HomeMy WebLinkAbout15.B.2. Park and Natural Resources Planning
IS, I3.J~
CITY OF SHAKOPEE
MEMORANDUM
To: Mayor and City Council
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
From: Mark Themig, Parks, Recreation & Facilities Director
Terry Meiller, Natural Resource Specialist
Meeting Date: October 5, 2004
Subject: Park and Natural Resource Planning
INTRODUCTION
City Council is asked to consider two planning initiatives: updating the Comprehensive
Park Plan and accepting a grant for Natural Resource Planning.
BACKROUND AND DISCUSSION
City Council is being asked to consider two planning initiatives. The first would be to
update the Comprehensive Park Plan, and the second would begin implementation of
the Natural Resources section of the city's recent Comprehensive Plan update through a
grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. If approved, these two
planning processes would proceed concurrently and could compliment each other.
Comprehensive Park Plan Update (Attachment A)
With City Couricil's'Tecentadoption of the land use planning section of the
Comprehensive Plan, it is appropriate to consider updating the Comprehensive Park
Plan. The last update was 1998/1999. Since that time, development and annexation has
occurred in areas that are not covered in the 1998/1999 park plan. The Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board expressed concern at their last meeting that they are being
asked to make recommendations on parks in these areas without a clear picture of the
entire plan.
There is $15,000 budgeted in FY04 for this work, and an additional $15,000 has been
requested through Community Development in FY05. With Council's concerns about
professional services, we have discussed whether or not this project can be done in-
house using the expertise of the Park and Landscape Designer. At this point, it appears
that it would be beneficial to hire professional services as we have done for the land use,
transportation, and surface water sections of the Comprehensive plan. In addition to the
proposed 2005 park design and construction workload, the Advisory Board has
requested their involvement as well as community involvement in this process, so the
time commitment would likely be significant. Also, an outside consultant may bring
perspectives to the plan update that staffs do not have.
If you are inclined to proceed, we would issue request for proposals for this work; and
bring back a recommendation in the future.
Natural Resources Planning (Attachment B)
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has been awarded a Bush Foundation
grant to incorporate natural resource information into land use planning decisions. The
DNR has contacted three different types of cities about participating in this program:
. A city with extensive natural resource information.
. A city with limited natural resource information.
. A city with no natural resource information.
The DNR felt that the City of Shako pee would be an ideal candidate for a city with
extensive natural resource information due to its existing natural resource inventory and
natural resources section of the city's Comprehensive Plan.
I
Jean Coleman, a consultant that the DNR has selected to lead this effort for them,
presented a planning proposal to the Environmental Advisory Committee. Ms. Coleman
proposed to work with the EAC, Planning Commission, the community, and staff to
implement specific sections of the city's Comprehensive Plan natural resources section.
Specifically, this would include both the creation of a greenway implementation plan.and
specifiC suggestions for new or revised ordinances that help achieve the natural
resource section goals, The greenways implementation plan would include more
detailed analysis of the greenways corridors and specific implementation steps.
Suggested ordinance revisions may include new zoning districts, general standards,
specific performance standards, and changes to the platting and subdivision process.
This appears to be an excellent opportunity for the city to begin incorporating the natural
resource goals of the city's Comprehensive Plan into the community's infrastructure.
Although the city would not receive actual dollars from the grant, we would receive
professional services from Ms. Coleman, her firm, andtheDNR. These services are
estimated to be worth $20,000-$25,000. The city's commitment would be staff time from
the Natural Resource Specialist to coordinate community meetings and information for
the Environmental Advisory Committee. We are estimating an average five hours per
week throughout the planning process, which would run through summer 2005.
The Environmental Advisory Committee recommended that we proceed with the
planning process.
Jean Coleman will be attending the October 5th City Council meeting to discuss her
proposal and answer questions you may have.
REQUESTED ACTION
City Council is asked to consider each of the planning initiatives. If you are inclined to
move forward, motion to:
1. Authorize appropriate city staff to issue request for proposalS for updating the city's
Comprehensive Park Plan.
2. Authorize appropriate city staff to enter into agreement with the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources and C.R. Planning for Natural Resource Planning.
Compreh . Par Jan
slve
N
w.. o 0.25 0.5 1 Miles ..-a.4
I I I I I I I I I S~QPE::E;.
S C~,u.1'l'\I.~ll1I;.$lN(1l1lli<'>
Legend
_ Park Service Boundary
b11Iilllliiiiililliiiillil,i'ill Proposed Community Park Service Area
_ Proposed Neighborhood Park Service Area 1:0
_ Existing Park i1 . ....
'I
~ Open Space ~ .
City of Shakopee, Minnesota
Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open
Space
Introduction
Why Should the City Plan for Parks and Recreation?
Parks, open spaces, and trails are essential components to a community with a high quality of life. Parks
and schools are consistently rated as the most important elements influencing choice of housing location.
In promoting a quality environment, providing adequate recreational land area will become increasingly
important as Shakopee develops beyond its urban core area. Costs for land south of Highway 169 are
increasing rapidly as development interest increases. The challenge to provide the appropriate
recreational facilities will also become more difficult with a greater number of people having diverse
interests, The Parks, Open Space and Trails Plan is intended to guide the future development of
recreational facilities in the City of Shako pee.
One of the first steps in formulating a park and recreation system plan is to prepare an inventory of
existing regional and local recreational systems in the City. Building an understanding as to how these
facilities were funded and constructed is also beneficial. Volume 1 addresses these two topics and
provides some concluding remarks which will provide insights towards the preparation of the Goals,
Objectives and Policies developed in Volume 2 and the Park, Recreation and Trail Physical Plan in
Volume 3.
Volume 1 - Park System Inventor'l
Regional Parks, Open Space and Trails Plan
Since the City of Shako pee is part of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, it is important to illustrate how the
City fits into the regional parks and recreation system, Figure P-1 represents the Metropolitan Council's
approved Regional Recreation Open Space System Plan which was approved in June, 1991.
Although the City of Shakopee does not have any regional parks or regional park reserves within its
corporate limits, there is an extensive open space system along its north boundary or the Minnesota
River. This open space system, owned and maintained by the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), extends through the
southwestern corner of Scott County to the convergence of Minnesota River with the Mississippi River at
Fort Snelling. This open space corridor represents the largest urban wildlife refuge in the country. A trail
system is planned to travel along this corridor from Fort Snelling to St. Peter, Minnesota. The segment
between Chaska and Memorial Park in Shakopee has already been constructed. This trail receives
heavy use and is an essential component to the City's recreation system.
As shown on Figure P-1, a regional trail is proposed on the Metropolitan Council's plan to connect the
Minnesota River Valley with three regional parks located in Prior Lake, Savage and Credit River
Township. A joint effort by the Cities of Shakopee and Prior Lake, the Mdewakanton Sioux Community,
the Hennepin County Parks Board and Scott County is well underway to design and construct this
regional trail. This regional trail is a high priority project by the agencies involved as demonstrated by the
significant coordination effort required in the grant application process. Support from the Metropolitan
Council on .the construction of this regional trail is being pursued. This regional trail will also be an
essential component to the City's recreation system.
With regards to the impacts on the regional parks system, no regional parks will be used as a part of the
City's park system since no regional parks exist or have been proposed within the City of Shakopee. The
City is working to integrate the Minnesota Valley Trail and the Scott-Hennepin Regional Trail into the
overall trail system. Existing and proposed land uses adjacent to the Minnesota River Valley open space
area in the Land Use Plan element found in Volume 3.
Shako pee Park System Inventory
The existing parks system in Shakopee is largely the result of cooperative efforts made by a variety of
public, private and non-profit entities, In virtually all of the existing park and recreation facilities in the
City, two or more agencies or organizations have funded, acquired, designed, constructed, or provided
labor and materials. The location of existing parks in the City is shown on Figure P-2,
The City and Independent School District 720 (ISD 720) have promoted a joint neighborhood school and
parks recreational activities program which involves extensive sharing of facilities, equipment and staff
time. City parks and school playgrounds have generally been located on adjacent sites in the City to
maximize this sharing, cooperative effort.
Active involvement by local civic groups is another example of the cooperative community spirit in
Shakopee. The Shakopee Jaycees, the Lions Club, Rotary Club, VFW and American Legion are groups
which have consistently made contributions to the park system facilities over the years.
A third group actively contributing to the parks system are the developers of subdivisions, Either parkland
dedications or cash payments in lieu of land are a part of the subdivision platting process. As new
subdivision plats in the City are approved, strategic park sites can be dedicated, or park fees can be paid
to the City for park and recreational purposes.
In 1998, there were approximately 366 acres of City parkland in Shakopee and 134 acres of open space.
This acreage has been distributed by park classification in Table P-1,
Table P-1
Shakopee Park System Acreage Inventory - 1998
CLASSIFICATION ACREAGE
Historical Park
Leased to Murphy's Landing 88.0
Open Space
Deerview 6,9
Eaglewood 21,6
South bridge 17,0
45.5
Mini-Park
Emerald Tot Lot 0,5
P & V Addition ----1.Q
Subtotal 1.5
Neighborhood School
Central Elementary 1,0
Pearson Elementary 2.0
Sun Path Elementary 18.0
Sweeney Elementary 2,0
Junior High School 12.0
Senior High School 50.0
Subtotal 85.0
Neighborhood Park
Hiawatha 1.5
Holmes 2.0
Horizon Heights 12,1
Killarney Hills 3.4
Meadows 3.0
Pheasant Run 10.0
Prairie Bend 5,1
Riverview 2.9
Scenic Heights 11.0
South bridge 3.0
Stans 1.3
Timber Trails --1d
Subtotal 56.6
Community Playfield
George Muenchow Fields 30.0
Lions 33.8
Tahpah 40,0
Subtotal 103.8
Community Park
Huber 4.1
Memorial 110.0
O'Dowd --1Q.Q
Subtotal 119.1
PARKS 366 acres
OPEN SPACE 134 acres
Tables P-3 and P-4 illustrate parkland acreages and park reserve fund contributions over the past several
years. These tables show land dedications and cash payments made in lieu of land dedication for park
system. The dedications are a requirement of the subdivision process.
Figure P-3:
Park Dedications Since 1990
Park Dedications (Acres)
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994
'_Acres I
(Source: City of Shakopee Planning Dept.)
Fi ure P-4 Park Dedication Fundin
Park Dedication (Dollars)
$160,000
$140,000
$120,000
$100,000
$80,000
$60,000
$40,000
$20,000
$0 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994
,- Dollars I
(Source: City of Shakopee Planning Dept.)
Open Space System Inventory
Whereas, most parks tend to provide for more active or organized activities such as baseball, volleyball,
ice skating or tennis, open space areas tend to be more passive or natural in setting. As noted earlier in
the discussion on the regional parks system, the major open space areas in Shakopee are located along
the Minnesota River Valley. These open space areas have been acquired by state and federal agencies.
An inventory of the public open space areas has been provided in Table P-1 and illustrated on Figure P-2,
On a local level, open space areas have been created primarily in environmentally sensitive areas such
as wetlands, shorelands and floodplains. Many of these areas have been created in the approval of
planned unit developments for the benefit of the property owners within the specific project. The open
space areas are generally not available to the public in terms of access but provide visual and spatial
relief in the growing community.
Table P-2
Regional Open Space System Inventory
Classification Acreage
Federal
James J. Wilke Area 1120.0
State
Minnesota Valley State Park 10,0
State Refuge Area 110,0
---------
TOTAL 1240.0 Acres
Trail System Inventory
Trails are the linking segments of a successful parks and recreation system. Trails should be designed to
connect parks and open spaces in a community with residential neighborhoods. They should also link
neighborhoods with schools, playgrounds and commercial areas in a community. Without these linking
facilities, public investments into parks and open space areas tend to have a lower benefit due to the
limited safe access by residents, especially children. .
The existing trails in the City are shown on Figure P-5. Portions of two major trails have been constructed
at this time. The Minnesota Valley Trail, as discussed earlier, extends from Memorial Park to Chaska.
The second trail is the City's Upper Valley Trail. This trail has been constructed from CR 16 on the east
and extends to CR15 on the west. This trail followstheUpperValley Drainageway, which serves as the
City's primary stormwater conveyance facility in the urban area. The trail receives heavy bike and
pedestrian traffic. Minor trails have been constructed in some of the City parks. Table P-3 provides an
inventory of the existing trail system.
Table P-3
Trail System Inventory
Classification Distance
State Trails
Minnesota Valley Trail 4.4 miles
Regional Trails 0,0 miles
City Trails
Upper Vi::1l1ey Trail 2.5 miles
Lions Park Trail 0.5 miles
Memorial Park Trail 0,3 miles
JEJ Park Trail 0.2 miles
O'Dowd Trail 1.0 miles
----------
TOTAL 8.9 Miles
Existing Level of Service
The City of Shakopee covers 28 square miles. In 1998, most of the 17,000 residents live in the
northwestern corner of the City or the urban core area. The area south of Highway 169 is growing rapidly
with a mix of housing, commercial and institutional uses.
As shown on Figure P-2, most of the existing City parks have been located within the urban core area.
Figure P-2 also illustrates that neighborhood parks are generally well distributed across the urbanized
portion of the City (north of 169). There are very few residential areas that are more than one-quarter
mile from these park facilities. Residents of the urbanized area can easily walk or ride a bicycle from their
home to more than one neighborhood or community park due to the City's park planning efforts in the
past.
In the rural areas of the City, fewer park facilities have been created due to lower population base and the
larger service area. To date, O'Dowd Park has received some improvements while other rural City parks
are undeveloped.
The Shakopee Community Center provides a range of indoor recreation opportunities, The 79,000 square
foot building, was built in 1996 and contains an indoor ice skating rink, two gymnasiums, running/walking
track, locker rooms and multi-purpose/meeting rooms. There has been interest in expansion of the
Community Center to add a second ice rink, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
In 1998, Shakopee's existing park system had approximately one acre of neighborhood and community
park land for every 50 residents. This includes active park land and accessible open space land, but
does not include inaccessible open space lands, wetlands or flood plain lands.
The existing active parks have been constructed at varying times over the last 30 years. While most of
the parks are in good condition, there are major park features that need replacement or revitalization.. For
example, play equipment lasts approximately 15 years, some landscaping and park shelters need to be
replaced, and new safety and access requirements call for changes in some park features.
Table P-5 lists the facilities which have been provided in the parks and open space areas in the City, The
facilities listed in this table indicate a broad range of recreational activities available to the City's residents.
Conclusion
In summary, Shakopee's existing park system generally meets existing local recreation needs through
neighborhood park sites with a variety of facilities. The strong participation of civic groups, coupled with
ISD 720, has enhanced the maximum recreational utilization of the public's inventory of recreational
facilities, Some park features in existing parks need to be replaced or updated to meet current safety,
access and recreational needs.
Continuing the coordinated and cooperative efforts are vital to maximize the limited public funds for
recreational facilities in the City. This Comprehensive Plan should be used as a general guide by all
parties involved in acquiring the parkland and developing the park facilities.
As the growth of the City transitions to the south side of the Shakopee Bypass (Highway 169) and the
East Dean Lake area (as indicated in the Land Use Element) similar neighborhood and community park
planning, acquisition and development efforts as used in the urban core area should be utilized, A park
service district concept should guide the future levels of service for park facilities in Shakopee. Volume 3
- the Park, Recreation and Trail System Plan contains recommendations for park and trail acquisition and
development.
Shakopee, Minnesota
Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan
Volume 2 - Goals, Objectives and. Policies
1. Maintain a safe, healthy and attractive parks, recreation, trails and open space system that
meets the recreation needs of the City.
.
1.1. Provide for fully developed parks, trails, facilities, and open space in
sufficient quantities to meet the needs of Shakopee's growing population.
a.. The City shall use the latest park standards developed by the National
Recreation and Park Association and the Shako pee Park, Recreation and
Trail Master Plan (Volume 3) to judge the adequacy of its park system
and guide future actions.
b. The Park, Recreation, and Trail System Master Plan (Figures P-5 and P-6)
shall act as a guide for long range land acquisition for parks and trails to
serve the City's future needs. Acquisition shall proceed based on the
development of residential and commercial-industrial lands, land
availability. land suitability and availability of funding.
c. Where possible, new neighborhood park sites shall be acquired through
negotiated purchases in advance of development and in general, the
acquisition costs shall be paid with fees received from residential,
commercial, and industrial developers.
d. New community parks sites shall be acquired through negotiated
purchases shall be funded through a combination of park development
funds, general funds, general obligation bonds and grants as appropriate.
e. Continue to enhance and expand the Shakopee Community Center to meet
demonstrated community needs.
f. The City will promote the continuation and extension of the.Minnesota
River Valley trail from Downtown Shakopee to Murphy's Landing and
eventually to Fort Snelling.
g. The City will promote the completion of the Scott-Hennepin Trail.
1.2. Preserve and enhance the natural resources of the community.
a, The City will create, through its zoning powers, a system of open space
for the protection of river and creek floodplains as well as wetlands
according to its Surface Water Management Plan.
b. Recycling, environmentally sound maintenance procedures and other
programs intended to protect natural resources shall be promoted.
c, A detailed study to define significant natural resource areas throughout the
City shall be maintained.
d. A planting/reforestation programshall be maintained for all parks where
trees and vegetation are lacking and it is feasible to add additional
vegetation.
1.3. Review development proposals to ensure neighborhood streets, sidewalks
and lot configurations are compatible with the park needs of the eventual
residents.
a. The City will ensure that access to parks is provided by sidewalks and/or
trails.
b. Parks should have access from at least one Local or Collector level street
and that street frontage should be at least 300 feet in width.
c, If parking is anticipated, the preferred access to the parking lot is from a
Collector street.
d. Pedestrian access corridors at least 16 feet in width should be acquired
and constructed on park edges where there is no reasonably close public
street access or where additional access and continuity is determined to be
beneficial.
e. Neighborhood parks should be spaced no more than one mile apart and the
intended users should not have to cross major roads.
f. Neighborhood parks should be no smaller than five acres, however,
ornamental parks and tot-lots in areas of high-density housing may be
smaller.
g. Decisions to accept or acquire parcels for park purposes should be based
on the qualities of the land and its suitability for the desired recreation
activities. "Left over" or undesirable land parcels with limited natural
resource qualities shall be considered unacceptable. Wetlands, ponding
areas, and steep slopes shall not be counted towards park dedication
requirements unless the area has superior natural resource qualities and
can be made accessible to the public through vehicular access or bike/walk
trails, The Park Dedication Guidelines (Volume 3) shall help determine
the acceptability of parcels for park purposes,
h, The trail system shall be developed and extended in a manner which
minimizes conflicts between pedestrians and motor vehicles and in
accordance with the Trail System Plan,
2. Ensure the cost-effectiveness of the park and recreation system while maintaining quality
standards.
2.1. Promote recreational dual use of facilities where feasible.
a. Parks should be located adjacent to schools if practical and otherwise
advisable so as to share facilities and open space.
b. Trail and park construction in conjunction with transportation, drainage,
and wetland preservation projects, shall be promoted.
c. Where possible and feasible joint school-city development and use of
indoor recreation facilities shall be promoted.
d. Existing mining operations shall be studied for possible recreational
reclamation at the end of their useful mining life.
e, Mines and other producers of large amounts of relatively clean wastewater
shall be studied for possible public/private partnerships to accept their
wastewater for recreational/environmental purposes.
2.2. Maximize the recreational opportunities available to city residents thorough
the development of a fair and equitable working partnership between the
Shakopee School District, adjacent cities, Scott County, the Department of
Natural Resources, USFWS, churches, civic organizations, other
organizations and the City of Shakopee.
a, The City will continue its cooperative relationship with the Shakopee
School District in the planning, design, promotion, and funding of park
and recreation system improvements and recreation programs.
b, Ongoing relationships with volunteer programs and civic and
athletic/youth organizations shall be promoted to encourage residents and
community organizations to assist in park improvements, maintenance,
and recreation programs. Ownership and management control of all
facilities will be retained by the City.
c. A dialogue and cooperative effort shall be undertaken between all
members of the partnership to encourage the optimal usage of limited
resources, joint development of facilities, and minimization of
unnecessary duplication.
d. Volunteerism shall be promoted through the development of various
volunteer programs.
2.3 Use a variety of funding sources for acquisition, development and
renovation
of park and recreation facilities.
a. Evaluate park dedication fee amounts and park acquisition/development
costs on a regular basis to ensure fair and appropriate fees.
b. Seek grant opportunities, bond referendum funding and other funding
sources as appropriate to meet system-wide funding needs.
c. Annually update the five-year capital improvement program for park, trail
and recreation capital projects.
3. Maximize participation in City programs and encourage citizen involvement in the
planning process.
3.1. Promote wide dissemination of information about programs and facilities to
all citizens of Shako pee.
a. The Parks and Recreation Department will advertise programs through the
local media in a cost effective manner.
b. Brochures will be produced quarterly in conjunction with Community
Education.
c. Park programs shall be featured in the City Newsletter.
d. The Parks and Recreation Department shall coordinate with the Shakopee
School District to distribute informational brochures and posters in the
schools.
3.2. Enhance the level of participation and utilization of park facilities.
a. A reasonable and ongoing effort shall be made to eliminate all physical
barriers which deter special populations (elderly, disabled, etc.) from using
existing and future parks and recreational facilities. Barrier-free design
principles shall be implemented in accordance with federal and state
guidelines,
b. Comprehensive active and passive recreation opportunities shall be
provided for all age groups, and equitably distributed throughout the City
of Shakopee.
c. The City shall allow the usage of its facilities to groups who make their
programs accessible to all residents as long as they do not conflict with
regular City programs.
d. The City shall consider initiating programs for those not being served by
special interest groups or the private sector.
e. The trail system shall accommodate a wide range of activities, including
walking, hiking, running, bicycle riding, cross country skiing, and, where
designated, snowmobiling and horseback riding.
3.3. Establish an effective, ongoing means of communicating and interacting with
residents about issues related to parks and recreation facilities, programs,
and future development.
a. Special meetings between the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and
residents are encouraged when special development projects or issues
arise.
b. Residents shall periodically be given the opportunity to participate
in the planning process (Le" through needs assessment studies,
neighborhood meetings, community outreach, etc.) to ensure that their
needs are understood and acted upon.
Parks, Trails and Open Space
Volume 3 - Park, Recreation and Trail
~stem Master Plan
Introduction
In 1998, the City of Shakopee reviewed it's existing park and trail system and prepared a forecast for park
needs based on continuation of the city's park district planning concept. The analysis was done to help
guide future park acquisition and development decisions and to update the park dedication fee system to
equitably meet local needs. The following is a summary recreation system needs and study findings
followed by a more detailed plan for park, recreation and trail facilities.
Park, Recreation, Trail System - Summary of Actions
In order to continue to provide a high quality recreation system, the following actions needs must occur in
a planned and coordinated manner:
1. Acquire and develop new neighborhood parks to serve new growth.
2. Renovate existing neighborhood parks.
3. Develop existing community parks.
4. Acquire and develop new community parks to serve new growth.
5. Expand and enhance indoor recreation facilities (i.e. Shakopee Community Center and
possible joint school-city facilities).
6. Acquire trail easements and right of way and build new trails and connections.
Park, Recreation, Trail System - Major Findings
Major findings and recommendations of the Shakopee Park, Recreation and Trail Master Plan (1998
Update) are:
. The existing park system (Original Shakopee Park District) located north of Highway 169
generally has adequate park acreage and distribution to meet existing needs.
. Based on the Draft land Use Plan, the population of Shakopee will ultimately grow to
approximately 35,000 people (21,000-22,000 new residents).
. The majority of that growth will occur in the St Francis (12,300 people) and Dean lake (7,400
people) Park Service Districts.
. Approximately 310 acres of new developed parkland is needed to adequately serve the new
population growth and commercial-industrial needs.
. 37 miles of new pedestrian/bike trail are recommended.
. Approximately 20 new neighborhood parks, 2 community parks and 2 school-community
playfields are needed.
Recreation Service Districts Plan
With the urban core area nearing full development, the City has developed a land use staging strategy to
guide future residential growth to areas south of the Bypass in an orderly fashion, The growth areas,
illustrated in the Land Use Element are separated from the existing parks located in the urban core area
by the Shakopee Bypass. Expecting future residents, especially children, to cross the Bypass for
recreational needs is obviously not acceptable.
To facilitate the planning of new residential neighborhoods with the appropriate park facilities, a park
service district concept has been established, This conceptual plan is intended to promote and foster
stronger relationships between residential neighborhoods and City parks. The plan can also help focus
the City's efforts in the allocation of its limited resources for recreational needs in a wise manner. The
forecast population and employment growth anticipated within each district is used to determine the
number, type and general location of neighborhood and community parks. Figure P-6 illustrates the Five
Park Service Districts:
1. Original Shakopee
2. St Francis
3. Dean Lake
4. Highlands
5. Township
Local Recreation Needs and Standards
Aware that significant community development trends will impact future park needs and opportunities.
this section forecasts the magnitude and type of new park resources and services needed to the year
2020. Future parkland forecasting consists of the analysis of projected population growth and parkland
needs. Local and national park standards have been developed to serve as a general guide in estimating
the number of park acres needed per 1000 population by park function. Table P-4 illustrates the existing
and forecast needs for parkland acreage and per capita ratios by park category and function.
By the year 2020,310 acres of additional parkland will be needed to serve the projected population. This
acreage is based on the population projections listed in the Population; and Employment section in
Volume 1. The parkland projections are based on the city standard of a minimum of one acre of parkland
per 75 people. Table P-5 illustrates the parkland needs for each Park Service District.
Table P-4
Shakopee Park System Acreage Forecast Needs - 2020
Existing Existing Target Additional Acres Needed
Classification Acreaae Acres/1.000 people Service Levels 1 at Taraet Level
(17,000 people) (21,500 person growth)
Mini-Park 2.0 special need2
NeiClhborhood School 85.0 5.0/1,000 student population3 40-60 acres
NeiClhborhood Park 56.6 3.3/1,000 7.0/1,000 195 acres
Community Park 119.1 7.0/1,000 5.0/1,000 65 acres
Community Plavfield 103.8 6.1/1,000 community need4
TOTAL 366.5 21.5/1,000 310 acres
Source: April 7, 1998 by Ingraham & Associates Inc.
t Recommended service level in acres per 1,000 population city-wide.
2 Due to high maintenance costs and limited benefit, additional Mini-Parks are not recommended except in situations of special needs.
3 Student forecasts and District/State standards will determine school needs. Two elementary schools anticipated. Where available, school parks can function
as neighborhood parks or community playfields.
4 Community playfield need varies with community use, youth sports participation, adult league use and tournament use. Need for two additional playfields
is anticipated.
Table P-5 Recreation District Park Acquisition Needs
Recreation District & Service New Growth Min. Park Rec. Park Park Recommendation by District &
Area Persons Acres Acres** Service Area
Needed*
1 Original Shakopee 1,357
2 St. Francis 12,280 164
A 45 4-10 ac neighborhood parks, 1-5
acre neighborhood park
B 50 2-10 ac neighborhood parks, 1-30
ac school-city park
C 20 2-10 ac neighborhood parks
D 15 1-10 ac neighborhood park, 1-5 ac
neighborhood park
E 20 2-10 ac neighborhood parks
F 20 2-10 ac neighborhood parks
3 Dean Lake 7,417 99 45 1-20 ac school-city park, 1-25
acre community park
A 15 2-7.5 ac neighborhood parks
B 20 2-10 ac neighborhood parks
C 20 2-10 ac neighborhood parks
4 Highlands 411 5 40 1-40 ac community park on north end
of district
21,465 268 310
May 13,1998 by Ingraham & Associates Inc. **Includes park needs (athletic fields & passive parks) for non-
residential development
* 1acl75 people Plus trails and special use facilities such as golf courses, pools,
beaches etc.
Parks and Open Space Physical Plan
System expansion, diversification and intergovernmental coordination will be key to the Year 2020
Shakopee Park and Open Space System, Expansion is needed to stay consistent with population,
household and employment growth demands for services and programs. Diversification is needed to
match a growing and shifting population base. Intergovernmental coordination is needed to maximize
state, regional and county programmed facilities and systems.
A major component of Year 2020 park expansion will be the acquisition and development of
neighborhood parks and community parks south of Highway 169. The City standard ,is the provision of
one acre of park land for every 75 residents. The goal is to provide a balance on neighborhood, city-
school, community parks and open space. Each park type provides a different function and contains
different facilities,
Neighborhood Park -
The goal is to provide a 5-10 acre neighborhood park within one-quarter to one-half mile service radius of
residential development. On average, a neighborhood park should be designed to serve approximately
1,000-1500 persons.
Conveniently located, the parks shall provide the typical neighborhood activities for youth such as
playgrounds, ball fields and field play. A small parking lot, picnic tables or benches, and paths or
walkways are also typical elements. Selective development such as tennis courts, sliding hills, ice'skating
and park shelters and other more specialized facilities, may also be appropriate at the neighborhood
level.
City-School Parks -
Joint development of city-school parks is a logical and efficient public policy. Schools need play grounds,
play equipment, and athletic fields and recreation facilities, for recess, school programs, and organized
sports. Much of that activity takes place during weekday school hours. The facilities can be generally
shared with general public users during after-school and weekends hours. Recreation areas associated
with schools vary depending upon the type of school. Elementary schools need a play ground, play
areas, and youth athletic fields. Depending upon the location and facilities, elementary school parks
make also serve as neighborhood parks. Middle and high schools focus more on larger athletic fields,
indoor recreation areas, a greater variety of field and court space spectator facilities. City~school parks
vary in size depending upon the type of school, but are generally 20- 50 acre sites.
Community Parks -
Community parks are larger recreation spaces that provide community-wide active or passive recreation
spaces and facilities. Passive community parks typically provide opportunities for picnics, walking,
bicycling, nature study, boating, fishing, cross country skiing, and other passive uses. Passive parkS are
frequently located to preserve and use a significant natural resources such as a river, lake, stream, or
forest.
Active community parks provide concentrated areas for organized athletic sports. These parks typically"
have softball, baseball, soccer, football fields, tennis courts and other active recreation facilities. Due to
the high demand for these facilities sports fields are typically lighted for night time use, Community parkS
vary in size depending upon the function and resource. Community athletic parkS require 25-50 acres
and work best on flatter, open terrain.
Open Space -
Public preservation of open space serves many needs. Open space can offer visual relief and variety for
developed areas, preserve significant natural resources (wetlands, streams, forests, prairies, etc.) and act
as areas for trails,
Locational preference for the new parks is based on the one-quarter to one-half mile radius service area
concept. The general park site locations are shown on the Park System Master Plan (Figure P-6). New
neighborhood parks are not recommended for the rural area. Rural densities are too low tojustify a
nearby neighborhood parks and the large lot sizes generally provide sufficient open space. Specific sites
are not earmarked although general locations, number and types of parks are recommended, Specific
land acquisition parcels will be located as areas develop and in coordination specific development plans
and partners, such as the school district..
Figure P-6 illustrates the pattern of existing and proposed parks to the year 2020. This plan is consistent
with the standards listed below:
1. A minimum of one acre of parkland per 75 population,
2. A minimum of 7.0 acres of neighborhood parkland per 1000 population.
3. A minimum of 5.0 acres of community parkland per 1000 population,
4. Neighborhood and/or community parks should be spaced no more than one half mile apart and/or
users should not have to cross major arterial streets.
5. Existing parks should be taken into account to adjust the size and location of new parks.
6.. Neighborhood parks should be no smaller than five acres, However, ornamental parks and tot-
lots in areas of high-density housing may be smaller.
7. Parks should have access from at least on Local or Collector level street and that access should
be at least 300 feet in width.
8. Where possible the preferred vehicular access to parks should from a Collector
street.
g, Parks should be located adjacent to schools if practical and otherwise advisable so as to share
facilities and open space,
10, To avoid users crossing private property, pedestrian access corridors at least 30 feet in width
should be acquired and constructed on park edges where there is no public street access
reasonably close and to provide trail connections to other parks and community facilities.
11. Access to parklands should be provided by sidewalks and/or trails.
The Metropolitan Council requires that a description of existing or proposed programs and ordinances
intended to protect existing regional parks be provided in the Comprehensive Plan. Since there are no
regional parks existing or proposed in the City, no specific programs or ordinance will be established.
The Metropolitan Council also requires that land use policies be developed which will minimize conflicts
between land uses and regional parks or trails. The Land Use Plan in Volume 3 illustrates the City's
policies on land in planning. In general, parks and open spaces have been located in areas to benefit
residential neighborhoods, provide recreation opportunities for commercial business's and employees
and enhance the use of the recreatiom~1 facilities. The park and trail standards listed in the section have
been developed to help promote compatible developments.
Another requirement from the Metropolitan Council involves the preparation of land use regulations to
protect potential park areas from development prior to park acquisition. The Parks and Open Space Plan
indicates general locations and sizes for future park sites.
Park and Trail Dedication Requirements
Genera/ Requirements
1. Park land shall be continuous and undivided by roadways, railroad tracks or other impassible barriers.
2. Park land shall be free from any contaminants or excess debris. Developer shall provide proof of
previous land use to avoid the dedication of polluted ground.
3, Land shall be relatively accessible by roadway or trail easement and shall be located in an area that
is easily accessed by neighborhood residents or by car.
4, Trail land shall be of sufficient width and slope to accommodate a 10' wide trail and appropriate buffer
areas. General guidelines include a minimum width of 16-30' and a slope less than 12 percent with
an average slope not to exceed four percent.
Specific Requirements
Neighborhood Park
1. Land shall be continuous area of 5 to 10 acres and shall have a length/width ratio of no more than
3/1. Land adjacent to a public street shall have a minimum 300' frontage,
2. Land shall be centrally located within a neighborhood and easily accessed by pedestrian or bike.
3. At least 60 percent of the total area of land shall have a slope of less than or equal to four percent
and shall not be located within a water detention area, drainage way, or any other water body.
4. At least 60 percent of the total land area shall be of solid subgrade, excluding areas composed
primarily of peat or wetland soils, In addition, the same percent of land area shall be covered with no
less than six inches of topsoil and shall be clear of forest vegetation.
Community Park
Athletic Complex
1, Land shall be continuous area of 25-50 acres and shall have a length/width ratio of no more than 3/1.
2. Land shall be located on a collector or arterial street and be easily accessed by pedestrian or biKe.
3. At least 90 percent of the total land area shall have a slope of less than or equal to four percent and
shall not contain a water detention area, drainage way, or any other water body.
4. At least 90 percent of the total land area shall be of solid subgrade, excluding areas composed
primarily of peat or wetland soils. In addition, the same percent of land area shall be covered with no
less than six inches of topsoil and shall be clear of forest vegetation.
Passive Recreation Area
1, Land shall be continuous area of 25-40 acres.
2. Land shall be easily accessed by pedestrian or bike, and also provide adequate car access by
roadway.
3. At least 10 percent of the total land area shall have a slope of less than" or equal to four percent and
shall not contain a water detention area, drainage way, or any other water body.
4. At least 10 percent of the total land area shall be of solid upland soils, excluding areas composed
primarily of peat or wetland soils,.
5. Any wetland or wet prairie area shall have a diversity of more than two dominant plant species.
6, Desirable characteristics include varied and rolling terrain, a mix of forest and open grasslands, and
scenic features such as: lake shore, river or stream frontage, and unique environmental features.
Park I School Recreation Area
(Jointly selected by the School District and City.)
1. Land shall be contin uous area of 15 to 40 acres and shall have a length/width ratio of no more than
4/1.
2, Land shall be located directly adjacent to a school site and shall be easily and safely accessed by
pedestrian, bike or automobile.
3. At least 90 percent of the total land area shall have a slope of less than or equal to four percent and
shall not contain a water detention area, drainage way, or any other water body.
4. At least 90 percent of the total land area shall be of solid upland soils, excluding areas composed
primarily of peat or wetland soils, In addition, the same percent of land shall have a depth of topsoil
of at least six inches and shall be clear of forest vegetation.
5. Land shall not include any areas of open water or any depressions that might hold water, other than
small, shallow basins created for storm water quality purposes.
Park and Open Space Acquisition Plan
The Park, Recreation and Trail Master Plan (Figure P-6) is a general guide to future park and trail
acquisition. The City of Shakopee requires developers to give land and/or cash at the time of plat
approval to create new parks or improve existing parks for public purposes, For undeveloped areas of
the City, and elsewhere as appropriate, the City may study candidate park locations; consult with
potentially affected landowners; refer to park location standards, the Land Use Plan, and the Street
System Plan; hold public meetings; and then bond or otherwise allocate money to purchase the desired
sites. Acquisition funds may be repaid through cash exaction's, the general fund, grants, or land trades
from developers. The City reserves the right to evaluate all proposals for park dedication purposes.
Indoor Recreation Facilities
Minnesota's winter climate limits outdoor sports and recreation participation to winter sports for 4-5
months per year, Therefore, the demand for indoor recreation space (gymnasiums, swimming pools, etc.)
is higher than communities in warmer climates. Shakopee's Community Center is the primary public
indoor recreation facility, It provides an ice rink, gym courts, a walking/running track, and a multi-purpose
room for public use. .Shakopee residents and business's have expressed interest in adding a second ice
rink, a swimming pool, a fitness center, teen facilities, a children's indoor play area and a senior center.
Expansion of the Community Center should occur in a logical phased manner as dictated by recreation
needs, public support and availability of funding.
Schools are the other major supplier of public indoor recreation space. However, due to a high level of
school group demand, school facilities have limited availability for general public use. As new school
facilities are built, the potential for shared gym use/funding should be evaluated, Other communities have
found that a city-school partnership can result in more or larger gymnasiums being built with schools and
public use of those gyms are allowed during evening and weekend hours.
Trail Physical Plan
The Comprehensive Plan approved. by the Shakopee City Council in 1991 proposed an extensive system
of trails on the County Roads in the rural area. This trail planning concept recommended the construction
and use of improved shoulders for bicyclists and pedestrians. In pursuing the implementation of this
concept, the County Highway Department strongly recommended that this trail concept not be
implemented on a City wide basis due to safety concerns.
A large portion of the City of Shakopee had periodic flooding problems for several decades. With the
construction of the Shakopee Bypass, stormwater management issues had to be addressed or flooding
problems would have increased, A stormwater management plan was developed by the City to address
these issues. A major drainage corridor with a series of retention facilities became the central landscape
feature in the urbanizing Shakopee area. A trail was built by the City along the drainage corridor which
linked several neighborhoods with schools and parks. As a result, the Upper Valley Drainageway and
Trail project has become an essential multi-purpose public facility for the growing community.
The combination of the limited use of County Roads for trails and the popularity of the Upper Valley Trail
has caused the City to readdress its trail planning concepts, In past trail planning efforts, the
Transportation Plan has been used as the base map. With the use of computer aided drafting, staff has
been able to combine the Stormwater Plan with the Transportation Plan on an overlay approach. This
approach has allowed the identification of potential corridors located away from the County road system
which can still provide linear routes for the proposed trail system.
Consistent with the Park Service District Plan, the Trails Action Plan prioritizes the construction of City
trails which will link residential neighborhoods with parks and open space areas.
Figure P-5 illustrates the pattern of existing and proposed trails for the year 2020. This plan is consistent
with the trail standards listed below:
1, Trails should be the primary pedestrian circulation system in the rural service
area.
2. City trails should be connected with State, Regional and adjoining community
trails where possible,
3. City trails should be continuous with other trail systems and/or sidewalks in the
City.
4. Trails should connect recreation and amenity areas with areas of potentially
higher pedestrian and bicycle traffic volumes.
5, Trails should provide access in the City where sidewalks are deficient.
Trail Acquisition Plan
Public trails can be located on either rights-of-way or public access easements. The acquisition of linear
land segments for trails can occur in two methods. The first acquisition method is through the dedication
of land to the City in the subdivision platting process. Subdivision plats located along or around the
designated trails will be required to make the dedications necessary to serve the impacts generated from
the specific development. The Trail Plan should be used as a guide in determining actual trail locations.
The second method of acquisition occurs when a public agency actually purchases the land for the trail.
Figures
P-1 Regional Park and Trail System
P-2 ExistingShakopee Park System
P-3 Park Dedication in Acres
P-4 Park Dedication Funding
P-5 Trail Master Plan
P-6 Park Master Plan and Service Districts
Tables
P-1 Park Inventory
P-2 Regional Open Space Inventory
P-3 Trail System Inventory
P-4 Shakopee Park Acreage Needs - 2020
P-5 Park Needs by Recreation Service District
Revised Work Plan for ShakopeeGreenways Project Jean Coleman,CR Planning
DNR/Bush Foundation Project September 22, 2004
Jean Coleman and DNR staff will be responsible for producing all listed work products. All of the costs to cover the time of Jean Coleman and
DNR staff is covered by a grant from the Bush Foundation. The estimated value of these services is $25,000.
1. Review of current greenway maps and One meeting Understanding of Completed by
decision criteria Terr Meiller decisions made to-date October 30
iscussion and decision on process for One meeting prior to Discuss and make a Recommendation to EAC Nov. 10
incorporating greenways goals in Shakopee EAC meeting recommendation on EAC on how to adopt meeting
Terry Meiller process for adopting greenways plan
Mark Themig greenways
i lementation Ian
3. Creation of criteria for deciding on more Review of draft criteria Review and approve Draft criteria EAC Dec.
detailed eenway corridors and focal oints Te ,Mark criteria Ado ted criteria meetin
4. Creation of maps with detailed greenway Review draft maps Review and approve Draft map EAC February
corridors and focal oints Terry Meiller ma s Final map meetin
5. Outreach to interested organizations and Multiple meetings One or two meetings Understanding of February and
local governments - using the maps as a 20-40 hours with selected groups stakeholder interests, March
discussion tool Terry Meiller to discuss common informing them of
interests in eenwa s Shako ee's oals
6. Drafting of implementation plan Review draft plan Review and approve Draft plan EAC April,
Terry Meiller plan Final plan May and June
meetin s .
7. Public open house on greenways maps and Arranging open house Attend open house Open house materials Late May
implementation plan Terry Meiller and memo summarizing
results of 0 en house
8.Adoption of greenways maps and Presentation to City June
Council
None None
Review memo Draft memo April 15, 2005
Final memo
Te UeN
%i!
"I .
l
Natural Resource Plan
NATURAL RESOURCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PLAN
As Shakopee becomes a more popular place to live, the environmental resources need
ever more protection and management. In order to protect these resources the City
must have policies and guidelines for natural areas, open space, slopes, soils, surface
waters, and groundwater. In addition the plan needs to recognize special areas and
issues that impact the natural environment, and establish direction or guidelines to
minimize negative impacts on the environment.
This section includes a discussion of the special natural resource issues and a list of
general goals and pOlicies that direct the community in the management of natural
resources and protection of the environment.
NATURAL RESOURCE GOALS AND POLICIES
Not all natural resources. can be protected within the greenway corridors. Natural
resources such as clean water and air have no boundaries. Choices made in how the
City is developed and how residents live day-to-day lives affect the quality of natural
resources.
To develop natural resource protection strategies and establish land use objectives, the
natural resource inventory divided the study area into regions that have similar physical
context, land use and similar remnant natural areas. A description of each region is
provided below:
1. Minnesota River Floodplain (5,880 acres)
. Land cover: mixture of floodplain, forests, backwater wetlands and agriculture
. Regional conservation corridor
. Majority of Northern Scott County's high quality natural areas are located
within
. Majority of the region is protected (publicly owned wetland laws, etc.)
. Refuge for game and non-game species
. Existing recreation and trail program established (Promote further and
connect to system)
2. Mining, Landfill, Transportation and Fallow Fields (3,540 acres)
. Land Cover: exposed earth (landfills, mining, compost), fallow grassland and
sprawling development south along Highway 169
. As the landfills fill up and the aggregate mines run dry, there is potential for
reclamation and restoration
Natural Resource Plan
3. 3rd Floodplain Terrace Deciduous Forest (3,530 acres)
. Land Cover: agriculture, deciduous forest and residential
. Large intact forest remain as a result of steep historic Minnesota River
floodplain terrace
. Forests are holding highly erodible slopes
. Residential development is a threat to further forest fragmentation
4. Agricultural Plateau (3,440 acres)
. Land Cover: agricultural dominated with scattered residential
. Majority of pre~settlement vegetation has been removed or degraded
5. Lake District (2,230 acres)
. Land Cover: open water, wetlands and residential development
. Recent low-density residential development has consumed majority of
lakeshore
. More public ownership is needed for access to valuable resource
. Land practices and individual septic systems pose a severe threat to water
quality
. Scattered high quality forest and wetland natural areas
6. Agriculture - Wetland Interchange (1,530 acres)
. Land Cover: agriculture cropland with scattered lowland herbaceous and
shrubland wetlands
. Increasing residential development pressures
. High concentration of wetlands
7. The Plains (2,310 acres)
. Land Cover: agriculture cropland
. Except for the SW corner, the region is void of any significant natural
resources
. Very little elevation drop
. The Mdewakanton Sioux Community owns large portion of the region
8. 2nd Floodplain Terrace Deciduous Forest (1,130 acres)
. Land Cover: agricultural cropland, deciduous forest and residential
. Forests are fragmented but many are very high in quality
. Converging deciduous forest of Maple-Basswood, Oak and Hickory
9. Development Pressure (1,090 acres)
. Land Cover: impervious surfaces, grasslands and forest
Natural Resource Plan
. Recent and ending developments have removed some of the highest quality
natural areas in Northern Scott County
· . A few high quality Oak Forest and Savannas remain
10, Dean's Lake (640 acres)
. Land Cover: wetland, open water, woodland and impervious surface
. Large wetland complex
. Majority regions remaining natural areas are protected (publicly owned,
wetland laws, etc,)
11. Remnant Savanna/Man-made Lakes (580 acres)
. Land Cover: Fallow grasslands, open water, remnant savanna, and
impervious surfaces
. Unique region with a few landowners (utilities, mining, and shipping), and
contain high quality remnant savanna and man-made water bodies
12. Industry and Recreation (2,490 acres)
. Land Cover: high percentage of impervious surfaces and maintained
grasslands
. Contains low percentage and low quality natural areas
13. Early Successional Woodland (380 acres)
. Land Cover: Woodland, grasslands and impervious surfaces
. Large percentage of undeveloped or fallow land
. Abandonment of use has resulted in colonization by pioneering and invasive
species
. Low quality woodlands and grassland exists
14. Shakopee Core (3,780 acres)
. Land Cover: Impervious surfaces with scattered openings of maintained
grasses and trees
. 90% built out
The map on the following page illustrates the location of the fourteen landscape regions
described above,
Natural Resource Plan
The following goals and policies are suggested in addition to the policies of the existing
Comprehensive Plan to protect and preserve community natural resources.
General Natural Resource Goals
1. To preserve and protect the natural environment with emphasis on the
conservation of needed and useful natural resources for the present and
future benefit of the community.
2. To use natural resource areas to provide an overall open space system to
satisfy the physiological and psychological needs of the people, considering
their needs as individuals and as community.
3. Create a livable community where future development respects and
integrates the natural resources of Shakopee.
4. To reduce the waste stream and create a sustainable environment by
recycling, reducing and reusing.
5. To have continuous green corridors that connect existing natural resource
areas, thus providing a more ecological system of open spaces.
General Natural Resource Policies
1. Protect wetlands (as required through the Wetland Conservation Act),
excessive slopes, woodlands, significant natural habitats, and scenic views,
as identified in the Land Cover of Southern Scott County. A Natural Resource
Inventory of the Citv of Shakooee. Jackson. and Louisville Townships from
environmentally insensitive development.
2. Encourage re-vegetation and management of areas to restore native habitat
and natural aesthetic qualities that contribute to environmental quality,
3. Encourage and support sustainable farming practices, Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's "Best
Management Practices" for specific crops,
4. Encourage and support tree planting and restoration efforts.
5. Encourage limited and responsible use of herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers
on private and public lands.
Natural Resource Plan
6. Ensure natural resource open space areas planned in conjunction with a PUD
be coordinated with and contiguous to the open space areas of existing
adjacent development. It should be accessible to all units within the PUD.
7. Use natural resource open space to physically separate uses which are
incompatible by scale or function.
8. Encourage through development incentives, the preservation and
management of all natural resource amenities.
9. Establish and maintain conservation areas for wildlife management and
education and scientific purposes.
10, Encourage the assistance of metropolitan, state, and federal agencies to
preserve natural resource areas that may serve outside of the City of
Shakopee.
11. Encourage activities that conserve energy and result in less/no pollution
output such as waste reduction, recycling, alternative transportation modes,
alternative energy sources and composting.
12. Encourage and support composting by providing appropriate sites and
education for Shakopee residents.
13. Continue to provide and encourage curbside recycling of reusable waste
materials through educational events, promotional materials and volunteer
efforts.
14. Support and encourage community efforts in environmental awareness and
education.
Natural Resource Inventory and Management Plan Policies
Starting with the Land Cover of Northern Scott County -A Natural Resources Inventory
of the City of Shakopee. Jackson and Louisville Townshios, herein referred to as the
"natural resource inventory," is adopted as an addendum to this Comprehensive Plan.
The City should create a more detailed inventory of the community's unique habitats
and functioning ecosystems. This information can then be used to set priorities for
protection of sensitive or unique habitats and to determine appropriate standards for
any future development. The natural resource inventory will be invaluable in developing
future capital improvement budgets or planning for future park referenda. The natural
resource inventory should be used to:
Natural Resource Plan
1. Utilize the Land Cover of Northern Scott County Map, inn addition to the
Section Illustrations of the natural resource inventory, to establish priority
areas for natural resource preservation.
2. Identify special natural areas for permanent protection - either by private or
public action,
3. Identify opportunities for restoration of degraded streams, wetlands,
woodlands, savannas, prairies, and native natural areas,
4. Determine appropriate locations for greenway corridors.
5. Determine opportunities for protecting storm water infiltration areas or using
alternative storm water management practices.
6. Identify potential park and open spaces that must be preserved either through
acquisition or conservation easements, in all of the MUSA expansion areas.
7. Investigate Low Impact Development and Conservation Development
techniques for possible implementation as part of the City's overall Storm
Water Management Plan.
8. Update the natural resource inventory annually based upon newly developed
parcels with system wide revisions every five years.
Greenway Corridor Policies
The City shall consider development of greenway corridors to identify and connect the
community's natural systems and areas. Greenways are defined as continuous
corridors that provide for the movement of wildlife and protection of natural resources.
They are generally vegetated, linear in shape, and follow natural waterways or land
features such as wetlands, slopes, valleys, and ridgelines. Greenways enhance the
ecological function and aesthetic quality of natural areas and open spaces by
interconnecting them, thereby countering habitatfragmentation and loss.
In Shakopee, greenway corridors will serve to protect environmentally sensitive areas
such as the outlet channel for the Prior Lake/Spring Lake Watershed District, natural
habitat, wetlands, woodlands, drainage ways and excessive slopes. While these
remnants of nature are presently disconnected by agricultural lands and development,
further opportunity exists to reconnect these systems through re-vegetation to create
continuous greenways that will function more like natural systems, creating better
habitats and water management systems, A greenway plan should be developed to link
Natural Resource Plan
the major natural features to the local park system, and established wildlife areas
including the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge,
The natural resource inventory identified a number of potential greenway corridors, as
illustrated on the following map, including the Prior Lake/Spring Lake Outlet Channel,
power line corridors, the Floodplain and the Deciduous Forrest Terrace of Louisville
Township, Jackson Township and Shakopee. Additionally, the lands adjacent to the
Minnesota River, including the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and future
open space adjacent to community lakes and wetland complexes, provide the basis for
establishing greenway corridors. Land within the corridors should be comprised of a
combination of public and private open space. Development will not be prohibited
within the greenway but will be reasonably restricted to ensure that development is
carefully integrated with the natural environment.
Establishing guidelines for the greenway corridors will be a first step in the goal to keep
natural systems intact and incorporate them into developments in environmentally
sensitive ways. Special management guidelines will be developed to preserve and
improve the habitat, natural functioning and scenic qualities of the greenways.
1. Support the establishment of a greenway plan that works toward linking
together areas of natural resources that include wetlands, slopes, the Prior
Lake/Spring Lake Outlet Channel, tree canopies, rivers, lakes, drainage ways
and other significant natural resources as to create a continuous greenway
corridor.
2. Greenway corridors are intended to allow for passive recreational trail
opportunities to Shakopee residents. This will allow all community residents
the opportunity to enjoy the natural amenities of the community.
3. Create mechanisms that allow landowners to achieve reasonable
development on lands through with the greenway passes, while preserving a
portion of the land as open space.
4. Allow opportunities for neighborhood parks, schools, churches, tot lots or
nature observation areas to occur within or adjacent to the greenway
corridors, Any physical development should minimize disturbance of natural
resource areas.
Natural Resource Plan
5. Develop partnerships with non-profit or private organizations, neighborhood
groups or other interested parties for the purpose of acquiring targeted open
spaces, which may be part of the greenway corridor.
6. Promote management efforts that work to improve the habitat and scenic
qualities of the greenway corridor,
Wetlands. Floodplains. Lakes and Drainage Way Policies
The numerous wetlands, drainage ways, and floodplains throughout the City are
valuable for their role. in floodwater retention, ground water recharge, nutrient
assimilation, and wildlife habitat. The preservation of wetlands and floodplain areas is
viewed as essential in land use planning to retain the natural features of the City and to
protect the natural functions of the amenities. Through the Shoreland and Floodplain
Ordinances, Shakopee also actively works to preserve and protect shorelands and
floodplains of major water bodies.
The following efforts shall be made in the protection and preservation of wetlands,
drainage ways and floodplains within the City.
1. The City will continue to implement the Shakopee Comprehensive Storm
Water Management Plan NPDS Permit which includes water resource
management practices, guidelines and programs for managing storm water
drainage, enhancing water quality, and controlling flooding through the
development review process and its capital improvement program,
2, Promote the existing facilities and recreational opportunities available with
Minnesota River Floodplain and Regional Conservation corridor through local
advertisement and provide connections via local pedestrian corridors.
3. Replace and maintain the trail system connection from Shakopee to Chaska
and other trails within and connecting to the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge.
4. Work with adjacent communities and counties to establish trails linking the
communities commercial, recreation and wildlife areas.
5. Require public open space and public access to all remaining lakeshore and
large wetland complexes within the Lake and Agricultural - Wetland
Interchange Regions.
6. Monitor septic systems in environmentally sensitive areas to maintain water
quality of community lakes, rivers and streams.
Natural Resource Plan
7. The City will require lot sizes and development densities to be exclusive of
wetlands, drainage ways, and watercourses to protect environmentally
sensitive areas from the encroachment of development.
8, The City will consider implementation of a wetlands overlay district as part of
the Zoning Ordinance to establish buffer areas around wetlands. The natural
resource inventory included the National Wetlands Inventory which will be
used in addition to individual wetland delineation reports for new subdivisions
and development projects to identify wetlands.
9. The City will work with the applicable Watershed Districts to establish a
wetland-banking program for wetlands that cannot be saved on City projects.
The banking plan will include restoring previously filled or drained wetlands as
part of an overall plan that benefits the public. The City will consider
establishing measures to acquire natural vegetation strips around the
perimeter of all wetlands, lakes, streams and major drainage channels.
10. The City will require wetlands to be platted as outlots and be acquired by or
dedicated to the City consistent with high quality subdivision design.
Wetlands and storm water ponding and drainage systems shall be included
as an element in greenway corridor planning.
11. The City will promote the maintenance and/or restoration. of existing public
storm water drainage facilities (drain tiles, ditches, drainage ways, ponds), as
necessary.
12. Preserve natural drainage ways, and where feasible, reconstruct former
natural drainage ways to handle stormwater runoff.
13. Monitor and manage natural and man-made lakes, streams, and ponds for
water quality.
14.Conserve a variety of natural resource areas including wetlands, peat soils,
ground water recharge areas, woodlands, lakeshore lines and watercourses.
Soil Policies
Some areas of Shakopee are characterized by soils that present limitations for urban
development due to steep slopes, flooding potential, bedrock, and poor drainage
qualities. To avoid future problems resulting from development in poor soils areas, the
following efforts will be made:
Natural Resource Plan
1. Development proposals located in poor soil areas as identified by the
Shakopee County Soil Survey will be required to field check soil conditions to
verify the extent of poor soils and their ability to support development.
2. Development in areas of poor soils should be required to demonstrate soil
correction efforts and/or construction methods that will be implemented.
3. Development proposals shall be required to demonstrate appropriate erosion
control, slope protection, and sedimentation protection measures subject to
the approval of the City Engineer.
4. The City will prohibit development on slopes steeper than three to one without
approved mitigation measures.
5. In soil areas having a high water table, new principal buildings must be at
least three feet above the highest known water level.
6. Foundation drain tile will be required in areas characterized by poor or clay
soils with ground water lenses to reduce damage from ground water seepage.
7. The City will permit gravel mining operations consistent with the Zoning
Ordinance to allow access to local gravel resources.
8. Promote plans for mining operations that result in public open space,
recreation and storm water management as part of reclamation plans.
Vegetation Policies
Shakopee contains a diverse assortment of natural vegetation including woodlands,
Oak Savannas, Maple and Aspen Forest, prairie, and wetlands to name a few. These
diverse vegetation areas represent valuable . natural resources which should be
preserved in conjunction with new development.
Because of the intense farming which has occurred since the 1900's few sizable stands
of trees remain. While wide-open fields and expansive views are a character of
Shakopee that many residents like, it is less appealing as a place for homes. Some
remaining woodlots could be subjected to the threat of future development. As future
development occurs on sites with existing significant tree stands, mechanisms should
be used to preserve as much of the tree stand as possible. The preservation measures
will include:
Natural Resource Plan
1. The use of techniques such as large lot zoning or development clustering in
areas having significant tree cover in an effort to minimize the removal or
disruption of existing trees.
2. The City will require subdivisions within wooded areas to be designed in a
manner that minimizes tree removal. Street layouts, lot configurations, and
building pad locations will be evaluated through the development review
process in an effort to minimize the loss of significant trees,
3. The City will pursue adoption of a tree preservation ordinance to establish
requirements for protection of existing trees and the replacement of lost trees
through both subdivision and individual lot development.
4, Site development plans will be required to include tree preservation measures
to minimize the removal of significant trees and to avoid tree loss through root
compaction, tree cuts, or diseases,
5. In subdivision and site planning, the City will promote the use of native
grasses, shrubs and trees in the restoration of the sites disturbed through
development.
6, The City will pursue strategies for the control of invasive/exotic plant species
in community lakes, rivers and wetlands.
7. Promote tree preservation by limiting development within the 3rd Floodplain
Terrace Deciduous Forest Region and steep slope areas of the Minnesota
River Floodplain Terrace Region.
8. Promote reforestation programs and the introduction of native plant species
within the Agricultural Plateau Region.
9, Immediately institute tree preservation policies for high quality forest areas of
Region 8, 2nd Floodplain Terrace Deciduous Forrest and Region 9,
Development Pressure.
Natural Resource Plan
Visual/Noise Policies
Expanding urban growth has raised concern with regard to visual/noise standards
related to new development, site design, commercial lighting and increasing traffic. In
recognition of these concerns, the City plans to initiate the following strategies:
1, The City will aggressively enforce sign regulations to control the location and
appearance of commercial signage.
2. The City will implement lighting standards that promote low impact lighting with
commercial and industrial development. Lighting will be required to be directed
downward and be of low intensity to prevent glare or light spillage on adjoining
properties, rights-of-way, or skyward.
3. The City will require the use of landscaping and buffer yards to aesthetically
screen adjoining land uses and higher functional classification streets from
residential neighborhoods.
4. The City will require residential subdivisions to be designed with extra deep lots
backing up to higher functional classification streets to provide additional setback
and buffer yards to shield homes from the noise and visual impact of adjoining
traffic.
5. The Comprehensive Plan will establish higher density residential along the
freeway corridors and commercial/industrial districts to serve as a land use
transition and buffer between the freeway and non-residential land uses and low-
density residential neighborhoods.
The City will mitigate freeway noise issues through proper land use planning rather than utilizing
sound walls or barriers.
OTHER STUDIES
The City is considering undertaking the following studies to supplement the City's Natural
Resource and Environmental Protection Plan:
1. National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit (2003)
2. Well Head Protection Plan (2005)
3. Water Supply Plan (Future)
4. Greenway Study (2003)