisting Eckert cabin PotentielHike-in Tent(am m ® Potential Picnic Areas j/ Potential Hiking Trails ,. Power Lines Potential Park Access Roads ..� Potential Shoreline Access 4 Sensitive Ravines and Steep Slopes "' Pine Plantations, ri ' 5 Prairie Restoration Areas 10-foot contour elevation lines r I III ji o u r r ✓/,�4/ /iii / r / / /% P 2 Page lu Summary of Comments on Eckert Govt Mtg Notes.pdf Page: 2 �"'%Number:1 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/10/2020 1:47:02 PM �,Number:2Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 1:47:30 PM The former Richards property does not need to be hunted. 2"%Number:3Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/10/2020 10:30:53 AM �,.,Number:4Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:17:21 AM the DOT is not a fan of this intersection due to its poor sight lines Number:5Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:34:49 AM This triangle is all ROW and should be evaluated for a new intersection configuration. Number:6Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:20:44 AM Is there space to cul-de-sac the north end of Old Hwy 35? Number:7Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:21:20 AM Would a bridge or fill be more economical at this location? 2"%Number:8Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/10/2020 10:21:49 AM Number:9Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:22:41 AM Potential to make a loop road here and add electrical line along the road for efficiency Number:10 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:20:04 AM Does this road need to be improved if the northern intersection is reconfigured? Number:11 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:20:04 AM This electrical line is a transmission line owned by Xcel Energy(members are not served from this line,it only transmits electricity from point A to point B). It is a high voltage line with a wide ROW. 2"%Number:12 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/10/2020 10:23:30 AM �,Number:13 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:16:53 AM the Town of St.Joseph has concerns about using this private road for park access Number:14 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:35:04 AM Existing underground distribution line to be replaced in 2020(St.Croix Elec.Coop.) Number:15 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:30:39 AM Existing St.Croix Elec.Coop.meter here 2"%Number:16 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/10/2020 1:47:48 PM Number:17 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 10:22:59 AM Future home site--Zappa Number:18 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Rectangle Date:8/10/2020 10:22:49 AM Number:19 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/10/2020 1:48:12 PM The former Zappa property does not need to be hunted. 46466_411r,e BLUFFLANDS POPAIRK ST. C��PNTY ECKERT BLUFFLANDS PARK S I AlIKIIE11 10III......D II E IIR M II E IIE""I""III II M G.- MASTER PLANNING PROJECT OVERVIEW Develop Master Plan to guide future investment at the Eckert Blufflands mim'nIMG PU RPOSIE AND AGENDA Park in St.Croix County The process will seek public and PU IR POS�E� Solicit input from stakeholders related to stakeholder input regarding park future park development development, AGE �E IN DA Recently acquired property includes Present overview of project process 167 acres in the towns of Hudson and Present initial findings and preliminary concept ideas St.Joseph with wooded bluffs over Discussion Questions(See Map on following page) 100 feet high along more than a half- Flo yore have specific concerns related to parkoccess mile of St.Croix River shoreline, and boundaries? The park will have a natural resource and outdoor recreation focus that Do you have specific concerns related to park could include scenic overlooks, program ideas(i.e.hunting/trapping,cramping/ shoreline access and exploration, overnight use,shoreline access,hiking,picnicking)? fishing,picnicking,camping,hiking, snowshoeing,bird watching,hunting Do you have suggestions or,ideas f6rpark and trapping,boat-in access,and development? more, Any other thoughts or,concerns you'd like to share? IF YOU CAN'T ATTEND THE MEETING: o im I-I im IF. I im i�u"r Please email with your commenrs: If you haven't already shared your input online,please John Hilgers,Senior Planner, do so by Monday,September 7,2020.o St.Croix Co un ty Share ideas oin the Sociali IInlinlipohnt page: https://hkqi.mvsociair)inr)oint.com/eckert-blufflands#/ John.Hilgers@sccwi.gov (11/01/ 1ralkeaslhoiirtsi.piirveya Ill oc .ottlhellpaiirlk: Gabrielle Grin de,Associate,HKGi https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Eckertl gabrieHe@hkgi.com ° �~��1k��1k�NN��N�mm N�� N��1k��4�ST. CROIX ��~~~~~~�~~~~�"� ~~�~ ~ �~~��~~�� 1101 [orrnichoel Rd | Hudson VV| 54O16 Y Te|ephone: 715-386-468O | Fox: 715-381-44OO �/ VVVVVV.S[[VVi.gOV St. Croix County Eckert B|uff|anda Park Master Plan Stakeholder Meeting:Abutting Property Owners August 17, 2020 Meeting#1: 1:00'2:30 PM K4eetin0#Z: ]:00'4:]0 PM St. Croix County Government Center Meeting Purpose: Solicit input from stakeholders related to future park development Attendees: M. Givens, K4.Johnson,].Jones, D. Butler, K. VVeaver,]. Koehler NOTES: Roads/Access * Strong belief by one commenter that River Heights Trail is a private access, only for the existing homes and should not be used by park users. River Heights trail is a deeded private easement and will 0oto court to defend that position. * The Zappa parcel, recently created, should not have use of River Heights Trail. Zappa did not get "Road Owners Association" approval to amend the existing agreement for usage ofRiver Heights Traii * Do not open River Heights Trail for public or park traffic. * River Heights Trail is not wide enough for two-way traffic.There are also two blind curves along the alignment. * A resident along Old Hvvy]5 concerned about that road being used aa any entrance for the park. Concerned about more traffic and if his property would need to grant easements or be assessed for improvements. * A number of attendees voiced support for the one main access into the park that connects to the current Hvvy]5. Better sight distance—less impact toOld Hvvy]5 residents. * Whatever trails and roads are established should be well signed and marked to keep park users away from residences. Proposed Park Activities * The attendees expressed concern of allowing gun hunting within the park.There are too many dvve||in0a in close proximity to the park to allow gun hunting. It would be too dangerous.A number of attendees referenced bullet holes in homes from hunters in the past. Hunters do not respect required distance from homes for shooting a firearm. * Sounds of firearm discharge in this area ia loud for residents. * Concerned about allowing hunting with the number of children living in the Starwood development to the south of the park. Eckert'a didn't allow hunting. * Can the County limit type and number of hunters (i.e. lottery system and bow hunting only?) * No to trapping with the number of anticipated walkers and hikers in the park. • Perhaps open to bow hunting. Ideally, hunters should be in trees or stands so targeting of their shot goes down and not across towards houses. Rules do not allow permanent tree stands on public property—only portable ones that can be set up and taken down the same day. • Questioned the need for frisbee golf.The one at Willow River State Park closed for lack of use. • Would not support large events at the park due to extra traffic and noise. • Support the restoration of prairie areas, habitat. • Proposed cabins on south side of park are too close to property line. • Concerns of noise disturbance from camper cabins. • Some attendees desire to see more details of the cabin construction and dimensions, including photos. • Concern that cabin users on south boundary will walk into the adjacent ravine area which is owned by the Starwood Association. • Camping locations and camper cabins can be a good use if they are well maintained. Park Boundary: • Concerns raised about public use of private docks and private shoreline areas. Can County provide privacy fences and signage in these areas? Policing or property checks by the County? • Landowners and associations have had to ask people to leave their property who were using it without permission. • Perimeter park boundary should be clearly marked/delineated so park users know what is public vs. private. • Periodically mark all property boundaries. • Gary Zappa property the County acquired creates an "unstraight property line". County should delineate property lines in this area with markers. Other: • Parking lots for park uses should not be accessed off of Ridgeview Heights Trail—this is a deeded private access and public use should not be allowed. • Any park use or development should not cause further erosion of ravine areas. • Concerns of trash and debris left from park users and will County be able to manage this. • Concerns of whether the development of the park will cause a de-valuation of private property/homes. • Will the County provide screening in front of the homes surrounded by park property? Do not want park users to have a sightline into the homes. • Concern of campfires in wooded areas and spreading if not attended. • Question if the Zappa financial contribution will be used specifically for the Eckert Blufflands Park. It will, and the County hopes to use those funds to leverage matching funds from various DNR Grant programs for future projects. • A couple of attendees brought up river access through the park. It was noted that an older pathway existed from the current Eckert cabin down to the St. Croix River. • County is trying to identify one primary pathway to the river for park users while trying to maintain a fair distance from private property lines.The current thought would place this river access in the northern portion of the park and north of the cluster of homes that exist along the St. Croix River. m IIIE, III III R I"° I IIII VIFIF111 III I I PARK �I""III ,I I IIII III II N II II A R Y �::�:�III�:1:..:..:P N.. II I1' 1:..:.A QStatiogalPakEntry ��° / �//r �� Parkin o Potential g Areas f ri / ii rrr Potential Camper Cabins j O0 Existing Eckert Cabin Q �i 4 Potential Hike-in Tent j Camping Potential PicnicAreas 4 /i Potential Hiking Trails Power Lines r / Potential ParkAccess / Roads Potential ShorelineAccess " Ile j rr/ / Sensrtn a Ravines and 2 / 3 Steep Slopes Pine Plantations / ration Areas 6 10-foot our 7 Q 1111J' ro "" elevation lines f 12 16 /w- 3 32 44 3 " r %/ /i r// r/r // /%��✓////, / 45 FF IIIIIII °°°'�°q Summary of Comments on Eckert AdjOwners Mtg Map Notes.pdf Page: 1 Number:1 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:48:36 AM Concerns about boaters who dock along the shoreline here and leave garbage .....Number:2 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:26:10 AM Existing sign: "County parkland-No overnight camping" .....Number:3 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:33:41 AM GENERAL CONCERNS FROM ADJACENT LANDOWNERS: -Trash/litter left by park users -Hunting close to homes and noise -Park users trespassing on private property -Park must provide proper signage and fencing along park boundaries -Adjacent landowners are not in favor of disc golf -Preference for County to seek swapping of hunting area to the north of the park where there are fewer adjacent residents OiNumben 4 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Oval Date:8/20/2020 7:21:58 AM Number:5 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:22:14 AM Steep roadway-winter ice issues .....Number:6 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:33:58 AM Preference from local homeowners for park to build and use this proposed park road access rather than River Heights Trail "",Number:7 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Polygonal Line Date:8/20/2020 6:54:06 AM Number:8 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:27:59 AM Desire for fence and signage marking property boundary Number:9 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:34:10 AM Concerns about increased traffic along Old Hwy 35--if road is improved or widened,will homeowners be assessed? Number:10Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:34:26 AM Suggested park road and turn-around in this location to avoid park use of River Heights Trail Number:11 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:54:07 AM Hunters have been observed lined up against tree line OiNumben 12Authon Gabrielle Subject:Oval Date:8/20/2020 7:24:09 AM Number:13 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:24:08 AM Homeowners have observed: deer turkey bear .....Number:14Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:30:05 AM Property owners do not have clear visibility and access to shoreline and are not always aware of trespassing boaters OiNumben 15Authon Gabrielle Subject:Oval Date:8/20/2020 6:53:05 AM Number:16Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:25:42 AM Concerns about large,loud events with increased traffic and noise Concerns about hunting too close to homes Number:17Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:53:23 AM Blind curve OiNumben 18Authon Gabrielle Subject:Oval Date:8/20/2020 6:53:13 AM .....""Number:19Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:59:35 AM Desire for fence and signage along shoreline marking property boundary .....Number:20Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:53:38 AM Blind curve Number:21 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:57:54 AM Concerns that River Heights Trail is a private-use road and should not be used by park users;Residents are okay with hikers walking across River Heights Trail Number:22Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:16:00 AM Concerns about hunters shooting toward the property line,outside of the park Number:23 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:15:37 AM Number:24Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:33:03 AM Former stairs from Eckert cabin down to shoreline should not be reused forthe public Comments from page 1 continued on next page m /Numben 25Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:30:14 AM .Number:26Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:15:35 AM deer stands located along property line here Number:27Authon Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:14:45 AM .Number:28Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:13:37 AM Boaters have been observed docking,camping,and leaving garbage along the shoreline .Number:29Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:15:05 AM deer trail pNumber:30 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:14:54 AM )Number:31 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Oval Date:8/20/2020 7:21:40 AM .Number:32Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:21:54 AM Seep roadway--winter ice issues Number:33 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:17:43 AM Preference for camper cabins to be built in this area closer to Eckert cabin .Number:34Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:23:36 AM Concerns about maintenance of campsites--fires,trash,sanitary waste ,,*Number:35Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:28:23 AM .Number:36Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:59:48 AM Desire for fence and signage marking property boundary .Number:37Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:36:20 AM Concerns that ravines lead off site into private property and trail users may follow ravines off site pNumber:38 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:28:15 AM .Number:39Authon Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:17:00 AM Home owner is very concerned about hunting .Number:40 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:00:30 AM Concerns about hunters shooting toward residences to the south Number:41 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:19:11 AM �Number:42Authon Gabrielle Subject:Distance Measurement Date:8/20/2020 7:09:56 AM 0.50 in .Number:43 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:00:07 AM Desire for clearly marked property boundary .Number:44 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:21:30 AM Starr Wood has had to tell campers to leave their private shore this summer .Number:45 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:17:10 AM Future Zappa home site .Number:46 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 6:59:16 AM Concerns from Starr Wood Neighborhood that camper cabins are too close to property boundary and campers would wander into Starr Wood's ravine and trails LiNumben 47Author:Gabrielle Subject:Rectangle Date:8/20/2020 7:17:00 AM .Number:48 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:20:35 AM Concerns about marking property boundaries .Number:49 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:10:18 AM 300 ft from property corner to residence *Number:50Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:17:50 AM ,,*Number:51 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Line Date:8/20/2020 7:17:43 AM /Number:52Author:Gabrielle Subject:Distance Measurement Date:8/20/2020 7:09:43 AM 0.50 in Number:53 Author:Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:18:19 AM Starr Wood residents concerned that camper cabins will have views into private ravine Number:54Authon Gabrielle Subject:Rectangle Date:8/20/2020 7:00:35 AM Number:55 Author.Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:19:03 AM This ravine is sensitive with some erosion issues.Starr Wood has private trails with boardwalks Number:56Author.Gabrielle Subject:Sticky Note Date:8/20/2020 7:16:43 AM Concerns from Starr Wood residents about shots fired toward their homes;one house has bullet holes in the siding IIIR IH A S CIE 1 II 11III C III IN III Ir S U M M A II BLUFFLLAAN'DS, PARK ': CRC �.�N��,� ... ) ' dw�r�a�.��a �� w, w� II F` PHASE E 1 PURL III wwFLAN�s PARK STAKEHOL IDEIR ENGAGEMENT ,.. .. , Outreach Method Audience Press Release O..of inr�*clica;St,Croix County re. id ents and d.usiness owners St.Croix C-ounty Parks St.Croix C-ounty residents and interested park Fac(..,I.)ookLdacgd* users .� St.Croix County w(.,I,asitr., St.Croix County residents and .)u,uness OvundIrs In iuna'Uaia mall Il llyeii Mailing Mira IlaUe�Ud ne,2020,a'flyeii was sent to 590 . recilaierigs including local landowners;interest �. cgro ul�.)s;County Board members;>rovun of Hudson;frown of St..Josel�.)h;all Cities,>rowns, and Villages in St.C:mix County rob/(r,rfflY pro r ;��bhi�r,� � Engagement Method Input Received IVdatd.urrol Resource Grd�.ad.ul s and Fe r*(3)stcakeholck.,.rs I�rovideda si, y,-a g m:!,,ph Agencies Stakeholder Meeting comments visa email I ocal Government and Utilities lrhre.(a)stakeholders attended the Stakeholder Meeting ner.tin g on August 6,2020,and "" ..' .....,,.. -..)rovidaeda comments � Adjacent I rond:ldavund*rs.� M to Stakeholder Six(6)landowners attended dl two m f9 g,nes in on August 1I 1 2020 at St,. Croix C.o unty Governmd nV C,enter and ,., Iirovicic*da inlu.ut (:)nlind�*Survey(Survey Monkey) 647 reg.)onses,survey dalyen from late June tf�rd.a�.0 through early°ar.*I�pr.inlad*r,2020 I)nline In g (Social F i nl-.)o iiVva,,Mea ui InId.0'' m5-a� the site rr ceive.d 412 Vd:C al commentswere�Idacr,.dl on h w w 1 m Almost 650 people provided responses to the Survey Moiriillkey online survey. Respondents were asked which facilities and amenities they would be „y " interested in seeing at Eckert Blufflands Park.The following were the top responses: ® 90%of respondents indicated interest in hiking trails in the park 80%indicated interest in scenic vistas/overlooks 70%indicated interest in picnic areas 63%indicated interest in flush restrooms ® 62%indicated interest in shoreline exploration ® 61%indicated interest in winter activities-snowshoeing GUM 57%indicated interest in local and regional bike trail connection along Hwy 35 The items that received the lowest number of positive responses included: camper cabins(24%interested),showers(19%),and hunting/trapping (14%). When factoring in the required park entry fee,the following features were the most desired facilities among survey respondents:hiking trails with river overlooks(73%interested),water access/stairs or trail from bluff area(63% interested),winter hiking or snowshoeing(48%interested),and camping/ overnight use/remote tent camping or camper cabins(48%interested). Over 80%of respondents selected the St.Croix River bluffs,views,and shoreline as key unique features of the Eckert Blufflands site that should be Vvo r'r 4rurc 1r4r ng preserved and promoted. rr,r INM ly , (r rir,r �h(' Hundreds of write-in comments were ora,N ,rr,sir rr,� included in the survey responses,which included significant interest in a disc golf �fll" course,mountain bike trails,boat launch, along with concerns about hunting/ trapping and private property,among �7t S If) other comments. 1 Cr III IIIII 0 The 8oi� lll Pinpoint site included over _ ar in 30 comments posted.In addition to the comments,many people"liked"or"disliked" f mx amG �urru N� the posted comments.The input indicated t � `0 r�� r +fV� h interest in a disc golf course,handicapped o, ��a m �i� maiidAnr 01% �W accessible facilities,boat-in access,bike trails,and bike-in camping.There were also g w�ri�yU�» z concerns listed regarding managing the , park boundary,avoiding conflicts between � � i rx �� , r .. r ��f "� 6� hunting and adjacent residences,and building camper cabins away from sensitiveprotect � r�'� t ��ttttttttuif^y 'i uii�llofl�rr�x �M110(t,vy ,o,A' ravines. ��rrrfJ�i�iarrrr 2 IIIIIII """"' SURVEY III IIE N IE I IIET IIIi A survey was available online from late June through early September, 2020,via Survey Monkey.The survey received 647 responses,77%of whom Survey Results identified as St.Croix County residents.The survey asked seven multiple totM respoirses choice questions,with the option to provide open-ended comments.The 8 minutes time survey also asked if respondents were interested in providing further input, spent taking Surve of which almost half of the respondents indicated their interest. resporums s ire(.,(eived on Respondents indicated overwhelming interest in trails,river access,and ii JOy I10,2020 scenic overlooks on the site.General enthusiasm and excitement was N w e(A(s t1he SUrvey was evident in many comments,while some comments expressed concern open for resporirse5 about private property,hunting,and disturbance of the park from increased stirveycitiestnoun" use.The following pages include tallies of responses to each question. 3 m Qyestiolin III.Please check the following recreational facilities and ................................ amenities you could envision at Eckert Blufflands Park.(Select all that apply): 645 people answered this question Respondents could select as many options as they wanted,so the total number of responses adds up to more than 100% Otheir vvirlite-lin ainsweirs(2 air feweir rneinfiainO� 100.00% 90.00% P'! 80.00% ol I I ic bd,,(,ien I ol W✓ k/no xel(/se QcIN"')m "pul 1 111 70.00% Nol i 11 o/pklyo I I/nJ iox((,)/ el/ 60.00% /nvovve N"'m rrl'uiulve(hlves 50.00% /Y 40.00% 30.00% coirnirneinits 20.00% 10.00% 0.00% 'A e Cp, 0' O 4, 81 o- Z 0 IS 461 13, le e le 14930 M�� _ 4 Qyjj.....qii....I is park will be a fee-based park where visitors will be expected . . ....... to pay an entry fee.Which activities and features would entice you to pay to use this park?(Select all that apply): 639 people answered this question Respondents could select as many options as they wanted,so the total number of responses adds up to more than 100% so 00%. 70 00%6 60 00%6 SO 00%. 40 00%6 30.00 comments 20 00%6 10 00%. 0 00%. U, M E 04�a\ K°- �,\ 6, ,0� "'e, & za�'0 Ae, 'C' 'vo 0� x"d e 0 kz KF 6"koaya� <41 16 , eao, J, do 0 x $? \9 OP A 0�, ,am 0 d ,P 0 , e "I <b o O�40 ceO� A 1 1"'b Otheir vvirfte-fin ainsweirs(2 air feweir rneinfiainO� A(M /nvovve v)()(/es New he ok,)no 1161//s (orrlp/no /l/nIel wrrlp/no uI loe blkolrails (olu)rrled) 5 QMf..�,,5jj.....qin..3.Please check the following recreational facilities and amenities you . ............ could envision at Eckert Blufflands Park.(Select all that apply): 645people answered this question Respondents could select as many options as they wanted,so the total number of responses adds up to more than 100% 70.00% 60.00% 50.00% 40.00% Cain nirinain"0 their" vi, qejin coirinirineindis 10.00% o.00i, wa St.Croix St.Croix St.Croix Wildlife Natural Native Sensitive Open space Restoration 01 her Disc golf Keep he privacy for River sluff's River views River habirtat springs landscapes and for outdoor areas (please list) park natural neighbors shoreline (ravines, hreahened recreation (no forest, species and (hiking, buildings) prairie) their habitat picnicking, camping, etc.) Otheir vvirille-Gin ainsweirs(2 air feweir rneindllain.Oa Al/v1drAle(nu hunl/n,,j/ /nvovve vwoc�(unllu/ M(-)unlo/n bd"/no looks nc�I/no area "11,10711TIMO OWO /d/y Qgf..�,,51join 4.What concerns do you have about the development of .................... the Eckert Blufflands Park?(Select all that apply): 626 people answered this question Respondents could select as many options as they wanted,so the total number of responses adds up to more than 100% 70.00% 60.00% 50.00% 40.00% 30.00% coirnirneints 0.00% ................................................. <A, 46 6 6 1�1 IZP .11 1�1 "0 o eT' 00ie ,�, P e Y A 01 \A e,0% 10 do .11 01 bo ee� V e Otheirwirfte-Iiinainsweirs 0 irwneintiainga /ees mW///n,1/1 oueu hurn bevic lhol I/Vel ouc�s pulenl/o/V/vlco picv/ded bu//J/no bevic lhol fflA 1/,////bo rrldh(,)Js need lu bo uv�d 6111",)Iled Polkondv/vlul uemuly LA e 1,1,fioixhli11A be�/I e fu I s Cite b/kc I I od Heol,',)l>o/Po I l/,61 s 61 hefel Owl blujillol(h1no plewdenl ondflshlno olepicv/ded besllel but b/ko hulls are plov/ded II ill Ill 1111111101111 11 ... .... ...List any ot her thoughts or ideas you have on the future development oft he Eckert Blufflands Park: . .... ... - 293 people provide answers to this question;some comments included multiple themes C 0 M M IE N F IE M IE 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% 16% 18% ADA access[blIfty/access fo r all umuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulluuuuumu Make entry fee affo rdable/Offer seasonal o r annual pass umuuuuuuuuum Affordable entry fee o r free entry umum ProvIde pedestrian access/sidewalks Lo the park 11l I.InnIL out o f state guests 11l InLerpretaLlo n(hIsLo rIc and eco k:g[cal) UIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Include wayfindIng sIgnage and clear directions M111111111111 Benches 11l "telescopes 11l EnvIronnnenLal arts 11l Scenic crverkx*vlewlng machines um CarnpIng/Carripgro und umuuuuuuuuuuuuuuul R'Vs/snnall campers ullllllllllllllllllllllll No carnpIng 111111111111111111 Renno Le/lilke In sites 111111111111111111 CarnpIng In the wInLer/carnper cabins 1111111 Rent out the EclkerL cabin fo r o vernIgh L use Mill Concerns about fires 11l YurLs 11l III III ill III ,"i�11"hi lli 11 Use Lo w Innpart E)evek7pnnen:/Sus:alnable design ullllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllUDon't devek:7p the park ulllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllu Use susLaInable bulldIng'netho ds/renewable energy/high quality design/clean PrIo r[LIze wildlife/Natural resource res Lora Llon/preserva Llo n umuuuuuuuuuuuuuuul IIIIII III Natural resources restoration ullllllllllllllllllllllll Respect fo r the rhier/sLeeld bluffs/unique site 111111111111 Bird watching M1111111 Disc� i Mil golf ulllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll Do g facHRAs ullllllllllllllllllllllll Outdoor education facHILles/yo uffi aakfibes ullllllllllllllllllllllll Natural playground 1111111 Provde enough parking M1111111 No playground 11l liannnno cl(Ing 11l Picnic area/grills 11l GIft sho p/supplAs sho p Mill III r II E nffiuslasnn fo r the park uluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuullluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuullluuu Interested In prioritization of a[bernaffites Mill C 0 M M IE N IF IE M IE 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% 16% 18% No huni:[ng ullllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll Yes Lo huni:[ng uluuuuuuuuuum Concerns abouL huni:lng wiLh recreai:[on 1111 Unnil:number of hunters/[rappers 1111 Waterfowl hunting 1111 Concerns about PrIvaLe properly/Increased Lraffic/Overcrowding/Rowdy Tax concerns/Desire for park Lo be financially sustainable uluuuuuuuuu Concerns about boaters and campers leaving[rash and no::following rules Have park rangers I 11M Elke access/Mountain hike Valls ullllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll A V Lralls IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIJ Equesi:rlan Lralls IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIV Cross country skiing uluuuuuuuuu Sno wsho eing IIIIIIIIIIIIN Hiking Lralls 111111111 I rill running 111111111 Mfti:er hiking 1111 Fat Lire biking 1111 No: paved Lralls 1111 Snowmobiles 1111 River edge Lrall/Boardwalk Mill �Iqiylliiil ii Swirrinning area/water access/beach uluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulluuuuuuuuuuuuu Splash pad/water feature/pool uluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulluu Fishing access uluuuuuuuuuuuuuu Paddling launch/rental ullllllllllllllllllllllll Provide boat access/launch/dock uluuuuuuuuu Unnil:boat access 1111 Nfll C"l l already if y Lmed allow le r'% tat er. 0 P� oeii We stat CTO 01," 0?' e b"' cpic' oil t . t'sne w IXxt Ih utj"I i i"ra a r bikii lmpact mountain IU Qpf..�,,5tipin 6.Please identify in which age group you fit: ........................ - 639people answered this question 50 00%. 45 00%6 40 00%6 35 00%. 30 00%. 25 00%6 20 00%6 IS 00%. 10 00%. 5 00%. 0 00%. ---------- 36 SO 19 35 51 65 661 Under 1.8 Qy1.kain'7.Select which category best describes you: .................... 647 people answered this question 9000% 8000% Otheir vvirfte-iiin ainsvveirs(2 air fevveir irwneinfiainO� A p/ow lu lekvond enjuy "(1)Mh /Iosh/nolun (,)unly 7000% the venelyond h ids. MN lcmknl, AVO h/ko,pcilk,V/vl(m "I, uv/nel 6000% Nod(Mb number SI l irrix Rival Vo/kI/ /Iven lhol qo/,I�luenj"')y Resident .1.5000% hinds "I,kuv ph iuv/mh/p lc�mknl do 00% N"')n pv,),W partner ioxpcyel/n 1he Qoleulf helw((,)unjy 3000% 2000% 10 00% 000% ......... St Croix County St Croix County Recreational Offier(please fist. Adjacentlandowner Agency/municlipality resident visitor stakeholder stakeholder INTERACTIVE MAPPING INPUT Social Pinpoint was used to solicit map-based comments on the Eckert Mapping Comment Blufflands Park concept ideas.People who visited the site were invited Results to post open-ended comments on a map of the site according to 412 totatl site v� B ts five diferent categories(General Comment,Recreation Idea,Access Point,Facility Idea,and Point of Concern).Most of the comments were k� unique users provided in the category„Recreation Idea" nriNnGr(c,,,�evforave glnriespenit Popular themes the emerged from the posted comments include: oruthe site 29 Interest in a disc golf course at the park unique takel uai ka rs Concerns from adjacent private property owners regarding comments Hsted marking of park boundaries ® Concerns about hunting on the site due to adjacent private property and conflicts with recreational users Interest in bike trails and bike- in campsites Interest in handicapped accessible trails,cabins,and other park facilities Interest in sustainable construction andf� methods development p Interest in preserving the natural environment and river 1 � shoreline i, II II 111 1111111101111 11 w w 11 m Social Pinpoint Comments Beach access widt a I:rai I Ito r leads to Hte IoR of Ute Iskiffwould be idea. 13 Facility Idea AwllieelclliaiiraccessilbllecalbiirNwotil(ibe:,SOwori(ierf�il! Re.1g�ilarcariipirigis(:iiffic�lll:oririipc.rssibk.lwil:l�ia 6 wheelchair,and an accessible cabin would allow for peopk.1 of(Jifferera abililies w enjoy Hte park In Htal:way. Facility Idea B §/e4 season shelter could be used for picrNics/gatllieiriirNgs/giroN,ops 3 2 GpnP`<I I Q It would be nice ifthe park could allow for the inatuirall rise aind fall1l of the river. 4 C ir n tyriPtit Gene`<I I My hope is that it will be IreandicaF accimsills1le.C 0 n tyriPtit Geneu I @ iDisc gollf course 6 C Orlirrient Geneu I I his se erns like a natural access poira offofold 35 Ital:would be leasl:disruptive to the neighbors. cortirtient Geneu I It would be great to have lboat docks to tie up and access Hudson restaurants and shoppingH - cortirtient Geneu I Would be great for local residents to have paved paths for year round leashed dog-walking,for exercising our 7 Cortirtient furry fandly menibers!(Along with strategically spaced/placed trash bins along the path for waste disposal.) Geneu I 90 Some homeowners who we north Cif there property currently hunt on the property without issues,concerns or Cortirtient problems.We would like to cut in to see lreu.untlnu all1lowed on the property. Gene`<I I 99 I11luuntfing does notsseem Ilikea good fit for this park,considering all the other uses proposed.Will the park be 4 C OrlirriPtit closer]to everyone but hunters during hunting season(Park borders will need to be clearly marked by fencing and signs to protect all the neighboring prNate residences.Bullets travel a long way and there is a clear danger for injuries if hunting is allowed. Geneu I '113flice cairinping is a[Dig thing now.This would be a great spot for people riding in from the cities. Cortirtient I would love to see some rinouintaiin bilice tiraillsand skills park!There is nothing like that in Hudson. I love the idea of trails for sinowshoeiing,XC sliding,aired I iliding If there is a multi use building it would be great to rent out for yoga classes,family reunions,arts and crafts Classes,etc. Lastly,using all reclaimed or recyclable materials and keeping eineirgy sustaiinalble would be great'. Geneu I great viewM 15 C ortirtient Point of Marnageirineint aind thinirfling of Pines will be needed to protect pine plantation susceptible to climate change 2 3 Concern and disease Point of At least one map of the park plan shows intent for parking on the existing road(Rwer Heights Trail).T his is of 7 Concern concern due to the fact that this road was built by the original homeowners association and is not wide enough for two vehicles to pass each other.T hus allowing parking allong the road wourld Ibe a definite safety issue. Point of T lie hons,owners who Ne around this park do not want to have gun hunting allowed in the park,especially in 15 2 Concern the smaller areas south of River Heights Tr and close proximity to existing homes.This is a relatwely small park that is partially bordered by homes and is not suitalble for guin Ireuunting.DNR allows 33 days of rifle hurling per year in this part of the state.T hat is too much,too close! Point of 9D ave many many(.pportunitie`s to hike&Danis&picnic,bird watch,etc,etc,around the state&area already!!! 5 4 Concern T here is no opportunity for boaters to take advantage of park land.Why not create oppoirtuinity for respoinsills1le Iboatyirs to use the piropeirtys No need for cabins or special facilities.Just a dock,&if you want to elaborate it,add picnic tables and restroonis which could be used by all.Many boaters are very responsible, conservation conscience,clean beaches,shorelines,etc. Point of According to the map legend,these camper cabins look like they are close to,or within,'sensitwe ravines and 9 Concern steep slopes.'Sensitwe areas should be undeveloped,to protect the parkland.Camper cabins would be more useful(&cosl:el fecl:ive lo build)near Hte exisling Eckert calsin&exisling power lines..I his would also avoid drwing construction equipment through sensitwe areas.Placing cairn peir cal ins inear the beach access or with views of the rwer would increase usage by park visitors. Point of Park developmerd.should avow)'sensil ve ravines and sl:eele slopes;'which is what:Ute map legend denliffires 4 Concern this area as including.Keepi ing tira ills outside these sensitive a ireas wi 1111 preserve the Park for futu ire generations.Having high trails will also allow for views of the river and surrounding area,which would[Dean attraction for hikers,bird watchers,etc. —,Oq" Social Pinpoint Comments (continued) Point of Tills park has a Hall y irregular shape with 25 f come: cors and is surrounded by residential homes&orwate 5 Concern property.T lie u bo r�dafies should The suirveyed and c1leadly Imairked with signs and/or fence. Point of I would think that calbins inext to existing Eckvirt calbin would coinsollidate the huirnain footprint,waste, 4 Concern toilets,cooking,preserve rest of park for all to enjoy.It seenis the hike n/out access makes no sense with porta potty cleaning and adds to ground contamination. Our park services are stretched what is the maiinteinaincv, Plan with reduced staff&funding. Thus NEEDS I:o be parl:of Hhe discussion and I herelore final solutions. nol jusl:build 1:Hhere and figure 1:oul:al:er!I hank you. Point of Per E)NR website Wisconsin has over six million acres of public hunting land.This Ilaind is not sufted for 7 1 Concern huinfing with the property boundries and range of guns used.Our fandly hunts,we have guns I ani not against any of it except when it endangers the other uses,and surrounding property. The county park is not[Dig enough to allow this actwity.Thankyou! Point of What is the logic for squeezing three$65,000 cabins in at the remote southern edge of the park,far away from 6 Concern the principal park amenities,including water and power,which most people would want easy access ton Thee planned local:ion of 1:1-iree carnphre rings In dhis area also poses a defirdl:e fire danger In Ellis rernote earl: of the park which is adjacent to orwate property.Theire are seven residences directly across the private wooded iraviine firemen the proposed calk in IlocaW.ion area. Recreation A disc.gollf couirse would be a cool addition in this park. 7 7 Idea Recreation At least one Paved traill for those with wheellchafirs or difficullity wallIlding would be amazing! 10 Idea Recreation I think this area would be a wonderful spot to place a 9 oir 18 lholle disk gollf couirse. 11 7 Idea Low cost of construction maintenance,and play Attracts players to the local community Provides a low impact and safe means of exercise for all age groups and genders Mental strategy is invok(ed in negotiating obstacles Reduction of mental fatigue Aesthetic enhancement of park Low resource I nipacts Crime deterrent as the park is utilized by more people Recreation I believe its time for Hudson tojoin the ranks of disc.gollf course having communil:y.PCs afire sport for anyone 5 4 Idea aged 12 to age 70.Many towns in the mid west have shown that having a disc golf course is not only is great for communil:y building,as well as hiness.Sorne lowns In he lower midwesl have turned iI iwo money making opport un ities with thea bilities to have tourna n ents.I believe that a course in Hudson would be highly porou la a and bring money into town in a unique manner.. Recreation Groomed winteir Ihills ing tiraills. 5 Idea Recreation Hudson(and North Hudson)have yet to be complete with a fifisIbee gollf couirse.This new location would be 9 8 Idea excellent overlooking the water,and in short commuting distance for those not wanting to commute further. Recreation m I hese Iskiffs and his Park would be a wonderful place lo make an epic disc.gollicouirse,which provides for local 5 6 Idea youths and citizens alike a free healthy lifetime outdoor actwity. Recreation a disc.gollicouirse would be wonderful to have in that area. 3 Idea Recreation IBilketiraills 7 Idea Recreation Thee area surrounding Hhe Iskill's and woods would make an ideal se wing for a very scar inic and Inviting disc.9011f 3 Idea couirse.Disc golf is a wonderful fandly friendly actwity,and a great way to stay actwe while practicing good social distancing. Recreation Bilke tiraills and billa4in cairnping sites 4 Idea Recreation One of Hhe mosl:ecologically and economically effeclive ways to bring a sl:eady sl:rearn of peofsk.,to Your park is to 3 Idea install a pirof�i!ssioirNalllly-desigirNed disc.gollf couirse...(or 2,or 3)with the expectation to become adestination course'.Disc golf casual play,and even tournaments,can be done within CoVid I 9's social distancing parameters. "if you build it,they will come:. IfWCE)GE)builds it,they will come back.WorldChan i pion DiscGoll`Design.con I" 13 PHASE 2 INPUT SUMMARY I11P 1H A S E 2 III 11lllllIII C 1114 II Ir S U M M A II BLUFFLLAAN'DS, ': CRC PLATY . .� SUMMA II F` PHASE 2PURL IC ENGAGEMENT Outreach Method Audience Press Release ase adavr.rti�zr*da in C:.G.�d.urtp/rtr.rrusprapr*rrz rrurpft IirtfcpG.� I ocrol rneslica,Sp.Croix County residents and .)d.usuness Phase 2 encga gernenp and survey owners St.Croix County Parks Fac(..�*I,.)ook I�acgr.�* St.Croix C::G�.u�.unt residents 'e y psartd: irtpr.*rr*str.*d: par<d.usd*rs gyp.C::rd.aix C::d.a�.unty ud*I:asrpr.*.. rd.a'r.*ct ur.*I:a a'd* St.Croix C:..ourtty residents, .)d.usuness owners,and: inte.rested:l Bark .users IArec�t email sent d.ad.ut�to 285 interestedI�artid�*s who L rovidaed St.CroixC:.o unty residents arch interested park users ernail during Phase.I Engagement L..inks or phase?encgacgernd*itt sent to County Lioarda members, t.rpy,t:.a uurAy,and State sp:xflt and raalpra.satrap:xp:uvaas; C:oirvarTKHu city Development staff,xllll rpovenrairvaent llUiiisdictions natural resources and g.)ortincg cgro ul s in St.Croix County,Natural Resource Caro ul s,I::NR,local trail organizations,Sl)ortsrnan's Alliance Engagement Method Input Received Storyrnal-.)W(.,l,.)siu,showing dyackcgro undid info,3 142 r(.*sl)ondd(.nts I:.)etween rnid:I January 2021 and cancel-.As,and an Online Survey(S urveyl23) the end of Fel,)rd.uary 2021. � ,.� o .. L r „5n y wl,�MR V+»fll n. Mir r,WY,t�f d v+a si vLr INrv,I rcTPr a Br rWYi ro J.Y w-Ur by➢rt�Y'Vei rnT•}Ikxle ,pe °i, �,d,i ,M �J .bI' r11 w1,.,r,"tiuI ht o;u 1 r,pv/,1 p!'Ci r rlp!'r-(r? aw a,th-Cr'UO ,VN( 'Cf1 L"✓51 I?_ P�A4�&K Ilnni w w 1 SUIWEY II IIG N Ifs IIET IIIi An eight-question survey was available online from mid-January through Survey Results the end of February,2021.The Survey]23 survey was posted on a Storymap that provided background information on the park property and outlines of P toteN rr+,prrp,r* the three concepts.142 people responded to the survey,which included the gu weeks the mAirvey option to provide open-ended comments. was open for responses Respondents indicated that a mixture of recreation types were desired, 81 especially those that encourage exploration of the natural environment s�.°r�rey °)rutneur through trails,river access,and scenic overlooks.The following pages include tallies of responses to each question. ..9 Ihuia;lrila..�urli........ ................... ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 11 would prefer a nsix of 41 (3M%) features frons the e:r>urcept: Concept 3 8(2&6.b%) C.¢>urle'ept 2 34(25 6%) C.rrurcept'1 � 20(t5%) (Y 20 40 60 CONCEPT I III IIE IIF II III IIE NCIIG SUMMARY Almost 150 people provided responses to the Suirrvey123 online survey. Respondents were asked to review three concepts and provide feedback on the overall concepts,and the proposed programming,recreation,picnicking,camping,trails,and natural resource management shown in each: There was no clear preference between the concepts,with a plurality of respondents indicating that a mixture of features from the three concepts would be ideal(41). Concept 1,which included the most camping,received the least votes(20).Opponents to this cited the amount of hunting as a concern and believed the lack of things to do would make visiting unappealing.Supporters appreciated the mix of camping options available and the shoreline access for wading. Concept 2,which included the most adventure recreation,received the middle amount of votes(34).People liked it for the family-friendly activities that make the park an attraction for all ages.Folks who like this concept want to see the park became a destination with different amenities than they can find at their local parks. Respondents liked the opportunities for adventurous recreation and camping,which set it apart from other parks along the St.Croix. Concept 3 was less development intensive than the other concepts,and received slightly more votes than either of the other individual concepts(38).Respondents appreciated the low-impact road network and the natural- resource focus. m W. Jh.1g.J.. I1"IrA 111 Ill". �� t u.f;J ri ui urw l ,I�ri o Ul Ike hri cA u!�u, ," ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Maturai Surfae:c.a Hiking Frans 123(86a6%) Frail Bridges over Ravines . .u r Stairs to the Shore 102(71 aFt%) Multi use: (Paved Frans 90(614%) (:Ether 111 M� 20(14. 1%) a 510 '100 ISO TRAIL IL II Trails are an overwhelmingly popular component of the proposed plan,with strong support for a mix of trail types. Other suggestions related to trails that were popular included: Dedicated cross-country ski trails,groomed for classic and skate skiing(hiking/snowshoeing separate) Potential to include skijoring(cross-country skiing while being pulled by a dog) ® Keeping fat-tire bikes off of hiking trails in the winter Mountain bike trails Support for a lift to the shore that provides ADA-accessible access Interest in ability to get a canoe/kayak to/from the shoreline A paved trail connecting the Stillwater loop trail to and through the park WIhein asked,R"Why IIC)oYi..)uI1"ir feir 1"his Coincept?"innainy ainsweiredwith tir oil[.ir6l t io° plhesa Hiking trails were mentioned by 34 respondents. Desire for mountain bike trails was mentioned by 24. Paved trails received 20 mentions. 3 Overlooks and View Points Sledding Iffill Stargazing Mounds Aeriai Adventure/Zip Une Mountain IBike Course Adventure IPlay Accessible Lift to Shoreline Ropes IRIECIREATNGN SUMMAIRY Low-impact recreation that emphasizes the natural environment were the most popular selections,followed by unique,adventure-focused features.Other suggestions included: ~ Disc golf was mentioned by several respondents,while the following had one or two mentions: Single-track Mountain Bike Trails Environmental Education Programming Paddle Access and paddle-in campsites Picklebu0Couru Whein asked,"Why IDo Yi..)u I'lirefeiir I"hUs Coincept?"mmainy ainsweired with rec reatUf.)in-reU ate d repUUes: ~ AmountainbikeskiUscouoewasmentionedby28mspondentsas key to their preferred concept. ~ Shoreline access was popular,although people varied on their preferred access method(14 mentions). ~ The lift was called out as essential to accessibility byl3respondents. ~ 13 people were pro-zip line and 13 were opposed to including it.The main concerns cited were maintenance, staffing,and liability.This was the most contentious item proposed in the concepts. ~ 8 people mentioned that their preferred concept would have more overlooks. ~ Sledding,Stargazing,Nature Play,Fishing,a Ropes Course,and Wading all received between 6-8 mentions as part ofmspondents'idea|concept. What Campsites Camper Cabins 74(521%) so CAMPING SUMMAIRY Camping(especially hike-in tent camping)is generally supported in the park,but some expressed that there may have been too much proposed in the concepts.Suggestions related to camping included: ~ Yurts were touted asa unique experience that would set the Eckert 0uffland apart from other parks. ~ Nearby landowners suggested fences and dgna9e along the site boundary,so that trespassing is less ofan issue. ~ Concerns about noise,staffing,and litter were expressed. ~ Respondents valued the revenue source that camping would provide the park. ~ Some respondents said there aren't many non-car campsites nearby,so the hike-in sites are welcome. ~ Some cited group camps nearby as being underutilized,and did not see the need for another group camp hem. What I'licink:1:--adfifles in Anneiriffies shi.)Wd Ike hricAuded? .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Permanent IRestraxoms in or IMear a Picnic Sheiter MOMMEMEMEMEMEM 105(719%) Picnic Fables in Open or Wooded Areas 91 (641%) Small Picnic Shelters(for less than 20 people) 88(62%) Vault Foilets IMear Picnic Shelters 44(31%) Medium Ii icnic Shelters(for 20 50 43(303%) people) Large Picnic Shelters(for 50+ people) ff 26(183%) Other 9(63%) a 510 lit 1510 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... PICNICKING SUMMAIRY Small-scale picnic facilities were supported by respondents,as were comfort amenities like restrooms and water. Larger-scale structures for 20+people were not considered important to include in the preferred concept. MU'6�usepavad trails Wading in tie river 62(433%) PARK PIROGIRAM SUMMAIRY Nature-based recreation that allows people to experience Eckert Blufflands'topography,access the St.Croix river, and explore its habitats was the most popular among respondents.The replies tend to echo responses in the trails, recreation,camping,and picnicking categories. ~ There was some concern expressed about the safety of hunting and trapping in the park. ~ Some respondents expressed support for the Artist in residence program at the Eckert Cabin. ~ There were some responses hoping for interpretation and education in the park. I I.i.).w w..O.Y[d yqu use theq--mirkAin th ............. ........ ..... -------- .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Frail Walking IMEMEMEMEMEMMEM 120(84a5%) Snowshoeing `75151 106(743%) Sledding 94(66a2%) Cross country Skiing 85(58a8%) CamperCabins 111 61 (4 3%) Yurts 49(34 5%) Hunting and Frapping 10=30(21J%) Other 15(1 M%) W 100 1.50 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... WINTER USE SUMMAIRY Winter trail walking and snowshoeing were the highest reported winter use,while sledding and cross-country skiing were also anticipated by a majority of respondents.Camper cabins and yurts were reported as potential uses by more than a third of respondents. 8 Ward Cloud ofConninneints oin the NatuirM Resources 1"llain. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... plua haMM Wits kiIvulqjet NW T, lands ic ape signs pnWts Once state managed BAR 8, C81111coo4'S" high A 1 long Goals lights 2,Wa z/1 oruiwiV past plants toramlis v rl I 111JUral parks, proposed 91 faCHRICS maim a� itroiierty d resources vt We re Wffiff lope MIS uve L�m vw cie unj,,q ff� PAW s. te Pine people HCX11,111,11111, �N III L III III SOUIRC III S SUMMAIRY The park's natural resources are highly valued and most expressed support for the plan's approach. Prairie and savanna restoration of the former fields was considered a positive. Respondents see management of invasives like buckthorn as a very important facet of the plan that should get the resources and backing it needs to be done properly. Adjacent homeowners want views preserved,but also buffers and signage that will help prevent trespassing. Some suggested they would like to see a Friends Group created or other ways to be involved in volunteering and land stewardship. Suggestion to connect with local schools or scouting groups to help with invasive management Support for sensitively-sited trail networks that avoid key habitats Suggestion for stewardship education so that trail users know how to use the park responsibly(standard park users and mountain bike trail users) Suggestion for interpretive signs about the site's natural and cultural resources Some comments requesting that a portion of the pine stands be preserved Suggestion to partner with"The Prairie Enthusiasts"to help manage the remnant prairie patches within the park Implement sensitive and dark-sky friendly lighting in order to lessen the impact of park development on animals. Some concern for displacement of wildlife if the park is heavily used Ward Cloud fironni II R s1,12n.�5P, .......................................................................? figin:Otheiir Cianninneints aind Cqinceirins?- ........................................................................................................................................... NOW[,, 1, ';wmH $0 N01,3U mignon 25 beat siveffh MOP prepiused pJaIts flice niffaffiv prellecl 0 Wuls W.R.. park No," Private we S8:JJRV road NalInde north area r RUHIP 'to' ,11111' r 0 p�"e r Y, Win VTlltCi w� lire P fines 11blic R,Ver "Hia IP- Dope h'n"f ih t COM11091 MIMI i InIpPuN , T Icnernel EJ"oly rit,,ese diauelowneaN wpe� OM W'L"Afl' id'I% 1 wdk hicrease willd HIE III COMMENTS AND CONCEIRNS SUMMAIRY Support for Artist-in-Residence program at the Eckert cabin Desire for interpretation and education opportunities throughout the park(historical,cultural,natural resources) Concern about privacy of adjacent homeowners while maintaining suitable access to their homes Support for electricity in camper cabins(removing barriers to camping for people of all ability levels) Suggestion for grills/firepits in picnic areas and at the beach Many concerns about hunting/trapping within the park(injuries for kids or dogs) Desire for hunting to be limited(and maybe restricted to just bow)and clearly noted for park users Concerns about traffic and overcrowding Desire for swimming to be included General value of the natural setting and desire keep development low-impact,sustainable and site sensitive (limit road infrastructure,number of cabins,etc.) Desire for park to be unique,complementary to Willow River,and not to duplicate activities Support for ADA-accessible trails and facilities Desire for a connection to the Stillwater loop trail and to Willow River State Park Concern about staffing required for zip line and this/other development drawing too many crowds that might take away from the natural setting General enthusiasm for the park EMAIL COMMENTS Afew comments were sent by email directly m County staff regarding the Draft concept plans. A summary of the comments expressed in the emai|sinclude: ~ Desire to leave the park as natural as possible with little development ~ Concern from a neighbor about the removal ofa portion ofRiver Heights Trail ~ Interest inpick|eba||courts ~ Concern from a neighbor about the number of proposed campsites in the concepts ~ Concern from a resident of Starr Wood about potential trespassing into the Starr Wood conservancy(ravine located south ofEckert 0ufflandsParW "IIIA I E H011 ID CIE,1IR CIE,M A III 11 COMWEIN""III From: Lee Owen <dleeowen@comcast.net> Sent:Thursday,January 21, 2021 9:01 AM To:John Hilgers <.➢ohn.Hil ers@sccwi. ov> Subject: Food for Thought; based on River Falls Glen Park. Please, for once, let the environment alone. The St. Croix is already occupied with enough people. Leave the rest to Nature; animals and a natural functioning landscape—that should be a priority. Not making every square inch of land and water, and air a playground for more humans. Enough. The St. Croix is beautiful as is. m From. Hopp,Jed 8- DNR <Jed.Hopp@wisconsin.gov> Sent: Thursday,August 6, 2020 7:5a AM To: John Hilgers Subject- RE:Eckert Blufflands Master Park Plan-St,Croix,County Attachments: Wcert BiUfflands-1939 photojpg Good morning John, Thank your for reaching out,and for Including me in your planning for this property plan. It is great that the county has been able to purchase and protect this area along the St.Croix River, Unfortunately,I will not be attending the meeting in person today,but I will provide a,few notes below. I have not visited the property myself yet, but would he willing to take a tour and discuss management options also. * I support restoring pra'irle,oak openings,an oak savannah and protecting remnant prairies where opportunities exist, Historically much of this region consisted of prairie,oak openings,and oak savannahs,. This is a focus of our management on state owned properties in this area,and more information on the western prairie ecological landscape can,be found here:httj)s:j . I have attached a 1939 air photo that shows the land use and the much more open conditions at that point in history. This may also help determine where these opportunities exist on the property. It appears there were savanna communities allong the upper portions of the bluff lands along the river. These were generally dominated by scattered white oak which are also less susceptible to oak wilt which It sounds like may be an issue on this property. 0 Pine plantations-I agree that these areas provide little wildlife habitat, As these stand mature and can be harvested I would recommend converting them to restored prairie if possible. (we can possibly help provide local ecotype seed from the Star Prairie seed farm). # I will'let NHC ecologist, Dean Edlin, provide input on possible rare species that may be opportunities for focused management on this property. If you have any other questions feel free to reach out, Regards, Jed Hopp We are committed to service excellence. visit o u r survey at -Li r-v-e-y to evaluate I 10 W I clad, Jed Hopp Wildlife Biologist Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources 890 Spruce 5t.,Baldwl n,WI 54002 Phone;(715)416,-0391 Jed.tiopp@wi,sconsin.gov Fckert Bluffland County Park Forestry-related Comments Pine plantation Pines will need to be thinned c), First thinning should occur around age 25 * Subsequent thinnings Occur every 10 years * Thinning is crucial to maintain this cover type.Otherwise,trees become stressed and very susceptible to insects and disease such as bark beetles and red pine pocket decline c) Could be used as an educational tool to promote responsible land stewardship (:, DNR Forester can provide silvicultural advice and may help set up/design timber sale o Sale bidding,contracts,administration,and close outs need to be performed by County o Getting a Successful bidder will be challenging ■ Pulp markets are historically low(several paper mill closures affecting entire Midwest currently) Small acreage and long distance to existing mills make these stands undesirable to most loggers ■ Currently there is 45 acres of red,pine for sale at nearby Willow River State Park. DNR Forester will let County know if/when this sells and to whom it was sold. o If it doesn't sell,consider hiring a forestry mulch,er to remove designated trees Jack pine * This is a native tree,species not usually found In,St,Croix County(only found when planted) * Important species for wildlife and historically a very vIzrluable pulpwood species c) In any mixed stands,jack pine should be promoted by releasing individuals/rows/areas from nearby competition Invasive species management Plan and budget should be developed to address this Buckthorn management * Contractor costs for control can around$500/acre/year,give or take,depending all infestation levels,forest type,access,topography,etc. * In heavily infested areas,the following process is recornmended • Year 1: Forestry mulch affected areas anytime between late summer—winter • Year 2:Broadcast herbicide spray regrowth in fall,preferably after native vegetation has gone dormant so non-tairget species are not affected Year 3:Spot spray by hand areas that were missed or areas growing from seed * Willow River State:Park is currently in Year 2 of this process on 40 acres of affected property,Contact DNR Forester for more info on this project, * in lightly infested areas, it is possible to control with a smaller crew using only low volume hand sprayers Black locust u Can be easily treated with girdle/spray. However,this will leave a stand of dead, standing trees which is a safety issue for heavily used areas. 0 Could be harvested alongside,pine but would have to treat the stumps the same day of the harvest. Even if done properly,there is still a high risk of reirifestation due to this tree's aggressive,clonal nature, Garlic mustard * Can be sprayed with glyphosate * Or,great opportunity for volunteer groups to pull,by hand in spring Tree Planting DNR Forester can provide tree planting plans at no cost a Best to get these written in summer State tree seedling nursery order date:October 5, 2020 Seedling catalogs+more info available onlilne at ,httos.,//`dnr,.wiscorisin.govLtor)ic/tree plantiLnE/order Cost sharing - DNR Forester will look into any grant opportunities the State may provide to county for above practices(this is an unknown for us at this time) DNR Forester Information Andy Ciurro DNR Service Center 890 Spruce St. Baldwin Wl 5400r 2 Office:(715)684-29,14 ext. 116 Ceil:(715)271-5228 Thoughts on Eckert Blufflands Park Submitted by The St. Croix Valley Bird Club August, 2020 The 167 acres looks like a gorgeous area for a park, and we feel there is a need for more parkland in western Wisconsin. It also looks as if a lot of work has already gone into the design for a park. Our thoughts on the proposed usage come from two perspectives; 1. It is very frustrating to see the over use of two gorgeous local parks— Willow River State Park and Homestead Parklands on Perch Lake. Both of these parks are so crowded that social distancing is prohibitive, and many senior citizens find these parks off limits. Even in non-pandemic times, these two parks can be so crowded that a visit is not a positive experience. It feels like they both are being "loved to death." 2. Many Bird Club members would look at this new park from the perspective of enjoying the out of doors as non-motorized and non-hunter participants. We like to hike, bird watch, kayak, ski, snow shoe, etc. Eckert Blufflands is in a gorgeous setting, but it is relatively small at only 167 acres. So, we ask: A. Do we really need more- • Shoreline access, especially along a National Scenic Riverway? • Camping areas, considering the recent camping expansion at WRSP? • Hunting and trapping areas with the thousands of DN,R acres in this part of the state that already require us hikers to limit activities during some of the most gorgeous seasons, B. Is this 167-acre area large enough to warrant rental cabins? Would shelters for family picnics or group outings be more des,irable? Some features that Bird Club members would like to see in this park: • Hiking, skiing, snow shoe trails, etc Quiet places for bird watching Prairie habitats for grassland birds From- Brian Zelenak <brianz@scecnet.net> Sent: Monday,August 10,2020 1:04 PM To- 'Gabrielle Grinde' Cc: John Hilgiers; Brian Ferg Subjett: RE:St,Croix County-Eckert Bluff lands Park Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged IM1111111 Hi Gabrielle, Brian Ferg is looking into possibly getting a Map Of Our distribution system sent over to you and John for the area of the project. He will either send a copy or follow up with you if we cannot for some reason. As far as the size of the line an River Heights Trail,It is a single phase line operated at 7200 volts. We have reviewed the project we have planned for later this fall,and do not see any significant issues if it were postponed until next SLJmrner. This Would give the County additional tine to consider Its options and for SCEC and the County to work together on a more comprehensive"planned"approach to meeting their electrical needs in the area, If that is the desire of the County,then all I would do is ask that John initiate a letter to me outlining the County's timeframe for public cornment and comrnitrnent between now and next spring and requesting our assistance to work with the County on meeting their electric needs in the new park. I just want to make sure we have some book ends on the project moving forward and we don't delay our upgrades Indefinitely if for some reason there is a lengthy delay in park project moving forward, We look forward to being a part of the project, Brian R. Zelenak President\CEO St, Croix Electric Cooperative P.O. Box 160 Hammond,VVI 54015 715-796-7000-Main 715-796-5607—Direcl 715-796,-7070—Fax 218-4291-1483—Mobile Office location: 1925 Ridgeway Street Facebook., St, Croix County Energizer Twitter, @StCroixElecCoop 0 qW rots Gorolm, M"id ELECTRIC A ]'Wielistipu2 Ener�-;' Coopenlfiw ?(It,* brian From:Gabrielle Grinde<Gabrjelle@hkgi.com> Sent;Monday,August 10,2020 10.04 AM To:Brian Zelenak<brIanz@scecnet.net> Cc:John Hilgers<John.Hilgers@sccwigov> Subject:St,Croix County-Eckert Blufflands Park H!Brian, Thanks for your input at our Eckert Blufflands stakeholder meeting last Thursday.There were a few items that you mentioned in our meeting that I wanted to follow up on; 1. An overlay map of the distribution lines that are located In the park area Z. The size of the existing,line along River Heights Trails 3. When you have more information that you can share about the planned updates going,on this year in the park, please send our way Thanks! Gabrielle Grinde,ASLA, PHA Associate I Landscape Architect gAbEkII Cohk .i;:,ccarn Officen,612-252-7141 Mobile:608-852-3370 HKGi Planning Landscape Architecture Urban Design 123 North Third Street,Suite 100 Minneapolis,MN 55401 From: Karrie Weaver<karrieweaver@msn,com> Sent: Tuesday, August 18,2020 T31 AM To. JohnHilgers;gabHe1Ie@hkgj,com; Ellen Denzer Subject.- Eckert Blufflands park stakeholders meeting John,Gabrielle and Ellen; Thank you for organizing yesterday's stakeholder meeting. Our neighborhood appreciates your time and consideration. It was encouraging to hear that the county is sensitive to property boundaries between the park and adjacent landowners. Ellen's comments regarding the path and staircase that run from the Eckert cabin to the riverfront were heartening, As I heard it, Ellen stated that the county decided not to consider using that existing staircase and path because they run into a ravine that also extends onto the Givens' property, She said it would be confusing for park-goers becau�se the ravine covers both park and private property. Those same issues apply to the ravine"fingers"that run South from parkland into the Starr Wood private property. Those ravines provide natural guides right into our land, and it would be very difficult to tell where park property ends and private property begins. Once park goers see our existing Starr Wood trails, it is likely they would think they were still on parkland. We have been installing no trespassing signs,but as I mentioned yesterday,we have seen an uptick in trespassing this spring and summer(including people camping overnight on our beach, 10 feet or less from a no trespassing sign), We ask that park planners carefully place those camper cabins, camping areas and hiking trails away from the property boundary Starr Wood shares with the park,and at sites that minimize confusion about where park ends and private property begins. Thank you again, and have a beautiful day. Sincerely, Karrie Weaver, From: Karin winter <karinofamher-st@gmaiLcom5 Sent: SLInday,October 4,20 0 6A4 PM To: John Hilgers Su bject from Karin Eckert Winter This emaJI originated from an external source,Verify the legitimacy before clicking links or opening attachments, Dear John, We are so excited to loam of the progress of the Park named after my parents, Thank you for keeping us in the loop, Also, we are happy to help in any way,certainly with any background information we might have, I only wish I lived closer, but coming to any opening care any events will be a piodty for my family. It was thrilling ot see the picture of the cabin. Karin