2013-11-26_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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As a member of the NRATS, Member DeBenedet advised that there was such an effort on behalf of the Parks Department on projects already started, and offered to e-mail that information to staff for dissemination to the PWETC. Chair Vanderwall noted that, using Buckthorn eradication as an example, this funding would only serve to only start the process, as it would take seven years for its total eradication, as well as continuing upkeep. While some of the items were not expensive to accomplish, Chair Vanderwall opined that the effect would only be seen for that particular year unless a good volunteer committee remained motivated to oversee it long-term. Discussion included the need to properly equip, train and supervise volunteers; residents and volunteers taking the initiative to accomplish some of these things without tying up staff time; status of the proposed Volunteer Coordinator position for the City; the rewards of learning opportunities for volunteers; and rankings of the NRATS based on the visibility of the park in some instances. Mr. Schwartz opined that Parks staff did the initial ranking, and priority estimates were later provided by the NRATS, project team and staff, including outside consultants. Member Gjerdingen expressed his interest in seeing more invasive removal at Bennett Lake as part of Central Park-Lexington, with more trees planted along the edge of parks with existing trails for many reasons, opining that this was an important natural resource. Member Stenlund stated that Bennett Lake had more to do with wave shore stabilization and ongoing phosphorus issues. Chair Vanderwall expressed his hope that the apparent more interest the PWETC meetings were receiving would serve a positive purpose in exposing them to and making them aware of more of these issues, beyond that of parks & recreation. Member DeBenedet stated that the intent of the NRATS was to take the pool of funding and spread it around to make as much effect as possible; with his personal hope that after doing so they would also find a way to continue that maintenance. Member Felice suggested part of the public educational process would be low- cost signage explaining what was being done and why. Member Felice opined that this was not only important for communication but to ensure public support of and involvement in those projects. Mr. Schwartz advised that, in staff meetings with the Parks & Recreation Department and the improvement plans, there had been considerable discussion about providing educational opportunities and such explanations as Member Page 14 of 18