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approved these proposed regional trail additions. They will be presented to the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners on January 19, 2010. Ms. Pederson moved, seconded by Ms. Petersen, to recommend approval of the concept of adding these trails provided there is due diligence by Ramsey County to ensure that the property is environmentally safe before transfer. Motion carried. (Mr. Pettiford abstained). — REVIEW OF FISH CREEK NATURAL GREENWAY AD HOC COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS On November 10, 2009, the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the preliminary findings of the Fish Creek Ad Hoc Commission regarding establishment of an unpaved hiking trail along sections of the Lower Fish Creek property and potential trail linkages to the City of Woodbury's Carver Lake Park. The Parks and Recreation Commission indicated support for a nature trail in the Lower Fish Creek area including a potential loop system. Using the Commission's draft Executive Summary, Mr. John Moriarty provided an overview of the recommendations and opportunities for the Fish Creek Area as envisioned by the Fish Creek Ad Hoc Commission. The Ad Hoc Commission identified the following priorities for land acquisition: a. remaining private lands that contain Fish Creek; b. provide protection to 600-foot creek corridor; c. Mississippi River Bluff land protection; d. land that provides recreational opportunities; e. land of high ecological quality; and f. land adjacent to existing park lands. From a recreational perspective, the Ad Hoc Commission envisions that area is primary for local neighborhood use with connections to the nearby network of trails. The Commission proposed creating the Fish Creek hiking trail from Highway 61 to Carver Lake. Connections along the creek through the natural areas would be narrow (4 feet wide or less) soft surface trails restricted to walking and hiking. Other sections would be on sidewalks to coincide with bike trails. Mr. Ron Cockriel, a member of the Ad Hoc Commission, shared his perspectives on the area and potential for preservation and recreation. He offered to forward copies of the Ad Hoc Commission's recommendations to the Commission members. Ms. Pederson moved, seconded by Ms. Petersen, that the Commission recommends approval of the concepts for acquisition priorities and recreational improvements embodying the Fish Creek Natural Area Greenway Ad Hoc Commission report. Motion carried. ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMISSION'S 2009 WORK ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND PREPARATION OF THE 2010 WORK PROGRAM) Mr. Mack discussed the 2009 accomplishments of the Parks and Recreation Commission in the areas of Planning and Development projects, Natural Resources, Special Projects and Annual Activities. Highlights of the year include the Keller Regional Park improvements and contract awards for projects at Tamarack Nature Center related to the Destination for Discovery project. The 2010 Parks and Recreation Commission's Work Program will be addressed at the meeting on February 10, 2010. 3