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Resolution 2019 (03)
Resolution No. 3 (2019) ST. ROM�'w '° �..1NTY RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE ST. CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR I'SOYI`'1)7 RECREATION PLAN 2019-2023 1 WHEREAS, sec. 59.69(1) and(3),Wisconsin Statutes, authorizes counties to prepare and adopt 2 a 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. Croix County 5 Comprehensive Plan; and 6 7 WHEREAS, St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreation Plan was last updated in 2013, five years 8 ago, and therefore will be outdated as of January 2019; and 9 10 WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee desires to apply to the Wisconsin 11 Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)for matching grants to assist in funding projects identified in 12 the Plan; and 13 14 WHEREAS,the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan must be updated and adopted by the 15 County by January 2019 to maintain eligibility for WDNR grant funding assistance; and 16 17 WHEREAS, St. Croix County provides outdoor recreational opportunities to its residents and 18 visitors to promote public health and well-being of individuals and families, improve the attractiveness of 19 the county and contribute to the social and economic health of the county and its communities; and 20 21 WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee and county staff have gathered input from 22 residents regarding county parks,trails,boat landings and other outdoor recreation activities and includes 23 the St. Croix County 2018 Parks and Recreation Survey conducted by the University of Wisconsin-River 24 Falls Survey Research Center; and 25 26 WHEREAS,the Community Development Department hosted a public information meeting on 27 the draft plan document on July 31,2018; and 28 29 WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee held a public hearing on the St. Croix 30 County Outdoor Recreation Plan on September 20, 2018; and 31 32 WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee and county staff have drafted an updated 33 St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2019-2023, attached; and 34 35 WHEREAS,the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan encourages the County to 36 incorporate city,village and town outdoor recreation plans into the County Outdoor Recreation Plan 37 thereby making the county plan a regional plan for purposes of local municipal applications for state and 38 federal grants; and 39 40 WHEREAS,the Town of Troy and Town of Somerset have made a formal request to the 41 Community Development Department and the Community Development Committee to have their 42 Outdoor Recreation Plans incorporated into the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan. 43 44 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Croix County Board of Supervisors hereby 45 adopts the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2019-2023,pursuant to Wis. Stats. Section 59.69(1) 46 and (3). Resolution No. 3 (2019) ST. ROM�'w '° �..1NTY RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE ST. CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR I'SOYI`'1)7 RECREATION PLAN 2019-2023 Legal—Fiscal—Administrative Approvals: Legal Note: Fiscal Impact: The Outdoor Recreation Plan must be updated and adopted every 5 years to maintain the County's eligibility for Stewardship Grants and other recreation funding from State and Federal sources. Grants reduce the financial impact of park and recreation improvements to local taxpayers. JA'44- 9Z-- Corporation CcfdnW i 8/2018 K mance ` 12/18/2018 P c-Thvmpsan,Count►Admini r 12/18/2018 12/20/18 Approved 12/20/18 Community Development Committee RECOMMENDED ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... .... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... .......... RESULT: RECOMMENDED [4 TO 1] MOVER: Judy Achterhof, Vice Chair SECONDER: Ed Schachtner, Supervisor AYES: Ed Schachtner, Daniel Hansen, Judy Achterhof, Dick Hesselink NAYS: Tom Coulter Vote Confirmation. ¢u ' , Uan Hansen CammuiYtyf7r�weI I Amen%chairman 12/31/2018 Fat- Croix County Board of Supervisors Action: Roll Call -Vote Requirement— Majority of Supervisors Present Cindy Campbell, County Clerk 1 rv� syr I i i � I II r � J r, ! r / � r- v r r. I �i r"i �1�i///di ,/� rd� ..r , Fr h �I rr✓i r r rr v e! �l'I �,�( ,�UI" �/ (A // � J „�/ ✓rr / r I r ar ;, /rqV welJy'I/ vGrv�ww- r ri`,v/�� riV)Y�v,rr� Al�yfVOr IJu+F r ri�bY//i , 9 i YI 1,7 � r l� f,N7NtrGM'*'f �IVIr� r, VV It o!Av 7 1 r I u u January 8, 2019 Table of Contents AUTHORITY The St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan is adopted under the County's Planning and Zoning Authority as part of the County Comprehensive Plan, Wisconsin Statutes 59.52(6)(a), 59.69(1) and 59.69(3). Resolution No. 3 (2019) ST. C R.OIX UNTY Community Development ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS St. Croix County Community Development Committee Daniel Hansen, Chair Judy Achterhof, Vice Chair Tom Coulter, Supervisor Ed Schachtner, Supervisor District 13, Supervisor Dick Hesselink, Farm Service Agency Representative Prepared by: St. Croix County Community Development Department Ellen Denzer, Community Development Director John Hilgers, Senior Planner Grant Shirts, Planning/GIS Technician Kalley Swift, Planning/GIS Intern Parks Supervisor, Aaron Mason Park Site Coordinator,Travis Fontaine Lead Park Coordinator, Nate Beaver Park Site Coordinator, Ryan Brathal Cover photos: Saint Croix River Biking Homestead Park on Perch Lake Ice Fishing Glen Hills Park Playground Troy Beach Swimming Homestead Park on Perch Lake Special Event Pine Lake Boat Ramp RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE ST. CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN—2019-2023 Resolution No. 3(2019) St. Croix County,Wisconsin WHEREAS, sec. 59.69(1) and (3), Wisconsin Statutes, authorizes counties to prepare and adopt a county development plan under the county's planning and zoning authority; and WHEREAS,the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan is an element of the St. Croix County Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreation Plan was last updated in 2013,five years ago, and therefore will be outdated as of January 2019; and WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee desires to apply to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)for matching grants to assist in funding projects identified in the Plan; and WHEREAS,the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan must be updated and adopted by the County by January 2019 to maintain eligibility for WDNR grant funding assistance; and WHEREAS, St. Croix County provides outdoor recreational opportunities to its residents and visitors to promote public health and well-being of individuals and families, improve the attractiveness of the county and contribute to the social and economic health of the county and its communities; and WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee and county staff have gathered input from residents regarding county parks,trails, boat landings and other outdoor recreation activities and includes the St. Croix County 2018 Parks and Recreation Survey conducted by the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Survey Research Center; and WHEREAS,the Community Development Department hosted a public information meeting on the draft plan document on July 31, 2018; and WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee held a public hearing on the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan on September 20, 2018; and WHEREAS,the Community Development Committee and county staff have drafted an updated St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2019 - 2023,attached;and WHEREAS,the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan encourages the County to incorporate city,village and town outdoor recreation plans into the County Outdoor Recreation Plan thereby making the county plan a regional plan for purposes of local municipal applications for state and federal grants; and WHEREAS,the following local Units of Government,the Towns of Somerset and Troy, have made a formal request to the County Parks Division and the Community Development Committee to have their Outdoor Recreation Plans incorporated into the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan and by resolution have incorporated the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan into their plans. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Croix County Board of Supervisors hereby adopts the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan 2019 - 2023, pursuant to Wis. Stats. Section 59.69(1) and (3). . ciroix coullity 2019-23Outdoor Recreation Plan Resolution No. 3 (2019 T. P QS� 4 JNTY RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE ST. CROIX CiJ11NTY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN 2019-2023 f.e of—Fiscaf—Administrative Approvals: Legal Note: Fiscal 1rnrract: The Outdoor Recreation(Pian must be updated and adopted every 5 years to maintain the County's eligibility for Stewardship Grants and other recreation funding from State and Federal sources. Grants reduce the financial iimpact of park and recreation improvements to local taxpayers. Carporatpn n 1 fi2D1t1 Kurt """ f "181C11 Pa c-k Thor—Piz4q Caurrtyrrurft r 1,1 z(1 W2018 12120/18 Approved 12/20/18 Community Development Committee RECOMMENDED RESULT: RECOMMENDED [4 TO 11 MOVER: Judy Achterhaf,Vice Chair SECONDER: Ed Scachtner, Supervisor AYES: Ed Schachtnec, Daniel Hansen, Judy Achterhof, Dick Hesselink NAYS: Torn Coulter Vote Confirmation. [Ki Fi.rmn�m prrwK Chakwan 12J31MIS STATE OF VWSCONSIN COUNTY OF ST.CROIX 1,Cindy Campbell,St,Croix Cou.91Y Clerk DO HERES theof oling is a true and correct copy of St Croix County Board of Su ervisors Action: adopted by dire Counts+Board oat Sup Roll Call-Vote Requirement—Majority of Supervisors Present at thea meeting held 0 / Cindy Campbell, County Clerk Cindy Can, el! rr —aa r".nunty Cldrl iii-SC Cuiroiix Couunty 2019-230utdoor Recreation Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS RESOLUTION ........................................................................................................................................................ II INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................................................1 SOCIAL&DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS..............................................................................................................................5 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS....................................................................................................................................................8 GOALS&OBJECTIVES...........................................................................................................................................10 GOAL1.............................................................................................................................................................................11 GOAL2.............................................................................................................................................................................12 GOAL3.............................................................................................................................................................................12 GOAL4.............................................................................................................................................................................13 GOAL5.............................................................................................................................................................................13 GOAL6.............................................................................................................................................................................14 GOAL7.............................................................................................................................................................................14 GOAL8.............................................................................................................................................................................15 GOAL9.............................................................................................................................................................................15 PARKS&RECREATION SURVEY..............................................................................................................................................16 EXECUTIVESUMMARY.........................................................................................................................................................16 COUNTY PARKS ADMINISTRATION.......................................................................................................................19 PARK ADMINISTRATION ACTION PLAN....................................................................................................................................19 PARKS EXPANSION&ACQUISITION........................................................................................................................................20 RIVERWAY MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING-MITIGATION FOR DAMAGES TO BLUFFLANDS......................................................21 WALDROFFPROPERTY.........................................................................................................................................................23 ORFPROPERTY...................................................................................................................................................................24 RICHARDS&ECKERT PROPERTIES..........................................................................................................................................27 ST.CROIX RIVER CROSSING TRAILHEAD,TRAILAND HILLTOP TRAILHEAD.......................................................................................29 EXISTING FACILITIES ANALYSIS&ACTION PLANS...................................................................................................30 APPLERIVER PROPERTY.......................................................................................................................................................32 BASSLAKE BOAT LANDING...................................................................................................................................................36 GLENHILLS PARK................................................................................................................................................................40 HOMESTEAD PARKLANDS ON PERCH LAKE...............................................................................................................................54 KINNICKINNIC COUNTY FOREST.............................................................................................................................................60 PINELAKE PARK.................................................................................................................................................................64 . C111,0ix coulli 2019-230utdoor Recreation Plan SQUAWLAKE BOAT LANDING...............................................................................................................................................68 STANTONCOUNTY FOREST...................................................................................................................................................71 TROYBEACH......................................................................................................................................................................75 WILDWOODTRAIL..............................................................................................................................................................79 DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR PARK BUILDINGS...........................................................................................................82 TRAIL FACILITIES ANALYSIS&ACTION PLANS........................................................................................................84 BICYCLESYSTEM.................................................................................................................................................................84 SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM................................................................................................................................................91 ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE—USAGE,ON AND OFF-ROAD STATUS.................................................................................94 ST.CROIX COUNTY ALLIANCE OF SPORTSMAN'S CLUBS.........................................................................................96 COMMUNITY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLANS.......................................................................................................97 ATTACHMENT A: PARKS AND RECREATION SURVEY..............................................................................................99 SURVEY PURPOSE&METHODS.............................................................................................................................................99 PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS.................................................................................................................................................101 ST.CROIX COUNTY'S OUTDOOR RECREATION FACILITIES..........................................................................................................103 USAGE OF ST.CROIX COUNTY OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES..........................................................................................106 ST.CROIX COUNTY'S OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL AMENITIES/SERVICES.......................................................................................108 ADEQUACY OF ST.CROIX COUNTY'S OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES/AMENITIES..................................................................113 MOST PREFERRED FACILITIES/AMENITIESATGLEN HILLS PARK.................................................................................................116 INFORMATIONSOURCES.....................................................................................................................................................118 ADDITIONALCOMMENTS...................................................................................................................................................119 CONCLUSIONS..................................................................................................................................................................121 APPENDIX A-NON-RESPONSE BIAS TEST.............................................................................................................................122 APPENDIX B-WRITTEN COMMENTS,2018.........................................................................................................................123 APPENDIX C-QUANTITATIVE SUMMARY OF RESPONSES-ST.CROIX COUNTY RESIDENTS.............................................................131 APPENDIX D-QUANTITATIVE SUMMARY OF RESPONSES-ADJACENT COUNTIES RESIDENTS..........................................................136 ATTACHMENT B:GLEN HILLS PARK MASTER PLAN MAY 2018..............................................................................140 ATTACHMENT C:SPORTSMEN'S ALLIANCE PROJECT............................................................................................175 V-stw 011'0ounty 2019-230utdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Introduction I NTRODUCTION Outdoor recreation is an integral part of the human environment.Well-managed parks and open spaces provide a number of key benefits. Parks and open spaces afford relief from 'r urban stresses while providing areas for habitat protection and enhancement. St. Croix County parks also attract visitors and tourism dollars to the county. As the population grows and recreational trends evolve, as the county must evaluate the adequacy of existing facilities to meet the needs and wants of residents.This plan will be utilized to improve, enhance and expand the outdoor recreational G 0 opportunities throughout St. Croix County. The 2019-2023 Plan is an update of the 2013 St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan and serves as a guide to the Community Development Department, especially the Parks Division, in the development of parks and outdoor recreation facilities over the next five years. Prior outdoor recreation plans were completed in 1970, 1976, 1994, 2000 and 2006. Historically, ? the County has focused on providing outdoor recreation facilities that serve a wide-ranging, broad-based population. The County's appropriate niche is nature-based, passive, outdoor recreation facilities, emphasizing shoreline fishing, boating, picnicking, walking/hiking, biking, swimming at beaches, camping, bird watching, hunting and trapping, snowmobiling and nature observation/study. The County's role in recreation is not active or organized recreation facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools, skateboard parks, motorized sports or organized league sport facilities (i.e. baseball diamonds or soccer fields). Local towns, villages or cities generally provide these types of facilities. An updated plan also enables the county and its municipalities to participate in various grant programs for local communities including: • Stewardship Program o Urban Green Space and Urban Rivers o Aids for the Development of Local Parks o Recreational Trails Act o Streambank Protection o Land and Water Conservation Funds • Lakes Planning • Lakes Protection • Recreational Boating • Sport Fish Restoration • Conservation Aids • Targeted Runoff Management 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC Ouro° x couuumty I Introduction January 8, 2019 These programs are administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and can be used to assist in the acquisition and construction of new outdoor recreation facilities as well as for upgrading and modernizing existing recreational facilities to meet Americans with Disability Act or safety standards, public expectations and in planning for and protection of natural resources, water quality and wildlife habitat. 10111001111 /161111, r/ t���y, / �'�1f1111J���f1111�1�7t01111111/i0//, / i y y�uuuvv i ��11 Ur1 `oa f)w r Throughout this document, planning level information on timeframes, cost estimates and funding sources is provided. This information should be considered preliminary and subject to change. Timeframes get adjusted, grant cycles and awards affect timing and finances and cost estimates can change dramatically because of marketplace changes, competitive bidding and inflation. The estimated timeframes, costs and funding opportunities in this document are also subject to St. Croix County's annual budget review and approval process, including capital improvement planning, and will be adjusted as a result. The St. Croix County Parks System consists of two full-service county parks, one with overnight camping; two county parks with limited facilities;two boat landings,two county forests; one off-road trail; and one limited recreation facility. The total acreage of these facilities is approximately 1,000 acres. Additional properties have been purchased by St. Croix County for natural resource protection and outdoor recreation activities since the 2013 Outdoor Recreation Plan was adopted.These properties are either undeveloped or under development and will be described in more detail further in the plan document. There are 7,615 surface acres of fishing lakes and 80.9 miles of trout streams in St. Croix County. These are very limited, finite resources.Water resources cannot be expanded, however they can be protected from impairment and improved or made more available by providing better access for the public. Examples include purchasing land for protection and for public access, improving existing boat landings, expanding public parking and access sites for walk-in usage, fish stocking and promotion of the resource. In 2- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Introduction addition, some existing resources can be made more useful, for example, marginal lakes with extensive winterkill can be used for recreation by installing a mechanical aeration system. In addition to County parks, St. Croix County offers many diverse recreational resources, including the St. Croix River and its watershed.The St. Croix River offers extensive recreational opportunities, from water skiing and pleasure boating to swimming, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, hunting and cross-country skiing.The St. Croix is one of the eight original rivers in the National Wild and Scenic River System, which was established in 1968 by the United States Congress. The Lower St. Croix River, part of which forms the western border of St. Croix County, was designated a National Scenic Riverway in 1972. .e, I/ 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirox ouuumty 3 Introduction January 8, 2019 St. Croix county outdoor Recreation Properties ............. TOW r •�I www ' "' - Qleer Park Flnr.Pral \, ST,C'PR RID: r „, 'TOWN OF CYLON p: TOWN Of FOREST f TOWN OF SOMERSIET TOWN OF STANTON 1 F°a f I�a«u� IG .0._.___ °" ;; � rm ` ,•:°sa New.Rirkmon'B 64 .,....._._., ..,• ,.I m �. ,•,�_ ..,• ..... 35 / � 1 tl �� 35 IL� a .. TOWN OF ERIN PRMIRIE TOWN OF E ERALN TOWNOF GLENWODD . tee.... . .mm 1/1 3S U TOWN OF RICHMOND "" F\ � Glenwood TOWN OF ST H JOSEP ____.w,. _________... .......... ...... ..w... 9 0. jj �.... ......d .... r i WARREN' W'R TOWN OF W TOWN OF HAMMQNI] / F .p nvuy6 h Hud on TOWN Off HIJKD$QNTDW'N OFBAtDWIN i0`NN i?F SPRINGF7M.17F�m-- m 1 L.byWilNadson47rL 11 , om n ,��,,, N��L�..�� � �, ;i N (35,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, W,,. ..............�R,oherts.�„•�.._ „m_.................................................�'.......................Baldwin ......... ._.,•,••.,„.. adri le 12 �,.moy,o .en i 128 63 TOWN OF TROY TOWOF�p NNICKINNIC 'TOWN TOWN OF TOWN OF EAU GAtIE TOWN OF LADY =. PLE45AN7 VALLEY RUSH RIVER ..35 uufi5% f"1 l Niolls rer F �jWW^^�'4444 II� NM u�"wx•�•.�IIValley N Interstate Highway W E US Highway s State Highway Municipal Boundaries Villages and Cities ParkLocations 0 2.5 5 10 15 20 Mires 4- St. uiroi10 Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Introduction Social & Demographic Characteristics St. Croix County's official 2017 population is /'/ estimated at 88,583 by the Wisconsin Demographic Services / el 61601110 /f 000 Center. According to the United States Census Bureau, between 2000 and 2010, St. Croix County was one of the 6, fastest growing counties in the State of Wisconsin, with a 2010 population of 84,345. This represented a 33.6 percent growth rate from the 2000 population of 63,155. The population increase has been constant for over 40 years. /,r/G � i �� //n��✓ �� From 1970 to 1980, the growth rate was 25.9 percent x � ��'l�� � L i iY/r l�/ � 1�7( �' �✓y�i��fl�v�G rf�f F From 1980 to 1990, 16.2 percent and from 1990 to 2000, 25.7 percent. Residential growth is expected to continue throughout St. Croix County over the next 22 years. According to the Wisconsin Department of Administration, St. Croix County's 2040 population is projected to reach 119,000; an increase of 35 percent between 2018 and 2040. St. Croix County's population growth is directly attributable to its proximity to the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area, of which St. Croix County has been a part since 1980. The metropolitan area provides high-paying jobs, extensive entertainment and shopping options and a wide-variety of educational opportunities all making the county attractive to commuters. St. Croix County's population growth generally consists of people who migrated from Minnesota looking for a rural lifestyle and local residents who grew up in the county but rely on or commute to the metropolitan area for their income. Over the last five years, additional business and manufacturing development in the larger communities of the county such as Hudson, New Richmond and River Falls have also contributed to the growing population. The development pressure has been greatest on the western half of St. Croix County due to proximity to the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. In 2017,the new four-lane St. Croix River Crossing opened connecting the eastern Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area to western St. Croix County.The new crossing replaced the historic two-lane Stillwater Lift Bridge.This change has reduced commuting time between the metropolitan area and St. Croix County and may be an impetus to additional population growth within the county. The County's continuing growth continues to change the landscape and bring additional park users, particularly families, into St. Croix County. Population expansion creates greater pressure on the existing parks and increases the demand for additional facilities. Also, development pressure on existing lakes and rivers reduces the likelihood that these resources will meet the demands of the public in the future. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuinty 5 Introduction January 8, 2019 StCroix County Demographics Total Population: 88263 Male: 44025 (49.88%) Female 44,[38 (501%Y6) Ethnic Background: White 94.08% Hispanic 2.37 % Asian 1.11 Y6 Black 0.76% Other 1.68% Median Age: 38 Education Attainment: College degree (Assodate, Bachelor, Master 8' beyond) 46.8% Housing: Occupied Dwellings 33,954 Own %6,516 (78.09Y6) Rent 7/438(Z1.91 %) Median Household Income: $78,850 County Residents in Labor Force: 49,988 Unemployment rate: 2.5Y6 Average Commute toWork: 26 minutes Employees Working inthe County: 38,219 Top five Categories ofEmployment: Office/Administrative 12.74Y6 Executives/Managers 10.96 % Sales 10.94% Production 10.57 % FoodPrep/Serving 6.10% Sources: U.S.Census Estimates and Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development 6' St. CiroUxCosinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Introduction St. Croix County Land Cover ryo 7 T us'ym ~u m m TOWN�OT SCIMERSET y/(�TOWN Of �. TOWN FSTANTON ! J % TO'w'&�U QP CYRON f � TQ'/✓N pF STAR PRAIRIE a �w �'�i1 �� SIA c^�t� V' ( �� � ✓� �l���w �iu�i% � � �° >UVI� ''/�� � r�f�-. �" �''�/� u�." [ f � � � f �R ,� G "AIA I�,VUIr � � ,w4 �wf 6" :�� ✓Wi%N«ti� e y ew Raum.nd � o(( i (pus �i �,r V' 's ��„14iu' ;! ,;”" > I /ir�a II wu r; r /ii,ii Fa Ir 'M J r! „ ��✓rN �� 1 iii d �' D//// ,11 fur -TOWN OFiERINyPPRAIRIE TOWN OF EMERALLI TORN OF GLENWbbb IU V �mf, k Y „ nm ,l' ''f;;�7uwY Thr ) �Y T, P r,m; if'T�owN o� �oNo r s � IVIIim �: � �., .� w.,�w/>✓ % � r_...... _....�c. L. '"�;" ,.�� �� �� �� a �.�y+�r.,slur �'� �.�%�� ����_��, i �• � D wv d � L �` +f Tt7WN OF srfio / i " "'G� �, � ym J "Wi s miii�� iij mm i s f N g Jf"i IVllll% r � O wnN r n III O Yia7iw y' I '�wTOVJN OF WARREN � TOWNa OF HAMMON6 it f nrn;,ii ' r M'. dsdn rd dlf"716 ;r; s N w, 4 r TOWN OF HU!)SON 1� w WiN ,AW Ijo TOWN OF SPRINCFieLo IY TOWN OF BALD �m 51, s r L / gym^ Ij / y �, Is / j/�� � w Bdldwm I 'i��, mllllll°� i� �rJ ^R, � � NJIy II r ,xr✓�,�J w %/WaddvJ9e� 'Lwua"" i/il � r Iad � m c w /fi /i �' FTROY I, � TOWN�"dF IKINNICKINNVC TOwN OF ri�i TOWN O y k/ �P.EASANTV.YLLEY RUSH RIVER 1 TOWN OF EAV'fAlIP�� TOWN Of CADY /ii; % // / rs/% iUIQ/ 'w .rL Rwer Fnlls i f°1 rp s t // IwAw kw. Ilww'q p� -m/ 'iii ��/ BI ✓S �// � ��//yi%I� � 4w ?y ,! ryy;,� .7@L�`E ��...._ �.���, hry %�.._Tv Urban/Developed) Forest Barren Agriculture Open Water Shrubland Grassland Wetland N 0 2 4 8 12 16 w E Miles S 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroouinty ,,, 7 Introduction January 8, 2019 Physical Characteristics Land Use and Topography The total land area of St. Croix County is 470,839 acres or 735.69 square miles. County land coverage includes 41%agricultural land, 28%grassland, 21%forestland, 5%developed land and 5% wetlands/surface water. Surface topography in St. Croix County ranges from gently rolling to steep ridges along stream valleys. Much of the central portion of the County is a rolling plain, while mesas and resistant dolomite formations break the plain.Areas of more rugged topography are found in the northwestern portions and eastern side of the County.The scenic character of the County landscape was influenced by two principal factors: the landforms created by glacial deposits and the effects of water in creating stream channels, lakes and valleys. Local relief in the County is over 600 feet from almost 1,300 feet above sea level near Glen Hills Park in the eastern part of the County to 675 feet above sea level along the St. Croix River on the west edge of the County. Water Resources Lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, intermittent waterways, and drainageways total 18,934 acres.These include: • 33 lakes and two spring ponds, the largest of which are: 0 416-acre Bass Lake in the Towns of Somerset and St.Joseph o A portion of the 1,107 acre Cedar Lake in the Town of Star Prairie 0 129-acre Squaw Lake in the Town of Star Prairie 0 107-acre Pine Lake in the Towns of Baldwin and Erin Prairie • Seven river systems and numerous creeks or other tributaries, most notably: o Apple River o Eau Galle River o Kinnickinnic River o Rush River o St. Croix River o Tiffany Creek o Willow River • Seven flowages ranging from 35 to 270 acres, including, but not limited to: 0 270-acre Lake Mallalieu in the City of Hudson and Village of North Hudson 0 172-acre Little Falls Lake in the Towns of Hudson and St. Joseph 0 142-acre New Richmond Flowage on the Willow River in the City of New Richmond o A portion of the 150-acre Eau Galle Lake/Lake George in the Town of Cady and Village of Spring Valley 0 84-acre Glen Lake in the Town of Springfield 0 68-acre Riverdale Flowage on the Apple River in the Town of Star Prairie 0 35-acre Apple Falls Flowage in the Town of Somerset The St. Croix River and its lake, Lake St. Croix, is the largest surface water in St. Croix County. Approximately half of the 9,336-acre lake is located on the Wisconsin side of the state border with Minnesota. 8- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Introduction SoilsSt. Croix County has a wide variety of soils ranging from heavy, poorly drained to light and droughty. Excessively drained and well- drained soils are generally found in the western half of the county. Moderately r drained and somewhat poorly drained soils predominate in the eastern half. However, both extreme soil conditions are found r , sw throughout much of the county. Climate The climate of St. Croix County is considered to be sub-humid continental, with snowy, cold winters and relatively shorter and warm summers. Average annual precipitation is 32 inches. About 75%of the annual precipitation falls from May to September. Average daily maximum temperatures reach 85 degrees in July and 23 degrees in January. Snowfall contributes about 15%of the total annual precipitation; annual snowfall averages about 45 inches per year, most of which falls in February and March. MISSION STATEMENT Acquire,develop and maintain an attractive, creative, % efficient, responsive and interpretive park system that enriches the physical, mental, social and t `, economic health of all citizens,while protecting, , conserving and enhancing natural, historical, cultural and threatened resources. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC 011'0 x ouuumty 9 Goals&Objectives January 8, 2019 GOALS & OBJECTIVES Goals and objectives provide the framework for meeting the existing and future outdoor recreation needs of St. Croix County residents. Goals represent broad ideals while objectives are more specific targets along the path towards those goals. Strategies for meeting these objectives are presented later in the plan. The goals and objectives established in this plan will help guide development of the Parks Division's strategic plan, annual budgets, capital outlay plans and work plans. In some cases the goals and objectives will be action items that will take place over the course of the next five years. In other instances they will require further development by the Community Development Committee and the County Board and the involvement of towns, villages, cities, special interest groups and agencies. For example, plans will need to be developed for trail systems before some of the trail objectives can be implemented. Level of Service Standards The concept of level of service standards continues to be explored by St. Croix County. Previous plans have identified county-level outdoor recreation needs and have suggested level of service standards be developed. For example, additional shoreline fishing has been identified as a need in this county for several years. Based on an analysis of where shoreline fishing is located, how many residents can utilize it and what the demand level for shoreline fishing is, a level of service standard could be developed and adopted. It could be based on population, i.e. a standard of one shoreline fishing site for every 2,000 residents in the county; or it could be geographical, i.e. shoreline fishing accessible to every county resident within five miles. The benefit of level of service standards is aptly summarized as follows: Level of service standards will assist the County in supplying the specific types of recreation that are needed in various areas of the county and guide the County in acquiring resources that are compatible with that and populating those properties with the proper kinds of facilities to support those activities. Staff will research and develop level of service standards under the Community Development Committee's direction. Implementation of level of service standards would begin after review and adoption by the Committee. Wisconsin Statewide mpr nsi Outdoor Recreation Plan The goals and objectives in this plan also consider priorities, issues and strategies that have been identified in Wisconsin's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) prepared by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR).The SCORP identifies recreation priorities across the state,which are important funding considerations for outdoor recreation grants administered by the WDNR. In 2016,the WDNR surveyed a random sample of Wisconsin residents to identify additional outdoor recreation opportunities needed in their areas of the state. The most frequently identified needs statewide are: hiking and walking trails; bicycling trails; public shore access to lakes, rivers and streams; public campsites; and public shooting ranges. St. Croix County's goals are listed in the next section. Some of these goals were provided from input from an organized citizen stakeholder group that provided valuable input into the plan development from 10- SC Ouiro° x couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Goals&Objectives 2012 and are still relevant today. Other goals were established through a 2018 citizen survey conducted by the Survey Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and from public information meetings. The objectives are set out as a logical sequence of events where applicable. Specific action items or strategies for meeting each goal and its associated objectives are identified in the Analysis and Action Plan sections for County Facilities. Gaal 1 Promote implementation of the St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan to provide a comprehensive, countywide trail system for residents and tourism in cooperation with cities,villages,towns,special interest groups and the County Highway Department. Objectives 1. Follow guidance provided in the St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan when pursuing bicycle and pedestrian improvement projects. 2. Continue to work with cities,villages, towns, special interest groups, the County Highway Department, adjacent counties and property owners to expand and implement the St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for multi-jurisdictional trail systems consisting of on and off road bikeways throughout St. Croix County. 3. Identify compatible and incompatible trail uses when planning trail systems at county parks and natural areas considering topography, safety, noise, trail surfacing, user interaction, maintenance, support facilities and signage. 4. Consider and identify environmental impacts to land and natural resources from multiple trail systems development. 5. Consider and identify long-term maintenance to land and facilities from multiple trail systems development. 6. Encourage planning for trail systems within future parks. 7. Provide for lineal connections and access points into trail systems from local, county, state and federal parks and other public facilities, including schools, paths, and community connection points. 8. The County Parks staff should work with the Land Use staff during the subdivision review and approval process to identify and develop trail connections to implement County-wide Trail System Plans. 9. Develop walking and cross-country skiing trail systems within county parks and natural areas based on demand. 10. To the extent economically and physically feasible, create American Disability Act (ADA)compliant accessibility. 11. Encourage the continuation of the state-funded countywide snowmobile trail system, which is developed and maintained by the St. Croix County Snowmobile Association and its affiliated snowmobile clubs with continued fiscal administration provided by St. Croix County. 12. Encourage the development of a countywide horse trail system by the Saddle Clubs in St. Croix County. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC 011'0 x couuumty I I Goals&Objectives January 8, 2019 Gaal 2 Identify,acquire and retain lands for outdoor recreation and for protection of scenic,threatened, environmentally sensitive,historic and cultural resources,or native natural areas. Objectives 1. Identify areas of water-based recreation, surface waters and wetlands to provide recreational opportunities and protect and restore water quality and scenic values. 2. Identify areas of historic and cultural value, unique plant or animal life, scenic view sheds and environmental sensitivity; native natural areas or areas threatened by development. 3. Identify areas for outdoor recreation. 4. Identify acquisition priorities based on adopted level of service standards, citizen surveys and other forms of analysis. 5. Utilize fee title, donations, grants and conservation easements, where feasible, for acquisition of park or preservation properties. 6. Develop an acquisition program, utilizing, where practical, a multi-jurisdictional approach to acquiring and developing outdoor recreation facilities. 7. Acquire land adjacent to existing parks for future expansion, as a use buffer or for resource protection. 8. Acquire abandoned railroad corridors for trail systems when available. 9. The St. Croix County Administration Committee should refer tax-deed deficient properties adjacent to existing parks or with water resources or sufficient size to provide recreation opportunities to the Community Development Committee for acquisition consideration prior to initiating tax-deed sale of these sites through foreclosure. The Community Development Committee shall evaluate these lands for recreational use and make a recommendation to the Administration Committee. Gaal 3 Develop County land to provide low-impact,nature-based facilities,parks and natural areas to fulfill recreational needs with access to all residents and visitors. Objectives 1. Evaluate current lands and facilities and assess the feasibility and economic possibilities of additional park development. 2. Design park and recreational facilities with the natural environment and historic and cultural resources in mind by considering project impacts to the environment. 3. Utilize County drainage ways, greenways, environmental corridors, utility and conservation easements for passive recreation use, including walking, wildlife habitat observation and preservation and trail development. Such environmental areas are not suitable as active parks because of topography and drainage limitations. 4. Consider the long-term expense of maintenance for land and facilities. 5. Update existing master plans for Homestead and Glen Hills on a regular basis and develop master plans for new park properties recently purchased with St. Croix River Crossing Mitigation funding. 12- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Goals&Objectives Gaal 4 Continue to evaluate maintain, update and improve existing County parks,facilities,trails and natural areas to meet the recreational needs of the increasing County population and changing residents. Objectives 1. Adjust to changing recreational activities, growing user base and continue to modernize facilities. 2. Consider changing demographics and societal trends when evaluating and planning park facilities and activities. 3. Periodically survey residents to solicit public input regarding parks and recreation needs. 4. Regularly survey park users to solicit public input regarding park facilities, customer service, activities, events and requested changes to park operations. 5. Identify the needs of residents at all age levels and physical requirements. 6. Identify private and commercial recreation activities to avoid duplication. 7. Evaluate county lands and parks to determine each site's capacity to support needed activities. 8. Continue to update existing County parks,facilities,trails and natural areas to meet changing recreational needs, maximize use of the resource and decrease user conflicts. 9. Consider ways to reduce long-term expense of maintenance to land and facilities. 10. Continue to maintain, replace and upgrade equipment for existing parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 11. Utilize this plan to establish capital improvement projects for county parks, trails and natural areas. 12. The Parks and Resource Management division staff will continue to work together to improve and expand habitat protection, improvement programs for fish and wildlife and provide access to fish and wildlife habitat areas and environmentally sensitive areas. 13. The Parks and Planning and Land Information divisions will continue to work together to develop and implement park plans and improvements to County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 14. Community Development and the County Highway departments will continue to work together to develop and implement the Bike and Pedestrian Plan. 15. Community Development and the Sheriff's departments will continue to work together to improve enforcement of the Parks Ordinance at County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 16. Community Development and the Health and Human Services Public Health Division will continue to work together to improve health and sanitation at County park facilities. Gaal 5 Improve public awareness of the County parks,facilities,trails and natural areas. Objectives 1. Continue to update and develop brochures, maps, handouts and other promotional materials for use in improving the public's awareness of the county's facilities and to promote tourism. 2. Improve directional signage to County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 3. Purchase directional signage to major county parks on Interstate, Federal and State Highways to encourage tourism usage. 4. Distribute promotional materials to area businesses, Chambers of Commerce, etc. 5. Participate in regional and local promotion efforts such as providing information to statewide tourist information centers and regional tourist publications. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 13 Goals&Objectives January 8, 2019 6. Plan and hold promotional activities at County park facilities. 7. Utilize the county website and social media to publicize and promote the County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas; and activities, events, promotions, etc. 8. Continue to publish both paper and electronic versions of the Gateway to Western Wisconsin publication; an interactive map & brochure that provides directions, hours, fees, activities and photos of the county-wide park facilities utilizing website, Facebook, and other social media. 9. Update the County Outdoor Recreation Plan every five years and solicit input and participation from residents and local units of governments, neighboring counties and special interest groups. Gaal 6 Update,as needed,regulations and policies for public use of county parks,facilities,trails and natural areas. Objectives 1. Bi-annually review the Park Ordinance to align with current State Statutes,Administrative Codes and local needs. 2. Annually review the policies and procedures for parks, facilities, trails, and natural areas. 3. Update, when needed, policies and procedures for the use and care of County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 4. Continue to operate the County parks, facilities, trails and natural areas in an efficient and effective manner. 5. Provide ongoing safety and maintenance inspections. 6. Annually review staffing needs for parks,facilities, trails and natural areas. 7. Annually review fee schedules for parks, facilities, trails and natural areas. 8. Continue to upgrade and improve the park reservation system used by the public. 9. Evaluate sites for overuse and develop policies to prevent damage to the resources or facilities. 10. Cooperate with the Department of Natural Resources on managing invasive species at parks and boat landing facilities. Gaal 7 Develop and implement County-administered outdoor environmental education and interpretive programs designed to inform and educate residents and tourists. Objectives 1. Identify educational and interpretive needs of residents through periodic surveys and other mechanisms. 2. Identify existing educational programs provided by schools and municipalities, state and federal parks and private and nonprofit organizations in order to avoid duplication. 3. Develop, acquire and improve interpretive displays and facilities for educational programs. 4. Identify environmental curriculum for outdoor education and implement appropriate educational activities. 5. Evaluate program effectiveness. 14- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Goals&Objectives Gaal 8 Research,develop and adopt outdoor recreation level-of-service standards for parks and outdoor recreation facilities throughout St. Croix County to meet the recreational needs of County residents. Objectives 1. Research and evaluate options for level of service standards including population-based, geographic-based, acreage-based, timeframe-based, and any other logical alternatives. 2. Develop and adopt a database of public and private parks, trails, natural areas acreages, services, etc. where level of service standards could apply. 3. Research population projections, geographic distribution of population, and age/sex distribution of population and correlate to needs for park and outdoor recreation facilities. 4. Develop outdoor recreation level-of-service standards for future acquisition of land for new and existing County parks, facilities,trails and natural areas. 5. Develop outdoor recreation level-of-service standards for new and existing facilities such as boat landings, shoreline fishing, swimming beaches, picnicking, camping, biking and hiking trails, and snowmobiling at County parks,facilities,trails and natural areas. 6. Develop outdoor recreation level-of-service standards for services such as educational programs and school access at County parks, facilities,trails and natural areas. Gaal 9 Cooperate and coordinate with cities,villages,towns,neighboring counties,special interest groups and property owners to provide recreational activities,access,education and preservation of natural,historic and cultural resources for the enjoyment and benefit of all citizens. Objectives 1. Provide assistance with park and recreation planning services to local municipalities. 2. Incorporate city,village and town plans into the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan when requested by local communities. 3. Provide Community Development Department staff assistance and resources to local communities and nonprofit organizations to develop applications and apply for recreation grants. 4. Utilize,where practical, a multi-jurisdictional approach to acquiring and developing outdoor recreation facilities. 5. Encourage other governmental acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands and of historical or cultural resources to preserve them and to provide public access to unique resources. 6. Coordinate park activities/facilities with municipal, private, state and federal agencies and organizations to compliment offerings without duplication. 7. Encourage the activities of local user groups as a means to obtain valuable ideas, comments, recommendations and resources. 8. Utilize private resources such as individuals, community organizations, friends groups, land trusts, and nonprofit agencies, to donate time, labor, money, land and other resources to develop and maintain needed quality facilities. 9. The Community Development Department will work with property owners during the subdivision review and approval process to protect and management significant or unique environmental resources utilizing tools such as conservation easements or conservation design development. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouro° x Couuumty 15 Parks& Recreation Survey January 8, 2019 Parks & Recreation Survey In 2018, the St. Croix County Community Development Department hired the Survey Research Center(SRC) at University of Wisconsin-River Falls to conduct a survey for the 2019 Outdoor Recreation Plan update. Executive Summary In early 2018,the Survey Research Center(SRC) at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls conducted a survey for St. Croix County's Community Development Department to gather public input from St. Croix County residents and from residents of adjoining counties regarding outdoor recreational facilities and amenities offered by the County. A sample of 1,146 residents was drawn for St. Croix County (three times the sample size needed for+/-5% confidence interval). In addition, 752 surveys (188/county)were mailed to households in neighboring counties (Pierce, Polk, and Dunn counties in Wisconsin and Washington County, Minnesota). The total number of surveys mailed was 1,898. Households were randomly selected from mailing lists acquired from a list broker. Three contacts were involved in the survey process. The SRC mailed a survey packet containing a cover letter(111 page of the survey), the survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. Recipients who received the survey were given the option of returning the survey by mail or completing it online. Those not responding to the first mailing were sent a postcard reminder. Recipients not responding within 10 days of the follow-up postcard received another survey. The data collection phase lasted approximately seven weeks. Out of 1,898 surveys mailed,425 respondents returned usable surveys by mail or submitted them online. The response rate for St. Croix County was 26% (294/1,146). Given that St. Croix County has approximately 66,625 adults, the estimates included in this report should be accurate to within plus or minus 5.7%with 95%confidence for the St. Croix County population. The response rate for neighboring counties was 17% (131/752). Survey Respondents • Forty-seven percent of St. Croix County respondents have lived in the region for over 25 years. Fifty-six percent of residents from adjacent counties have been regional residents for 25+years. • Approximately 9 in 10 respondents for both populations (County residents and non-County residents) are home-owners. • One half of St. Croix County's survey respondents have at least a Bachelor's degree (39%for residents of adjacent counties). • Sixty-three percent of the St. Croix County sample report that no children live in their household (75% of residents of adjacent counties have no children living at home). • Approximately one-quarter of St. Croix County respondents are under the age of 45 (23%of non- County residents are <45). • The majority of survey respondents for both populations were male (63%for St. Croix County and 62%for adjacent counties). 16- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Parks& Recreation Survey St. Croix Counts Outdoor Recreation Facilities • The three St. Croix County outdoor recreational facilities with the most awareness by County residents were Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake), Glen Hills Park, and Troy Beach. The only St. Croix County facility with close to a majority of non-resident awareness was Apple River Property. • The facilities with the most usage by County residents were Homestead Parklands/Perch Lake and Glen Hills Park. One-third of non-County residents have used Glen Hills Park. • The facility with the highest rating by County residents was Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake)and Glen Hills Park for non-residents. St. Croix Count%/s Outdoor Recreational Amenities/Services • The three St. Croix County outdoor recreational amenities and services with the most awareness by County residents were swimming beaches, picnic facilities, and boat ramps For non-residents, boat ramps were the amenity with the most awareness. • The amenities/services with the most usage by residents were swimming beaches and hiking trails. Picnic facilities and boat ramps were the amenities/services most used by non-County residents. • The amenity/service with the highest rating by County residents was playgrounds and, for non- residents, hiking trails. • When asked to identify the amenity/service "most important"to them, boat ramps was the top choice for both County residents and non-County residents. Adequacy/Future Needs Of St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreational Facilities/Amenities • When asked which facilities or amenities should be expanded over the next 5 years, COUNTY RESIDENTS SUPPORT EXPANDING: one amenity, hiking trails, had majority ➢ Hiking Trails (55%) support by County residents. ➢ Swimming beaches (40%) • Subsequently, respondents were asked to ➢ Shoreline fishing facilities (36%) identify the one facility or amenity they ➢ Off-road bike trails (33%) believe should be the County's "highest ➢ Campgrounds (32%) priority" for expansion over the next five ➢ Boat ramps (29%) years, County residents'top choice was ➢ Snowshoe and cross-country ski trails (29%) hiking trails; boat ramps were top choice for non-County residents. Most Preferred Facilities/Amenities at Glen Hills Park • For both County residents and non-County residents, camper cabins was the most preferred recreational facility/amenity at Glen Hills Park and family activities, such as geocaching and scavenger hunts, was the second most preferred. Information Sources • If respondents (both County residents and non-residents) receive information about St. Croix County parks, it generally comes from the County's website or from other people. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouro° x Couuumty 17 Parks& Recreation Survey January 8, 2019 Barriers to Usage • When non-users of St. Croix County Park facilities were asked in an open-ended question why they haven't used park facilities, primary reasons were: being unaware/not knowing what is offered, distance, age, having no children, lack of interest, or too busy. Complete results of the 2018 Parks and Recreation Survey, including methodology, analysis and comparison to the 2004 Parks and Recreation Survey can be found in Attachment A. 18- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Administration COUNTY PARKS ADMINISTRATION The Community Development Committee is responsible for policy direction for the St. Croix County Parks system.The Community Development Department oversees, develops, plans and directs the County park system's management, operations,fiscal administration and long-range planning.The parks division staff work out of various parks and oversee operation and maintenance of Glen Hills Park, Pine Lake Park, the Wildwood Trail, Apple River Property, Bass and Squaw Lake Boat Landings, Homestead Parklands on Perch Lake, Kinnickinnic and Stanton Forests and Troy Beach. The Community Development Committee will revisit the park ordinance and policies, staffing needs, capital improvements, redevelopment and expansion on an annual basis to insure the parks are meeting the public's needs and expectations. Park Administration Action Plan Improvement Cost Funding Source Year Propose amendments to the parks ordinance and changes to the fee schedule to the Community Development $0 N/A Annually Committee. Review staffing needs as the county parks system N/A Annually expands. Update operational policies and procedures regarding use of county parks,trails,facilities and natural areas. $0 N/A Annually Continue to expand and improve the curriculum for outdoor environmental educational activities. Current Park/LWCD offerings include water quality, groundwater, geology, $500 Budgets Annually birds,forestry/trees, and soils. Continue to develop, acquire and improve interpretive displays and facilities for outdoor environmental $2,500 Park Budget Ongoing education and interpretive programs. Continue to expand promotional activities including brochures, maps, outreach, events, and programs. $5,000 Park Budget Annually Support Eagle Scout Projects $0 Ongoing Work with County organizations to distribute promotional materials, such as chambers, rotaries etc. $0 N/A Ongoing Utilize the County website and social media to publicize and promote Parks Division events and activities. $0 N/A Ongoing Install official directional signage from the interstate to $152019 - Glen Hills Campground/Park. ,000 Park Budget 2020 Provide local assistance in recreation planning. $0 N/A Ongoing Coordinate park activities/facilities with other municipalities, agencies and organizations to compliment $0 N/A Ongoing without duplicating effort. Manage, control, remove invasive species-park property $1,000 Park Budget Ongoing Develop and adopt level of service standards for County outdoor recreation activities such as boat landings, shoreline fishing, swimming beaches, picnic areas,trail $10,000 Park Budget 2020-2021 systems, etc. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC cirox ouuumty 19 Administration January 8, 2019 Improvement Cost Funding Source Year Scheduled replacement ofpark maintenance equipment $15,000 C|P Annually Expand opportunities for recreational winter activities such asfat tire bike, snovvshoein8, cross-country skiing to $22,000 increase winter parks attendance. Coordinate with citizen (�8,UUUfor ` Park Budget ZUZU'ZUZZ volunteers toprovide these opportunities. Costs grooming associated could include trail development and equip) maintenance, equipment or rental for trail grooming. Update the Outdoor Recreation Plan every 5years, $7,000 Park Budget 2023 including conducting surveys ofvisitors and residents. Crack fill and chip seal all park drivevvays parking' $75,000 OP 2025'2026 maintenance yards ����0°�~�� N������� ����~���� �� ������NN~��~��~���� Parks~~~~ ~~~~m~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~� Acquisition The County Parks staff has identified a list of potential types of expansion or acquisition opportunities for the County park system. If level of service standards are created and adopted the list of acquisition and expansion opportunities would be expanded, refined and prioritized by Parks staff and the Community Development Committee. The level of service standards would provide a clearer picture of what kind, where, and how many additional park facilities are needed. This section ofthe plan would then be amended by the County to include high priority opportunities identified by the level of service standards, for expansion and acquisition.The following list includes general areas of interest for various types of new facilities. * Consider retaining any currently owned County land for future parks, natural areas or forests. * Consider retaining tax deed deficient properties upon recommendation of the Community Development and Administration Committees to provide additional park facilities, expand existing parks, buffer existing facilities, protect water quality, improve habitat, expand the county forest system orprotect unique natural resources. * Consider acquiring land adjacent to existing County recreation facilities to expand recreational activities, expand trails for hiking or make trail connections, create additional shoreline fishing and wildlife habitat, improve water quality management and protect aesthetic views. * Consider acquiring wetlands adjacent to existing parks to protect water quality, improve habitat protection, expand recreational opportunities and provide buffers. * Consider acquiring land to improve existing boat landings, provide additional boat landings or expand existing boat landings, add shoreline fishing and create additional parking, picnic facilities, etc. on lakes throughout the County, possibly through coordination and partnership with the DNR. * Consider acquiring additional land toexpand the County forests. * Consider acquiring land to create linear connections to existing properties, create a buffer and protect the resource through coordination and cooperation with organizations. * Consider acquiring or expanding public access and parking along rivers and tributaries, possibly through coordination and partnership with nonprofit organizations. * Consider acquiring land to protect and preserve cultural, historical and unique water resources. * If any railroad grades become available, due to a train line being abandoned, these should be obtained for trail uses. January 8, 2019 Administration • Consider acquiring, through donations or purchasing easements, previously abandoned railroad grades that could provide connectivity to municipalities, recreational facilities or other locations of special interest. Riverway Memorandum of Understanding — Mitigation for Damages to Blufflands The new St. Croix River Crossing in the Houlton area, which opened in 2017, was a controversial project. To mitigate any negative impacts from the new bridge, a Memorandum of Understanding was developed and signed between the National Park Service, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), Federal Highway Administration, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)to provide funding for mitigation activities. These mitigation activities were focused on reducing impacts on bluff lands, scenic and recreational values and protection of greenspace. There were numerous mitigation items, some were specific and some more broad. Some required MNDOT, WisDOT, WDNR or the National Park Service to be the lead agency responsible with input from local citizens, organizations and government. Others however required St. Croix County or the Town of St.Joseph to be the lead agency with input from state or federal agencies, local citizens and local government. The largest impact has come from the$2 million granted to WDNR, $2 million granted to St. Croix County and $500,000 granted to the Town of St.Joseph for purchase, transfer of development rights, or acquisition of easements to mitigate damages to the blufflands along the St. Croix River by protection of replacement lands. This has involved the WDNR, County and Town working together and with other agencies and organizations to purchase sites from willing sellers that will protect replacement lands, and have recreational value to area residents. Five sites have been acquired by St. Croix County, three were purchased by the county, one was purchased in conjunction with WDNR and with assistance from a state stewardship grant, and one was purchased in conjunction with the Town of St.Joseph and with assistance from a state stewardship grant to the town. A second mitigation fund of$400,000 was awarded to St. Croix County for greenspace protection within the St. Croix River watershed. These funds were to be utilized for acquisition, easement, inventory or program development. A portion of the funding has contributed towards one of the site acquisitions, the remaining funds are expected to be utilized for an additional acquisition within 2018-2019. The following section will provide information on County properties purchased with St. Croix River Crossing Mitigation funding. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 21 January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities St. Croix Count Properties Acquired Using Mitigation Funding - .l rile IZ Slnr Pr ,N Park F: i SYA APAIRII k� TOWN OF SOMERSET f pp TOWN OF STANTON TOWN OF CYLON TOWN OF FOREST p i 1 j � 111 , S Or k.. .. .�...... A ....... r " TOWN OF ERIN PR41Rifi R©Vwr6u OF EMFAMLD TOWN OF IFWUYG7d70 '� ... DOWN Or RICH,)FOR I. Glnnwond Cil r �.p " 170 .m TOWN OF SF IOSYPN �.vxRi .,�,»»,». �,,. ..... _...,,.,� ........... ... ,e...,_.'➢w,�_.C:�:.w. ...., .. > T[%WN a.�P wAARRW TOWN ry� TraWNorvFra,�MONN North Hnds.n oPo HUDscrN --re � �1I2 F� ,, ,��.F.� TOW"oFPonLDwiN TawNcnawkunoraLV 3511 �... H. �i . � .... 3.5............ W._....._a�Y �, .,.Nobartts �.', .�..��,.....----""" iy mm�............. �tdwl� ._,..., �� � ��..... "Hudson �, n �, '�c� INdaon d'il f ` nm^R kdNNIC'KINNI(',' PLEA Al`ITW F TOWN Or j r.WCJ Of TROY LOW IL ODM ;OWN T ✓d ALLEY RUSH 4IVER TO OF EAU GVALLE G?'V✓N r CAGY r� T�. "� �ivertalls �...1Jr"..� wdwF 5prt.gy Walley 29 N r Interstate Highway CA Richards Property � US Highway Pckert.Property 5 State Highway Orf Property Villages and Cities St. Croix River Crossing Trailhead Municipal Boundaries waldroff Property 0 2.5 5 10 15 2.0 Miles January 8, 2019 Administration Waldroff Property In 2018,the Town of St.Joseph purchased 117 acres from the Waldroff family for$1.3 million (see map on page 22). St. Croix County contributed $300,000 towards the purchase and, in exchange, the Town of St. Joseph will deed to the County the southern 40 acres adjacent to Homestead Parklands on Perch Lake.The funding was a combination of Riverway Mitigation Funding from the Town of St.Joseph and St. Croix County. A Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Stewardship Grant of$508,000 was also secured to aid in the purchase of the property. The property contains a diverse set of habitat types including springs, wet and dry wetlands, grasslands and oak savannas. Preservation of this property will enhance groundwater recharge, restore wildlife habitat, furnish a scenic lake vista and supply a site for scientific study and environmental education. As a nature park, it has the potential to offer many opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, bird watching, geocaching, hunting and trapping and cross-country skiing. The public will be able to access the Town's 77-acre park from Valley View Trail, a local town road, as well as from the southeast corner through Homestead Park.This would be foot traffic only. As appropriate, St. Croix County will work with the Town of St.Joseph on management and master planning of the properties. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 23 Administration January 8, 2019 Orf Family Overlook on Bass Lake History In December 2015, St. Croix County purchased a small acreage on Bass Lake from Margaret Orf. Prior to its purchase, the property was a portion of a corn/soybean field and pasture for grazing cattle.The property is 13.8 acres in size and includes 1,360 feet of shoreline on the north side of Bass Lake in the Town of Somerset off 153rd Avenue. It is adjacent to the existing Bass Lake Boat Landing. There are no plans to provide additional parking for the boat landing facility. As a condition ofm the purchase, Mrs. Orf requested the park name recognize the Orf Family. Since the park offers n stunning views of Bass Lake from a higher vantage point it was decided to name the new park the Orf Family Overlook on Bass Lake. Facilities The site has not been developed since it was purchased. The property was a former homestead with remnants from past improvements such as a driveway, cistern, well, structure foundations, boundary fencing and electrical service lines. Most of the site was rented out for livestock grazing for decades. The site has beautifully shaped oaks and relatively few invasive species due to active grazing. The Bass Lake Rehabilitation District installed fencing to prevent livestock access to the shallow waters abutting the property and reduce impacts to water quality. The northwest corner of the site is leased farmland still in production on the property following the traditional field boundary. Spring of 2018,the former pasture was burned by the Somerset Fire Department in an effort to stimulate growth of any prairie remnants that may be present. The burn went well but only a few species have emerged.The site will be burned again spring of 2019 and then seeded with a native prairie mix and additional oak trees planted. The lease with the farmer ended with the 2018 crop. Needs Assessment Plans for the Orf property include providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, upland picnicking, parking and shoreline fishing.There also is a wonderful opportunity for Oak Savannah restoration. Restoring the property dovetails with the surrounding environmental corridor and the preservation of one of Wisconsin's (top 1%)outstanding resource waters, Bass Lake. Initial plans for the property include: seeding down the remaining site with native prairie and additional oak trees; removing existing shoreline fence and cutting invasive tree species such as buckthorn, box elder and elm; planting apple and plum trees; and constructing a boundary fence along the south and west property lines as outlined in the purchase agreement; construction of an entrance driveway with a gate and small parking area; providing garbage and recycling containers; and a portable restroom structure with screening. Additional facilities at the site will include entrance sign, limestone and grass trails, picnic tables, grill, 24- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Administration information kiosk, benches, educational panels, small shelter, observation boardwalk, and shoreline fishing station/overlook site at the easternmost point. Please see site plan below. Construction will begin in 2019. The County Capital Improvement Plan has allocated $110,000 in funding,the St. Croix County Sportsmen's Alliance is contributing$4,000. Orf Family v rl n Bass Lake Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Burn,seed,tree planting,trail layout__._ _N $2,000m-CIP 2019-2020m- Install boundary fence, gates, entrance sign, kiosk, picnic CI P, Sportsmen's shelter, waste & recycling containers, picnic tables, $42,000 2019-2020 satellite restroom, benches and educational panels Alliance Construct driveway, parking lot,picnic shelter,screening, $70,000 CIP, Park Budget 2019-2020 wildlife board walk, and shoreline fishing r' lig, iKi,/r �d//%1Jrtl�///✓i//r<� ////////%ff����j/�//\%i�opoiiv��i„/�,w�Dii �, ;., V u�iNul I' 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirox Couuumty 25 January 8, 2019 Administration Richards & Eckert Properties History 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. Facilities 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. Needs Assessment 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. yb � mpry M � I w w a 1 li�. d ., • a N f r'M, 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 27 Administration January 8, 2019 w r,/ //jri/f���✓ h f � ( J r 1l.Ylr✓ ���' yq`rr � Y��mp r t, n dG � / r i II q i'. Y �f kid 4� jA - P�A'fis �. 6��"/ /l�(✓/��li lei�i%i� y1?'�" ,� �� � � � � s 4 y �. i 11�• � o !f(�� d"w7��r�� �� �;�f""' ��W�''a'v`��'J'"dl�"�. �f„ � � �,'�r ,� v�0`�; ,, u„�,�,� it�M�x y.� ��4�°'��a �"'�f r. �� {or- r 28- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Administration St. Croix River Crossing Trailhead, Trail and Hilltop Trailhead History The Joyce Trust property was acquired by the County in 2015 and is located in Houlton at the corner of Houlton School Circle (formerly County Road E) and Hawk Street (see map on page 22). This 6.8-acre property was purchased to expand the main trailhead facility serving the new St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. In 2013 St. Croix County entered into an agreement with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)to operate and maintain the new Trail and both the Main Trailhead and the Hilltop Trailhead. The trail and part of the main trailhead will continue to be owned by WisDOT. Facilities Improvements on this property are under construction in 2018 and should be completed in early 2019. WisDOT has awarded a contract for most of the development of the trail and trailheads. For some of the development WisDOT has awarded the County funding to complete construction, WisDOT is also providing funding for maintenance equipment and a future trail maintenance fund. The County has provided capital funding of$200,000 for trail improvements and this funding has been matched with Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)ADLP and RTA grants totaling$200,000. Facilities at the St. Croix Crossing Main Trailhead will include entrance sign, restroom building with sanitary system and running water, well, drinking fountain, parking lot, picnic tables, picnic pavilion, pollinator garden,Wisconsin Historical Marker, Veterans Memorial Marker, Art Bench, and maintenance building. Facilities at both the Main Trailhead and Hilltop Trailhead will include benches, 2 bicycle aid stations, 12 interpretive panels, 2 informational kiosks, landscaping, rain garden and portable restrooms. Once completed, St. Croix County will assume operation and maintenance of the trail and two trailheads. A park and ride parking lot with a direct connection to the trailhead was constructed in 2017 and will provide additional parking. Needs Assessment The county is partnering with several organizations to implement some of the improvements on the site including the Wisconsin Garden Club Federation, Houlton Elementary,The Phipps Center for the Arts, and St. Croix Bike and Pedestrian Trail Coalition. Additional donations are being sought for benches, kiosks, signage, plantings and more. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 29 January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities EXISTING FACILITIES ANALYSIS & ACTION PLANS 5M P 066r,P6rL �J W 8 e t uuuNq e R hmnnd ° �M d i wry .. 1js^,u,.^ml Y. of x �rod W WII v Nud o i wed Al. w Apple River Property January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities 9 J � �f���l r�/r/r i � �,• ' / r t ��I// � /, / /l //J E / f 4 y,f �/�,��fj 1 9 �/ ,��,lr J N/ !/� ,/�gr Jrij� l(; � �/ / / r✓!�l!! /� my, "ni w,00Apple River ILA 12, Erg /// 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi mity ,, 31 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Apple River Property History St. Croix County owns approximately 72 acres of land on the Apple River in the Town of Star Prairie. Northern States Power Company donated the land to the County in 1964. The land is divided by County Road H and used for hiking, canoeing/kayaking, fishing and hunting. Facilities The site has an entrance sign, picnic tables, hiking trails, a parking area and a canoe/kayak launch area.The site is open for hunting and fishing. Improvements The County has owned the land for 54 years and needs to expand usage by increasing promotion to the public. In 2010, as part of a Park Improvement Grant, a hiking trail a loop was established to provide better fishing access and to present scenic views of the Apple River. Needs Assessment The Apple River Property is a County open space and natural recreation resource. St. Croix County, along with the Sportsman's Alliance, Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust and Star Prairie Fish & I IN Game should work together to protect the site to improve and encourage hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing, etc. at the site and preserve the resource for the future. The canoe/kayak launch should be improved and additional hiking trails should be constructed on the parcels to the north and on the east sides of the Apple River. A second entrance and parking area should be constructed off 127th street. Shoreline fishing stations should also be constructed. � MF The County Parks Division should r work/cooperate with neighboring landowners and local Sportsman's clubs to develop a walking/hiking trail from the Apple River property on the north side of County Road H to the Star Prairie Land Preservation Trust property near Cedar Lake. In 2009, the Nelson Family, which was aware of the potential to connect the two locations, donated a walking easement on their property prior to selling. The former Nelson property is located north fi 7 �° �� ��,� � •, of the Apple River property. 32- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Apple River Action ' rA[t'[)O Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year The canoe/kayak launch should beimproved with $2,000 Park Budget 2019'2022 shoreline restoration tostabilize and facilitate Grants launching canoes and kayaks, better signage, designated parking and directional signage tothe site. Asecond entrance and parking area should be $2,000 Park Budget 2019'2022 constructed off 1Z71hstreet and anaccess should be created tothe parcel north of[THH. Additional hiking trails should beconstructed onthe $1,000 Park Budget 2019'2022 parcel north ofCTHHand onthe east side ofthe Apple River. Introduce hike-in camp sites with minimal facilities, $1,000 Park Budget 2019'2022 allow reservations only using the online reservation Grants system, use the Boundary Waters asamodel. Shoreline fishing stations should beconstructed onall $1,000 Sportsnnens 2019'2022 three sections ofthe property. Alliance Park Budget Property survey conducted byCounty Surveyor to $U Park Budget 2018'2020 designate property boundaries. Create awalking/hiking trail from the Apple River Unknown DNRGrants 2019'2023 property north to the Star Prairie Preservation Trust Sportsman's Clubs property byeither acquisition ordonated easement Park Budget from neighboring landowners. The flume site should beimproved with historic and $3,000 Park Budget ZUZU interpretive signage and bench. The flume site is located off 1ZZ"a Street. Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 /u Sri apr P'pifia �„ m ao if Dier Park a j` iy v r q5 m SPmerser mmwPrsdm� �u. .m . — ............ .. ., — —.w—mM .....,. and mg Glen ood�Sl170 � 65 NarthN dson datleaa m ..un ,am ip vaun, W I6a and R 6 ,a MMOMMMM hr 63 m..0 35:u� �^ ftss Lake Boat �mm Landing rt 34- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities m p I r,,/� ➢ � 'f%/���//r/i�% it �i�"Ii f r/////fui b l//�%�l,! ,, / LO �����f�y ��iiG��u i�iM��i6(fWUNwu6fi�M(�fif�iNi��iwNiNiQN ivu�uuV«a VouoVN� I �// ! ti � r • i,✓ vllf oil r s I`�rk 80AA Par ki�ug 1 4 2Q 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirol omity omit35 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Bass Lake Boat Landing History The Department of Natural Resources owns approximately 2 acres of land on Bass Lake ➢J� '��� ,, ,,, in the Town of Somerset. St. Croix County has a 20-year maintenance agreement for the site with the DNR that will expire on November 18, 2018. Facilities The site has a boat landing with launch, two courtesy docks, signage and a parking lot with 17 stalls, including one handicapped accessible stall. IN I ji Recent Improvements A kiosk information panel was installed at the boat landing to provide notices and messages regarding Bass Lake. In 2014, 15 fish cribs were constructed and added to Bass Lake. A camera to monitor invasive species management was installed at Bass Lake landing in conjunction with Bass Lake Rehabilitation District in � 2015. Needs Assessment Bass Lake Boat Landing is a heavily used,very popular site for access to Bass Lake. The parking is often inadequate with boaters parking along the town road and parking at the landing in undesignated sites. An ,ME evaluation of the parking area to determine if additional spaces could be added determined it was not possible without additional acreage. There is a water runoff problem from the parking lot down the ramp into the lake. There have been several complaints from neighboring property owners. Signs should be added to prohibit power loading of watercraft. Power loading watercraft have created a scour hole at the end of the boat ramp, which has resulted in ongoing maintenance. 36- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Bass Lake Boat Landing Acti n Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Continue to work with the Bass Lake Rehabilitation w District on the lake management plan and fishhabitat $0 NA Ongoing around the lake. Fish cribs $3,000 County Budget Ongoing Review/Update maintenance agreement with DNR $0 NA 2018-2019 Chip seal parking lot area $30,000 CIP 2019-2020 Renew parking lot striping and circulation markings to maximize efficiency and safety $5000 County/DNR 2019-2020 Install drainage catch channel connecting to storm CIP water ponding to prevent surface water runoff into the $5,000 DNR 2019-2020 lake and improve water quality Install new signage to discourage power loading of County Budget $2,000 Ongoing water and repair the scour hole at the end of the ramp DNR 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Choi Oowity 37 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 5wrP VVq, ` I IIS r9G = G e Pork �_ / $6RIBMBI IIR, III 4 GE--d C �',HW— p �� vrno ..rmlIff..�7� IIII� " uds� I�IY° R b t M tl FYI .,. _ .. Woadvi. .d YAVuur� 'Rive Fulls Sfid' r .awmc.•.^� mud 7L _.. ... Pr gmtl�lY Y� f 1 �_ �r r /i ✓✓ n P �f \1� Y I/r v s� ✓ >1 f✓ i�j// J,r� J i. 1 a W�I ���_ �' 'D1Y,a ri✓,ti2,r�i�f�yr,'wYy;�^r>y�rrnfiN;,m=,N rn�i✓,,n;;z�,�il J 1. 38- Stu Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Glen Hill i31uu Stc un Tr iPark �15 P r a i i e v i v v i' f✓ r'i/fir„ / ,„ % � r,,; i r� y � / ,,,'r �`" ,, " x�iwN w✓AN�� ��riiii r��� r�i/%/ r r /, %t j � l J „`; r .�" /i�//:, �/ % ' /�f /Ili �� rr /,, t`r'� � �i�/ ;/w: �i;,✓'i ', �� 'J�� fir /Oi1// /o ,.■ �//,, ��/ � � //' � rrrrr; %iii/j/�if �� %I�.� � �//f/� ....�/ ://� � tib✓ �%���:/��r�i ;. r;/s Al a, r' (/ "r, rl / i'', dr�S ✓,, r/ �/,, r ('�;,��� p, , [ r ,',�i1M�`�lGr,/ /%/< //r r 1 jr/� �r r1„k �';��,/f�i/!;r r ✓i f ���n r///,r.�r/ // 1,r' rr// /,,,,,�,✓r,, / � , / r.���,/� /; , l lr s �,,ri,/i /r %// ��"'//rr„/ ,..✓i�coor<... ,.., I//ria.. �, „✓r ,. ,,,..... j� l( , r /�/ // ��/, �i/, ��l'i�✓/i/r//,/ ✓,�,/i „/ i, .., , a:.<, /i,/fir. tfr����,,,,��,i/,//�/// .,.� �//. �. /, �,„/. „r ,rill ,,,,,/.,�; �/� :, ,; ,,,,,.... ,,,,,,> ✓I/„ ///,/, .,.�/ ' \r �r/a//�Y��- 11� / r %/l/ / �,. Vii(,V„ �r /„///��/ ,./ ��� ✓ / �,✓r1V/ / ff\ / / % r l/i/i// /��/�/�� Q Athletic Fields Natures Pla,yl;round 99 / w 11ry� S 13oah;Landing Picnic Shelter fir/ r /� �� jf/ owed ro Campi ii%iii� a/�/ // �%�t+✓� r / �/ �` riir�/ ��r�i /�/ l g ■ Picnic Arra R;,", Canoe/ ✓ ,;f�/ii1'ii' '/ �� . Canoe 113oatRental , l layground stic Discf ill(Course Start) 1= 1,90 Sarni6ation Dump ri Stataon Parking Lot Emergency phone Scenic overlook Entrance Station Showers .......... ._ P rk Roads r FirewoodSwimming Beach Wak er d Darll �- Handicap Accessible Water0 Bathroom 0 11 500 1,000 1,1 SOo 2,000 Park Boundary � Handicap Accessible ]dam r Feetfishing Pier as ,WiiWI, 1'11'11 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Croix Comilty ,, 39 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Glen Hills Park History The Glen Hills Park is a water-based recreation facility located in the hill country of west central Wisconsin. The park consists of 700 wooded acres surround the beautiful 78-acre horseshoe-shaped Glen Lake.The park is only five miles from Interstate 94 heading north on State Highway 128 or four miles south of Glenwood City, located in the Town of Springfield on Rustic Road 3 and Rustic Road 4. Glen Lake, a watershed impoundment, allows electric trolling motors only. It is popular with residents and non- residents alike and is the largest facility in the County Parks system. The park and Glen Lake, a 78-acre lake,were created by the Soil Conservation Service as part of the Public Law(PL) 566 Floodwater Control Program to provide flood protection and prevent soil erosion in the late 1960's and early 1970's. The primary use of the site is to contain floodwater and the secondary use is recreation. The County has a perpetual lease from the State of Wisconsin to operate the site as a recreational facility, open to the public. The park opened in 1974. The County subleases 72 acres of the site, under a 99-year lease, to the Glen Hills Golf Association, which operates a 9-hole golf course, pro shop, driving range, practice green and restaurant with bar. The association has considered the feasibility of adding an additional nine holes to the golf course. Facilities Facilities include: the 61-site Peninsula campground, all sites have electrical service; and the 17-site Prairie View campground, which does not have electrical service and also offers group camping; two picnic areas; three playgrounds and a nature's playground area; swimming beach; boat landing; canoe/kayak/row boat/paddle boat launch and rental; multi-use sports field; earthen dam; scenic overlook; 9-hole disc golf; hiking, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails; and handicapped accessible fishing pier.The camping season runs from May 1 through October 31 each year. Limited hunting is allowed within the park. Staffing There are two full-time and ten seasonal staff at the park. Both the day use and campground areas of the park are open and staffed daily from May 1st to October 31st.There is no lifeguard on duty. During the off- season, November 1-April 15, the day use area is open daily but is not staffed on weekends. The seasonal staff members are generally hired from May to October. They are a combination of college or technical school students, retirees and those who enjoy outdoor work; all are trained in the operation of the park's facilities, equipment and public contact. 40- 5t. Ouirou Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Master Plan In 2018, St. Croix County commissioned Tom Loucks &Associates, Inc. and Michael Huber Architects to assist the County in preparing a park-wide master plan for Glen Hills Park and schematic concept plans for RV and group campgrounds and camper cabin facilities.The outcome of the planning process includes: • Drawings and text describing existing site conditions and modernized activities in response to changing visitor interests, location for recreation uses throughout the park and proposed concept plans for additional camping areas. • Review of natural resource areas in the park and recommendations for management of vegetative cover and storm water drainage. • Preliminary cost estimates for a new RV campground, group campground and camper cabin campground • Development plan including review of park development priorities and projected revenue sources. The Glen Hills Master Plan considered the changing demographics of park users, the age of the existing facilities, and the need to provide new and expanded facilities to meet needs of users. The Master Plan looks ahead 15 to 20 years but is also a dynamic document that will change as priorities shift and opportunities occur. The top priorities identified in the Master Plan were: • Practices to address five separate erosion problems that are affecting the water quality and aesthetic and scenic elements in the park. • Remodeling the Prairie View camping area into a recreational vehicle (RV) campsite with 22 sites, nine pull-through and 13 back in, all able to accommodate larger RVs and offering electrical service, plumbed toilet/shower building, and a dump station. • Adding camper cabins to the Peninsula campground and creating a new camping area with nine camper cabins between the boat landing entrance road and the existing play field. • Developing a new group area that would accommodate several sizes of groups, offer partial electrical service and be separate from other campers. It would be located in the prairie meadow north of the old group area and would share restroom/shower/dump station facilities with the new RV campground. • The plan identified and located numerous other smaller improvements and amenities that would expand usage and enhance visitor experiences. These included walk-in camping sites, a special event area, paved handicapped accessible trail, apple orchard, beach improvements, multi-use field area upgrades, improved lake access, replacing the shower/restroom facility at the Peninsula campground, mountain bike trails and interpretive displays. The Glen Hills Park Master Plan can be found in Attachment B. Recent Improvements The last few years have seen numerous renovations and improvements at Glen Hills County Park. All driveways and parking lots were crack filled and chip sealed in 2017 and 2018. In 2017,the County completed construction of a new handicapped accessible bathroom/shower building with running water, flush toilets and baby changing stations in the picnic area. The campground, picnic area and group area wells tested high for coliform bacteria in 2015 and 2016 but treatment was not effective. In addition to the failed water tests these 44-year old wells no longer met code requirements. In 2017, the County authorized $76,000 in contingency funding to install new above-ground pressure tanks; new well caps and pumps; 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 41 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 electrical service, connection and housing for a pressure tank at the Group Area well; creation of well logs; well and pump inspections; and follow up water sampling. Existing drinking fountains were cleaned and repaired and one new drinking fountain installed. That summer also saw the structural failure of the septic tank at the day use entrance causing$5,000 in emergency repairs. 2017 new equipment included canoes, utility terrain vehicle (UTV), 2 paddleboats and 2 golf carts. In 2016, a new welcome sign was installed and the campground entrance station was refurbished with new flooring, wall finishes and workstations. Staff have been replacing the wooden picnic tables every year with low maintenance, plastic-coated steel the last of the replacements were completed in 2016. In 2014,the County purchased online reservation software for campsites, the program went live December of 2015. Online reservations have increased camping at Glen Hills and is popular with old and new customers. The highest level of camping activity ever at Glen Hills was 3,371 camper unit days in 2016. In 2015, the Day Use entrance station was remodeled with new wall finishes, workstations, office and improved layout. The entrance station, shop office, campground shower buildings and all restrooms had epoxy flooring installed. The shower and pit toilets were repainted, repaired and new privacy surrounds constructed. In 2014, electrical service was extended to the picnic area shelter and 15 fish cribs were placed in the lake for fish habitat. Needs Assessment General Facilities The Glen Hills facility is a beautiful county park. While many improvements have been made, many of the facilities in the park are over 40 years old and need significant modernizing or replacement. Failures or problems have occurred with increasing frequency in recent years demonstrating the need to address the age of these facilities. The Glen Hills Master Plan looked at options to address visitor requests such as: flush restroom facilities for campers, larger campsites, pull-through campsites, more and smaller picnic shelters some with food preparation areas; improve services such as addressing erosion which is decreasing water quality and impacting recreational use; providing more trails/viewing areas along the lake shore and better connections within the park to activity areas; and offer new types of recreational uses such as camper cabins, walk-in camping; fat-tire biking, special event facilities and handicapped accessible trails. An ongoing goal is to increase attendance at the park, especially day-use visitors. Better signage on Interstate 94 and along STH 128 have been requested by visitors. Glen Lake is showing signs of age.The sediment levels have been steadily increasing causing higher and higher nutrient levels in the lake.The amount of algae is increasing and related activities such as swimming have decreased during periods of peak algae bloom in mid to late summer. The Master Plan identified five areas with excessive erosion to the lake that should be addressed. Grant funding to assist with addressing these problems may be available with a county match; staff will pursue. These sites will need professional design and engineering to address the erosion. Increased goose population on the lake has had a negative impact on the water quality and swimming conditions. Options to remedy these situations have been tried but were not effective; staff will continue to explore alternatives. 42- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities GLEN HILLS GENERAL FACILITIES ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Continue to upgrade equipment, roofs,;electrical _ .. __,____ mrvry ParkBudget ryor m w ----w- n' X7,000 Grants poles, etc. n Continue to construct fish cribs on Glen Lake to Every 2 to increase fish habitat. $3,500 Parks Budget 3 years Update and/or expand the online campground reservation system as needed. $1,500 Parks Budget' Ongoing Construct bluebird, wood duck and robin houses Work with youth along with bat shelters along the hiking trails and at $500 groups such as 4-H and Ongoing the scenic overlook. Eagle Scouts Provide "day trip"brochures at campgrounds and day-use-areas for local recreational activities and $500 Park Budget Ongoing tourist attractions to promote local tourism and visitor satisfaction. Glen Hills County Park signs on 1-94 eastbound and 17 westbound, at the STH 128 intersection off-ramps $15,000- $ ,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 and along STH 128 north. $17, Run-Off&Erosion Control Projects for Water Quality', $50,000 Park Budget, Grants, 2019-2024 $75,000 CIP Crack fill and chip seal all drives. $75,000 CIP 2025-2026 Peninsula r irie View Campsites The Glen Hills Peninsula campsite has 55 single campsites and six double sites. Most of the campsites are traditionally sized with mature trees and vegetation to provide privacy screening.The Parks Division tries to provide a rustic camping experience for visitors. All sites have electrical service, which was completed in 2009. At that time, a few campsites were remodeled to accommodate recreational vehicles, which have become significantly larger in the last 25 years, and turned into pull-through sites for easier parking. The double sites were also created to accommodate friends who wished to camp together. The Glen Hills Prairie View campsite was originally used only for group camping and overflow camping only on the holiday weekends. Starting in 2016, with the advent of the new online registration system, this area was opened up to individual camping on a continuous basis. Longtime group camp users are given the opportunity to make reservations for groups before the site is opened up to individual campers. This has worked well with little or no conflict between groups and individual campers. Prairie View has 17 campsites, none have electrical service. Camping revenue partially supports the operational costs of the park and provides a way to increase revenues while maintaining the same operational cost structure. The Glen Hills Master Plan identified three priorities to provide additional camping at the park—9 camper cabins, 22 RV campsites and 9 new small group campsites. Over the past 10 years, requests for more large RV sites to accommodate luxury RV's with slide outs, more RV pull-through sites, more double or triple sites and more parking for visitors have steadily increased. On busy weekends, the one-lane campsite loops at Peninsula become partially blocked by visitor's vehicles. Additional remodeling of the Peninsula campground might address some of these requests but would reduce the total number of campsites available. New camping facilities would address these requests. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouirox Oowity 43 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Camping revenue partially supports the operational costs of the park and provides a way to increase revenues while maintaining the same operational cost structure. The park ordinance was amended in 2010 to prohibit bringing in outside, uncertified firewood. This was done to slow the spread of Emerald Ash Borer. Ever since the county purchases and resells firewood from a state certified vendor as the sole source of firewood for campers. In 2018,the WDNR officially identified Emerald Ash Borer in St. Croix County in the Hudson area. The graphs and the table on the next three pages depict the history of total camping days since the park opened in 1974 and the camper registrations from 1991 through 2016. G II n I4I II s County Park Camper Uir"nft Days 1974 2016 4000 a r ®�o m aAI..9r CN O NV m ®N NLNft d' hNu M3500 o-oNmN no h ® WWWNN 0)N 3000 Ln00 � U 00 Otft 0NM ( N � 0) ( O 0)M CO N NNN ,, ` ` N 2500 00 Ln N N 0 r C 0) O 2000 r� 400O rJ rJ .. O :➢. 00 U m M 0) ➢.000 O u Ln Ln 50� 4IV T� ��a �a1 �Qt IV ``�� J�D.1 QCs �j4' CSC7ry Ctb` Cts 'b 6h y� yN 4� yah � ? y y3 yh' v y�3 yah v y �C> 3 LC `0 '-p", 1 1 RC1 Year The above graph,Total Camping Days 1974-2016, depicts the total number of camper unit days at Glen Hills. Total camper unit days at Glen Hills has, historically been influenced by weather, especially on peak weekends. However, the data also shows that promotional activities can make a difference in attendance. During the 1970's and early 1980's Glen Hills was building a good reputation and a good client base. Total camper unit days steadily increased until it reached a peak of about 3,200 in 1988. Over the next few years there was a slight decline but generally the total camper unit days remained constant at 2,500 to 3,000 from 1987 through 1997. In 2002, attendance dropped to around 2,000, since then Glen Hills has seen a rebound in attendance. In fact, 2016 saw the highest camping attendance in the park's history. The increase in usage is likely a result of continuous improvements and the online registration system, which opened the park up to a whole new group of users. Recent expansion of campsites and cabins at competing regional parks indicate an increase in supply likely responding to demand. For example, Willow River State Park has added two new campgrounds, the Eau Galle Recreational Area has added additional campsites, and Nugget Lake County Park has added camping cabins. 44- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Gl�en HdIs County Park Camper Reg�Straflons 1991 - 2016 2000 r'4 � 1800 � 1600 � � "� � � � � �� � ° � `. � � � � � M �� � � � � � � � � � 1-1 00 � � � � � 1200 _r � � � ~ � 0) � 1.000 m 800 E 600 � 400 200 O �� �� �� � b A �� � � �� �� � � A �� � � � �' �' 0' 0^ 0^ $ � �' �' J � � � � -o" 4" e �. ' �' �~ Year The graph above, CamperRe8istrations1991'ZU16, shommthenumberofcampersvvhore8istenedforthe total camping days. Data from 2012-2015 is unavailable and not included in this analysis.The data shows us that the number of campers choosing to stay at Glen Hills declined from the late 1990's thru the early 2000's,then started to rebound, a similar trend to the total camping days graph. |fyou divided the ZU16 total camping days by the 2016 camper registrations, you would get the average number of days spent at Glen Hills byeach individual group ofcampers. |nZU16, onaverage, campers stayed 1.96days atGlen Hills. Campers at Glen Hills have historically averaged between 2.00 to 2.20 days. Generally, this data tells us that once someone arrives at Glen Hills they have a positive experience and usually choose tocamp two nights. Historically, Glen Hills Campground has been aweekend destination. The Glen Hills' location and its resources are well suited to a longer 4-day weekend getaway so it is likely the park will continue to see this pattern but will work towards expanding the 2-day timeframe into a 4-day timeframe. GLEN HILLS PARK CAMPING REGISTRATIONS Year 8t Croix County Out of County Total 2016 1,724 2015 Unavailable 2014 Unavailable 2013 Unavailable 2012 1,202 2011 420 32% 894 68% 1,314 2010 422 33% 858 67% 1,280 2009 477 33% 949 67% 1,426 2008 451 32% 944 68% 1,395 2007 437 32% 929 68% 1,366 2006 383 31% 837 69% 1,220 2005 352 32% 749 68% 1,101 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Year St. Croix County Out of County Total 2004 361 _Po32q/omNY -Po766- - __68%m4NN 1,127ry mry 2003 356 32% 755 68% 1,111 2002 296 33% 600 67% 896 2001 332 30% 775 70% 1,107 2000 354 32% 752 68% 1,106 1999 336 31% 748 69% 1,084 1998 390 32% 832 68% 1,222 1997 406 31% 920 69% 1,326 1996 432 31% 954 69% 1,386 1995 399 28% 1,045 72% 1,444 1994 369 25% 1,140 75% 1,509 1993 368 26% 1,031 74% 1,399 1992 363 25% 1,066 75% 1,429 1991 294 24% 911 76% 1,205 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Average 381 30% 879 70% 1,260 The table above, Camping Registrations, depicts the historical breakdown between campers coming from within St. Croix County and those from out-of-county. The ratio has remained very consistent over the past 16 years. From 1996 thru 2011, St. Croix County residents have consistently averaged slightly over 30 percent of the total camper registration numbers. Camper registrations from St. Croix County have ranged from a low of 24 percent to a high of 33 percent with an average of 30 percent; out of county camper registrations have ranged from a low of 67 percent to a high of 76 percent with an average of 70 percent over that timeframe. Encouraging campers to stay for longer timeframes should be undertaken. A strong promotional effort to- identify tourist attractions within the County and throughout the St. Croix River valley that could be day trips would improve the camping experience and hopefully generate additional nights. Recent park improvements and new amenities may also encourage longer visits. PENINSULA& PRAIRIE VIEW CAMPGROUNDS ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Monitor and replenish engineered wood fiberµ _____m .__._-�-------------- -__ __ playground safety surface as needed, i $1,500 Park Budget Ongoing Shoreline Fishing Stations $,1,000 Park Budget 2019 -2020 Camper cabin pilot project at Peninsula campground $35,000- Capital 2019-2020 and future Camper Cabin campground "! $70,000 Improvement Plan New Camper Cabin campground w/support facilities $419,000 Grant FundingCIP 2021 -2025 New RV Campground w/support facilities $1,200,000 Grant FundingCIP 2021-2025 . . New Group Area Campground w/support facilities $710,000 Grant Funding CIP 2022 -2025 New combined shower/restroom facility w/sanitary Grant Funds 50% system at Peninsula $425,000 Park Budget 50/4 2022-2025 46- 5t. Cirox Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Day Use r Landing The boat landing gets steady use all year long. Fishing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating are all very popular activities. The site also has a handicapped accessible fishing pier that was constructed utilizing a Sport Fish Restoration Grant in 2005-2006. The wooden stairs that led down to the fishing pier were removed in 2014-2015 as they had become unsafe. Driveway and parking lot runoff contributed to the deterioration of the stairs. The stairs, which were not part of the original design for the shoreline accessible walkway, retaining wall and pier will not be replaced. Staff are establishing an infiltration depression and native plantings to restore this area. In 2018, a replacement satellite restroom that is handicapped accessible was purchased and will be installed spring of 2019. In 2017, two new paddle boats were purchased and a trailer to move and store paddle boards for rental was purchased. In 2016, a new watercraft rental courtesy dock was added. Working with the WI DNR Fishery staff and Sportsmen's Alliance 14 fish cribs were built and added to the lake in 2013. A total of 107 fish cribs have been placed to improve the fish habitat. BOAT LANDING ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year __ ____ ._._._. .......................__ _. .____ __.wPark Budget__.. ______.___.._ Repair ice damage to fishing pier $2,500 2019-2020 Grant Funds Add a 90-degree extension to current boat landing $3Park Budget 2019-2020 dock to accommodate dock fishing ,000 Grant Funds Evaluate options to screen the new satellite restroom. $2,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 Add a carry in access point for kayaks and canoes $3,500 Park Budget2019-2021Grant Funds Day Use Areas —Hiking/Cross-CountrySkiing Park visitors use the trail system regularly. In 2016, new trail system maps were developed and are available at the entrance station, campground station. They should also be located at other county park facilities. Trail naming and directional signage are needed. More signs are needed that indicate where the trail leads, how long it is, how difficult it is and what facilities are available. Educational signage should also be developed and possibly a specific trail marked as a nature trail. New footbridges were constructed on the hiking trail from the campground to the day-use side during 2009 -2010. Both new footbridges have handrails and are a substantial improvement over the old bridges; additional footbridges should be considered in other park locations. A proposed project to provide walking/biking access from the campground and golf course on the south side of the park to the picnic area, beach, watercraft rental, etc. on the north side of the park would promote safe water crossing for snowmobiles,trail grooming equipment, hikers and bikers over Beaver Creek.The current water crossing for snowmobiles cannot be navigated when there is open water and is not crossed by grooming equipment even with ice conditions. Flash floods occur at the current crossing in spring and summer, eliminating usage by hikers and bikers during those times. The walking trail is steep and rough and would need improvements to be practical for bikers even with mountain bikes. Unfortunately, a new bridge that would accommodate all users would be very expensive and not likely to receive grant funding. Alternatives that address these distinct uses and provide for improved access at two locations for Beaver Creek crossings, one for snowmobiles and grooming equipment and a separate location for bikes and pedestrians, will continue to be explored. Current visitors wishing to get from one 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 47 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 side of the park to the other mostly utilize Rustic Road#3. This road is narrow and curvy, it is dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists, and not safe for a snowmobile crossing. A wider bridge at this location and a bike lane would provide a safer alternative. However, these changes are only likely to happen when the road is reconstructed. Staff will continue to explore ways to reduce costs through grant funding and alternatives. HIKING/CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Annually evaluate and maintain gravel,,timber steps,m __w $1,000-____w_4Park Budgetmrvry _ _ Ongoing__. ramps,etc. on hiking trails to make them more usable. Update and provide trail maps to guide people through the interconnected trail system. $1,500 Park Budget Ongoing Develop new trail signage informational, directional and 2019- educational. $4,000 Park Budget 2023 Construct handicap accessible/interpretive blacktop trail from the Nature Playground to the proposed Orchard area CIP, Park Budget, 2021- to the proposed Event Area. Consider a bookworm trail $25,000 Grant Funds 2022 with an agricultural theme. Cross-Country skiing grooming equipment $8,000 CIP, Park Budget, 2021- Grant Funds 2022 Analyze/Design Single Track/Fat Tire Bike Trail $10,000- Park Budget, Grant 2020- Trail construction $30,000 Funds, Volunteers 2023 - Glen Hills North South Pedestrian Crossing $50,000 5(,1%CIP 2021 50%Grants 2021 Glen Hills North-South Snowmobile Spillway $100,000 20% Local Funding 2023- 80%Grant 2025 Day Use Areas® Picnic Area In 2016-2017, a new restroom/shower building was constructed in the picnic area. The new facility is the first restroom facility at Glen Hills County Park with running water and flush toilets. The design reflects the agricultural history of the area, it is family focused with 4 family restroom/shower stalls, baby changing stations and handicapped accessible. All materials were selected to be low maintenance and durable and to extend the camping season by being heated. This structure is the basis for future design standards.The facility supports expanded camping at the Prairie View non-electric and group camping and beach usage. Future plans for camper cabins and opening up a portion of the day-use area to camping will also be supported by this facility. In 2018 the drinking fountain was upgraded and the benches updated with new benches, power washed, and a more natural look created. In 2019, the existing picnic shelter will be remodeled and reconstructed somewhat smaller to better accommodate users and provide a food preparation area. Electricity was extended to the picnic shelter in 2013. As second small shelter will be constructed near the playground area to facilitate use by families. New trash and recycling receptacles have been purchased and will be installed in 2019. 48- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities PICNIC AREA ACTION PLAN Improvements CostFunding Source Year Monitor and replenish engineered wood playgroundsafety --_--- _ - _-- - --- - ---- $1,500 Park Budget Ongoing surface as needed, Repair the backstop at the softball field. The area will be maintained and used for field sports. Construct $2,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 inexpensive facilities such as pickle ball for visitors. Improve the Nature's Playground area—repaint, new $1,000 Park budget 2019-2020 activities,yard games. Replace existing picnic shelter add food preparation area. Construct a small shelter near the playground. $120,000 CIP 2019-2020 Replace waste cans with new waste/recycling containers. $5,000 Park and recycling 2019-2020 budgets Day Use Areas —Scenic Overlook The scenic overlook is an open grassy area, ringed by trees with a beautiful view of Glen Lake and the dam. There is also a plaque commemorating the dam inserted into a large boulder and a gravel parking lot. There is a chain-link fence surrounding%of the area. It is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.There are no benches, picnic tables or grills at this site. Occasionally, there is some littering and vandalism.This is a no fee park entrance area. The fishing below the dam is popular. Fishermen heavily use the trail from the scenic overlook to the lake. In 2014, barricade boulders were placed on the west end of the parking lot to prevent vehicles from driving on the lawn. An entrance sign was installed in 2007. In 2004, an erosion control plan was implemented for the trail from the overlook to the lake. Steps have helped to prevent additional erosion. Directional signage on the area roads leading to the site would increase usage. Switching the area to a fee area should be discussed. Historic and educational panels should be developed telling the story of why and how the park and the 10 dams were designed and constructed. These signs should be placed at the Scenic Overlook and on the top of the dam. Regulatory signage is needed. SCENIC OVERLOOK ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Develop historic and educational signage regardingthe -------------------------------------------_.______µµµµµµm $3,500 Park Budget 2019-2020 history of the parkland 10 dams., Analyze need to install additional regulatory signage indicating fires and vandalism are prohibited. Post fines $1,000 Park Budget 2019 and hours open. Install directional signage indicating the scenic overlook $1,000 Park Budget 2019 and fishing access. Grade, surface and compact the entrance road and $6,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 parking lot. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouirox Oowity 49 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Day Use r s —Swi mmiIn New beach drags were constructed in conjunction with a Hudson High School Technical Education class in 2016. Swimming buoys and ropes were replaced in 2015-2016.The swimming beach sand blanket was replenished in 2015. This needs to be done periodically. In addition trees should be planted next to the benches behind the beach to provide shade for parents or grandparents or others who need a break from the heat and sand in the afternoon. Water quality at the beach is negatively affected by upland management practices, runoff and the goose population. Usage of the beach declines by mid-summer due to algae growth. The Resource Management Division team continues to work with area �f✓�j�/���y ° landowners to promote and install Best Management Practices to reduce phosphorus loading into Beaver Creek which is the main source of phosphorous � to Glen Lake. The path from the parking lot to the beach is steep and narrow. It is about 18 inches wide and over a 12%grade. It is not handicapped accessible. Options to replace this path are being explored to find a cost-effective solution. The path channels runoff from the parking lot which increases the size of the algae bloom at the west end of the beach. �/� � ���r ,�✓ ir�w � r yr rf✓r�a\ref The drainage swale below the parking lot and �r t� \�!� r � ��/ \ ��i/✓ ✓�� \�%�rty���1 ���r r �l�r��'/ �/ �l� �i r 1G �✓ above the beach was originally designed to hold runoff and protect water quality. However, after 40+years the swale has become silted in and does not function ld� properly. Also the swale's overflow leads to a culvert at the west end which flows directly to p =i the paved path and the lake. Staff will move ,� � forward with clearing out the Swale, contouring it to flow to the east, and adding a rain garden in the event overflow storage is needed. Shoreline plantings and reestablishing vegetation along the shoreline are also planned. A new walkway design that provides handicapped and stroller access, handrails and drains away from the lake will continue to be pursued. b. ��t III dillyIu�� '� The local goose population can create unsanitary and unappealing conditions for beach users. They also contribute to the phosphorous problem and algae blooms. Various shoreline DV techniques have been tried to discourage the geese but so far have not been successful. Efforts to encourage goose hunting have also failed. Goose control measures will continue to be explored. 50- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities SWIMMING BEACH ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year m -- 7W- Explore and implement goose control options, $5004Parke Budgetµym Ongoing____ Replenish beach sand blanket regularly. $4,000 Park Budget Every 3-4 years Reestablish drainage swale above beach/below parking $2,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 lot Remove existing blacktopped walkway from parking lot to beach, establish native vegetation below walkway $2,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 location and create rain garden to improve infiltration Design and install walkway from parking lot to beach Grant Funds 50% that prevents drainage to the lake, has handrails and $70,000 0 2021-2023 accommodates strollers and is handicapped accessible GIP 50% Support Resource Management Division effort to encourage agricultural operations to install best management practices to reduce phosphorous and algae $0 Park Staff Ongoing blooms in the lake. Apply for Targeted Runoff Management (TRM) Grant for $100,000 Grant Funds 50% 2019-2023 Beaver Creek watershed. Local Share 50% Day Use Areas— Upland HabitatManagement The four established prairie sites of approximately 52 acres were planted in the early 2000's. The prairies should be burned approximately every three to five years. The pine plantations of approximately 36 acres need to be thinned periodically and evaluated for future timber stand improvements. Proceeds from timber sales must be utilized to fund improvements within the Park per the DNR park lease agreement. Ongoing timber management will continue with thinning anticipated in 2019 or 2020.The upland areas of the park have been successfully open to deer hunting for several years. All St. Croix County and DNR Hunting Regulations apply. Information is available on the Park website on hunting regulations and rules. UPLAND PRAIRIE HABITAT MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Burn prairie sites on a 3—5 year schedule. mry $1,000 Park Budget__m Ongoing mm- Timber Thinning--Contracted $0 $0 2019-2020 Ongoing timber management of the pine plantations $0 N/A Ongoing Continue to evaluate the effectiveness of deer hunting in the park, especially as park uses expand into different $0 N/A N/A areas of the park 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouirox Oowity 51 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 -- - m _. Smr P1A1rIB �..�. %� �•` I... �y;o ABB,RA k LI 5. b msnnsama Dort i So..iser n uumNW p � � -�mmmmmmmmmmmmmm�.I W .. WN PiYM A d ,r nnnn�ar ul�-� ' � III .uw^' 3'' . ... . ..... ?t fsh Hudson I duo Aod Bmn�od�nd pBo��dwl�o ...... � -12 .�ai hoxl 'W I ;12Ay 63 v � 36 fib XINBY.FA IIs �vd - uuu Homestead Parklands � al \i\l,�a���f��� 1��✓�f I I � , , 52- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities ,,,,,,,�.� / ���..../oi, �./ia, //f�i�l /:�/�ii///iii- / / ori/,..% � /�/, ,�.. �c, ii ii ✓";, �""� i ��m��.. �p��� / II, ✓i//,�,�° � / �� ,.,,,r � Vii, r ✓., r it l///, ry r , , / / ri r / / r ,/ ✓rarr, // / ,r rrrrrr... /., r., /r ✓„ f / ✓J / rr r ,f r / i r�r ✓r;,,,�' ""1 AZA Park Entrance ® ,w•! r r Entrance Station .r Fishing Pier Homestead Parklands Trails ® Swimming Beach Boat Landing �� ^44%1_0 Asphalt `�`��j Rustic N .Picnic Area. � Playground U Bookworm Stations P ""' '.Picnic Shelter fl '" Parking Lot ,'u1 E Scenic Qve�k E MlercrattRental 4.. � % Fishing SCUBA Diving Swimming Beach .,� ✓r��/ tJVal¢r � IIIc I�iiiVrumi a �i 9 i ��l�■ ��-■ Legacy Cabin(Ren 0 126 250 6640 78(f. 5.w�wr 'S - Park Boundary �l Restroann Feet= 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cul lil Cowity ,, 53 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Homestead Parklands on Perch Lake History In 1994, St. Croix County began working on the purchase and development of a new day-use county park, Homesteadt�� Parklands on Perch Lake, in the Town of St.Joseph, to serve the growing population in the count The Count prchased the �t f largestsha e of the ark from the Thomas Seim family !n 1996. The Seim family had owned the property for over 100 years, and had homesteaded there.The 67 acres purchased from the Seimsr r includes the property on the northern half of the lake, and about% mile of lakeshore. 1 9 The area was farmed until the 1960's.The Seims also operated a private park and campground on the site, and developed the beach, roads and other facilities on the property. In 1997,the County purchased the property to the south of the Seim property, called the Onstott property, to create a total of 80 acres in the park. This property was used for grazing activities in the past. In 2018,the County working in conjunction with the Town of St.Joseph, utilized County and Town Bluffland Mitigation funding, and a Stewardship grant to purchase land to the west and north of Homestead Parklands. The 40 acres adjacent to Homestead Park is being transferred to the County and added to the Homestead. Habitat restoration, facilities development and visitor utilization will be explored and planned over the next two years; implementation will be done in cooperation with the new 77-acre town park off Valley View Trail to the north of the Homestead acreage. Facilities Perchardhwat Lakeis !lake over 901feet deep, and is fed by groundwater � lur Ions feature the p lake is a p, y 8and surface runoff from its watershed. The land area includessteep slopes covered by oak woodlands and pine plantations, as well as open upland areas of restored prairie and small wetland areas. Facilities include: a fishing pier for handicapped anglers, shoreline fishin a swimmin beach icnic areas addle board8, 8 , p� , p paddle boat, canoe, kayak, and rowboat rental facilities, scuba-diving, playground, and trails for hiking. Education andinterpretive facilities are provided at four kiosks throughout thea park.The facilities are designed to minimize any negative impact on the high quality resources of the park, and preserve the site's natural character. 54- St. Ouirox Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Staffing There is one full time and six seasonal staff at the park. The staff also provide coverage at Troy Beach. The park is open and staffed daily from May 1st to October 31st.There is no lifeguard. The six seasonal staff members are generally hired from May to October.They are a mixture of college or technical school students and retirees who are trained in the operation of the park's facilities, equipment and public contact. Park Development A Land Management Plan for Homestead Parklands was adopted � � by the County Board as part of the 2000 Outdoor Recreation Plan. uu The plan addresses protection of the lake and land resources of the park and provides the major recreation facilities requested by N . St. Croix County residents and the Parks Division. Development of Homestead began in 2000. The park opened to the public in 2002. About 90 percent of the planned improvements are completed. The only remaining improvements are an entrance station and a ����� water quality and history education center. The Land Management Plan will continue to be incorporated as an element of this 2019-2023 update to the Outdoor Recreation Plan and will continue to be followed as improvements are made at Homestead Parklands. In 2002, the Perch Lake Forest and Prairie ''> �� � Stewardship Plan was adopted to provide detailed direction on the habitat improvements. ,In 2003 a Memorial Garden for the Seim family was planted and donated by the Seim family. The garden utilizes one of the last remaining retaining walls that the Seim family members constructed at the park. In 2003, a maintenance building was added. In 2005, four information kiosks were constructed and donated to the park and the design of the stairway from the observation platform/playground to the beach was completed. In 2011, the Friends of Perch Lake constructed a stairway access on the west side of the lake for shoreline fishing opportunities. Also during 2010-2011 paddle boats and kayaks were added to the rental fleet. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 55 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Recent Improvements Since 2012, improvements have included construction of the Lake View picnic shelter and rain garden. Financial donations and volunteer construction of the five Book Worm Trail stations and placement of additional satellite toilet facilities. A rustic trail with numerous steps from the playground to the beach was constructed and the Kerrick family donated time and funding to construct the observation platform on the west side of the park. Scuba diver steps were constructed to Perch Lake and maps indicating underwater r sites for divers were created. A vegetated buffer was planted above the beach to infiltrate runoff and protect water quality. A watercraft rental cabin was purchased and installed at the delta with a rain garden to infiltrate roof runoff. Seal coating and chip sealing of blacktopped road and trail surfaces was completed. In 2017-2018 approximately 50 parking spaces were added to existing parking lots along the upper entrance road and near the playground. The parking lot by the Maintenance Building was blacktopped and a gravel parking area was created across from the Maintenance Building where a future entrance building will be constructed. Needs Assessment rIJll(kr f➢/�ifi ���W 9ir, cif r(fn 4',iu W i J�Y'r,�' \\d�^'�°I °'W� ' Over the last few years attendance at Homestead Park r has increased steadily. This is mainly due to the removal and reconstruction of the dam at Willow River State Park which resulted in no beach at the park. Many of the new visitors, having discovered Homestead, continue to frequent the park. During the first two years, lack of parking spaces resulted in �� numerous visitors being turned away from the park.The additional parking spaces improved the situation in 2018 and few visitors were turned away.Visitor comments and increased usage have highlighted the need for an entrance station with flush toilets at the park to continue to promote increased attendance. The final project in the original park plan should also be completed, a Water Quality and History Center that would provide educational opportunities and displays regarding the exceptionally clear water of Perch Lake and the unique homesteading history of the park's former owners. Plans for construction of both of these buildings with construction cost estimates are being developed. Habitat restoration following the Lake Forest and Prairie Stewardship Plan including oak savanna restoration, additional satellite restrooms near the entrance, upgrades to the fishing pier and extending electric to the equipment rental area are additional planned projects. 56- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Homestead Parklands on Perch Lake Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Monitor and replenish engineered wood fiber .__ $1,500Park Budget Ongoing playground safety surface as needed, ' Habitat Restoration $3,000 Park Budget Ongoing Oak Savanna Restoration $3,000Park Budget Ongoing Acquire additional property adjacent to Homestead Park for water quality improvement, Unknown Grants, Park Budget 2018-2019 wildlife habitat and land preservation. Entrance Station with office, breakroom, CIP $485,000 2021-2022 restrooms,display area and storage. Grants 75%Grants & Friends Water Quality Education & History Center $800,000 Group 2021-2024 25%CIP Chip seal driveways, parking lots,trails $100,000 CIP 2025 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. CiroCowity 57 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 'SilL. I c... Rra. q P. 111 .. ........� 35 G3 Somer iJU� r> �3 J GII. IGl 170 N nh ftd— py p raur � IC �ji 65 � R96erhp ...�eld L--------- �I Il11 dson ,,W.:.11'�411XNiX"I28, Ilu N FII JYI�� w j..,, .....-----I_n. "'�.�".'p. F""W�mm�G. 6P 9 Wull®N 29 Kinnickinnic County Forest Y tli s I IPJI)�i« f Ii% r Y � 1\ ) 58- Stm Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities / r ✓ � r„ „� / e r ,,� r i r I r l�,,, / r i, - r r ,;rr 1 ✓ r >, � „/, /, // r / � r. /iii r ,!. /r /,.: r,.., /r ,,/ /, J,,,� ✓,,>/ /r, ri ,.,,,r ,.r Ili ,/, .:/. r /.r / .✓/„ r l/�� r lI {, ri /,,,,�/ r, �,,<, �,,,, /,,,ii,/1„i „e �,,,, ✓� .; i i !,, P/r „r� ;r �,/,,//%/r!� r r„ /i/�rJr v/, /, r/' I � i,,, a ■ ,.,�.,,. ■ /r1i/,,/, s �■ ��/!/itr ■ a/I//,,;r/ ,,;. ,,,,�G �� ,�� ,�� /%r 1/,r� r�%al�ii f!//1,YG 1�Y ��rr�//� � �� ✓,, � /`, ��/ �l� rl 7 /,r / (I�K(�'r � � .0 , �/rl�'f"//��:^ Jr �%%ivr Jf <ei '�✓ r,r%ii�� dr r/ Nl �, / /,' /�„rr !/;jar i�f//rd//!�!��rr'iiG�!' ��/ ;H/� rl�r'� v ,, r„ r Q i;'/ r ! 1, r/✓ r�,�lf/r�r�i��i/ P ���Y r � !n r✓ /1r%� 19 ���W i r %,�l rrr � %�// l,,ccess Point r i � r i� r f �✓i w � r�/'1. �r / / (Iq r ; J r A i;���!���✓0>"!' �l �' r� I � r'jry'/�/�f�Jl/ /r/ H,7� /. / , ,. N Trails and Paths Park B' ,�,,, / r � ri a r/ r���f orr�j rr/jA, ///iii //// ')�ql/(?r/j ri�/, ! r/ /i�'�llrHr /f/�/' gl r ,VI j�,v % /i/ / r✓� �'s),l Parki Log,,,,�ri 1 /r ld rr,, f ,/r,., �, ,//t,,.. .,r ,r„?,✓ ,!1 J� „�///i✓�� r � ,�,r/,r�rrrlr, 1f :� f' �l r, .l/-, /r /,/�, � /�, ���, ✓,v, // i�/„ / // �,i �e����l1�J�� IAA��r���G//���/�hV111�,r �''I'!/���i/a���,l�eY�/��/r�'11�1�11�/ ,,� �� ✓�f��,�,'r�r�I�,���rllr'�> //. >,i,.,,,��/,/,rr,,c �, 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi mity ,, 59 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Kinnickinnic County Forest History St. Croix County owns approximately 80 acres of forestland in Kinnickinnic Township. The County has owned and managed the land since May of 1959. This site was originally obtained for youth forestry education.The Kinnickinnic Forest is managed for multiuse, including timber production, recreation and education. Facilities Existing facilities include a parking lot, hiking trails and signage; access is off Evergreen Drive. There is road frontage on both Evergreen and Ponderosa Drives. Area citizens presently use the site for passive recreation. The existing logging trails (10' in width)get consistent usage for hunting, hiking, snowshoeing, berry picking, etc. In February 2006, the second i U f timber harvest was completed. Recent Improvements In 2006 the parking lot was renovated and the perimeter was lined with barricade boulders. Boundary markers were installed in 2007 to define the boundaries. During 2009—2010, a Private Lands Agreement with the US Fish and Wildlife Service was utilized for habitat improvements at the site; specifically establishing a prairie in a forest opening and ongoing oak savanna restoration in the south east corner of the property. Invasive species were � � also targeted as part of the project. Needs Assessment Some improvements for timber production and recreation are needed. Invasive species need to be controlled. Replanting and replenishing of tree species should be done on a periodic basis. The existing logging roads should be kept mowed to improve their use as trails. Maintenance of these trails is also necessary as fire lanes that are accessible for fire protection. Directional signage should be posted to improve awareness of and access to the site. The gravel parking area should be periodically maintained and the existing cable gate upgraded. The site should also have the trails improved for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing because it is a large site that lends itself to that kind of use and it is convenient to students in the River Falls school system and UW-River 60- 5t« Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Falls. The Kinnickinnic Forest could also be used as an outdoor classroom or demonstration area. There are several open meadows that would provide an excellent learning environment. r� �A r�jN✓ ����'��,/A � V r r ✓ Kinnickinnic Forest Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year -- Improve recreational and fire protection trails by --- _- - - ----- -_-- - brushing and mowing two times)per year. $A County Budget Ongoing Control invasive species. $4,000 County Budget Ongoing Picnic table. $500 Parks Budget) 2019 Information Kiosk. $0 Eagle Scout project 2019-2020 Directional signage. $2,250 County Budget 2019-2020 Create outdoor classrooms. $1,500 County Budget 2020 Burnprairie site on a 3—5 year schedule. $1,000 Parks Budget' 2021 P Timber harvest. $0 arks Revenue from As needed sale Promote fitness and racing events on property $0 County Budget Ongoing 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 61 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 5� '11. DPak f .. W `45 „el® l _ jjjj •ome V New hi,h e o d e , w 35i 0 CIN Glenwaud fxN""",✓„170,. m� N ih Nd on Hud,m w .mmmm 2 _ m.���������N'.�.� Bold l� s` �p ........ ."il,7 .„�Qd!G� M, Y 1 128 63 35 0 11.,Fall, t wwwwwwwwwwwi 1k,•mm .__ Sp 9Vulley ,� Pine LAW Park rr ;y/f ��r(If i link// g�✓l r% `Yi „o 1 ���/r/%1,� �j.. /�i� ��1j,%�i�,��, a k//U,° �,/l ,',P.•,r;�1��'� �Y�,.,� /��J�1%"�l�/, �,r�//., '% ✓�/ ,T�% ,..,, „J I M1 � � � ! � �����%' r ' , %✓��i/%„�/�//,����, � 'poi/� 1% 62- Stw Cil Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities ke Park Pino L,,alke, Mks, 1 f J ; Y J, / / i / r , / ll�jjjj r' w At lw uuuuuuuuuuuumuiii,ii N 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi mity ,, 63 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Pine Lake Park History Pine Lake Park is a day-use facility located IM at the intersection of 120th Avenue and 205th Street in the Town of Erin Prairie. Originally, a town park, the ten-acre site was donated to the St. Croix Rod and Gun ����'" F Club, which then donated it to St. Croix County in the mid 1970's. Pine Lake, Baldwin, had a history of severe water level fluctuations due to sinkholes in the lakebed. In 1989, the St. Croix County Parks Division, St. Croix County Alliance of Sportsman's Clubs and the Department of Natural Resources worked together to repair a major sinkhole and reconstruct the boat landing. A second problem at Pine Lake, lack of dissolved oxygen in the water led to extensive winterkill of fish species. In 1995, a cooperative effort between the Sportsmens Alliance, St. Croix County and DNR funded an aerator in the lake that stabilized the fish population and decreased winterkill in the lake. Electrical service was installed for the aerator. Facilities ' ti Facilities include a boat landing, picnic ^ shelter with tables and grill, pit toilets, ` handicapped walkways and parking area. �r Historic Development In 2005—2006 a shoreline restoration project was undertaken as part of a Lakes Protection grant. Work included stabilizing the bank north of the existing park facilities, placing tree drops for fish habitat and building two stairways to create additional shoreline fishing access. 64- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities The County was awarded a Recreational Boating Facilities grant which provided matching funds for a total renovation of the existing boat landing during 2007— 2008. The boat ramp was relocated to facilitate launching and features cement ramp panels and courtesy dock. The new redesigned boat landing is handicapped accessible and includes infiltration basins to minimize stormwater runoff across the pavement. An auxiliary parking lot was created which serves the boat landing and the picnic shelter area. Barricade boulders were placed around the entire perimeter to keep vehicles off the lawns and to reduce ongoing maintenance problems. A prairie was established in 2008 -2009 to reduce mowing in the wet area underneath the overhead powerlines. The prairie further minimizes the flow of water across the gravel road and parking areas. Secondary benefits include aesthetic beauty and wildlife habitat. Recent Improvements In 2012,the County completed a major shoreline restoration project within the park boundary. In 2014, the restroom building was re-shingled and a skylight was added to provide natural light. Wooden steps were replaced at two shoreline fishing areas with limestone slab sections for a more permanent and maintenance free facility that will minimize erosion issues. Needs Assessment Due to the Pine Lake Park's rather remote location, it is subject to sporadic patrol by the Sheriff's Department and weekly maintenance by the County Parks Division. As a result, there is occasional littering and vandalism to the site.The fishing improvements have resulted in heavy usage by legitimate fishermen, which has diminished the vandalism problems. The facilities at the site are adequate for the current users. The existing picnic shelter is small and in very poor condition, it needs to be replaced. In 2014, St. Croix County and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources entered into a 10-year agreement to aerate Pine Lake. The aeration agreement benefits both parties and should continue to be extended to protect the fishery. Pine Lake Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Add an "L"shaped extension onto the existing dock._ $5,000 Park ParkyBudget- 2018-2020m^ Replace picnic shelter with sheltered benches along with a Grant Funds 50% picnic table. $30,000 CIP 50% 2021-2022 Work with DNR and neighboring landowner to extend the N/A DNR/St. Croix 2024 10-year aeration agreement. County Crack Fill and Chip Seal entrance drive and parking lots Unknown CIP 2024 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox Couuumty 65 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 p � „r St.,P JI ee Park 0 46^ r d,, X63 sa f � e „ � �� 11� "'�� i hIn d ' wY �s 2 � Glanwaa�d�Ci�^ ix y. ryyp: www ..a.. w ,�.. NhMdann Nle n N,odwm imnm ICnhxrAs I.� fl �� �u[w 12 „Wilson 63 Sin Squaw Lake Boat Landing rvi N� Y ill la I Nry' 16 ( I / rl VYuu� I 66- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities /iCl/i// ✓/ f GJ/ J / ! ,!, „lr' �i ., ,/,yl .,11�II 9 t..,,�7 �,.0 �.,%/ii :///1 %/ / �f 3 �',��, r ,�//.1 quaw L �e „ � t ff11L ni n Sqtmw Lake, NII ,u� m ummMIN 217TH AVIS f' NO /�)�f CD VAN 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi m ity 67 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Squaw Lake Boat Landing i,,. ;,, %,iij/ilii////////////////////f�/ History The Town of Star Prairie owns approximately 3.5 acres of parkland on the east side of Squaw Lake. St. Croix County was the sponsor of a grant to improve the boat ramp at Squaw Lake. Maintenance of the boat landing is the cooperative responsibility of the Town and County. t I' Facilities The site has a boat ramp, courtesy dock, signage and parking lot. One handicapped accessible stall is provided adjacent to the boat ramp and a handicapped accessible courtesy dock has been added.The Town provides a satellite toilet and limited trash and recycling service. Needs Assessment � Squaw Lake is a heavily used very popular lake. The basic facilities at the site are adequate for the current users. Consideration should be given to add handicap restroom facilities. Squaw Lake Boat Landing Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Continue to assess the need to dredge the channel to Unknown __..._ DNRmVW- Ongoing the the lake. Work with the Town to improve and maintain the $2Park Budget facility. ,000 Town Budget Ongoing Continue to work with the Squaw Lake Rehabilitation District on their lake management plan,water;quality $0 N/A 2018-2023 improvements and fish habitat. Install directional signage from County Road H. $2,500 Park Budget 2018-2019 Install permanent satellite restroom facilities for $7500 Park Budget handicap accessibility. , DNR Grant 2018 2019 Chip seal entrance road and parking lot. $3,500 Town Budget 2018-2019 68- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities .... .. S'�Ir PIIII @ _-__ ..Dee ..� PfB 4 Pak /l N Rk d Ho sh H d— ,.a rr 12 �ua rm.ure Irp 35 IHuldiso-6 n. .....72 " M'liwla� / P��R ¢ FPIWW oP� uuuuuuuuu M m i 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi mity ,, 69 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Milli wo 2'� A/,� 70 St. Ciro�x Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Stanton County Forest History St. Croix County owns approximately 40 acres of forestland in Stanton Township. The County has owned the land since 1944 and has managed the land for forestry since 1950. This site was originally obtained for youth forestry education. The Stanton Forest is managed for multiuse, including timber production, recreation and education. Facilities Existing facilities include a parking lot, hiking trails and signage with access off 185th Street. Area citizens presently use the site for passive recreation. , The existing logging trails are used for hunting, hiking, berry picking, etc. In the winter of 2005/2006 the second timber harvest was cut off i the site. �, fy �i d� �✓dor Il ry f��%i � / ``��y� d11 ,PIIA Recent Improvements In 2007, with assistance from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, a parking lot was created with boulders installed as a parking barrier. A new entrance sign was installed as part of the project. Boundary markers were installed on the perimeter. q� 11n1�1�" During 2009—2010, a Wisconsin DNR Stewardship grant was utilized for habitat improvements at the site; specifically establishing a prairie in a forest opening in the south east corner of the property. Invasive species were also targeted as part " of the project. In 2014, directional signage was posted to improve awareness of and access to the site. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 71 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Needs Assessment Some improvements for timber production and recreation are needed. Invasive species need to be controlled. Replanting and replenishing of tree species should be ,gy f done on a periodic basis. The existing a logging trails should be kept mowed and ytl d,a. ufo; maintained to improve their use as trails. Maintenance of these trails is also necessary for fire lanes that are accessible for fire protection. Stanton r in Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Improve recreational and fire protection trails:by ___ ____.____ _____-�------------__ brushing and mowing two times per year. $0 County Budget Ongoing Provide trail connections to DNR land. $0 County Budget Ongoing Control invasive species $2,000 County Budget Ongoing Timber harvest for poles. $0 N/A 2019-2020 Kiosk $0 Eagle Scout Project2019-2021 72- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Decor PmrM $058f3lR III mmWuwuwwwwwN plNgwRi wN �J . �� I � „ . ...... N WF ---n w ch. orvd q r \ ; ' � Dlenw dory 71..iro ... ..a ._ .. ... .„.. x x ih x de Mxuaca H! ..d' D e 'mim u. �z wi s wa v 83 I so W II., d j /G IIIIIIIIII llu� q I ^� tm f44� M"✓'��dIW��W�” 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi m ity 73 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 I w i , I r� u , i I , , ,u v , i I / Y J , t � I w /i ! r ! / �I r, Illi t , gy i V ,V z� r! i G 1 / rr. I, y r _ r J i / l r r� . J, h ,l / �o r /1 74- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Tray Beach History Troy Beach is a five-acre day-use park on the St. Croix River, a national scenic riverway. Troy Beach was originally a town park but was donated to the County in approximately 1967. It is located approximately two miles south of Hudson, off CTH F in the Town of Troy. v Facilities g . Facilities include a swimming beach, sandy area with picnic tables and barbecue grills, pit toilets and sand volleyball. Parking is available for ' q approximately 25 cars.The access road is steep, approximately 12 percent grade. Annual spring TNS ywvlu��ru flooding can occur and may impact visitation and amaintenance.An entrance station on wheels provides storage for maintenance materials. Recent Improvements In 2006, a guardrail was installed along the entrance road and directional signs were installed from Hudson and River Falls. Swim lanes were added in 2009. The Count and the YMCA partnered on Y p a major erosion control project at Camp St. Croix to prevent sediment from reaching the St. Croix River. The project was completed in earl 2010. An entrance ate was installed in 2014. In �i�f �� p Y 8 � �; 2016 a new limestone entrance sign was added and the entrance station was repainted inside and out. In 2017 new stairs were constructed from the beach to the restrooms and a handicap accessible walkway was installed around the restroom. This upgrade also included landscaping the west and south side of the toilet structure to provide future screening. Speed bumps and a new gate at the beach end of the driveway were installed in 2018. Staffing There is one full-time and six seasonal staff based at Homestead Parklands, who provide coverage at Troy Beach. There is m'�u'y ✓n�� a no lifeguard. It is open and staffed daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. If r � weather permits the beach will continue to be open on weekends in September. � h� �rlr�//�/✓/6�/IIJlAJ1�011%�.1�Y''rhlk/l%/l/G�lrir�""wut i e 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 75 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 Beds Assessment Troy Beach is a very popular spot in the summer months. There are a limited number of public beaches in the county and as a result they are all heavily used, especially by county residents.This park should be improved and maintained as a quality resource for county residents. There is ongoing erosion from the driveway that is causing rutting along the drive and brings debris onto the beach. This should be addressed with edging and a small amount of riprap. The gravel parking area should have gravel added every as needed. Grading and edging are needed to frame up the parking areas and prevent driving onto the beach. P4" µ iN //;�%�%;!��„ � -�NW��✓;N <WP' i �u NU�vfy/�j1fG /Y9/ir '„ ', ; i r�A���ii iif�/ iii.. r �i//i � V••��� e � %i i � „ v i o t/��//�i��////�/ f/,� ,,i .a ,✓ m'/'ieG�l �i � 1'3"�y% � 1N1 ,,, /l'y/din/�/� �/ � t�M� � / � ✓�� � i �'�Q��%rllYl �,�'��"/ /fir ee � �;,; , r a��� / �a �ii„aN���� , `; Wil/,/,P� „`�.a�,,i,�N�7 z✓iii,�)il,�++Y/rhr;N,D.m e ii. N ., , r im;, m � r,i, Troy Beach Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year ____ Remove debris from theparkinglot. $0 µGm Park Budget 74Annually _._.. Address runoff from entrance drive and on parking $3,000 Park Budget 2019-2020 areas with edging Parking lot maintenance gravel fill $2,000 Park Budget Bi-Annually Update mobile entrance station $7,500 Park Budget 2019-2020 Chip seal road surface every 7-10 years $15,000' Park Budget 2025 76- 5t. Ciroouinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities p�ao Ywk M �R h^ i� �a e q� Fmmm�mmmm �9 mmm 51W� 6v 4City °° rao With Hud..�� �2 VM1 N.�����. y� o ra �rn�lll . . .. , ,d . H d_. as �...... ...,� .. ..,, .... .. n , sxood n i sa Spot aleywm^Fa .... VWIdwood TmII 0 ,r,r I , i �' G/w stir d Ai��i �GT i e 1 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroouiiiit77 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 The 11VilIdu�4ed T'ra�l d �.� 12 D ¶U a m Sreven .._.,_ ........... Park 60TH-AVE---- � �FW 01 0 D 1i' I .L�..L E a,mm ri ,..� BB tide ��� 59TN�r a as ti .�. S4TH°AVE ..�.,, l"yi�%/0�/l/a��q� ea' 4 '50TR AVE PO Kiosk \J ".. ••RO SS8�4L�G7 � �� 2.6 miles from Trail Head mdl M.... 40T H AVE 3 rP,E(Alf"` d N a30TH-AVE.................... ......... 4 �.....e ,27TW.,0.�VE..... .25TR AVE....,.... -25TH-AV E k 'E B 2-01.H,AV{..... .�����, 15M,AVE° 1.2TH AVE•...,. B:,Kxa b3e�pfdea � I'0TH kWE �le w e ` v o .........10TH AVE�''m �.m....................� PROPOSED ST CROIX CC>UINTY Lake � MVIe PIERCE CC7UNTY R , 000� II� ".T SPRIN11G VALLEY BB Mae �� OP ®RDmill.®� die ® � mm�� 10 a. r28 85pTH At6E . 3 0 0.5 1 2 � ,� Miles--------------------------------------------------------- .................................. ..... n Wildwood Trail Train Head/Kiosk w. .. .,E Sir C �arvry Wildwood Trail Proposed Mile ranker from Trail Head 78- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities Wildwood Trail History The Wildwood Trail is a seven-mile off-road hiking, biking and snowmobiling trail on a former railroad right-of-way.The Wildwood Trail runs from the Village of Woodville south to the St. Croix County line, through the Town of Eau Galle. St. Croix County purchased the railroad grade from the St. Paul Minneapolis and , Omaha Railway Company in 1970. It varies from 200 to 66 feet in width over the length of the trail. Since 1971, St. Croix County has signed, groomed, fenced, trimmed trees and brush, replaced culverts, installed surfacing, expanded usage, promoted and generally maintained the Wildwood facility. It is a year round recreation trail open to the public. Facilities The trail is available for snowmobiling in the winter and jogging, bicycling and hiking during the spring, summer and fall. Motorized vehicle traffic, including four-wheel drive, off road motorcycles and y � " all-terrain vehicles, are prohibited on the trail due to liability ° concerns and also to prevent damage to the trail surface. Operational concerns include surfacing, wash-outs, vegetation encroachment, littering and vandalism. The Parks Division does annual brushing and clean up. Additional trail surface of 3/8-inch tri '., limestone screenings is added as needed, usually annually or bi- annually.The trail is compacted annually. Historic Development In mid-August 2010, the southeast corner of St. Croix County experienced severe flooding from a storm exceeding a 100-year 9 storm event. There was extensive flood damage to the trail. The flood destroyed one bridge, washed out the approaches on another bridge and severely damaged the trail bed in multiple locations. Major structural repairs were completed in 2011 through an insurance claim settlement. Additional funding was obtained from the Wisconsin DOT and DNR to restore segments of the trail bed. Recent Improvements Heavy rains since 2013 have continued to impact trail maintenance. In 2017, Community Development was awarded a $15,000 DNR matching grant to recontour the trail and reestablish the ditches in areas with the constant surface washouts,this project included replacement of culverts. The funding was also utilized to pave the steepest road connection on the trail and divert runoff to one side of the trail. This area was stabilized with riprap to prevent additional washouts. It is expected that these improvements will significantly reduce annual trail maintenance costs. The work was completed in 2018. A new kiosk was 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 79 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 constructed in 2016. In 2014, signage was installed at the trailhead in cooperation with the Village of Woodville showing the connection from the trail to the Village of Woodville. A parking area was added at the intersection of 2501h Street and 42nd Avenue. This was a joint project with the Town of Eau Galle. Surfacing of the last two miles of the trail with limestone screenings was completed in 2013. Needs Assessment The Wildwood Trail is promoted inon several St. Croix County-wider recreational brochures. Directional signage to the trail is posted from the Village of Woodville. A new trail *` entrance sign is needed. ~... There are two elements needed to make the trail more user-friendly. Atrailhead should be created in the Village of ` Woodville and the trail should be " (' connected to the Village of Spring Valley rtleaK ,, � Uny F# / ,, and the U.S.Army Corp. of Engineers ' r,�t°n,Lebaos,S(f4umm.�%'iaau"5r;'`£,e'oiGmi&if%✓.&as Eau Galle Recreation Area. o D E Yia IUD ,... There has been strong interest expressed Steven —{ by Spring Valley area residents and staff nark nor" �a®�� Woodville from the Recreation Area in making the G/'a� A.oM,1A11111 connections. The connections are «° � _ ' ww r - y mve" identified in the Pierce County Outdoor % 45" x Recreation Plan. Town roads,with J /li ,6#'tml BSI mW 6PTH 4 ti . appropriate signage, could easily connect J � r e ... vt 31N[} the Wildwood Trail to the Recreation � � ,0 Downtown � ..-...pl {Ni.- Area and Spring Valley. Staff and Wafadvilue ty d w,rPa f ,wt's z�r N m 'rsrw committee members should continue to work with Spring Valley, Pierce County and Recreation Area staff to develop , gww 12TH Spring ry,OTH. Valley these trail connections. 'm'� R O A trailhead would increase trail usage by / s 5`` ``°"n,y 9a,"AVS n IIVY®R y4P{H�� �4 P C ey providing a site for local information kiosks, historical signage, a rest area, access to drinking water and restrooms, parking, and a diagram of the trail for users.The County should work with the Village of Woodville to develop a trailhead at Steven Park in the Village. The trailhead should have an attractive, landscaped entrance sign.There should also be informational signage about the miles of trail and difficulty levels, connections to be made, and facilities along the trail. The trailhead should have parking, lighting, toilet facilities, picnic tables and water. All facilities should be handicapped accessible. A final enhancement to the trail would be educational and historical signage along the trail itself. There are numerous educational opportunities along the trail; both the historic Wildwood and Landing sites should be signed. There may also be a site or two where a rest bench could be provided. This could be a community- sponsored project for a 4-H Club, Boy Scout Eagle candidate or other service organization. 80- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities t N f' Wildwood Trail Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Roll trail surface.mry $750 Park Budgetm____ Annually .Every 3 Grade trail. $2,000 Park Budget years or as needed Add limestone screenings to four miles of trail $10,000/mile' Park Budget Ongoing surface. Spraying to control brush and weeds should be $2,500 Park Budget Ongoing done regularly. Work with the St. Croix County Sheriff's Department to enforce the ban on unauthorized N/A N/A Ongoing motorized vehicles on the trail Work with Pierce County, Spring Valley and the Army Corp. of Engineers to expand the trail to Spring Valley and create trailheads at the Eau $0 N/A Ongoing Galle Recreation Area and in Spring Valley. Partner with the Village of Woodville to create trailhead development,signage and trail markings Unknown Parks Budget 2019-2021 in the Village. One or two rest areas, with benches and nature Grant Funds 50% and historical signage should be created along the $7,500 Park Budget 50% 2020 trail. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ciroi1x Oowity 81 Existing Facilities January 8, 2019 DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR PARK BUILDINGS In early 2018, St. Croix County developed design guidelines to assist in planning for construction of future park buildings and facilities.The intent is to create a common architectural character and aesthetic that will help unify the image and identity of St. Croix County parks.The design for each building may vary slightly from park to park or be modified to enhance a specific park amenity.The design of thematic elements (materials, form, color, etc.)will be used to provide continuity through the entire park system. Examples include the following (refer to drawings below): • Roof forms will be 12:12 gables or 3:12 sheds—or combination of. • Finish materials will be metal roofing and low-maintenance lap or board and batten siding with accents of natural stone. • The color palette will be earth tones with some vibrant colors applied to provide accent. Some buildings will be more prominent (destinations) while others are meant to blend into park settings. The function and actual location will dictate each facility's final design direction. Orientation,views, topography, access, etc. will be analyzed and overlaid with the guideline's unifying aesthetic. Various systems and equipment (mechanical, electrical, etc.)will also be standardized to help streamline maintenance and budgeting. All building components will continue to be discussed and refined as deigns are developed for each project to ensure that the structure respond to specific needs and enhance the image and identity of each park setting. II r, r �� " F✓ %orf ii y// Y �m 82- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Existing Facilities 22' / Ili u I 15' .11 re .. .. r ................. ry .... Shed Concept uuuuu uuu������uuuuuu � II �I Sl Cron c��r'rd',y 4:'¢r��'lll�uo�gdi��CY�vrsl�G��'azcrr� rr.i fi w ;na'i� r� �i1rt 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Crroourity ,,, 83 Trail Facilities January 8, 2019 TRAIL FACILITIES ANALYSIS & ACTION PLANS Bicycle System History St. Croix County's rolling hills provide excellent terrain for bicycle riding.The county's agrarian vistas, miles of paved roads and proximity to urban populations attracts both resident and non-resident cyclists. In 2015, St. Croix County embarked on a major update to the Bicycle Transportation Plan (1995-2015).This update resulted in the adoption of the 2017St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. The update took approximately two years to complete with significant public input.The St. Croix f/ k. County Board adopted the Plan on May 2, 2017. The Plan serves as a guide for the further development of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in St. Croix County and as a strategy to enhance opportunities for bicycling and walking across the county for a wide variety of people—from school age children to casual adult bicyclists to avid road cyclists.The plan includes a variety of recommendations for new and enhanced bikeway and trail facilities within the network that will provide a higher level of service than existing bikeway infrastructure.The need for the plan update was critical in light of growth projections for St. Croix County as shown in the demographic portion of this plan. The St. Croix River Crossing Bridge project "rJ r y scheduled for completion in 2019 is the catalyst for recent bike and pedestrian " 5g°wa`e`Lift®°d�a advocacy in the county. In conjunction with the bridge project, a 4.7-mile St. Croix ' unrneepass , ��, River Crossing Loop Trail will be a � ,✓ -rca ��i NIIS 64 bicyclist/pedestrian destination with the � ����� trail going through historic Stillwater, �' P Minnesota to Houlton, Wisconsin and �� a�ad4e through vistas of scenic St. Croix Riverway. The Loop Trail will use a designated lane on the new St. Croix River Bridge Crossing and the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge that will be converted to a bicycle/pedestrian bridge.Trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin will complete the loop and will connect to other regional and local trail systems in the Twin City metropolitan area and Western Wisconsin. Currently, the county's priority is to make bicycling beyond the loop trail safer and more appealing for trail users. While this is a pressing short-term priority, it is ultimately the county's intent to implement a safer and more appealing active transportation system in all parts of the county. 84- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Trail Facilities Facilities The 2017St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan recommends approximately 102 miles of new bikeways and trails in addition to minor enhancements (signs and occasional spot improvements) along 327 miles of existing bikeways, trails and low-traffic rural roads.These routes provide non-vehicle traffic access to all of the jurisdictions within the county. St. Croix County currently has 230 miles of county or town roads designated as bicycle routes based on the St. Croix County Bicycle Transportation Plan (1995-2015). Route signs on some of these roads will need to be removed based on conformity with this Plan's recommended bikeway network. St. Croix County's only off-road bicycle trails are the Wildwood Trail and St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. These are county-owned park facilities and are summarized in previous sections. Recent Improvements M C' �� n ....... '" vv?"".0 ", AYVNu"YIYUIYWIVIIuww�fi4 ?r a i! ..,�.� ,,,w �. L ,". ,. _.L....... ............L...... I w...." _.._ ,m. �.. _.. �. »'Z E _ l .......... .__J _ ��� '"�ii�rmmmm�rr�ylmin»muNugeodwmnr��". - � I _ l _ TiJ'A ,z ll_ � P , � jj .... m X65- - c r } I_ - t r , d.VF3p" III F t'9 a1M1 IlllllllllllllllllllllllllllhRIth 'J///////////// 6epa led - nss IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Pay d 6 d Ez srng aavea mnmaers IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII BMe Lw.s IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII ncvlsbrr exe Lanes 0 2 4 S 12 16 M--i n o.ts `i/i Miles ib. The Highway Department works on a continuous basis to address signage on the bike route system. This includes I tlll replacing aging and damaged signs as well as the installation �I�I�wO''''ll y � of additional signs as the system expands. During the process of planning for construction projects on the county trunk highway system, the question of whether or not to include paved shoulders and the width of the paved shoulder is addressed. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirox ouuumty 85 Trail Facilities January 8, 2019 A septic system and water well have been installed on the county's main trailhead for the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. These will be used to service a ,iiiiiiiaaaaao///////// handicap accessible restroom facility and provide%/;,,%%;;i% jj///////////,/,"""""' drinking water to trail users. Informational and interpretive panels designed by county staff and slated for installation along the Loop Trail have been well received at multiple public open house events. An art r` bench is also being coordinated with the local community as a centerpiece for the public trailhead. The Highway Department will coordinate the conversion of the current signage to a wayfinding system designed to raise awareness of bicycle traffic among motorists, promote safe routes among cyclists and raise the comfort level of casual bicyclists on on-road facilities. Needs Assessment The system of county and town on-road routes works well for adult cyclists and semi-professional touring cyclists. Because younger children need more supervision when utilizing shared bike path facilities, parents are looking for routes where children are more isolated from vehicular traffic. They desire off the road paths, wide paved shoulders or separate trails. Other key themes identified in the latest public involvement process include a desire for more west-east bikeway connections, more bicycle infrastructure, separated paths that connect to the new Loop Trail, a sustainable maintenance program for trail facilities, and bicycle infrastructure that that provides separation from motor vehicles. 86- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Trail Facilities Priority Corridors w . .... _, ...,.. P cI y � ��` �� m�umru�!m!�r� m�u�u�urmw,rrkii �mn✓anu� m�mritt �rkai�uurom'r�m�� ivaiiva�r����i � 2oi�riui�u wir (' 1 K � g �I IAI l ... V. G T �JJf I i� yam cru a ._o .. D. 128 -r—. I i / J%l B Will N� SSP "INI IFIPP.._. ._.. _._...._., . .. YY �� ., N M li^.`_ _.. ..,...Z�u,� ��e �i�M�r—� oo 71 Priority Corridors WE GONE=. Miles s 1' 2 3 4 5 Early ion Priority Corridors Five priority corridors are identified in the 2017St. Croix County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.These represent the highest priority routes identified from the plan's bikeway and trail network recommendations. CORRIDOR 1: 1-94-RIVER CREST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONNECTION The bikeway recommendations for Corridor 1 are intended to provide better connections between the south end of downtown Hudson and other existing bikeways and trails that create important regional connections.The segment along 2nd Street, between the intersection with Coulee Road and Interstate 94, 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirox ouuumty 87 Trail Facilities January 8, 2019 improves upon the existing sidewalk connection to the separated path across the 1-94 bridge, providing safer access for trips to and from Minnesota to the City of Hudson and its existing bikeways. With the connection to Coulee Road providing much needed access across the interstate highway at the 11th Street overpass,the commercial areas along and south of 1-94 can be reached from the significantly lower-lying area along the river. Since Coulee Road ascends considerably from 2nd Street to 11th Street, this segment is best served with the proposed separated bike path. To the south of 1-94, the corridor serves bicycle and pedestrian trips to employment areas with connections to an existing path along Crest View Drive and to the industrial park. Continuing south in the Town of Troy, this corridor provides for safe travel to River Crest Elementary School and the YMCA's Camp St. Croix, while creating connections to existing trails along S. Carmichael Road and Coulee Trail, and to the trails and the bicycle/pedestrian underpass of County Highway F in the vicinity of the elementary school.This corridor also improves bicycle travel to Troy Beach,just south of the corridor along the river. CORRIDOR 2: LOOP TRAIL-WILLOW RIVER STATE PARK CONNECTION This corridor provides a key connection from the new St. Croix River crossing to the very popular Willow River State Park and its internal trail system.The segment along Highway 35 also provides a critical link from the new bridge and bikeways in Minnesota, to populations on the Wisconsin side, south of the bridge, including the Town of St.Joseph, Village of North Hudson and the City of Hudson.This segment will present some challenges for implementation.The busy and high speed conditions of the highway (with a speed limit of 55 miles per hour in much of this section of Highway 35) indicate a need for a separated sidepath. This will provide a much needed link to the new bridge and the Loop Trail being constructed as a part of the bridge project. The River Road segment of the corridor would provide safe access to Willow River State Park, a destination for families and bicycle tourists from both Minnesota and Wisconsin.The sidepath is proposed to continue to another planned bikeway, north from Willow River State Park, to Homestead Park and Perch Lake. CORRIDOR 3: WIS-35 CONNECTION TO HUDSON Corridor 3 is the next segment between the Loop Trail and the Village of North Hudson and City of Hudson. Highway 35 north of North Hudson has higher speeds, indicating the need for the sidepath until a point in the Village where the speed limit drops to 25 miles per hour, allowing for safe bicycle travel in on-street bike lanes. This connection is critical as bicyclists will need a route from the Loop Trail to the many destinations in Hudson. Also, this would allow a loop to be completed using trails at the new river crossing and the Interstate 94 river crossing. CORRIDOR 4: LOOP TRAIL-SOMERSET CONNECTION This segment provides a critical connection to the St. Croix Crossing project and its Loop Trail component along a scenic route north to the Village of Somerset. In Somerset, the corridor provides access to a popular Apple River tubing site and the Somerset Amphitheater, which hosts large concerts and festivals. The corridor also connects to other planned bikeways north of Somerset along CTH I and 80th Street, linking to the Apple River Canyon State Natural Area and beyond to other bicycling opportunities in Polk County.This segment is also the first step in reaching another primary population and activity center in St. Croix County, the City of New Richmond.The combination of on-road facilities and separated sidepaths, where necessary, 88- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Trail Facilities will provide a comfortable ride for most riders, while some significant terrain variation will keep the route interesting for fitness riders. CORRIDOR 5: BALDWIN-WOODVILLE CONNECTION Corridor 5 connects Baldwin and Woodville, which are closely linked in terms of schools, sports, and community facilities, but have remained separated by a lack of safe bicycling routes.The elementary school and high school for the Baldwin-Woodville School District are both located in the Village of Baldwin, but the Middle School is located in Woodville.This necessitates many families living in either community to transport their child (or children)to the other community at some point during each child's school years. With the distance between the communities being approximately five miles, bicycling could serve some of those school trips, such as those after baseball or theater practice when a bus may not be available, but potentially also as a healthy or convenient choice for students and other bicycle riders of all ages. This corridor is seen as one of the most critical links in a much-requested connection between the communities in the Interstate 94/Highway 12 corridor running east-west through the county. Bicycle std in Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year As improvements are made to Highway 35, encourage mmmm WDOT to develop an off-road bicycle path from the St. $0 N/A Ongoing Croix River Crossing Loop Trail to NorthHudson. Encourage local communities to plan for bicycles in their local outdoor recreation plans and develop bicycle $0 N/A Ongoing facilities as part of their improvement programs. Implement uniform signage for all routes, paths and CIP, Local trails; begin with pilot project to establish one or two $40,000 2019-2020 north/south and east/west routes. Communities Local cyclists and tourists should be provided promotional information on recommended routes to specific locations such as the state, county and federal Park Budget & parks, communities or tourist destinations. Brochures, $1,000 Local Ongoing websites and social media should be developed and Communities include information on travel time, mileage, places to eat, things to see, level of difficulty, etc. Implement priority recommendations recommended in $See Bike Ped CIP, Grants, Local the 2017St. CroixCauntylBicycle and Pedestrian Plan Pan communities Ongoing Educational efforts should be done in coordination with local communities regarding bicycle rights and responsibilities on highways and regarding highway maintenance. Partner with local law enforcement County Budget & agencies to promote safe riding etiquette. Maintenance Variable Local Ongoing to keep designated routes safe for bicyclists and Communities vehicles should include removing rocks, gravel, glass, etc. from pavement edge to pavement edge. Include information on the County's website. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi1x Couuumty 89 Trail Facilities January 8, 2019 ImprovementsCost ---anoff-road trail connection ___________ __ River Falls on former railroad grade, (where it exists) $See DNR Grants, CIP, and/or develop off-road trail segments when and Bi /Ped Local 2020-2023 where needed to make the connection: Plan Communities Consider an off-road trail on the former railroad bed from Hudson to Willow River State Park and eventually $See DNR Grants, CIP, Bike/Ped Local 2020-2023 to New Richmond. Either acquisition and/or long term Plan Communities easements will be needed. 90- SC Dui i1 OU1111ty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Trail Facilities Snowmobile Trail System History The St. Croix County Snowmobile Association is composed of 12 snowmobile clubs from around the county. One County Park staff member serves as Trails Coordinator for the state-funded, county trail system. The Association works through the Trail Coordinator in the maintenance and grooming of the trail.The Trail Coordinator applies for grant funding, does grant .. reporting, provides fiscal management and assists with notifications regarding when the county trail system is open and closed. The Department of Natural Resources, using snowmobile registration fees and gas tax revenues, provides funds for trail maintenance to the association through the Community Development Department. Facilities There are approximately 216.6 miles of groomed public trail in St. Croix County.There are also a few miles of club trail that are not groomed. Legendr I� a�rolu iWW�nioYar�ua� y .. p �f w lauz� VAT Wr to I I l CI F S� CIiWdW 0.auu^MY 91154sOs RiWaIN71»r i U Ra l j� F9 6 1. u , 'c {� m .k b 14 IV tp � _61ED RD rl,i J4p �, asrr4WS{�', �° .,\�"", 4� ....,r , t c �� ',�i u u 9 � s, IL n 41 s�'7 ac rr a vrrr 1,0 r �._ q , j fICliRI. ..,� W� �uW 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC Ouro° x couuumty 91 Trail Facilities January 8, 2019 Recent Improvements In 2017,two DNR grants to improve snowmobile trails were awarded to St. Croix County. The improvements to the Wildwood Trail were completed in 2018, a new bridge for snowmobile usage in the Town of Forest will be completed in 2019. In 2005 the Snowmobile Ordinance was amended to expand enforcement against riders using trails before they are opened.This will improve relations with property owners and will protect the resource for all users. Needs Assessment Overall, the snowmobile trail system is very well run and !� maintained. Due to the increasing population in the F ,ra „4western towns of Troy, Hudson and St.Joseph trail usage has been increasing. However, the ,A growing population and new rural subdivisions decrease the open land available for snowmobile trails so new trail segments are unlikely in the . .% western part of the county and some existing segments may be lost.The County Snowmobile Association has recommended that sharing wintertime usage on any trails with ATV's would be very undesirable. Snowmobile Trail System Action Plan Improvements Cost Funding Source Year Continue to assist the Snowmobile Association with grant applications and reporting,fiscal management and N/A N/A Ongoing public notification of trail opening/closing. Encourage cities and villages to have designated trails through their communities so that snowmobilers can get to gas, food and lodging. Communities could $0 N/A Ongoing designate limited routes so that resident snowmobilers can get to the County trail system. County, municipal and state-owned lands and programs are encouraged to cooperate with the St. Croix County Snowmobile Association and local clubs in establishing $0 N/A Ongoing trails across these public lands. Consult with the Highway Department and Town Town County officials whenever major road improvements are Unknown and State Ongoing considered, to plan for ditch grades that are suitable for Budgets snowmobile crossings. 92- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Trail Facilities i w / 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. ui i1 Comity ,, 93 All-Terrain Vehicle January 8, 2019 ALL—TERRAIN VEHICLE — USAGE, ON AND OFF—ROAD STATUS ofi For years, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) usage in St. Croix County was for utilitarian purposes such as aiding an agricultural d; producer or rural landowner on their farm, for home operations, or to travel between properties. However, all-terrain vehicle and utility-terrain vehicle (UTV) riding, as a recreational activity, has been a growing sport in Wisconsin.Wisconsin State Statute 23.33 and Administrative Code NR 64 regulate ATV and UTV usage including operation safety, speed noise age requirements and registration. ATV " registration is required in Wisconsin and/or trail passes can be purchased to legally operate in Wisconsin. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, who are at least 12 years old for ATV and at least 16 years old for UTV, must complete an ATV/UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails or public road routes in Wisconsin. These and other state regulations are designed to ensure these vehicles are operated safely and responsibly. Since 2010, there has been interest among ATV organizations to designate more options for the usage of ATV's in St. Croix County. Currently,there are no official off-road ATV trail segments in St. Croix County. The ATV clubs have received approval from several Towns to allow ATV riding on their town roads.The County Trunk Highway system does not allow ATV usage on county roads, except for farm use.ATV riding on road surfaces is not the preferred usage by the ATV organizations.The ATV riders prefer off-road trails. Areas in the State where ATV riding is very popular are located where large blocks of public land are open for public use. For example, Clark and Jackson counties have thousands of acres of County and State Forests with hundreds of miles of off-road ATV trails. Other areas are located in Northern Wisconsin where large wooded acreages of County, State and Federal lands provide a tourist destination such as Douglas, Polk, Washburn, Sawyer, Chippewa, and Barron counties, to name a few.These sites offer ATV riders recreational rides on scenic trails with the ability to cover 100 miles or more in a day. St. Croix County, one of the fastest growing counties in the state, does not have large acreages of County, State or Federal lands that offer this type of recreational use.The largest blocks of public land in St. Croix County are Willow River State Park, Eau Galle Recreation Area, Glen Hills County Park and State and Federal wildlife areas. ATV riding is not allowed in any of these areas or on any county lands. The ATV organizations may need to organize in a similar manner to how the snowmobile clubs organized years ago. Snowmobile club members worked with private landowners to gain easements on private land 94- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 All-Terrain Vehicle for snowmobile trails.The snowmobile clubs worked for many years to develop the 216-mile snowmobile trail system St. Croix County has today. It should be taken into account that the snowmobile clubs may have had an easier sell with landowners because their recreational usage is seasonal, (December—March). As such, it has minimal impact on the landowners' usage of their property during the peak agricultural season of planting, x , harvesting, and pasturing (April— �' November). This is much different for the ATV organizations, because their time of demand extends from April—December or perhaps the entire calendar year. If the ATV clubs are to be successful in organizing an off-road trail system, or a combination off and on-road trail system in St. Croix County, it will most likely be organized similar to how the snowmobile clubs developed their trail system, by contacting private landowners and developing easements on private property. There are a few active ATV clubs in St. Croix County: St. Croix County Trail Riders, Glenwood-Forest Barn Stormers, Roberts Knight Riders and the Pierce County ATV Association (PCAA). The PCAA may have members from both St. Croix and Pierce counties. Prior to making a decision whether ATV's should be a permitted use on County property/trails,the St. Croix County Board of Supervisors should consider the following issues: 1) Town Board and community acceptance: It is critical that Town Boards and local citizens desire an ATV trail system in their community and be willing to support a trail. 2) Trail operation and maintenance: A public ATV trail system will require staff time to inspect, maintain and operate a safe system.There is state funding that will assist in trail maintenance, but the amount may not cover the cost of maintenance.The county would need to budget for additional costs. 3) Financial Partnership: A financial partnership between local towns, the county, and ATV clubs may be necessary to fund an off-road trail system. 4) Legal and Liability: It will be necessary to have our Corporation Counsel and Risk Management support ATV activity on County Property. 5) Current adopted County Plans: County plans that have not allowed ATV usage on county property may need to be amended. ATV Ordinance:To effectively regulate and enforce ATV activity, the County would need to develop and adopt an ATV ordinance. The ordinance would establish standards to regulate noise levels, speed, hours of usage, shared usage, seasonal periods of usage, signage, sight distances, vision triangles, highway crossings, citations and a variety of other safety and administrative issues. 6) Enforcement: If a County ordinance is developed, it will need to be enforced, which will require staff with law enforcement credentials, purchase of an ATV and trailer and allocation of staff time to administer the ordinance. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 95 All-Terrain Vehicle January 8, 2019 7) Impact to sensitive areas such as wildlife and plant habitat, compatibility with other park uses such as hiking, camping and sightseeing, impact to soils and potential erosion. ST. CROIX COUNTY ALLIANCE OF SPORTSMAN'S CLUBS The St. Croix County Alliance of Sportsman's Clubs partners with outdoor recreational and conservation clubs and local, state, and federal units of government to promote recreational opportunity, public education, and conservation throughout St. Croix County.The Alliance has a dedicated interest in fostering partnerships that result in policy development and practice implementation that serve the common good. The Alliance has identified a project inventory comprised of hunting and fishing projects throughout St. Croix County.The Alliance will use this list as a guide when coordinating projects with various clubs and governmental jurisdictions as funding and resources are obtained. A list of the project inventory is shown in Attachment C. 96- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Outdoor Recreation Plans COMMUNITY OUTDOOR RECREATION PLANS St. Croix County has an abundant supply of both public and private recreational opportunities available to its residents. There are federal, state, county, municipal and private recreation facilities of one kind or another to be found in every community in the county. Activities include parks, playgrounds, ball fields, tennis and basketball courts, picnic areas, sight-seeing, pleasure driving, cross-country skiing trails, hiking trails, horse trails, horseback riding facilities, campgrounds, swimming beaches, tubing, sand volleyball, canoeing,water skiing, boating, fishing, hunting, snow-tubing, ice skating, hockey, shooting and archery ranges, golf courses, etc. St. Croix County recognizes that it is essential to have a wide range of recreation facilities in the county. State and federal facilities can offer different recreational opportunities to residents than can the county or the local community. Each has a role to play and a niche it is best capable of filling. The St. Croix County Parks Division's supports the roles that public and private facilities play in providing recreational opportunities to county residents. The department works cooperatively with Local Units of Government to promote recreational activities to citizens throughout St. Croix County. The following section on Community Outdoor Recreation Plans includes plans that have been adopted by each Local Unit of Government (LUG) and where the LUG has requested that the local outdoor recreation plan be incorporated into the county outdoor recreation plan. Each local community's outdoor recreation plan identifies existing and proposed outdoor recreation opportunities and programs. These outdoor recreation plans analyze present recreation facilities and plan for future recreational needs to maintain a pleasant and satisfying environment for future generations. Goal ) Cooperate and coordinate with cities, vffla es, towns, neighboring counties, special interest groups and neighboring property owners to provide recreational activities, access, education and preservation of naturaV, historic: and c:ukural resources for the enjoyment and benefit of A citizens. Objective ) incorporate city, vfflage and town pVans into the .St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Nan when requested by local communities. The Parks Division invited local units of government, by letter, to consider adopting and supporting the St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Plan as their"Regional Plan" and St. Croix County would also include those Local Units of Government recreation plans as part of the County Outdoor Recreation Plan. Some Local Units of Government have chosen to participate and others have not. Additional communities may participate in the future. To date supporting resolutions were received from the following LUG's: • The Towns of Somerset and Troy 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi1x Couuumty 97 Outdoor Recreation Plans January 8, 2019 nn� i a� p p 98- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A ATTACHMENTA: PARKS AND RECREATION SURVEY Survey Purpose & Methods The goals of the survey were to determine the opinions of St. Croix County residents and other regional residents regarding current outdoor recreational facilities and amenities managed by the County and future needs in this area. The 2018 survey instrument was an adaptation of one first created by the Survey Research Center (SRC) at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and St. Croix County in 2004 for a study commissioned by St. Croix County.' In late 2017,the SRC and representatives from St. Croix County were involved in the review and redesign of the 2004 survey questionnaire. In January 2018, 1,146 St. Croix County households (three times the sample size needed for+/-5% confidence interval)were mailed the 2018 St. Croix County Parks and Recreation Survey. In addition, 752 surveys (188/county)were mailed to households in neighboring counties (Pierce, Polk, and Dunn Counties in Wisconsin and Washington County, Minnesota). Households were selected from mailing lists acquired from a list broker. Three contacts were involved in the survey process. The initial invitation and survey were mailed to the two samples including a pre-addressed postage-paid envelope. The invitation offered the option to complete the survey online and provided the survey's URL. Those not responding to the first mailing were sent a postcard reminder. Households not responding within 10 days of the follow-up postcard received another survey. The data collection phase lasted approximately seven weeks from mid- January through early March 2018. Out of 1,898 surveys mailed,425 households returned usable surveys by mail or submitted them online. The response rate for St. Croix County was 26% (294/1,146). Given that St. Croix County has approximately 66,625 adults, the estimates included in this report should be accurate to within plus or minus 5.7%with 95%confidence for the St. Croix County population. The response rate for neighboring counties was 17% (131/752). The following analysis will: • Summarize the responses to the 2018 St. Croix County Parks and Recreation Survey. • Compare the responses of different demographic groups within the sample to see if they hold different opinions about a given topic. • Provide comparisons between St. Croix County residents' response patterns and those of respondents from neighboring counties. • Determine if responses varied significantly between 2004 (when a similar survey was conducted) and 2018. Substantial modifications were made to the 2018 survey. Questions, choices, and directions had to be worded the same in the instruments to be considered comparable and appropriate for statistical testing. 'The 2004 sample consisted of 200 observations of St.Croix County residents and 49 in neighboring counties. The 2004 survey was conducted via telephone. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5tw Ouroi1x Oouuumty 99 Attachment A January 8, 2019 • Provide comparisons between the results of online responses vs. completions by mail. Any survey has to be concerned about non-response bias—the situation where those who don't respond to a survey have systematically different opinions than those who responded. Based on a standard statistical approach, the SRC does not believe that non-response bias is a problem with this dataset.The non- response bias test is discussed further in Appendix A. Respondents also provided written comments, which are included in Appendix B—Written Comments, 2018.The open-ended comments of St. Croix County respondents and adjacent counties respondents are reported separately. Data summaries for each quantitative survey question for both populations are found in Appendix C— Quantitative Summary of Responses—St. Croix County Residents and Appendix D—Quantitative Summary of Responses—Adjacent Counties Residents. The SRC used statistical tests to identify questions with statistically significant differences: • across demographic groups, • between St. Croix County residents responses vs. non-County residents responses, • between the responses to the 2004 and 2018 surveys, and • between online responses and mail survey responses In statistics, a result is statistically significant if it is unlikely to have occurred by chance. Statistical significance is expressed as a probability that the calculated difference between the average of one group and the average of another group is not real.A commonly used probability standard is.05(5%). Statistical significance at the.05 level indicates there is only a 5 in 100 probability that the average values for the two groups are actually equal. Such a result does not mean the difference is necessarily large, important, or significant in the common meaning of the word. If there are a sufficiently large number of observations, even small differences of opinion can be statistically significant. In the report, we will note response patterns that vary at statistically significant levels(p<.05). 100- SC cirox coulinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Profile of Respondents Response Rate by County Table 1 shows response rates by county. 1,146 surveys were mailed to St. Croix County residents (three times the sample size needed for+/-5%confidence interval), and 752 surveys (188/county) were mailed to households in the neighboring counties of Pierce, Polk, and Dunn Counties in Wisconsin and Washington County, Minnesota. Two completed surveys were returned from counties other than those included in the project. One respondent was a resident of Waseca County, MN and the other did not include their County of residence. For comparison purposes, the profile of the 2004 telephone survey is shown in Table 1a. Table 1: 2018 Survey Response Rate by County St.Croix County Invitations Mailed In Sample Per Population Response Rate St.Croix,WI 1,146 294 26% Neighboring Counties Dunn,WI 188 40 21% Pierce,WI 188 38 20% Polk,WI 188 29 15% Washington,MN 188 22 12% Other --- 2 --- Total—Year 2018 1,898 425 22% Table 1a: 2004 Survey Response Rate by County* St.Croix County Telephone Surveys Completed St.Croix,WI 200 Neighboring Counties Pierce,WI 32 Polk,WI 14 Dunn,WI 3 Total—Year 2004 249 *Washington County,MN residents were not included in the 2004 survey. Survey Respondents Table 2 (next page) summarizes the demographic profile of respondents to the 2018 St. Croix County Parks and Recreation survey. Where appropriate, data from the U.S. Census for St. Croix County are included for comparative purposes to the St. Croix County sample.'The profile of the 2004 sample is also included in Table 2. 'Source: U.S.Census Bureau,2012-2016 American Community Survey,5-Year Estimates. For comparison purposes,only the St. Croix County sample is compared to the Census. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5tw Ouroi1x Oouuumty 101 Attachment A January 8, 2019 De\fiations from the St, Croix County Census There is a higher proportion of males in the St. Croix County sample when compared to the County as a whole,where females and males each make up 50%of the adult population. Younger age groups (<35)are under-represented in the sample, and the sample contains more respondents with graduate degrees. There is a higher proportion of homeowners and retired respondents in the St. Croix County sample than is true for the County as a whole. Comparisons t 2004 respondents Compared to 2004, the 2018 datasets contain more: • males, • older respondents (55+), • longer-term residents (25+years), • respondents living in households without children, • respondents with graduate degrees, and • respondents with higher incomes (100K+) Table 2: Demographic Profile of 2018 St.Croix County Parks and Recreation Survey Gender Count Male Female 2018—St.Croix 291 63% 37% 2018—Adj Counties 130 62% 38% 2004 Sample 246 44% 56% Census (18+) 64,117 50% 50% Age Count 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 2018—St.Croix 291 1% 8% 15% 24% 26% 26% 2018—Adj Counties 129 1% 9% 13% 19% 27% 31% 2004 Sample 246 6% 14% 31% 26% 15% 8% Census (18+) 64,117 10% 16% 19% 21% 17% 17% Employment Status Count Full time Part time Unempl Self Empl Retired Other 2018—St.Croix 292 56% 7% 1% 7% 27% 2% 2018—Adj Counties 126 50% 1 6% 0% 8% 34% 2% 2004 Sample 245 53% 1 11% 7% 10% 16% 2% Census(16+)* 66,660 70% 3% 6% 17% --- Tech/ 4-Year High <High Some Coll Degree Graduate Level of Education Count School School Degree 2018—St.Croix 286 0% 19% 31% 29% 21% 2018—Adj Counties 126 1% 18% 42% 25% 14% 2004 Sample 245 2% 22% 34% 37% 6% Census(25+) 57,837 4% 27% 36% 24% 10% $25K- $50K- $75K- Household Income Count <$25K $49.9K $74.9K $99.9K $100K+ 2018—St.Croix 247 6% 15% 20% 21% 38% 2018—Adj Counties 114 12% 21% 20% 17% 30% 2004 Sample 1 210 12% 24% 29% 28% 8% 102- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Table 2: Demographic Profile of 2018 St.Croix County Parks and Recreation Survey Gender Count Male Female Census(Total HH) 32,811 12% 19% 20% 16% 33% Housing Count Rent Own 2018—St.Croix 292 8% 92% 2018—Adj Counties 129 9% 91% 2004 Sample 244 11% 89% Census(Occupied Units) 32,811 24% 76% <1 Years in Region year 1-5 yrs 6-10 yrs 11-25 yrs 25+yrs 2018—St.Croix 289 12% 8% 33% 47% 2018—Adj Counties 129 12% 10% 22% S6% 2004 Sample 24S 19% 24% 24% 33% Adults—Household Count 1 2 3 4+ 2018—St.Croix 291 18% 68% 11% 4% 2018—Adj Counties 127 20% 66% 11% 2% 2004 Sample 244 12% 80% 7% 1% Children—Household Count 0 1 2 3 4+ 2018—St.Croix 289 63% 16% 16% 6% 2% 2018—Adj Counties 126 7S% 12% 10% 2% 2% 2004 Sample 233 4S% 1 22% 1 22% 1 9% 1 2% 'Census does not differentiate between full-time and part-time employment. St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreation Facilities Awareness, Usage, and Rating of St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Facilities Respondents were asked to indicate if they were personally aware of or have personally used eight St. Croix County facilities. In Table 3, responses of St. Croix County residents are shown on the left side of the table and responses of those from neighboring counties are shown on the right. A majority of St. Croix County residents are aware of only one-half(four) of the facilities listed.The highest awareness was shown for Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake), Glen Hills Park, and Troy Beach. Non-St. Croix County residents are less aware of the all facilities listed with the exception of Apple River Property.' In terms of usage, other than Wildwood Bike Trail, there is fairly consistent usage of County facilities with all falling between approximately one-fifth and one-half of St. Croix residents. Except for Apple River Property, use of St. Croix County facilities is lower for non-residents. ' In 2004, St. Croix County officials expressed surprise at the relatively high level of familiarity with the Apple River Property, because it was not a facility that had been developed or promoted by the County. The SRC is not sure if the level of awareness expressed in the 2018 survey is the result of additional development and promotion of this property or if the respondents were associating it with the popular Apple River recreation area. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi1x ouuinty 103 Attachment A January 8, 2019 St.Croix County Residents �. Non St.Croix Count Residents Facility Aware Used Ave Rating* Aware Used Ave Rating* Homestead Parklands(Perch 70% 52% 1.27 24% 10% 1.58 Lake) Glen Hills Park 60% 47% 1.33 40% 33% 1.20 Troy Beach 58% 38% 1.47 27% 11% 1.45 Bass Lake Boat Landing 55% 36% 1.51 28% 16% 1.47 Pine Lake Park 42% 31% 1.61 18% 11% 1.46 Apple River Property 41% 28% 1.72 48% 28% 1.46 Squaw Lake Boat Landing 27% 19% 1.74 9% 6% 1.33 Wildwood Bike Trail 16% 11% 1.70 10% 3% 1.40 *Facilities were rated as 1=good,2=average,and 3=poor. Numbers in boldface represent the highest(lowest number)rating. Respondents were asked to rate the quality of the facilities they have used, using a scale of 1=good, 2 = average, and 3 = poor("Ave Rating" columns in Table 3). The closer the rating is to 1,the higher the rating. For example, St. Croix County residents highest rating was given to Homestead Parklands/Perch Lake (1.27)and for non-residents, Glen Hills Park had the highest rating (1.20). With few exceptions, most residents rated the St. Croix County facilities listed on the survey as either good or average. Relatively few rated any of the facilities as poor. Although not statistically significant, interestingly, non-County residents rated all of the facilities higher than residents with the exception of Homestead Parklands/Perch Lake. Generally, there were consistent patterns in terms of statistically significant differences among demographic groups: • In terms of awareness, longer-term residents (10+years) were more likely than shorter-term residents (<10 years)to be aware of Glen Hills Park, Pine Lake Park, Bass Lake Boat Landing, and Squaw Lake Boat Landing. • Respondents with annual household incomes of at least $50,000 were consistently more likely than respondents with less than $50,000 annual household incomes to be aware of most of the facilities listed on the survey(Glen Hills Park, Homestead Parklands, Bass Lake Boat Landing,Troy Beach, and Wildwood Bike Trail). • Males were more likely than females to be aware of Glen Hills Park, Pine Lake Park, Bass Lake Boat Landing, and Squaw Lake Boat Landing. • In terms of usage, those with household incomes of at least$50,000 were more likely to say that they use six of the eight facilities listed on the survey when compared to lower income respondents (Homestead Parklands, Pine Lakes Park, Bass Lake Boat Landing,Troy Beach, Wildwood Bike Trail, and Squaw Lake Boat Landing). • Respondents with at least a Bachelor's degree were more likely than respondents with less formal education to say that they use Homestead Parklands,Troy Beach, Wildwood Bike Trail, and Squaw Lake Boat Landing. • In terms of rating, Bass Lake Boat Landing was rated higher by respondents 35+and longer-term (10+years) respondents. • Troy Beach was rated higher by those with at least a Bachelor's degree. 104- 5t. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Note: regarding historical comparisons used throughout this report. Survey modes were different for the 2004 and 2018 surveys. In 2004, the survey was conducted over the telephone with student staff of the Survey Research Center. In 2018, the survey was sent through the mail with an option to complete the survey online. It is not known how results may have been affected due to an interaction with someone (telephone survey)vs. self-administered mail and/or online surveys. Also, differences between the survey results could be due to any significant changes made to the St. Croix County facilities and amenities listed on the survey that might affect opinions regarding these services. In addition, for the adjacent counties sample, Washington County, MN residents were not included in the 2004 survey. Historical comparisons are made when the survey question, survey choices, and directions are comparable for 2004 and 2018. 2004/2018 Cop risonS4 Awareness S ® Croix County Outdoor Recreational Facilities Figures 1 and 2 (next page) highlight survey results from the two surveys conducted in 2004 and 2018 using line graphs. The red line in each Figure represents 2018 results and the blue line highlights 2004 results. For example, in Figure 1,46%of 2004 survey respondents said that they were aware of Troy Beach vs. 58% in 2018. The SRC will report on statistically significant differences (p<.05) between the two surveys. St. Croix County residents were significantly more likely to be aware in 2018 of Homestead Parklands, Bass Lake Boat Landing, and Troy Beach (Figure 1). However, residents were significantly less likely to be aware of Apple River Property and Wildwood Bike Trail. In all cases, non-resident awareness of St. Croix County facilities is lower in 2018 than it was in 2004; significantly so in the cases of Glen Hills Park,Troy Beach, Apple River Property and Wildwood Bike Trail (Figure 2). N uir 1° Awareness Of Fadll files, 2004-2015 5t. Croix County Residents -2004 m20:9.8 80% 70% A0/, 60% H 58% 62% u 60% u`u"41°u°41°uu°u4u1°mu°umn'im..vum„ em nu u m � i49111m�a�IV�MIMNI�nmumuniwnomimuinmmmimumnnunnnnmm5mmu5lns% 507 58% 2% mmmm mmmsnnununununounnumnnnmunuunnu1n0n°n°nmnmununununonunwn°n°n'nmwawnlmy 0 00lnMlmmum'ro""m0`mmuon`4 40% VAVvq 28% 30% 42% o% 43 47% 46% a� hum 20% ➢.0% 0% 16% Glen dills Pwk Homestead (Pine. I..ake.Pwk Bass I..ake. Boat Troy Beach Apple.River Wildwood Bike. IPa ddands I..anding; Noper Ly Trail (IPemh I..ake) 4 Squaw Lake Boat Landing was not included in the 2004 survey,so comparisons with 2004 are not possible. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ciroiix Couinty 105 \ Attachment A January 8, 2019 Rgure 2° Awareness of Fadhfles, 2004 2018 Adjocentr Countries Residents -2004 70% 65% 60% 51% 50% � �1�........... 33% 0,0 40% 48% % 0% 27% �%, I.......... 30% 4 24% oioiooioioiooioioio 20% 24% 28% 27% 1.0% 18% 0% 10% Glen Hills Park Homestead Pine I alke Park Bass I alke Boat Troy Beach Apple River Wildwood Bike. Par Hands I anding IP oper Ly Trail (Pemh I a ke) Usage of St. Croix County Outdoor Recreational Facilities St. Croix County residents were significantly more likely in 2018 to have used Glen Hills Park, Homestead Parklands, Bass Lake Boat Landing and Troy Beach than they were in 2004 (Figure 3). Usage by non-residents for all St. Croix County facilities was lower in 2018 than in 2004 (Figure 4). Non- residents in 2018 were significantly less likely to use Apple River Property and Troy Beach than they were in 2004. Rguire I Use of Fadirk es, 2004 2018 _Str. Croix Country Residents -2004 60% 47% 52% 501 ljjj") ...................) ............ .. . . . 38%.8% 31% 36% . 31%40% ""N4,4 ....nmm�o� �j....... fj f.f,30% 39% .................... 26.......2.... ................................................ . 201 29% 2 8% .......11 10% 10% 24% 25% 25% 0% Glen Hills Park Homestead Pine I alke Park Bass I alke Boat Troy Beach Apple River Wildwood Bike. Flarklands Landing Property Tail (Pemh I a ke) 106- St. Ciroiix Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment Ngure 4� Use of Fadhfles, 2004 2018 Adjocent Counties Residents 11010 00 Glen Hills Pw k Homestead Pine I alke Pw k Bass I alke Boat Imy Beach Apple Rive� Wildwood Bilke Usage of St. Croix County Outdoor Recreational Facilities St. Croix County residents were significantly more likely in 2018 to have used Glen Hills Pad, Homestead Parklands, Bass Lake Boat Landing and Troy Beach than they were in 2004 (Figure 3). Usage bynon-residents for all St. Croix County facilities was lower inZU18than inZUU4 (Figure 4). Non- residents inZU18vveresi8nificant|y |ess |ike|ytouseApp|eRiverPropertyandTroyBeachthantheyvverein 2004. Attachment A January 8, 2019 Ilii uire 4° Use of Iiacii11iitii s, 2004 2018 Adjocentr Countries Residents -2004 a 45% 4 0 40% 35% �010,0� 35% °������ X0110", 30% �"m�������A24 9/c 25% 33% 20% �mu� wmunaa�m�� 00000800 20% 0 mD�'mmmuoavmmo�mmmmmmninnumumounninnumumouninuomi p/ � 12�o i o�mm�mnimw�m�` ���° 1.5/tt ��m��yy���1���Aunin�nmu�o���oom�nm�000m�nm�000�ao�000m�nm�o°iiiii'iomr�mU""uo�m"'°mm j4@il�'�t@�� %%"�', Vg��Ni�WUUl1AAl�llmWUUl1AAl�l��U�ypAlllNi'������WiWunununununununununiioiiunununununununununi� 1.0% �muiiiiimiiiiimiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiimiiiiiimiiiiimiiiiii 91N�➢i ID➢ 16% �������4% 5% 10% 11% 11% o & 0% 39/. Glen dills IPw k Homestead Pine I..al e IPw k Bass I..al e Boat Troy Beach Apple Rivewildwood Bile IPw Hands I..anding; NopeLy Trail (IPemh I..ake) St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreational Amenities/Services Awareness, Usage, and Retro' of St. Croix County Outdoor Recreation Amen iti /Services Respondents were asked to indicate if they were personally aware of or have personally used sixteen St. Croix County amenities or services. In Table 4, responses of St. Croix County residents are shown on the left side of the table and responses of those from neighboring counties are shown on the right. 108- St. Ciroiix Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Tal 4;° an�crii \alut� oc Cti ntr 1tidrr F�;reiiai \' St. rine` St.Croix County.. �. Residents Non St.Croix Count Residents Ave #Most Ave #Most Amenity or Service Aware Used Rating* Imp Aware Used Rating* Imp Swimming beaches 82% 64% 1.S0 18 S2% 36% 1.63 8 Picnic facilities 81% S7% 1.3S 14 S4% 42% 1.39 S Boat ramps 80% S4% 1.49 41 63% 41% 1.41 16 Playgrounds 76% S8% 1.24 9 46% 31% 1.33 3 Hiking trails 7S% 61% 1.27 33 49% 33% 1.14 10 Campgrounds 73% 37% 1.37 15 S3% 27% 1.38 8 County park and trail maps 6S% S6% 1.27 8 SO% 3S% 1.24 6 Shoreline fishing facilities S7% 41% 1.S6 14 40% 21% 1.S9 3 Snowmobile trails S7% 21% 1.S8 10 44% 18% 1.S0 3 Bike routes on existing roads S2% 33% 1.68 8 27% 12% 1.S3 4 Snowshoe and cross country ski trails SO% 19% 1.48 1 28% 7% 1AS 2 On-line campground reservation 41% 19% 1.39 0 28% 11% 1.36 0 Canoe,boat,paddleboat and 40% 21% 1.41 5 36% 19% 1.38 0 paddleboard rentals Volleyball facilities 37% 7% 1.SS 0 16% 6% 1.63 0 Frisbee golf 34% 10% 1.S2 1 17% S% 1.S6 4 Horseshoe pits 29% 3% 1.64 6 17% 1% 1.80 1 *Facilities were rated as 1=good,2=average,and 3=poor. Numbers in boldface represent the most frequent amenity or service identified as"most important'by respondents. Fifty-percent or more of St. Croix County residents are aware of 11 out of 16 amenities or services listed on the survey.The highest awareness was shown for swimming beaches, picnic facilities, and boat ramps. Non-St. Croix County residents are significantly less aware than County residents of all the amenities or services listed except for canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals. In terms of usage, six amenities or services were used by a majority of County residents: swimming beaches, hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic facilities, county park and trail maps, and boat ramps. Picnic facilities and boat ramps were the most used amenities or services for non-residents. Non-residents were significantly less likely to use the County amenities or services with the exceptions of: canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals, campgrounds, horseshoe pits,volleyball facilities, Frisbee golf, snowmobile trails, and online campground reservations. Respondents were asked to rate the quality of the amenities or services (of those they have used), using a scale of 1=good, 2= average, and 3 = poor(columns "Ave Rating",Table 4). The closer the rating is to 1, the higher the rating. For example, St. Croix County residents highest rating was given to playground (1.24) and for non-residents, hiking trails had the highest rating (1.14). Two-thirds or more of County residents rated the following amenities or services as "good": hiking trails, picnic facilities, playgrounds, and County park and trail maps. At least two-thirds of neighboring counties residents rated the following amenities or facilities as "good": canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals, hiking trails, playgrounds, county park and trail maps, and on-line campground reservations. Most important amenity orservice. When asked to identify the amenity or service most important to them from those listed on the survey, County residents identified boat ramps as their most important amenity 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan stw cirox ouuumty 109 Attachment A January 8, 2019 followed by hiking trails ("# Most Imp" column in Table 4). Non-residents were most interested in the same two amenities, boat ramps and hiking trails.' Statistically significant differences among demographic groups regarding recreational amenities and services: • In terms of awareness, respondents younger than 35 were more likely to be aware of boat ramps, swimming beaches, hiking trails, snowshoe and cross country ski trails, and volleyball facilities. • Residents with annual household incomes of at least$50,000 were more likely than respondents with less than $50,000 annual household incomes to be aware of boat ramps, shoreline fishing facilities, swimming beaches, campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic facilities, and county park and trail maps. • Residents with children in their households were more likely than respondents without children in their households to be aware of shoreline fishing facilities, swimming beaches, and hiking trails. • In terms of usage, males were more likely to say that they use boat ramps and shoreline fishing facilities. • Respondents with at least a Bachelor's degree were more likely than respondents with less formal education to say that they use swimming beaches, bike routes on existing roads, playgrounds, hiking trails, and County park and trail maps. • Respondents under the age of 35 were more likely to use canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals, swimming beaches, Frisbee golf, playgrounds, campgrounds, hiking trails, and online campground reservations. • In terms of rating, younger respondents rated canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals higher. • Campgrounds and County park and trail maps were rated higher by longer-term (10+years) residents. • Volleyball facilities and snowmobile trails were rated higher by those with at least$50,000 annual household income. 5 As noted above,survey respondents were asked to write the letter of an amenity or service most important to them from a list of 16.Some respondents wrote multiple answers instead of writing only one as directed.As an example,instead of writing"A",a respondent wrote"A,C,and N". For this question,29 respondents listed multiple amenities/services as their most important amenity or service.The SRC treated such responses as missing data,because there is no way to assign value to the responses. The responses of those choosing multiple amenities/services were not included in survey analysis. 110- SC cirox coulinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A 2004/2018 ComparisonS6 County i nt Awareness, Usage, tip of St. Croix County Outdoor Recreational Ameni ie /S is Table 5 highlights survey results from the two surveys conducted in 2004 and 2018. The red columns in Table 5 represents 2018 results and the blue columns highlight 2004 results. For example, in Table 5, 55% of 2004 survey respondents from St. Croix County said that they were aware of hiking trails in St. Croix County vs. 75% in 2018. Due to the large number of amenities and services listed on the survey(#16), tabular comparisons are shown in this section. Table 5:Awareness, Usage,and Rating of Amenity or Service,2004-2018—St.Croix Residents Amenity or Service Swimming beaches 82% 66% 64% 39% 1.50 1.56 Picnic facilities 81% 71% 57% 50% 1.35 1.57 Boat ramps 80% 66% 63% 37% 1.49 1.50 Playgrounds 76% 80% 58% 58% 1.24 1.42 Hiking trails 75% SS% 61% 41% 1.27 1.30 Campgrounds 73% 68% 37% 32% 1.37 1.31 Snowmobile trails 57% 50% 21% 24% 1.58 1.48 Shoreline fishing facilities 57% 46% 41% 33% 1.56 1AS Bike routes on existing roads 52% 33% 1 33% 12% 1.68 1.46 Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 50% 27% 19% 10% 1.48 1.32 Canoe,boat,paddleboat and paddleboard rentals 40% 45% 21% 18% 1.41 1.28 Volleyball facilities 37% 48% 7% 23% 1.SS 1.70 Horseshoe pits 29% 28% 3% 8% 1.64 1.33 Compared to 2004, County residents' 2018 awareness of St. Croix County recreational amenities and services is generally higher. Awareness in 2018 was statistically higher for boat ramps, shoreline fishing facilities, swimming beaches, hiking trails, snowshoe and cross country ski trails, picnic facilities, and bike routes on existing roads. Awareness is significantly lower for volleyball facilities. Similarly, County residents were generally more likely to report having used many of these amenities. Compared to 2004, they were significantly more likely in 2018 to use swimming beaches, hiking trails, boat ramps, shoreline fishing facilities, bike routes on existing roads, and snowshoe and cross country ski trails. Usage decreased significantly for volleyball facilities. 6 In 2004,the amenity of"canoe and boat rentals"was used. In 2018,the wording was changed to"canoe,boat,paddleboat and paddleboard rentals". The amenities/services of Frisbee golf,County Park and trail maps,and online campground reservations were added to the 2018 survey,so comparisons with 2004 are not possible. Historical comparisons between 2004 and 2018 are not possible for what survey respondents identified as their"most important" amenity or service due to additions/deletions of certain amenities and services in the 2018 survey instrument. The ratings of amenities and services are based on the opinions of only those who reported having used an amenity or service,so numbers represented are not from the entire survey samples of 2004 and 2018. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5tw cirox ouuumty I I I Attachment A January 8, 2019 St. Croix County residents rated about half of the amenities and services listed on the 2018 survey higher than 2004 and about one-half lower. As an example, the 2018 rating for picnic facilities was 1.35 compared to 1.57 in 2004 (again, the closer the rating is to 1, the higher the rating). So, picnic facilities, along with playgrounds, swimming beaches, boat ramps, hiking trails, and volleyball facilities all have higher ratings in 2018 compared to 2004. Non-Resident r nUsage, nd Rating of Ste Croix County Outdoor Recreational Amen ii es/Services Table 6 highlights survey results from the two surveys conducted in 2004 and 2018 for residents of adjacent counties. For example, in Table 6,49%of 2004 survey respondents from adjacent counties said that they were aware of boat ramps in St. Croix County Parks vs. 63%in 2018. Table 6:Awareness, Usage,and Rating of Amenity or Service,2004-2018-Adjacent Counties Residents Amenity or Service Boat ramps 63% 49% 41% 24% 1.41 1.17 Picnic facilities 54% 43% 42% 18% 1.39 1.33 Campgrounds 53% 53% 27% 22% 1.38 1.18 Swimming beaches 52% 47% 36% 31% 1.63 1.47 Hiking trails 49% 43% 33% 29% 1.14 1.43 Playgrounds 46% 59% 31% 43% 1.33 1.48 Snowmobile trails 44% 49% 18% 20% 1.50 1.40 Shoreline fishing facilities 40% 43% 21% 29% 1.59 1.36 Canoe,boat,paddleboat and paddleboard rentals 36% 51% 19% 24% 1.38 1.17 Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 28% 16% 7% 4% 1.63 1.50 Bike routes on existing roads 27% 20% 12% 6% 1.53 1.00 Horseshoe pits 17% 16% 1% 4% 1.80 1.00 Volleyball facilities 16% 45% 6% 24% 1.63 1.83 Compared to 2004, there is not a clear pattern of changes awareness in 2018 by non-County residents for St. Croix County recreational amenities and services. Awareness among respondents from other counties is statistically higher for picnic facilities, boat ramps, and snowshoe and cross country ski trails, but awareness among non-County respondents is significantly lower in 2018 for playgrounds, volleyball facilities, and canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals. Non-residents were significantly less likely to use St. Croix County playgrounds and volleyball facilities than they were in 2004. However, non-resident usage for picnic facilities and boat ramps were significantly higher in 2018 than in 2004. Playgrounds, hiking trails, and volleyball facilities were the only three St. Croix County amenities or services rated higher(lower number) by non-residents in 2018 compared to 2004. s The ratings of amenities and services are based on the opinions of only those who reported having used an amenity or service,so numbers represented are not from the entire survey samples of 2004 and 2018. 112- St. Ciroi1x Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Adequacy of St. Croix County's Outdoor Recreational Facilities/Amenities Opinions about Future Needs Respondents were asked to indicate whether St. Croix County should expand, leave the same, or reduce a range of outdoor recreational facilities or amenities over the next five years (Table 7). Responses of St. Croix County residents are shown on the left side of the table and responses of those from neighboring counties are shown on the right. 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 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 Snowshoeand 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. Very few residents requested that facilities/amenities be reduced. However, only one amenity, hiking trails,garnered a majority who felt they should be expanded. Substantial minorities (between one-third and one-half)were content to leave the facilities or amenities the same or had no opinion on this topic. As the case with St. Croix County residents, non-residents agreed that hiking trails were the most important amenity to expand. Similar to residents, non-residents were generally content with leaving things as they are in terms of maintaining the facilities or had no opinion. Statistically significant differences among demographic sub-groups regarding the need to change the supply of outdoor recreational facilities or amenities: 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Cirox ouuinty 113 Attachment A January 8, 2019 • In terms of Expansion, respondents with children were more likely to say they would like an expansion of shoreline fishing facilities, swimming beaches, and bike routes on existing roads. • Residents under the age of 35 were more likely to say that they wanted swimming beaches, hiking trails, playgrounds, and Frisbee golf expanded. • Respondents with at least a Bachelor's degree were more likely than respondents with less formal education to say that they would like to see hiking trails, snowshoe and cross country ski trails, off- road bike trails, and bike routes on existing roads expanded. • Don't Know: Females were consistently more likely than males to say that they "don't know" if facilities/amenities should be expanded, left the same or reduced (canoe, boat, paddleboats and paddleboard rentals, shoreline fishing facilities, swimming beaches, picnic facilities, horseshoe pits, volleyball facilities, bike routes on existing roads). Highest priority for expansion over the next 5 yearn When asked to identify the facility or amenity they believe warrants the highest priority for expansion, County residents identified hiking trails as their highest priority followed by boat ramps and off-road bike trails ("# Highest Priority" columns in Table 7). Boat ramp expansion was the highest priority for non- residents. • Males were more likely to say that the highest priority for the County should be expansion of boat ramps;females were more likely to say that hiking trails should be the County's highest priority for expansion • Employed respondents were more likely to say that the highest priority for expansion by the County should be hiking trails; retired respondents were more likely to say that shoreline fishing facilities should be the highest priority for expansion • Respondents with at least a Bachelor's degree were more likely to say that hiking trails should be the County's highest priority for expansion;those with less formal education were more likely to say that boat ramps should be the highest priority for expansion 2004/2018 Comparisons" Future Needs Table 8 highlights survey results from the two surveys conducted in 2004 and 2018. The red columns in Table 8 represents 2018 results and the blue columns highlight 2004 results. For example, in Table 8, 31% of 2004 survey respondents from St. Croix County said that hiking trails in St. Croix County should be 9 Survey respondents were asked to write the letter of the facility or amenity which they believe should be of highest priority for the County to expand from a list of 15. Some respondents wrote multiple answers instead of writing only one as directed.As an example, instead of writing"C",a respondent wrote"C, D, H and N". For this question, 13 respondents listed multiple facilities/amenities as the County's highest priority for expansion.The SRC treated such responses as missing data, because there is no way to assign value to the responses. The responses of those choosing multiple amenities/services were not included in survey analysis. 10 In 2018,the amenity of Frisbee golf was added to the 2018 survey,so comparisons with 2004 results are not possible. 114- 5t. Ciroi1x Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A expanded vs. 55% in 2018. Due to the large number of facilities and amenities listed on the survey(#15), tabular comparisons are shown in this section. Compared to 2004, 2018 St. Croix respondents were more supportive of expanding most of the amenities listed in Table 8. Significantly higher proportions of 2018 respondents supported expanding hiking trails, swimming beaches, shoreline fishing facilities, bike routes on existing roads, off-road bike trails, and canoe, boat, paddleboat and paddleboard rentals. 2018 respondents were less enthusiastic about expanding playgrounds or snowmobile trails. Consistently, non-resident respondents in 2018 were much more supportive of expanding St. Croix County outdoor recreational facilities and amenities than they were in 2004. Only one amenity in 2018, playgrounds, showed significantly less support for expansion compared to 2004. Table 8:St.Croix County Should Expand Outdoor Recreational Facility or Amenity,2004-2018 Facility or Amenity Hiking trails SS% 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% SS% 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 1 8% 9% 1 6% 1 4% Horseshoe pits 6% 6% 3% 1 2% 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ciroi1x Couuinty 115 Attachment A January 8, 2019 Most Preferred Facilities/Amenities at Glen Hills Park Respondents were asked to indicate the top three recreational facilities/amenities they most prefer the County pursuing at Glen Hills Park.They were given a list of 4 facilities/amenities and asked to rank the top three in order of preference with 1= most preferred facility/amenity, 2=second most preferred, and 3= third most preferred.To determine an overall preference ranking (Table 9),the SRC assigned three points to each respondent's most preferred facility/amenity, two points to the second most preferred, and one point to the third most preferred. For example, • 86 St. Croix County respondents said camper cabins is the most preferred facility/amenity that they wish for the County to pursue at Glen Hills Park, or 258 weighted votes (86 * 3) • 70 said this was the second most preferred, or 140 weighted votes (70 * 2) • 36 said it was the third most preferred, or 36 total votes (36 * 1) • Thus, the point total for camper cabins for St. Croix County respondents = 258 + 140 + 36 = 434, which was 33% of the 1,313 total, weighted votes cast by respondents. The order of preference was the same for both populations. Camper cabins was, by a small margin, the most preferred facility/amenity that County respondents wished for the County to pursue at Glen Hills Park followed closely by family activities. Fat Tire Bike Trail and winter camping had less support from County residents. Non-residents were much more interested in camper cabins than the other options presented. Table 9: Most Preferred Facilities/Amenities at Glen Hills Park RANK TOTALS Point St.Croix County Respondents Most Pref 2"a Most Pref 3'd Most Pref Total Camper Cabins 86 70 36 434 33% Family Activities 85 73 27 428 33% Fat Tire Bike Trail 47 44 64 293 22% Winter Camping 9 29 73 158 12% Note.n=1,313.Numbers and percentages in the Totals column reflect weighted results and the total percentage of respondents who chose the facility/amenity. Point Adjacent Counties Respondents Most Pref 2"a Most Pref 3'd Most Pref Total Camper Cabins s0 23 13 209 41% Family Activities 27 24 13 142 28% Fat Tire Bike Trail 6 20 21 79 16% Winter Camping 9 11 27 76 1s% Note.n=506.Numbers and percentages in the Totals column reflect weighted results and the total percentage of respondents who chose the facility/amenity. This question was added to the 2018 survey,so comparisons to 2004 are not possible. 116- St. Ciroouinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A • Only one significant difference was found across demographic sub-groups: respondents with less than a Bachelor's degree were more likely to prefer that camper cabins be pursued at Glen Hills Park than those with more formal education. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Oirou Couuumty 117 Attachment A January 8, 2019 Information Sources How respondents get information about St. Croix Parks Respondents were asked how they get information about St. Croix Parks. They were given a list of 7 information sources, plus an "other" source they could write in. Participants could select all that apply. Figure 7 reports the proportions from each population separately.The responses of the St. Croix County respondents (top row in each pair) and adjacent counties respondents (bottom row in each pair) who answered the question were somewhat different. Although the top two information sources were the same for both populations, non-residents rely more on other people as a means to get information about St. Croix County parks than the other sources listed. The County's website is used more by residents as a source of information about the County's parks. Traditional sources of information about parks (maps, newspaper)were mentioned by about one-quarter of respondents from both populations. Facebook, email, and texts were relatively minor sources of park information for survey respondents. Some of the "other" sources shared by respondents were Google, signs on the road, and brochures. Figure 7: Sources of Information about St. Croix County Parks *Asked to Mark all that Apply* ■St.Croix County Respondents IN Adjacent Counties Respondents County's Website 57% 0 Other People 51% 54 Maps 28% 0 Newspaper 23% O Facebook 12% 11% Email 0 4% Other 4%noon 15% Text P01% Demographically, in terms of the ways to get information about St. Croix County Parks, • Employed respondents, those with children in their households, those with more formal education, and respondents with at least $50,000 annual household income were more likely to use the County's website as an information source for St. Croix County parks. • Males, respondents without children in their homes, and longer-term (10+years) residents were more likely to get information about St. Croix County parks from maps. • Longer-term residents were more likely to obtain park information from other people. 2004-2018 Comparisons.This question was added to the 2018 survey, so comparisons to 2004 are not possible. 118- St. Cuiroi1x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Additional Comments If respondents haven't used St. Croix County park facilities,they were asked, in an open-ended question, why not.The SRC grouped the answers into topical categories, resulting in a total of 87 comments from the St. Croix County respondents and 74 from the adjacent counties group.The results are summarized in Table 10.The overall distribution of comments across categories was somewhat dissimilar in the two groups of respondents. Although both County and non-County residents said they do not use St. Croix County recreational facilities because they were unaware of them, residents of adjacent counties had higher proportions of comments about distance and living elsewhere while St. Croix County participants had higher proportions of comments about their age and/or not having children as limitations to visiting the parks. Table 10: St. Croix County Parks and Recreation Survey Open-ended Comments,2018 St.Croix Adj Counties Unaware/Don't Know About Parks 24% 18% Age/No Kids 16% 2% Miscellaneous 13% 1s% Not Interested 13% 1s% Busy/No Time 11% 1s% Up North 6% 2% Use Other Parks 6% --- Recommendations s% 2% Used the Parks Formerly s% --- Distance --Distance --- 20% Living Elsewhere --- 11% Cost --- 2% Tota 1 87 74 Examples of being unaware about the parks: "Don't know too much about the amenities or services provided. Not a whole lot of literature on them that is distributed to residents." St. Croix County Resident "First thought? Wouldn't even know where to go, where to start looking for info...Glen Hills Park?Never heard of it."St. Croix County Resident "Haven't looked into it, but also haven't heard anything about these places to even know they exist."Polk County Resident Respondents wrote about age limitations and or not having children: 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan SC cirox ouuumty 119 Attachment A January 8, 2019 "No little kids in family to take to parks."St. Croix County Resident "We are elderly and unable to enjoy most of these outdoor activities. 77 year for me and 80 years for my spouse."St. Croix County Resident Many comments were either from respondents who are not interested in the parks or are too busy to use them: "No interest in park facilities."St. Croix County Resident "Too many other activities."Pierce County Resident Comments from St. Croix County and adjacent counties populations are compiled separately in Appendix B, Question 9. Online s. Mail Response Differences The vast majority of respondents (91%) completed the survey by mail; 9 percent were completed online— the survey invitation offered the option to complete the survey online and provided a URL. There were 5 statistically significant differences in responses of online respondents and mail response out of 101 variables tested (5%). (Table 11). Statistical analysis indicates that online respondents were more likely: • to say that they get information about St. Croix County Parks from the County's website • to be younger • to have lived in the region for a shorter period of time • to have higher levels of formal education • to have higher incomes The fact that there are so few statistically significant differences, and all but one relate to demographics, indicates that opinions regarding St. Croix County's recreational facilities and amenities are generally similar between these two groups. Table 11—Statistically Significant Differences Between Mail and Online Responses Variable Mean Mean Statistical Significance Mail Online Q8 Information re:St.Croix County Parks: County's Website 0.44 0.66 0.014 Q10 Age 4.53 3.92 0.007 Q16 Length of Residency in Region 4.22 3.SS 0.000 Q17 Level of Education 3.40 3.97 0.001 Q18 Annual Household Income 3.64 4.62 0.000 120- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Conclusions Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake) had the highest County resident awareness, usage, and rating of the eight facilities listed on the survey. For non-County residents, Glen Hills Park had the highest awareness, usage, and rating. There is little consistency in survey results since the last survey regarding St. Croix County recreational facilities and amenities was conducted 14 years ago. The awareness and usage of County facilities by County residents is higher in 2018 than 2004 for most facilities. However, both awareness and usage of these same facilities by non-County residents is lower than 2004. In some cases, County residents' ratings for facilities are higher in 2018 (Troy Beach, Glen Hills Park, Homestead Parklands), and in others, lower (Bass Lake Boat Landing, Pine Lake Park, Apple River Property, Wildwood Bike Trail). Glen Hills Park and Wildwood Bike Trail were the only two St. Croix County facilities rated higher by non-residents in 2018 than in 2004. Awareness and usage of St. Croix recreational amenities and services are higher in almost all instances for County residents. Areas of most usage are swimming beaches, hiking trails, playgrounds, county park and trail maps, and boat ramps. Less than 10%of County respondents use volleyball facilities or horseshoe pits. Some amenities/services have higher ratings in 2018 than 2004 (playgrounds, picnic facilities, swimming beaches), and in others, lower ratings (campgrounds, snowmobile trails, bike routes). Awareness and usage by non-County residents in 2018 is higher in some areas, such as picnic facilities and boat ramps, and lower in others, playgrounds and volleyball facilities. Overall, respondents to the survey appear to be either content with the current array of St. Croix County outdoor recreational facilities, amenities, and services or don't know if the supply of outdoor recreational facilities or amenities should be changed. Although there is little support for reductions to these facilities, the only amenity with a slight majority(55%) of support for expansion are hiking trails. Camper cabins and family activities were the top priorities for Glen Hills Park recreational facilities/amenities by both County residents and non-County residents. The County's website and other people are the sources that these two groups of respondents most use to obtain information about St. Croix County parks information. Based on results, the SRC recommends that the County sustain and/or expand the areas that were consistency rated as "most important amenity or service" or the "highest priority for"expansion" by survey respondents: • Boat ramps • Hiking trails 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 121 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 Appendix A — Nan-Response Bias Test Any survey has to be concerned with "non-response bias." Non-response bias refers to a situation in which people who do not return a questionnaire have opinions that are systematically different from the opinions of those who return their surveys. For example, suppose most non-respondents do not agree that Troy Beach facilities are good (Question 2e), whereas most of those who returned their questionnaire believe facilities at Troy Beach are good. In this case, non-response bias would exist, and the raw results would overstate the opinion of residents regarding the Troy Beach facilities. A standard way to test for non-response bias is to compare the responses of those who responded to the first invitation to take the questionnaire to those who responded to subsequent invitations.Those who respond to subsequent invitations are, in effect, samples of non-respondents (to the first invitation), and we assume that they are representative of that group. In this survey, 306 people responded to a first invitation and 119 responded to subsequent invitations. We found three variables with statistically significant differences between the mean responses of these two groups of respondents (Table Al) out of 109 tested.Table Al indicates that even when statistical differences exist, the magnitude of this difference is small and did not impact the overall pattern of answers and the interpretation of the results. A higher percentage of earlier respondents said that they are aware of St. Croix County's shoreline fishing facilities. Earlier respondents were also more likely than later respondents to say that they use bike routes on existing roads in the County. When respondents were asked if the County should expand, leave the same, or reduce facilities or amenities over the next 5 years, earlier respondents were more likely to favor leaving shoreline fishing facilities the same (vs. expanding or reducing). The Survey Research Center(SRC) concludes that there is little evidence that non-response bias is a concern for this sample. Table A1—Statistically Significant Differences Between Responses of First Invitation and After Reminder Mean Mean Statistical Variable First After Significance Invitation Reminder Q3c Shoreline fishing facilities—Awareness of 1.45 1.60 .007 Q31 Bike routes on existing roads—Usage of 1.51 1.69 .028 Q5c Shoreline fishing facilities— Future Needs 2.28 2.58 .033 122- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix Appendix B — Written Comments, 2018 The open-ended comments of St. Croix County respondents and adjacent counties respondents will be reported separately in this Appendix. St. Croix County-Open Ended Comments Q3q: Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used any of the following outdoor recreational amenities or services. "Other" Responses(4 Responses) • Pickelball • Recycling • Walking paths. Very important. • Willow River QSp: Over the next 5 years,do you think that the County should expand, leave the same,or reduce the following facilities or amenities? "Other" Responses(13 Responses) • ATV/ATV Routes/Trails (x2) • Equine trails/Horseback riding trails (x2) • Canoe routes • Ice skating • Metal detecting sites • Outdoor pool • Pool, many kids cannot swim in the river. • Pull boat up to beach • Recycling • Snowshoe • Water quality Q8: How do you get information about St. Croix County's Parks? "Other" Responses(8 Responses) • Brochure • County employee • Displays at events • Google • In person at office • Just kind of know • None • Was on board 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouro° x Couuumty 123 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 Q9: If you haven't used St. Croix County park facilities,why not?(87 Responses) Unaware/Don't Know about Parks(21 Responses) • Unaware (x2) • Don't know too much about the amenities or services provided. Not a whole lot of literature on them that is distributed to residents. Moved to St Croix County/Richmond Township going on 3 yrs. in June of 2018 and don't know much about what is offered other than using a couple of boat ramps or city parks. Not even sure where I can go to get printed information other than probably the county website. Need to do a better job at getting info out. • Also the few boat ramps there are that I have used, Bass Lake/Cedar Lake, since they are the only ones are heavily trafficked and not much space. Need to expand those or get more. Due to being so heavily trafficked I tend to avoid local lakes and go over to MN. Yet not sure where there are any more due to not being publicized much. • Didn't know about them. • Didn't know all things offered. • Didn't know many of these facilities were available or ever existed. • First Thought?Wouldn't even know where to go,where to start looking for info...Glen Hills Park? Never heard of it. • 1 am unaware of facilities. If I need to know, I would check website first. • I/we don't know enough about them. • Limited use. Mostly unaware of services. • Lived in the county for just over a year. Use the State Park. Wasn't aware of the county park system. But I will start to use it. Found the website to be very busy/confusing.; particularly the reservation system. Would also be nice to have a map of the county accessed from the county parks landing page that shows where all the parks are, and a grid of the various amenities at each park. Moved here from the south metro. Three Rivers Park district has a good website and sends out seasonal papers with various programs and always the map and amenities. I hope this helps. • Not aware of many SC County park facilities. • Not aware of some of the facilities. Lack of time. • Not aware of them. • Not aware of them-seems like you need to search for what is available. Does the county have financing to send out matters? How about presence at school events? • Not aware of what's available. • Not publicized or talked about. • Send out more information to your citizens in the community. • Unaware of location or facility. • Unaware of many of them. 124- St. Cirox Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix Age/No Kids(14 Responses) • Age • Age 83- Don't do much of these at all any longer. • Because of our age. • Elderly live in South at least 5 1/2 months of the year. • 1 am 90 years old. • I'm 85 years old, no use for any of these recreational facilities. • I'm alone and over 80. • Need to keep a big area of land in our cities for parks and wildlife, before it's too late.Too old. Kid one older and moved away. Gone a lot, have cabin in Northern WI. • No children at home, grandkids now grown and on their own. We're getting old 74&68. • No little kids in family to take to parks. • Too old. • Too old and too tired-mid 80's. • We are elderly and unable to enjoy most of these outdoor activities. 77 year for me and 80 years for my spouse. • We are retired, moved here in Aug 2016 and really haven't yet had the opportunity to use the county parks, although we are looking forward to doing so. Not Interested(11 Responses) • Not an outdoor activity person/Not an outdoor type of person or family/Not much of an outdoor person (x3) • Don't care to. • 1 don't like camping. • 1 have other interests. What I have seen of them they seem fairly decent to me. • Never think of it. • No interest in park facilities. • Not interested. • Not my priorities. • Other interests. Busy/No Time (10 Responses) • Busy working at job or on house/yard. • Have lacked the time and awareness. • Haven't taken the time. • 1 don't have the time for recreational opportunities on all park facilities. I use township, state, or federal facilities, whichever is closest for the activity. I feel like this survey is slightly ambiguous because I am aware of most of the amenities or services, but am not always certain if it is managed by the county or another entity. • Lack of time, competing interests for the time I do have. • No time. • Retired-too busy. • Time! We hope to explore more of the park facilities this year. • Too busy. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 125 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 • Too busy workers and building a house. Up North (5 Responses) • Cabin in Sawyer County • Have a cabin up north we go to.There's enough parks and places in this state to go to that cost tax payers plenty. Some of our parks are not used most of the time don't create more! • Have used state parks and now, the Hudson Dog Park. Also have a place up north. • 1 have a cabin in a northern county time spent there. • Not very much-go up north a lot. Use Other Parks(5 Responses) • Use city parks, my leg brace makes wilderness hiking difficult and I tend to use paved paths. • Use the State Parks. • Use Willow River State Park and City(Hudson, North Hudson)facilities. These facilities are closer to me than the County facilities. • Willow River is the only area visited. No info on other. • Willow River State park is most convenient. Recommendations(4 Responses) • 1 would like to see more RV camping. • Not many have not had any changes enough, but like to see new swimming pools to use. Get a private half naked undressed on full nude swimming to be allowed by state. • Use metal detector in parks or probably will not buy season pass or use parks in 2018. • We need indoor complexes!! Our kids play sports. We are at Soccer Complexes and indoor arenas in MN-Woodbury and Stillwater.Also we have in ground pool in our yard to avoid conflict or disappointment with the crowds that hang out. Without supervision these are not feasible for us. Used the Parks Formerly(4 Responses) • 1 did use Green Hills Campground but the dirty water was contaminated so I stopped going. • Used Glen Hills boat landing/time last summer it cost me $8 to fish for 3 hours won't go again. • We used state and county parks much more when we were younger. • We used to use more but now I'm single so don't use the facilities anymore but did enjoy. Miscellaneous(13 Responses) • Bad allergies • Crowded • Glen Hills Campground is on our list to camp this summer. Have heard amazing things from a variety of people we can't wait to visit! • Government • 1 haul • 1 use the amenities and want to-that's it. • Live on Squaw Lake, no need for most facilities. • No longer able to participate. • Not convenient locations. 126- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix • Recently relocated to the area and live on the wats (illegible). • The county should use caution and not compete with private business. • Usually when we use these facilities it's with a work function or was with the 4-H club • We travel. Q12:What is your current employment status?"Other" Responses(7 Responses) • Disabled • Homemaker • Housework • Just tired • Mom • New job starting 12-26-2018 • Retired, working part time Adjacent Counties-Open Ended Comments Q1:Are you a resident of...?"Other" Responses(1 Response) • Waseca Q3q: Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used any of the following outdoor recreational amenities or services. "Other" Responses(3 Responses) • ATV trails. • 1 don't use any of this stuff. • Trout fishing. QSp: Over the next 5 years,do you think that the County should expand, leave the same,or reduce the following facilities or amenities?"Other" Responses(4 Responses) • Again, I don't use any of these. • ATV trails • County Park • Horse trails Q8: How do you get information about St. Croix County's Parks?"Other" Responses(10 Responses) • 1 don't (x3) • Google (x2) • Friends. • 1 don't get info on this - I live in Dunn County. • Not aware. • Signs on the road. • Store Q9: If you haven't used St. Croix County park facilities,why not?(74 Responses) Distance (15 Responses) 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 127 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 • Distance from home. • Don't frequent the area or know much about it. • Don't get that way much. • Don't live close. • 1 do not use Pierce Country Facilities. • Don't travel that way. • 1 have closer facilities I prefer. • Not used as recently due to distance (60+ miles). • 1 don't spend as much time in St. Croix parks compared to Dunn County. • Too far away-too busy. • Too far from our preferred areas. We've been to St. Croix County 2x's in the past 20 years. • Have only used Pierce County facilities. • 1 have plenty of outdoor facilities closer to me. • I'm about never in St. Croix County,though I did go camping and disking. Otherwise I don't use it because there's fine enough places closer to home. • Like to go further away. Unaware/Don't Know about Parks(13 Responses) • Don't know about them (x3) • Had no idea about St. Croix County Parks. • Have never heard of. Don't know where they are at or what is offered. • Haven't looked into it, but also haven't heard anything about these places to even know they exist. • 1 didn't know about the Homestead Parkland or the Wildwood Bike Trail but will take advantage of them this summer.Thank you for conducting this survey. • 1 don't get any info about any of this. • 1 have never found a map or brochure at any of the usual places county website has terrible (illegible). Most clubs are unreasonable. • 1 live in MN. I don't receive any info directly to me about St. Croix County. I basically have no knowledge of what you have to offer. • Never used didn't know that much. • Not aware of any that interest me. • Not aware of them. Busy/No Time(11 Responses) • Time (x2) • Busy working. • Don't have time and don't travel much. Working. • 1 am too busy to have a fun weekend and not familiar of outdoor activities. I like hiking though! • No time now. 2 busy working. • No time to use. • Time or family. • Too busy. • Too many other activities. • Usually busy farming in nice weather, getting home doing nothing relaxing for a change. 128- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix Not Interested(11 Responses) • Don't do those kinds of activities. • Don't like to pay to use other activities interfere with shoreline fishing. • 1 am not an out of doors person due to allergies and asthma. • 1 am not into parks. • 1 don't like being in public. • Not interested. • Not interested in any. • Not interested-too old? • Not much of an outdoors person. • Not our cup of tea...We live in Pierce...We live in a rural setting. • Not that active. Living Elsewhere(8 Responses) • Because I'm live in Dunn County- I have facilities I use in Dunn. • Don't live there. • 1 live in Dunn County and have 80 acres of my own, so outdoor rec isn't a problem. I just don't get to St. Croix Co much for that purpose. However, the river front is gorgeous and I'm open to hearing more about what's available. I support land, park, and wilderness preservation and would be in favor of expanding all the above. • 1 live in Polk. • Live in Dunn County, using facilities in Dunn. • Live in Polk County. • No longer live in the area. • Pierce County resident. Age/No Kids(2 Responses) • I'm a 75 year old women, and don't do any of the activities listed. • Until retirement: always working only went to a few for family gatherings. • Live alone and no kids. Cost(2 Responses) • Cannot afford gas and have little money to spend. • Cost for entry vs. cost of state park sticker. Recommendations(2 Responses) • Polk Co. Please inform Gov. Walker to cease sale of public land and STOP all hunting with does! • Washington County has met my wants very well. I purchased 2 MN state pass and Washington County pass every year. I would love to see 2 combined Washington, St. Croix Co. pass like the Metro County one. Up North (2 Responses) • Head North most weekends. • We'd rather go north. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 129 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 Miscellaneous(8 Responses) • Crowds, convince, availability. • 1 have, but don't go to. • No reason. • Now that we have a child we will start-good family activity. • Spend most of recreation time boating. • We don't. • We have been driving (with our dogs)the Great River Road on both sides of the Mississippi for more than 30 years-from Prescott to Wabasha-multiple times a year:We have many stops amidst the bluffs that have become personal. This is where our hearts are. • We just moved to Menomonie in May. We hope to camp more this coming summer. Q12:What is your current employment status?"Other" Responses(1 Response) • Retired, but work part-time. 130- St. Ciroouinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix Appendix C — Quantitative Summary of Responses — St. Croix County Residents 294 Usable Responses 1. Are you a resident of...? St. Croix Pierce Polk Dunn Washington Other: please County County County County County, MN specify: 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2. Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used the following outdoor recreational facilities that St. Croix County provides. For those you have used, please rate the quality of the facilities as good, average, or poor. Have you used this Aware Rating Facility facility? Yes No Yes No Good Average Poor a. Glen Hills Park 60% 40% 47% 53% 70% 28% 3% b. Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake) 70% 30% 52% 48% 76% 21% 3% c. Pine Lake Park 42% 58% 31% 69% 49% 42% 10% d. Bass Lake Boat Landing 55% 45% 36% 64% 57% 35% 8% e.Troy Beach 58% 42% 38% 62% 57% 39% 4% f.Apple River Property 41% 59% 28% 72% 36% 56% 8% g. Wildwood Bike Trail 16% 84% 11% 89% 43% 43% 13% h. Squaw Lake Boat Landing 27% 73% 19% 81% 36% 53% 11% 3. Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used any of the following outdoor recreational amenities or services. For those you have used, please rate the quality of the facilities as good, average, or poor. Have you used Aware this amenity or Rating Amenity or Service service? Yes No Yes No Good FAverage Poor a. Boat ramps 80% 20% 54% 46% 53% 45% 2% 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouro° x Couuinty 131 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 Have you used Aware this amenity or Rating Amenity or Service service? Yes No Yes No Good F Average Poor b. Canoe, boat, paddleboat and 40% 60% 21% 79% 59% 41% 0% paddleboard rentals c. Shoreline fishing facilities 57% 43% 41% 59% 47% 49% 3% d. Swimming beaches 82% 18% 64% 36% 53% 45% 2% e. Campgrounds 73% 27% 37% 63% 65% 33% 2% f. Hiking trails 75% 25% 61% 39% 75% 24% 1% g. Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 50% 50% 19% 81% 57% 39% 4% h. Picnic facilities 81% 19% 57% 43% 67% 32% 1% i. Horseshoe pits 29% 71% 3% 97% 43% 50% 7% j. Volleyball facilities 37% 63% 7% 93% 50% 45% 5% k. Frisbee golf 34% 66% 10% 90% 52% 45% 3% I. Bike routes on existing roads 52% 48% 33% 67% 43% 47% 10% m. Snowmobile trails 57% 43% 21% 79% 43% 55% 2% n. Playgrounds 76% 24% 58% 42% 76% 24% 0% o. County park and trail maps 65% 35% 56% 44% 74% 25% 1% p. On-line campground reservation 41% 59% 19% 81% 61% 39% 0% q. Other: See Appendix B 11% 89% 9% 91% 50% 33% 17% 4. Please write the letter of the amenity or service most important to you from Question 3a-3q. See Table 4 5. Over the next 5 years, do you think that the County should expand, leave the same, or reduce the following facilities or amenities? Facility/Amenity Expand Leave the Same Reduce Don't Know a. Boat ramps 29% 43% 1% 26% b. Canoe, boat, paddleboat and 25% 38% 1% 35% paddleboard rentals c. Shoreline fishing facilities 36% 33% 1% 29% 132- St. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix d. Swimming beaches 40% 38% 0% 21% e. Campgrounds 32% 44% 1% 23% f. Hiking trails 55% 23% 1% 20% g. Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 29% 36% 1% 33% h. Picnic facilities 26% 50% 1% 23% i. Horseshoe pits 6% 42% 7% 45% j. Volleyball facilities 8% 46% 4% 43% k. Off-road bike trails 33% 32% 4% 32% I. On-road bike routes on existing roads 27% 35% 7% 32% m. Snowmobile trails 15% 44% 6% 35% n. Playgrounds 27% 41% 2% 30% o. Frisbee golf 14% 38% 8% 41% p. Other: See Appendix B 18% 24% 0% 58% 6. If you identified multiple facilities/amenities for expansion in Question 5a-5p, please write the letter of the expansion that is your See Table 7 highest priority. 7. Please indicate the three recreational facilities/amenities you most prefer the County pursuing at Glen Hills Park. (First Row= Most Preferred, Second Row=Second Most Preferred, and Third Row= Third Most Preferred). (• Mark only one in each row) Family Activities Camper Cabins (geocaching, Fat Tire Bike Trail Winter Camping scavenger hunts) a. Most Preferred 38% 37% 21% 4% b. Second Most Preferred 32% 34% 20% 13% c.Third Most Preferred 18% 14% 32% 37% 8. How do you get information about St. Croix County Parks? Mark all that apply. Other: County's Other Website Email Facebook Maps Newspaper People Text See Appendix B 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 133 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 57% 4% 12% 28% 23% 51% 1% 4% 9. If you haven't used St. Croix County park facilities,why not? See Appendix B 10. What is your gender? Male Female 63% 37% 11. What is your age range? 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 1% 8% 15% 24% 26% 26% 12. What is your current employment status? Employed Employed Other: Full Time Part Time Unemployed Self Employed Retired See Appendix B 56% 7% 1% 7% 27% 2% 13. With respect to housing, do you...? Rent Own 8% 92% 14. How many adults (18+) live in your household? 1 2 3 4+ 18% 68% 11% 4% 15. How many children live in your household? 0 1 2 3 4+ 63% 15% 15% 6% 2% 16. How many years have you been a resident of this region? More than 25 Less than 1 year 1—5 years 6— 10 years 11—25 years years 1% 11% 8% 33% 47% 17. What is the highest level of education you have completed? 134- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix Less than Tech College/ 4-Year Graduate High School High School Some College College Degree Degree 0% 19% 31% 29% 21% 18. What is your approximate annual household income? Less than $25,000- $50,000- $75,000- $100,000- $25,000 $49,999 $74,999 $99,999 $150,000 $150,000+ 6% 15% 20% 21% 20% 18% 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 135 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 Appendix D — Quantitative Summary of Responses — Adjacent Counties Residents 131 usable responses 1. Are you a resident of...? St. Croix Pierce Polk Dunn Washington Other: See County County County County County, MN Appendix B 0% 29% 22% 31% 17% 2% 2. Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used the following outdoor recreational facilities that St. Croix County provides. For those you have used, please rate the quality of the facilities as good, average, or poor. Have you used this Aware Rating Facility facility? Yes I No Yes No Good Average Poor a. Glen Hills Park 40% 60% 33% 67% 80% 20% 0% b. Homestead Parklands (Perch Lake) 24% 76% 10% 90% 50% 42% 8% c. Pine Lake Park 18% 82% 11% 89% 54% 46% 0% d. Bass Lake Boat Landing 28% 72% 16% 84% 59% 35% 6% e.Troy Beach 27% 73% 11% 89% 55% 45% 0% f.Apple River Property 48% 52% 28% 72% 57% 39% 4% g. Wildwood Bike Trail 10% 90% 3% 97% 60% 40% 0% h. Squaw Lake Boat Landing 9% 91% 6% 94% 67% 33% 0% 3. Please indicate if you are aware of or have personally used any of the following outdoor recreational amenities or services. For those you have used, please rate the quality of the facilities as good, average, or poor. Have you used this Aware Rating Amenity or Service amenity or service? Yes I No Yes No Good Average Poor a. Boat ramps 63% 37% 41% 59% 65% 28% 7% b. Canoe, boat, paddleboat and 36% 64% 19% 81% 71% 19% 10% paddleboard rentals c. Shoreline fishing facilities 40% 60% 21% 79% 50% 41% 9% d. Swimming beaches 52% 48% 36% 64% 50% 37% 13% e. Campgrounds 53% 47% 27% 73% 65% 31% 4% f. Hiking trails 49% 51% 33% 67% 89% 8% 3% g. Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 28% 72% 7% 93% 64% 27% 9% h. Picnic facilities 54% 46% 42% 58% 64% 34% 2% i. Horseshoe pits 17% 83% 1% 99% 40% 40% 20% 136- St. Ouiro° x Couuinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix j. Volleyball facilities 16% 84% 6% 94% 50% 38% 13% k. Frisbee golf 17% 83% 5% 95% 56% 33% 11% I. Bike routes on existing roads 27% 73% 12% 88% 53% 40% 7% m. Snowmobile trails 44% 56% 18% 82% 55% 40% 5% n. Playgrounds 46% 54% 31% 69% 70% 27% 3% o. County park and trail maps 50% 50% 35% 65% 78% 19% 3% p. On-line campground reservation 28% 72% 11% 89% 71% 21% 7% q. Other: See Appendix B 7% 93% 2% 98% 25% 50% 25% 4. Please write the letter of the amenity or service most important to you from Question 3a-3q. See Table 4 5. Over the next 5 years, do you think that the County should expand, leave the same, or reduce the following facilities or amenities? Facility/Amenity Expand Leave the Reduce Don't Know Same a. Boat ramps 27% 28% 1% 44% b. Canoe, boat, paddleboat and 18% 30% 1% 51% paddleboard rentals c. Shoreline fishing facilities 29% 22% 1% 48% d. Swimming beaches 23% 31% 0% 45% e. Campgrounds 29% 32% 0% 39% f. Hiking trails 34% 22% 2% 42% g. Snowshoe and cross country ski trails 26% 24% 3% 47% h. Picnic facilities 23% 32% 1% 44% i. Horseshoe pits 3% 37% 5% 55% j. Volleyball facilities 6% 35% 4% 55% k. Off-road bike trails 24% 24% 5% 46% I. On-road bike routes on existing roads 19% 31% 4% 45% m. Snowmobile trails 15% 31% 7% 48% n. Playgrounds 21% 31% 0% 49% o. Frisbee golf 11% 28% 6% 55% p. Other: See Appendix B 8% 10% 0% 83% 6. If you identified multiple facilities/amenities for expansion in Question 5a-5p, please write the letter of the expansion that is your highest priority. See Table 7 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan St. Ouro° x Couuumty 137 Attachment A Appendix January 8, 2019 7. Please indicate the three recreational facilities/amenities you most prefer the County pursuing at Glen Hills Park. (First Row= Most Preferred, Second Row=Second Most Preferred, and Third Row=Third Most Preferred). (• Mark only one in each row) Family Activities Camper Cabins (geocaching, Fat Tire Bike Trail Winter Camping scavenger hunts) a. Most Preferred 54% 29% 7% 10% b. Second Most Preferred 29% 31% 26% 14% c.Third Most Preferred 18% 18% 28% 36% 8. How do you get information about St. Croix County Parks? Mark all that apply. Other: County's Other Website Email Facebook Maps Newspaper People Text See Appendix B 39% 4% 11% 22% 19% 54% 0% 5% 9. If you haven't used St. Croix County park facilities, why not? See Appendix B 10. What is your gender? Male Female 62% 38% 11. What is your age range? 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 1% 9% 13% 19% 27% 31% 12. What is your current employment status? Employed Employed Other: Full Time Part Time Unemployed Self Employed Retired See Appendix B 50% 6% 0% 8% 34% 2% 13. With respect to housing, do you...? Rent Own 138- 5t. Ouiro° x Couuuimty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment A Appendix 9% 91% 14. How many adults (18+) live in your household? 1 2 3 4+ 20% 66% 11% 2% 15. How many children live in your household? 0 1 2 3 4+ 75% 12% 10% 2% 2% 16. How many years have you been a resident of this region? More than 25 Less than 1 year 1—5 years 6—10 years 11—25 years years 1% 11% 10% 22% 56% 17. What is the highest level of education you have completed? Less than Tech College/ 4-Year Graduate High School High School Some College College Degree Degree 1% 18% 42% 25% 14% 18. What is your approximate annual household income? Less than $25,000- $50,000- $75,000- $100,000- $25,000 $49,999 $74,999 $99,999 $150,000 $150,000+ 12% 21% 20% 17% 17% 13% 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan 5t. Cirox ouuumty 139 Attachment B January 8, 2019 ATTACHMENT B: GLEN HILLS PARK MASTER PLAN MAY 2018 Glen Hills r i inn �i iyr I r �r�r6 r A✓ � ' i �i� rr % ��F�i'fa'P �/��i'��J�� u�U�n�i'�w� s L;. ,/ „G�o„�(i/Ma�Gc,r.� v„u,,�„ ,,. ,/„�,,,,rF. ,�.,, ,,,,,� r. %„ ,,A.n�,r 1��h4fi✓f,,. V'- Park Master Plan St. Croix County May 2018 140- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: St. Croix County Staff: Community Development Director, Ellen Denzer Parks Supervisor, Aaron Mason Land Use Conservation Specialist, Ryan Yarrington Park Site Coordinator, Travis Fontaine Senior Planner,John Hilgers Lead Park Coordinator, Nate Beaver Planning/GIS Technician, Grant Shirts Planner, Tamara Wittmer Office Manager,Julie Peterson Consultants: Landscape Architect, Larry Wacker Tom Loucks &Associates, Inc. 7200 Hemlock Lane N —Suite 300 Maple Grove, MN 55369 Architect, Michael Huber Michael Huber Architects, LLC 351 Highview Road Hudson, Wisconsin 55024 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. Ciroouinty141 Attachment B January 8, 2019 TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgements INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................... 140 History........................................................................................................................................................ 140 MasterPlan Purpose................................................................................................................................. 140 Master Planning Process.......................................................................................................................... 141 Existing Park Conditions.................................................................................................................. 141-142 NATURAL RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP...................................................................................................... 142 DeciduousForests.................................................................................................................................... 143 ConiferousForests................................................................................................................................... 143 Prairies........................................................................................................................................................ 143 GlenLake........................................................................................................................................... 143-145 PARK-WIDE MASTER PLAN.............................................................................................................................. 146 RVCamping............................................................................................................................................... 146 GroupCamping......................................................................................................................................... 146 CamperCabins.................................................................................................................................. 146-147 Walk-in Camping...................................................................................................................................... 147 SpecialEvent Area.................................................................................................................................... 147 Multi-use Field Area................................................................................................................................. 147 LakeAccess................................................................................................................................................ 147 Beach........................................................................................................................................................... 147 Orchard...................................................................................................................................................... 147 NatureViewing Area............................................................................................................................... 148 ExistingPicnic Area.................................................................................................................................. 148 ExistingRV Campground......................................................................................................................... 148 LakeTrail.................................................................................................................................................... 148 Single-Track Trails.................................................................................................................................... 148 OtherTrails............................................................................................................................................... 149 MaintenanceFacility.................................................................................................................................. 149 ParkBuildings..................................................................................................................................... 149-151 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.................................................................................................................................. 151 LandAcquisition........................................................................................................................................ 151 DevelopmentPriorities.................................................................................................................... 151-152 On-going Priorities .......................................................................................................................... 151-152 CamperCabin Pilot.................................................................................................................................. 152 GroupCampground ................................................................................................................................ 152 EastCamper Cabin Cluster ................................................................................................................... 152 RVCampground........................................................................................................................................ 152 PicnicShelters .......................................................................................................................................... 152 CostEstimates ................................................................................................................................. 153-162 RevenueSources....................................................................................................................................... 163 142- St. Cirou ouuuimt 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B LIST OF EXHIBITS Toilet/Shower Building Photo................................................................................................................. 150 CamperCabin Concept........................................................................................................................... 150 SmallShelter Concept.............................................................................................................................. 150 LargeShelter Concept............................................................................................................................. 150 Electronic Device Charging Station Concepts..................................................................................... 151 CostEst. - RV Campground........................................................................................................... 154-156 Cost Est. - Group Campground..................................................................................................... 157-158 Cost Est. - East Cabin Cluster........................................................................................................ 159-160 Cost Est. - West Six Cabins............................................................................................................ 161-162 MP-1: Existing Conditions.............................................................................................................................. MP-2: Slope Analysis and Erosion Areas...................................................................................................... MP-3: Existing Vegetation............................................................................................................................... MP-4: Master Plan............................................................................................................................................ CO-1: RV Campground Layout................................................................................................................... CO-2: Group Camp Layout.......................................................................................................................... CO-3: Camper Cabin Layout....................................................................................................................... 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. Ciroouinty143 Attachment B January 8, 2019 GLEN HILLS PARK MASTER PLAN INTRODUCTION History Glen Hills Park is a 700-acre full-service recreation area located in the Town of Springfield on Rustic Road 3, four miles south of Glenwood City. Glen Hills is heavily used, popular with residents and non-residents alike and is the largest park in the St. Croix County Parks System. The park and Glen Lake, a 78-acre lake, were created in the late 1960's and early 1970's by the Soil Conservation Service as part of the Public Law (PL) 566 Floodwater Control Program to provide flood protection and prevent soil erosion. The primary use of the site is to contain floodwater and the secondary use is recreation. The County has a perpetual lease from the State of Wisconsin to operate the site as a recreational facility, open to the public. The park opened in 1974. The County subleases 72 acres of the site, under a 99-year lease, to the Glen Hills Golf Association, which operates a 9- hole golf course. The association has considered the feasibility of adding an additional nine holes to the golf course. Master Plan Purpose The purpose of the master plan is to provide direction for development of new recreation facilities and expansion of existing facilities in Glen Hills Park for the next 15 to 20 years. It is expected that some development priorities will change, during the life of the plan, in response to changes in such influences as recreation trends and demographics. The master plan, therefore, is a dynamic document that will be revisited by County staff every 5 years or so and updated as needed to respond to changes in demand and need for recreation facilities in the park. 144- St. Cirou ouuuimt 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Master Planning Process St. Croix County commissioned Tom Loucks&Associates, Inc. and Michael Huber Architects to assist County staff in preparing a park-wide master plan for Glen Hills Park and schematic concept plans for proposed RV and group campgrounds and camper cabin facilities. The planning process included tours of the park, review of existing built facilities, vegetation, topography, soils and surrounding land uses. The process also included review of restroom and shelter designs prepared by Huber Architects (a new restroom facility was constructed in the main picnic area in 2017). Several coordination meetings were held including St. Croix County staff, Loucks and Huber Architects. The purpose of the meetings was to review existing site conditions, identify County goals and objectives for park development, prepare recommendations for the location of recreation uses throughout the park and to prepare concept plans to guide the development of additional camping facilities within the park. The outcome of the planning process includes the following: • Drawings and text describing existing site conditions, proposed locations for recreation uses throughout the park and proposed concept plans for additional camping areas. • Review of natural resource areas in the park and recommendations for management of vegetative cover and storm water drainage. • Cost opinion for proposed park improvements. • Development plan including review of park development priorities and projected revenue sources. Existing Park Conditions Recreation Uses: Existing uses in Glen Hills Park (refer to attached drawing MP-I) include RV and tent camping, group camping, picnicking, swimming, playgrounds, disc golf, play-field activities, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, fishing and hunting. The maintenance/operations headquarters is located in the northwest corner of the park. Glen Hills Golf Course is managed and operated separate from the park and will continue to offer golfing opportunities to County residents and visitors. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. Ciroouinty145 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Topography: The park land is characterized by rolling topography (refer to drawing MP-2) with steep slopes, exceeding 10%,surrounding Glen Lake and along Beaver Creek. Steep slopes also form ravines channeling water flow into the lake. In addition, there is a dramatic, wooded ravine in the north central area of the park. The steep slopes add visual interest to the park landscape but also create significant challenges for trail development and establishing connections between some of the park areas. Vegetative Cover: Existing plant communities vary considerably across the park (refer to drawing MP-3). Deciduous forests cover many of the steep slope areas and consist, primarily, of mixed hardwood varieties. Most of the conifers were planted tightly together, plantation style, and consist primarily of red pine trees. There are also scattered white pine. The "prairie" areas shown on the drawing are primarily fallow fields covered by a variety of prairie grasses and forbs with scattered woody plants. The most notable areas of mowed lawn include the large picnic and play-field area and the camping/picnic area at the northeast corner of the park. The vegetative cover changes as visitors move through the park on roads and trails, providing visual interest and variety as they participate, primarily, in natural resource-based recreation activities. Water Bodies: Beaver Creek flows into the park and a dam on the creek, installed as part of a flood control project, forms Glen Lake. The lake covers approximately 78 acres with a maximum depth of about 30'. The fish population consists, primarily, of bass and pan fish. Access to the lake is provided year-round within Glen Hills Park. Soils: Soils in the park are generally well-drained, rocky, loam to sandy loam. Bedrock is shallow in some areas of the park. Thorough geotechnical evaluation must accompany all construction projects. NATURAL RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP The woodlands, prairies, shore land areas and lake provide the setting that attracts visitors to Glen Hills Park. In addition to their esthetic appeal, these areas provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species. The following is a list of recommendations for protecting and enhancing the quality of these natural resources: 146- St. Cirou ouuuimt 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Deciduous Forests: Remove unhealthy trees to limit spread of disease. Consider selective pruning or removal of some trees and understory plants to open-up vistas and view-sheds from roads, trails and popular use areas to the lake. Opening up more views to the lake from areas throughout the park will 2 , enhance the recreation experience for park visitors. Coniferous Forests: Remove unhealthy trees to limit spread of disease. Consider selective removal of some trees to allow other plants to grow among the conifers and create more diverse plant communities, thereby enhancing wildlife habitat and visual interest. Prairies: Consider planting and maintenance of prairie areas to create oak savanna habitat and/or introduce additional grass and forb varieties to enhance wildlife habitat and scenic value. mw Oak savanna habitat, historically, was common in Wisconsin and consists of a combination of oak tree varieties and prairie grasses and forbs. The area shaded by tree canopy typically varies from 10%to 50%. Glen Lake: The water quality in Glen Lake is adversely affected by run-off from surrounding areas. Beaver Creek carries sediment and agra-chemicals into the lake and sediment is carried by concentrated flows in several ravines that direct run- off into the lake. The County will consider constructing sediment basins within the park along Beaver Creek to reduce the flow of sediment and chemicals into the lake. In addition, the County will consider controlling erosion and sediment flows in several locations throughout the park(refer to drawing MP-2 where intermittent, fast-moving streams are resent ) g P during moderate and heavy rain events. In addition to erosion and sediment deposition,the flowing water damages vegetation, trails, roads and other park facilities. -;%/iiiiiiiriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii%�/A/iii ism 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. Ciroouinty147 Attachment B January 8, 2019 The following is a list of areas with run-off concentrations of greatest concern: • Erosion Area 1: This erosion area is located directly east of the golf course within park boundaries. Water runs off of the paved parking lots and golf course down the slope onto park property. The hillside trail is eroded and sediment is deposited at the base of the slope. County and golf course staff will collaborate to correct erosion issues. Riprap may help to stabilize the hillside and a retention pond will be g effective in retaining water at the top of the hill (on golf course property). Terracing could also be constructed to assist in erosion control. A professional engineer will be required to complete design of the improvements. Erosion Area 1 • Erosion Area 2: East side of Rustic Road 3. There is run- off from the road, ditches and farm fields to the west that contribute to the erosion at this location. The waterway eroded the State-funded snowmobile trail that runs through the park. Maintenance is required every year on the affected trail segment. Run-off flows parallel to the slope, crosses the snowmobile and hiking trails and carries eroded soil to the lake. A possible solution may include construction of multiple dams and installation of rip rap along the water way before it reaches the snowmobile trail. The sedimentation basins might be designed to capture Erosion Area 2 contaminated run-off from agriculture fields that otherwise runs directly into Glen Lake. Because the waterway erosion impacts the State-funded snowmobile trail, there are grr nts av ilable to f nda aimprovement project in this area. • Erosion Area 3: The run-off from the area south of the beach flows directly to the Take. A 2 to 3 foot wide paved path extends from the parking lot directly to the water � acting as a flume during rain events. There is minimal vegetation to slow the water flow on the slope adjacent to Erosion Area 3 the trail. This location needs multiple updates that may include improved access to the beach from the parking lot as well as water retention and filtration devices to control run-off into the Take. Aquatic and shoreline plants could also be planted to aid in filtering run-off that reaches the u u�' ! lake. A professional engineer will be required to complete design of the improvements. • Erosion Area 4: Run-off on the slope near the exit drive on the north side of the boat landing has eroded the slope Erosion Area 4 and carries sediment to the parking lot. The erosion is undermining tree roots in a few locations and sediment is 148- St. uiroi10 Couinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B filling up the ditch that runs along the road and parking lot. Sediment flows onto the road during heavy rain events. Flow diverters, retention basins or other methods may be effective in preventing erosion of the hillside. A professional engineer will be required to complete design R a � of the improvements. r � r • Erosion Area 5: There are several flow areas within the r gorge east of Rustic Road 3 where run-off causes erosion and damages recreation trails in that area of the park. Run- off flows rapidly through the gorge during moderate to heavy rain events. Erosion control tools such as culverts, riprap, small retention ponds and flow diverters may be effective in controlling run-off in this area. A professional Erosion Area 5 engineer will be required to complete design of the improvements. Sedimentation Basin Example 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. uroi10 Couinty 149 Attachment B January 8, 2019 PARK-WIDE MASTER PLAN „� The park-wide master plan identifies recreation uses and Pill locations proposed for Glen Hills Park(refer to drawing MP-4). Some proposed facilities (e.g. camper cabins) are new to the park and others are an expansion of existing facilities. The following is a list of proposed new and expanded recreation uses: � s r�� a RV Camping: Twenty-two additional spurs are proposed including nine pull-through and thirteen back-in spurs (refer to drawing CO-1). Each spur will include electrical and water service will be provided at two locations within the campground. Other support facilities include a plumbed toilet/shower building (shared with group campground), picnic shelters, picnic tables, fire rings, visitor parking, safety/security lighting and a dump station (shared with group campground). Group Camping: Three group camping areas are proposed; each including a combination of RV spurs and tent sites (refer to drawing CO-2). A water spigot will be installed at each camping area. Other support facilities will � include picnic shelters, unplumbed toilets (shared with walk-in campers), Picnic tables, fire rings, visitor parking and safety/security lighting. The large picnic shelter located east of the entry drive, as shown on the drawing, may be added as a second phase of development in the group campground area after the need for a larger shelter is assessed. A well will be added to serve the group campground. The design of facilities will accommodate winter use. Camper Cabins: Nine cabins are proposed including two clusters of three cabins and three individual cabins (refer to drawing CO-3). The three cabins in each cluster will be spaced close enough together so two or three can be rented to a contiguous group and far enough apart so they will be suitable for separate renters. Other support if a facilities will include picnic shelters, picnic tables, fire rings, unplumbed toilets, visitor parking and safety/security site lighting. The design of facilities will accommodate winter use. Prior to construction of the nine camper cabins shown on drawing CO-3, County staff will search for appropriate locations for installation of two small "pilot" 150- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B cabins; one in the existing RV campground and one in the vicinity of the existing group campground. The purpose of the cabins will be to perform an early test of the appeal of camper cabins within the park. Walk-in Camping: Walk-in campsites are proposed to be located in the woodland area near the ravine west of the group campground. A parking lot and access may be located southwest of the gorge and could be designed to also serve as a trail head for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The final locations and layout of the sites will be planned at the time of their construction. Special Event Area: The special event area (refer to drawing MP-4) will be designed to accommodate large gatherings such as corporate groups, weddings, reunions, etc. A picnic shelter sized to serve up to 150 people will be equipped with a food preparation area. Other support facilities will include unplumbed toilets, parking lot and site lighting for safety/security. Recreation facilities at the nearby playfield will serve the special event area as well as the existing, large picnic area. Multi-Use Field Area: Improvements to the existing recreation area will include an informal infield, improved disc golf course, basketball hoop with small paved area, got-cha ball court, small picnic shelters and nature play area improvements. Lake Access: Improvements to the lake access area will include slips for paddle boats, separate canoe and kayak launch, sand area on which to pull-up boats, floating docks to extend the existing fishing pier, fishing cribs and angled car/trailer parking stalls. Beach: Improvements to the beach will include storm drainage enhancements, improved path access, portable umbrellas and a storage shed. Orchard: An apple orchard (refer to drawing MP-4) will be planted to serve as a park amenity. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 151 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Nature Viewing Area: A bituminous path, likely constructed in a series of phases, will provide access to the area (refer to drawing MP-4). Other improvements will include a wildlife blind, interpretive displays and habitat enhancements for birds and other wildlife. Existing Picnic Area: A new restroom facility was constructed in the picnic area in 2017. The area will be further enhanced with construction of a new large capacity picnic shelter and a few small shelters. Existing RV Campground: County staff will explore siting options for a plumbed toilet/shower facility. Finding a suitable location is a challenge because a fairly large area is required for the building and drain field and there is limited space available in the campground. In addition, a small, informal amphitheater will be added for music, movies, presentations, etc. Lake Trail: A trail is planned around the lake perimeter, as shown on drawing MP-4. The width, surfacing and other design details will be determined at the time of construction. The trail will likely be constructed in segments. Other amenities will include benches, overlooks and interpretive displays. Single-Track Trails: A single track, mountain bike trail system, as shown on drawing MP-4, will include trail construction, parking lot improvements and unplumbed toilets. Other trail uses such as cross-ski and snowshoe may also be included in the area. A mountain bike club will be consulted to provide input on trail design preferences and other support facilities. 152- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Other Trails: • Paved trails — Trails in heavy use areas will be paved. A paved trail loop (refer to drawing MP-4) will Zink the special event area, orchard, multi-use field, existing large picnic area and nature viewing area. � • Unpaved trails — The trails will be organized and named to simplify wayfinding. • Cross-country ski and snowshoe trails — Facilities for winter activity should be located north of the Take because winter road access is best there. A Ig9 '` trail head location southwest of the gorge area will 1 be considered to serve cross-country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile activities. • Snowmobile trails — The existing, pass-through trail located in the northwest corner of the park will be maintained and, although it may be rerouted to improve functionality in the future, it will not be expanded to other park areas. • General trail amenities — Trail improvements will include wayfinding and identification signs, interpretive displays and overlooks. Maintenance Facility: The road through the maintenance yard will be re-designed to be a one-way loop. A gate will be added at the yard entry to prevent unauthorized access. The staff parking area will be designed to be more efficient. Park Buildings: St. Croix County has implemented the first newly constructed building conforming to initial, 2017 Design Guideline discussions, for the park system, with County staff. The new Restroom/Shower building, located in the picnic area, sets the architectural style for future construction. The intent is to create a common architectural character and aesthetic that will help unify the image and identity of St. Croix County parks. The design for each building may vary slightly from park to park or be modified to enhance a specific park amenity. But the design of thematic elements (materials, form, color, etc.) will be used to provide continuity throughout the entire Park system. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 153 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Several examples include the following (refer to attached drawings): • Roof forms will be 12:12 gables or 3:12 sheds - or combination of. • Finish materials will be metal roofing and low- maintenance lap or board and batten siding with accents of natural stone. • The color palette will be earth-tones with some vibrant colors applied to provide accent. , Toilet/shower bldg. constructed 2017 Camper Cabin Concept ui ul Ilv u ��fl iq uuuuuu �i I li � u r i� I � � 0 P@"n+ Small Shelter Concept Large Shelter Concept Some buildings will be more prominent (destinations) while others are meant to blend into the park settings. The function and actual location will dictate each facility's final design direction. Orientation, views, topography, access, etc. will be analyzed and overlaid with the guideline's unifying aesthetic. Various systems and equipment (mechanical, electrical, etc.) will also be standardized to help streamline maintenance and budgeting. All building components will continue to be discussed and refined as designs are developed for each project to ensure that the structures respond to specific needs and enhance the image and identity of each park setting. 154- St. Ciroiix Couinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B ti i liu i, �IISI' � Electronic device charging station concepts IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Land Acquisition The master plan does not include any recommendations to acquire additional lands to expand Glen Hills Park. The park boundaries are expected to remain unchanged. Development Priorities The schedule for construction of proposed improvements will ultimately be determined by funding availability, park operations, maintenance needs and other factors, however, the following suggested development priorities will be considered as implementation planning progresses: On-going Priorities: • Trails, especially those provided in natural resource-based recreation areas, usually rank high among the most popular recreation facilities in user surveys. Continued development of paved and unpaved hiking and biking trails and cross- country ski and snowshoe trails is high priority. New trails will be constructed and existing trails will be improved on an on-going basis, as funds become available. Trail improvements to some facilities will be ADA compliant, to the extent possible, and conform to County standards for quality trail development. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. Cul oligo Cowity 155 Attachment B January 8, 2019 • Protection and enhancement of natural resource areas are crucial to providing high quality recreation opportunities for County residents and other visitors. Improvement programs related to wildlife habitat, water quality and other natural resources will be implemented on an on-going basis as funds and manpower are available. Camper Cabin Pilot: This includes construction of two small cabins; one in the existing RV campground and one in the vicinity of the existing group camping area. Camper cabins offer a unique camping alternative and have proven to be extremely popular in other State and regional parks. It is expected that construction of the two test cabins will help the County to decide if cabin facilities are a viable camping option within the St. Croix County park system. Group Campground: Group camping is a popular activity in the park and comfort and dump station facilities will serve both the RV and group camping areas. It is expected that new, expanded RV and group camping facilities will strengthen Glen Hills Park as a camper destination. East Camper Cabin Cluster: Based on their popularity in other parks, it is expected there will be high demand for cabins in Glen Hills Park. The success of the test cabins will be assessed prior to constructing the east cabin cluster. RV Campground: There is high demand for existing campsites in the park. It is expected that increasing the number of high quality RV sites will encourage growth in the number of park visitors. Picnic Shelters: Construction of some of the picnic shelters proposed in the Master Plan will be determined, over time, by the need and demand for additional picnic facilities in the park. 156- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Cost Estimates The park improvements recommended in the master plan are expected to be constructed in phases as funds become available. Separate cost estimates, included at the end of this report, are provided for construction of the RV campground concept, group campground concept, east camper cabin cluster of three and six west camper cabins. A separate estimate is included for the east cabin cluster because it may be constructed separate from the other six cabins proposed in the master plan. Cost estimates for other improvements recommended in the master plan will be prepared as more detailed design concepts are developed for the items. The cost estimates are intended for use in budgeting for construction of the proposed improvements. The estimates are based on prices for similar work included in projects completed in 2017. An inflation rate of approximately 3% should be added for each year beyond 2018. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1 w ity 157 Attachment B January 8, 2019 PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE - RV CAMPGROUND Glen Hills Park UNIT ITEM UNIT PRICE QTY. TOTAL GENERAL CONDITIONS 1 $40,000.00 1 $40,000.00 SUBTOTAL $409000.00 SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION Staking and layout Is $6,000.00 1 $6,000.00 Tree removal and pruning Is $8,000.00 1 $8,000.00 Tree protection ea $250.00 50 $12,500.00 Erosion control Is $5,000.00 1 $5,000.00 Remove asphalt surfacing including base sy $6.75 2,870 $19,372.50 Remove shelter building and concrete slab Is $8,000.00 1 $8,000.00 Remove flagpole Is $300.00 1 $300.00 Remove grills ea $150.00 14 $2,100.00 Remove culvert ea $800.00 1 $800.00 Misc. removals Is $6,000.00 1 $6,000.00 SUBTOTAL $689072.50 EARTHWORK Common excavation bcy $14.00 6,160 $86,240.00 Fine grading sy $2.00 13,780 $27,560.00 Topsoil - re-use existing with amendments cy $25.00 1,500 $37,500.00 SUBTOTAL $151,300.00 SITE AND BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS Tables ea $1,000.00 22 $22,000.00 Grills If $600.00 22 $13,200.00 158- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Precast concrete curb-stops ea $250.00 22 $5,500.00 Campsite signage Is $6,600.00 1 $6,600.00 Plumbed toilet/shower building Is $200,000.00 1 $200,000.00 Small shelter building with concrete slab ea $72,401.00 1 $72,401.00 Campground directional signage and spur I.D. Is $1,500.00 1 $1,500.00 Fire rings ea $500.00 3 $1,500.00 SUBTOTAL $322,701.00 BITUMINOUS, CONCRETE & AGGREGATE SURFACING Bituminous surfacing (roads and parking) sy $22.00 3,865 $85,030.00 Concrete walk in common area sf $12.00 1,380 $16,560.00 Aggregate campsite spurs and road shoulders sy $6.75 2,500 $16,875.00 SUBTOTAL $118,465.00 UTILITIES Water service to restroom (well and service pipe) Is $15,000.00 1 $15,000.00 Water service to two spigots (yard hydrants) Is $5,000.00 1 $5,000.00 Water service to shelters ea $2,000.00 3 $6,000.00 Water to dump station Is $3,600.00 1 $3,600.00 Dump station holding tank Is $10,000.00 1 $10,000.00 Toilet/shower building holding tanks, pump chamber & pumps Is $20,000.00 1 $20,000.00 Drain field (mound system) for restroom and dump station Is $40,000.00 1 $40,000.00 Sanitary pipe - restroom building If $30.00 90 $2,700.00 Sanitary pipe - dump station If $30.00 230 $6,900.00 Electric service to restroom Is $8,000.00 1 $8,000.00 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 159 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Site lighting poles ea $4,500.00 4 $18,000.00 Electric service to campsites incl. service panel ea $2,000.00 22 $44,000.00 SUBTOTAL $179,200.00 LANDSCAPING 2 1/2" Shade trees ea $475.00 75 $35,625.00 Native seeding sy $2.50 2,300 $5,750.00 Turf Seeding w/ hydromulch sy $1.50 11,480 $17,220.00 SUBTOTAL $58,595.00 SUBTOTAL (RV campground improvements) $938,333.50 10% CONTINGENCY $93,833.35 Design, engineering and surveying $134,180.00 TOTAL $1,166,346.85 160- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE - GROUP CAMPGROUND Glen Hills Park UNIT ITEM UNIT PRICE QTY. TOTAL GENERAL CONDITIONS 1 $25,000.00 1 $25,000.00 SUBTOTAL $25,000.00 SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION Staking and layout Is $6,000.00 1 $6,000.00 Tree removal and pruning Is $8,000.00 1 $8,000.00 Tree protection Is $4,000.00 1 $4,000.00 Erosion control Is $3,000.00 1 $3,000.00 SUBTOTAL $219000.00 EARTHWORK Common excavation bcy $15.00 3,160 $47,400.00 Fine grading sy $2.00 2,110 $4,220.00 Topsoil cy $25.00 230 $5,750.00 SUBTOTAL $579370.00 SITE AND BUILDING' IMPROVEMENTS Tables ea $1,000.00 15 $15,000.00 Grills ea $600.00 15 $9,000.00 Campsite signage Is $2,200.00 1 $2,200.00 Small shelter building with concrete slab ea $72,401.00 3 $217,203.00 Campground directional signage Is $2,500.00 1 $2,500.00 Vault toilets ea $5,000.00 4 $20,000.00 Fire rings ea $500.00 3 $1,500.00 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 161 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Common area facilities (large fire pit, backstop, volleyball court, etc.) Is $10,000.00 1 $10,000.00 SUBTOTAL $277,403.00 BITUMINOUS, CONCRETE AND AGGREGATE SURFACING Bituminous roads and parking sy $22.00 4,010 $88,220.00 Concrete walks to toilets sf $12.00 350 $4,200.00 Aggregate campsite spurs and road shoulders sy $6.75 1,800 $12,150.00 SUBTOTAL $104,570.00 UTILITIES Electric service to site lighting Is $4,000.00 1 $4,000.00 Site lighting poles ea $4,500.00 3 $13,500.00 Electric service to campsites ea $2,000.00 16 $32,000.00 SUBTOTAL $49,500.00 LANDSCAPING' 2 1/2" Shade trees ea $475.00 60 $28,500.00 Native seeding sy $2.50 1 150 $2,875.00 Turf Seeding w/ hydromulch sy $1.50 950 $1,425.00 SUBTOTAL $32,800.00 SUBTOTAL (group campground improvements) $567,643.00 10% CONTINGENCY $56,764.00 Design, engineering and surveying $87,417.30 TOTAL $711,824.30 162- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE - EAST CABIN CLUSTER Glen Hills Park UNIT ITEM UNIT PRICE QTY. TOTAL GENERAL CONDITIONS 1 $25,000.00 1 $25,000.00 SUBTOTAL $259000.00 SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION Staking and layout Is $2,500.00 1 $2,500.00 Tree removal and pruning Is $4,000.00 1 $4,000.00 Tree protection Is $1,500.00 1 $1,500.00 Erosion control Is $2,000.00 1 $2,000.00 SUBTOTAL $10,000.00 EARTHWORK Common excavation bcy $12.00 550 $6,600.00 Fine grading sy $2.00 1,330 $2,660.00 Topsoil cy $25.00 140 $3,500.00 SUBTOTAL $12,760.00 SITE AND BUILDING' IMPROVEMENTS Tables ea $1,000.00 3 $3,000.00 Grills If $600.00 3 $1,800.00 Cabins ea $65,739.00 3 $197,217.00 Directional signage Is $1,000.00 1 $1,000.00 Vault toilets ea $5,000.00 2 $10,000.00 Fire rings ea $500.00 1 $500.00 SUBTOTAL $213,517.00 BITUMINOUS & AGGREGATE SURFACING 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 163 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Bituminous roads and parking sy $22.00 1,670 $36,740.00 Aggregate shoulders on road sy $6.75 150 $1,012.50 SUBTOTAL $369740.00 UTILITIES Electric service to cabins Is $8,000.00 1 $8,000.00 Site lighting poles ea $4,500.00 2 $9,000.00 SUBTOTAL $179000.00 LANDSCAPING' 2 1/2" Shade trees ea $475.00 20 $9,500.00 Native seeding sy $2.50 1620 $4,050.00 Turf Seeding w/ hydromulch sy $1.50 1,330 $1,995.00 SUBTOTAL $159545.00 SUBTOTAL (east cabin cluster improvements) $331,068.25 10% CONTINGENCY $339106.83 Design, engineering and surveying $549626.00 TOTAL $418,801.08 164- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE - WEST SIX CABINS Glen Hills Park UNIT ITEM UNIT PRICE QTY. TOTAL MOBILIZATION 1 $30,000.00 1 $30,000.00 SUBTOTAL $309000.00 SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION Staking and layout Is $2,500.00 1 $2,500.00 Tree removal and pruning Is $6,000.00 1 $6,000.00 Tree protection Is $1,500.00 1 $1,500.00 Erosion control Is $2,500.00 1 $2,500.00 SUBTOTAL $129500.00 EARTHWORK Common excavation bcy $15.00 1,000 $15,000.00 Fine grading sy $2.00 2,660 $5,320.00 Topsoil cy $25.00 290 $7,250.00 SUBTOTAL $279570.00 SITE AND BUILDING' IMPROVEMENTS Tables ea $1,000.00 6 $6,000.00 Grills If $600.00 6 $3,600.00 Cabins ea $65,739.00 6 $394,434.00 Directional signage Is $1,500.00 1 $1,500.00 Vault toilets ea $0.00 2 $0.00 Fire rings ea $500.00 1 $500.00 SUBTOTAL $406,034.00 BITUMINOUS AND AGGREGATE SURFACING 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 165 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Bituminous roads and parking sy $18.00 3,020 $54,360.00 Aggregate shoulders on roads sy $6.75 600 $4,050.00 SUBTOTAL $589410.00 UTILITIES Electric service to cabins Is $6,000.00 1 $6,000.00 Site lighting poles ea $4,500.00 4 $18,000.00 SUBTOTAL $249000.00 LANDSCAPING' 2 1/2" Shade trees ea $475.00 50 $23,750.00 Native grass seeding sy $2.50 3,270 $8,175.00 Turf Seeding w/ hydromulch sy $1.50 2,660 $3,990.00 SUBTOTAL $359915.00 SUBTOTAL (west six cabin improvements) $594,429.00 10% CONTINGENCY $59.442.90 Design, engineering and surveying $102,691.00 TOTAL $756,562.90 166- St. Cirou ouuint 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Revenue Sources There are several possible funding sources for construction of proposed park improvements. The master plan can be used to generate support from the community and, ultimately, from agencies and other sources that may provide needed funds. The following is a list of possible funding sources: • The County may provide funds through its Capital Improvement Program. • The County may devote personnel time and equipment to the construction of park improvements. • The County may generate revenue for improvements by assessing fees for use of existing recreation facilities and programs. • The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources administers several grant programs focused on recreation, trail, environmental protection, targeted run-off management and lake protection grants. • The Wisconsin Department of Transportation administers grant programs that have funds available for trail improvements. • Local organizations such as Lions, Rotary and VFW Clubs frequently donate funds and/ or manpower for park improvement projects. • Local or regional foundations frequently earmark funds for park and recreation planning and/or improvement projects. • Private individuals may participate in donations for park improvements. Funding for specific projects may be provided by one or more of the listed sources. The Glen Hills Park Master Plan is an effective tool for informing potential donors of the County's plans for park development. 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1 w ity 167 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Glen Hills Park ExistingFacilities °/ rw s ✓l� Ao Thu / VC r 77 j"lo / n a �4tn�M �r r-0IE Ivkfmd �5 +swat f Ldw �kCkWkpop1^ �� �, �� i f i �Oi ilii /, , LOU ,i✓�,+a OWN wr� M y IIIGIu l la ivd r e MeA / i14p PUN dwCL ft �m7 Y /i �jHi/i r D✓ // 44 ��� ' Ys / //✓ �� �/�iiai ����1� "' ��J1� / i � r Ask 1 j ��/1p i X14 i1f�✓ 1f� li /iY'W K / /i�/i4 / / / OFF %R / N' /Y/i of%�✓/r I /�rtl�/' ilY , w,�ir rrr�A.w/''Yf r u r � 10 % i !off` f "i Ott"[;" ll �� I1' ,r J� 1 i �fi arllr ' ,_ ;, 168- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Glen Hills Slope AnalysisErosion Areas OUN LOA] 7 i '�y ir„ry rr<kfi+lU�n+u+i W�rc�fll Ian+ IOU VAS �Jc, W � yo 4wi � +' 14 -t o'JI' (� r �din ✓a /�y�� � rr ay N�I rr /r ` y ANDD FAT FR Ffi �, / wa w r wy v IJrI��YY AR FIS l ✓ ii�i �Yj, J WMwK� 4 hb n ' 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1x Cowity 169 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Glen Hills Park Existingin i � g WOOff" „' y/1r�, OlUlr Id r �� or% 7 �r)a �, i � � 'oJ�r� Ga Sr �mAFniu�7Nsmnr�an N H,fila 1 err { �a i/r y /y i ayi r% iei i r,9010� ros FORM % A” 0M 0,15 LOU K r r r rrol A/m/m/m/m. r tl 'y v�i I ® „ fN i J PSI �� .e � c /� ,� ' o � rrrrii i i J rt a i 00" f r i G r r 01/1 fy rr % rQN�/ifl jrr FSI i fur i Mir i �lr i fa I �lawlAw '�jr r i� A Nf nsY� nN f »i6/� ' ;l %, f �alr�Jl�c'.��✓y;,,, �J r q i jl)4I / yr / lanA p,` 40k N "i s i ' / i ' rf / A goo✓�+� ;"�1'�w5a I�fri C�� _. 170- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Glen Hills Park Master Plan d� �+ �v Ir�r r j� �I M'."'!I� 4'!SKI ! ca+ati Mrer�pk III RETAIN MS'6ING i ����'��I��r al w!��„J"° �� wuwareiti�d�Ualptirteli�f¢il ur1�I�dd uwm4 / u r ruiu W r �, ti iuuV r mow. u f '„ r/ � r a w w w N 1 r, r 1, / UASE � OUIS 1,7p / �j �u / i of a lal��rr ri r:� (�;�w�, "dJ,iN�' 'S ,( tlu l lani 'i Nt PICNIC /w/ / j iw irna ti/. V N R�e4 i( DU �� �/ lr w l i wq DAY USE ✓ //��� f %%/ r �� {5VIE RNRGHT use �jfr / QuUir� aa5ervne rr Aar /i/ o 8 U NATURE STUDY AREA en �J �u�/�� wri�U✓v��Nw ll^�(��ru��G i� 'iw� f '� r��//r^� � ,➢�'� SINGI�� � U!� � °,/ MAINTENANCE YARD SNOWMOBILE TRAIL LAKE LOOP TRAIL rtii �"rj a ry///� rAVEDrAinc�m ur�Auumao eH rid PILOT Aud TCaPROJECT AREA �p/i/O i � � : ✓ m Y � �'r17���� ',�VLJUAYIIVllI�.W�iVii imliul!u�ur wni�J I r r w. g MAJOR VIEWS I VISTAS IZN H1 U k r �d1GURSE*; w i 7 r ��l ui r� ,,TIr o fW�( r r �� srur'lr� � r � ..mac.,, �;�dGulwewwrsx w 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. 0I Cowity 171 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Glen Hills Park RV Campground GROUP CAAR.....P llR,VE RV DUMP STATION uu N ,r I IF DRAIN FIELD r.".'c .•fr .x, -.. ... .... RM SITE { 4r — GUEST � RV SITE LoU �,��n,,r RESuRVO011r r rvslme�WERS '��PARKING F �ry rrvecnw�p'PLUMBED �Nnwn lig ,u V�ie , ADA., tl RW 6dfE t4 ' vil ,1 ,WDARLL, ,Yl1LL t ' 5�V R THRL}DfyH - TVIROUQSH "> SITE J SITE , ! KV SITE .,.,., '.c .... �r RV SITEPULL ' l THROUGIq ` wT ,. SITE P' \✓"' "7 y r PULL a; 'THROUGH RV SITE ,J4 SITE 4 YULE _ T'MRC%H RV SITE PULL SATE y. THROUGH 7 v r✓,P° SITE, r PULL- THROUGH ULL F1L 7.yP .. THROUGH � _.. RV SITE SITE r' , PULL - n RV SITE THROUGH � W GWEST �W`G. iPARflCING SATE PULL-, GUEST THROUGH PARKING sire , CAIS:IING PLAY SHELTER AREA EUUILDONG PSV SITE RFVSTIE ,..; 4-M 4a SITE41 � , 1 N. 172- St. Ciroouinty2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment B Glen Hills Park Group I VAULL �RYSITE �"�,. 'bio iso ILII 'T ILEI of ADA RV SqE TEN TE I I I L BLDG SII UT i E GLUIEST PARKING TENT ° Rv srrE f,, i',,, i vslTEi .r IIII@ ILOU KS I WTf EIRE MINE i SIDE f ' E.. SHELTER ! _ A BLDG if .�'GRUKIN ' TENT \\ f�PAR'KING •.. "� i SITE (f — ._ TL".NT J.` LARGE f",ROUP _ �y,t 50'tlE J SHELTER BLDG I ' ..... TENT ... ._ MAWLTMITE y T411LE'T'S' �. i =FIRE RING TENT t GUEST 1 „PARXCIING SHELTER' F'IE'LD PLAN 1 BLDG ,i AREA RV SITE `'.PIKE RING` e , AV S1 E r .. 'RV MITEUICAMP 0 DresvE 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- St. ui i1 w ity 173 Attachment B January 8, 2019 Glen Hills Park Camper Cabins ............... ............... ..................... VAULT TCALE rs LOUCKS COMMON SPACE WI[TH VAULT TOILET 5 AND FIRE RING AND wgrEH WATER SUPPLY SUPPLe DAY USE DRIVE VAULT TOILETS COMMON SPACE W17H FIRE RING AND WATER SUPPLY GLEN LAKE 174 St. Ciroouinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment C ATTACHMENT C: SPORTSMEN'S ALLIANCE PROJECT ST. CROIX COUNTY SPORTSMEN'S ALLIANCE PROJECT INVENTORY HUNTING Land Acquisition and Improvements to Existing Facilities Location Activity/Use Acreage Priority Comments Cylon Wildlife Area Wetland Restoration 80 1 Ongoing Cylon Town Sec. 15 Waterfowl Eau Galle Reservoir Multi-Use Lake Group 600 1 Open Reservoir to Cady& Eau Galle Towns Eau Galle Rec Area upland game hunting Kinnickinnic River Fishery Upland Game Easements Support DNR 1 Ongoing Area Master Plan Acquisition & Kinnickinnic Town easements Eau Galle Town Upland Game Acreage 2 Sec. 24, 25, 36 Waterfowl Bordering Cady Town tributaries Sec. 19, 29, 30, 31 &32 Springfield Town Upland Game 180 3 Available now Sec. 23 Waterfowl Cylon Town Easements for Upland 500 LT Sec. 17, 19 & 20 Game &Waterfowl Along Willow River Access Eau Galle Reservoir Upland Game 150 LT Eau Galle Town Sec. 35 Glenwood Town Sec. 29 Upland Game 120 LT Levesque Springs Spring Pond Restoration 40-320 LT Private owner began Somerset Town Upland Game process to create a Sec. 1 Waterfowl trout farm Springfield Town Upland Game 200 LT Sec. 10 & 15 Waterfowl Tiffany, Stephen & Blue Upland Game 1000+ LT Creeks Waterfowl Glenwood Town Sec. 25, 34, 35 & 36 NOTE: Upland Game includes: Deer,Grouse,Pheasant,Squirrel and Rabbit LT: Long-term goal/project 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- 5t. Ciro1x Couuinty 175 Attachment C January 8, 2019 FISHING Improvements to Existing Facilities Waterbody Activity/Use Improvement Priority Comments Hart Lake Fishing Aeration unit 1 Submitted for Stanton Town funding Eau Galle Reservoir Small Boat Fishing Upgrade boat landing 2 Cady Town Access Perch Lake Fishing Remove tree stump 2 St.Joseph Town Boat Landing Cement/plank ramp Pave parking area St. Croix River Small Boat Fishing Open access to all 2 Cove Road Access County residents Troy Town Develop parking on road right-of-way Troy County Park Multi-use Trees trimmed & 3 Troy Town removed & buckthorn control Twin Springs Small Boat Fishing Install landing planks 3 Somerset Town Access Pave &expand parking area Cedar Lake Ice Fishing Upgrade road 4 Star Prairie Town Boat Landing Sign winter access (installed in Polk County) St. Croix River Wintertime Create boat landing 4 Ferry Landing Activities: ice & parking area North Hudson Fishing, cc skiing, Snowmobiling St. Croix River Carry-in Canoe Access Expand parking 4 Rice Flats Improve canoe Somerset Town launch NOTE: Pedestrian access and parking,especially along trout streams,may only require widening the road shoulder for 2-4 vehicles and posting signage to welcome users. LT: Long-term goal/project 176- St. Ouiro° x Couuinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment C FISHING Expansion to Existing Facilities Waterbody Activity/Use Improvement Priority Comments Kinnickinnic River Multi-use Encourage expansion 1 Ongoing River Falls Kinnickinnic Pathway of linear green-space City Park park along river Parking St. Croix River Multi-use Decrease launch fees 1 Ongoing Hudson Lakefront City Park Handicapped fishing Sites Willow River Fishing Handicapped fishing 1 Ongoing Mill Pond Sites New Richmond Apple River Fishing Boat &canoe access 2 Huntington Develop plan for Star Prairie Town County-owned land Sec. 11 Parking Parker Creek Area Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & 2 Sec. 12, 13 & 14 parking Kinnickinnic River Trout Fishing Pedestrian access 2 Kinnickinnic Town and parking Sec. 2, 11, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 30&31 Troy Town Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & 2 Sec. 36 parking Warren Town Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & 2 Sec. 35 &36 parking Apple River Fishing & Bird Watching Canoe access close to 3 Apple Falls Frontage Ice Fishing (off—season) the falls Somerset Town Sec. 26 Parking &Somerset Village Willow River Trout Fishing Pedestrian access 3 Cylon Town Sec. 31 and parking St. Croix River Multi-use Boat access or open 4 Troy County Park Site for ice fishing Troy Town Access & parking Somerset Town Warm Water Game & Canoe access & LT Sec. 29 Pan Fishing parking Beaver Creek Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & LT Springfield Town parking Sec. 1 & 12 Eau Galle River Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & LT Eau Galle Town parking Sec. 13 &36 Rush River Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & LT Rush River Town parking Sec. 23 &24 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- 5t. Ouro° x Couuumty 177 Attachment C January 8, 2019 Sandy Creek Trout Fishing Pedestrian access & LT Glenwood Town parking Sec. 11 & 12 Willow River Trout Fishing Canoe access & LT Jewett Area parking Erin Prairie Town Sec.4 &9 Richmond Town Fishing Canoe access and LT Sec. 1, 17 & 18 parking NOTE: Pedestrian access and parking,especially along trout streams,may only require widening the road shoulder for 2-4 vehicles and posting signage to welcome users. LT: Long-term goal/project 178- St. Ciroouinty 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan January 8, 2019 Attachment C FISHING Land Acquisition Location Improvement Acreage Priority Comments Kinnickinnic River Fishery Shore fishing stations Support DNR 1 Ongoing Area Master Plan Acquisition & Kinnickinnic Town Easements Hart Lake Boat access & parking 1 2 Stanton Town Sec. 31 Louie's Lake Boat access & parking 1-2 3 Johannesburg Star Prairie Town Willow River Pedestrian access & <5 4 Cylon Town Parking Sec. 17, 19, 20 Lake Mallalieu Shore fishing stations 5 5 Dam Area Handicapped boat access Hudson & North Hudson Parking Hudson Town Boat access & parking Possible 6 Sec. 18 Easement Anderson Springs Pedestrian access 80 LT Richmond Town Spring restoration Sec. 16 & 17 Dry Dam Lake Boat & pedestrian access <5 LT St.Joseph Town Sec. 1 Parking Furgers Lake Boat & pedestrian access <5 LT St.Joseph Town Parking Sec. 34 &35 St. Croix River Small boat access & 20 LT Property owned Houlton Parking By the City of Handicapped fishing pier Stillwater Willow River Shore fishing station <5 LT Confluence of Willow Boat &canoe access River&Ten-Mile Creek Parking St.Joseph Town Sec. 36 NOTE: Pedestrian access and parking,especially along trout streams,may only require widening the road shoulder for 2-4 vehicles and posting signage to welcome users. LT: Long-term goal/project 2019-2023 Outdoor Recreation Plan- 5t. Ciroi1x Couuinty 179