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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/9/10 City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, MN 55024 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ELECTION OF OFFICERS 3. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMITTEES AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION February 9, 2010 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS b) Castle Rock Discussion Group a) Empire, Farmington Planning Advisory Committee [EFPAC] c) Eureka Planning d) MUSA Review Committee 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a) November 10, 2009 Regular Meeting 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS A Proud Past - A Promising Future Committed to Providing High Quality, Timely and Responsive Service to All Of Our Customers a) Variance to create a lot less than 40-acres in size in the A-1 District Applicant: Mildred Pelach 19867 Flagstaff Avenue Farmington, MN 55024 b) An amendment to Section 10-6-3(B)1(b) of the Farmington Zoning Ordinance regarding Off Premises Directional Signs Applicant: City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, MN 55024 6. DISCUSSION a) Natural Resources Inventory Presentation - TKDA Engineers, Architects & Planners 7. ADJOURN City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.280.6800 . Fax 651.280.6899 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: Planning Commission FROM: Lee Smick, AICP City Planner SUBJECT: Appointments to Committees DATE: February 9, 2010 INTRODUCTIONIDISCUSSION The Planning Commissioners need to discuss which commissioner should represent the following committees: a) Empire/Farmington Planning Advisory Committee [EFPAC] This committee meets periodically to discuss topics pertinent to Farmington and Empire Township. Council Member Fogarty represents the City Council on this committee. One Planning Commissioner is needed to represent the Planning Commission on this committee. The 2009 PC representative was Commissioner Bonar. b) Castle Rock Discussion Group This committee meets periodically to discuss topics pertinent to Farmington and Castle Rock Township. Mayor Larson represents the City Council on this committee. One Planning Commissioner is needed to represent the Planning Commission on this committee. The 2009 PC representative was Commissioner Vanderbeck. It should also be noted that the next schedule meeting of this group IS Thursday, February 18,2010. c) Eureka/Farmington Planning Group This committee meets periodically to discuss topics pertinent to Farmington and Eureka Township. Council Member May represents the City Council on this committee. One Planning Commissioner is needed to represent the Planning Commission on this committee. The 2009 PC representative was Commissioner Stokes. d) MUSA Review Committee This committee meets periodically to discuss the growth of Farmington and where the next extension of sewer will occur in the future. Council Members Donnelly and May represent the City Council on this committee. Two Planning Commissioners are needed to represent the Planning Commission on this committee. The Committee is also made up of two members from the Park & Recreation Committee/staff and two members from the School District Board/staff. The 2009 PC representatives were Chair Rotty and Commissioner Bonar. ACTION REOUESTED The Planning Commissioners should discuss who will represent the Planning Commission on each of these committees during the 2010 calendar year. Respectfully submitted, .'./..../.1~... ~. I ,/ , e~ mick, AICP .. City Planner City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.280.6800 . Fax 651.280.6899 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: Planning Commission FROM: Lee Smick, City Planner AICP, CNU-Accredited SUBJECT: Variance to create a lot less than 40-acres in size in the A-I District - 19867 Flagstaff Avenue DATE: February 9,2010 INTRODUcTIONIDIScUSSION Staff is requesting that this item be continued to the March 9, 2010 Planning Commission meeting. ACTION REOUESTED Approve the continuation of this item to the March 9, 20 I 0 Planning Commission meeting. Resp2?.....t~~.. bmi .... 17$~? /V ..J (flf c..../;/ ) Lee Smick, AICP, CNU-Accredited City Planner City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.280.6800. Fax 651.280.6899 www.ci.farmington.mn.us SUBJECT: Planning Commission Tony Wippler, Assistant City Planner /t2-- Ordinance Amending Section 10-6-3(B)I(b) of the Zoning Code Concerning Off Premises Directional Signs TO: FROM: DATE: February 9, 2010 INTRODUCTION / DISCUSSION Currently, off premises directional signs are allowed in all zoning districts provided certain criteria are met. One of those criteria is that a conditional use permit [CUP] is required to be approved by the Planning Commission. Over the last five years, a handful of applications for these types of signs (most recently Bible Baptist Church) have been granted CUP's. Staffs proposal with the attached ordinance amendment is to continue to allow these types of signs, but as an interim use versus a conditional use. This allows the Planning Commission to still review each individual request for this type of signage through the public hearing process. The main difference between an interim use and a conditional use is that a date or event must be established when the use (in this case, off premises directional sign) will be terminated. In this instance an interim use permit is very appealing to staff because these types of signs do not become "permanent". A conditional use is recorded against the property and runs with the land in perpetuity. Therefore, all previous off-premises directional signs that have been granted a CUP are allowed to remain in their approved location forever or until the property owner decides to remove said sign. It is staff s intention, if the amendment is approved, that the termination date set for off premises directional signs will be determined on a case-by-case basis as circumstances for each application may differ. For the Commission's reference, I have attached as Exhibit "A" the City's Interim Use code provision. ACTION REOUESTED Recommend approval of the attached ordinance amendment and forward the recommendation to the City Council. Respectfully submitted, --r &lt~_ C! TO~iP~e~ant City Planner CITY OF FARMINGTON DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION lO-6-3(B)1(b) OF THE ZONING CODE CONCERNING OFF PREMISES DIRECTIONAL SIGNS THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FARMINGTON ORDAINS: SECTION 1. Section 10-6-3 (B) is amended by adding the underlined language below and deleting the striketh;-ough language as follows: (B) Signs Permitted: Upon the adoption of this section, it shall be unlawful and a violation of this section for any person to erect, construct, paint, alter, relocate, reconstruct, display, or maintain or cause to be erected, constructed, displayed or maintained with the city of Farmington any sign without first having obtained a permit from the zoning officer. I. Signs Permitted In All Zoning Districts: (b) Offpremises Directional Signs: For the purpose of providing off premises direction to a residential project described in this subsection, or to a new venture less than twelve (12) months following the issuance of an occupancy permit, or to a public, religious or nonprofit institution, or to a use which, in the determination of the planning commission incurs substantial hardship from lack of reasonable identification as a result of its location, a conditional interim use permit shall be required. Such sign shall not exceed twenty five (25) square feet per face and such sign shall conform to the yard requirements of the zoning district in which it is located. If said sign is lighted, it shall be illuminated only during those hours when business is in operation or when the model homes or other developments are open for conducting business. SECTION 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be effective upon its passage and publication according to law. ADOPTED this day of , 20 I 0, by the City Council of the City of Farmington. CITY OF FARMINGTON By: Todd Larson, Mayor ATTEST: By: Peter Herlofsky, City Administrator SEAL: By: City Attorney Published in the Farmington Independent the day of ,2010. ExA 10-3-7: INTERIM USES: (A) Permission And Conditions: The board of adjustment may grant permission and set conditions for an interim use of property if: 1. The use conforms to the zoning regulations, performance standards and other requirements; 2. The use meets the standards of a conditional use permit set forth in section 10-3-5 of this chapter; 3. The date or event that will terminate the use can be identified with certainty; 4. The use will not impose additional costs on the public if it is necessary for the public to take the property in the future; and 5. The use will be subjected to, by agreement with the owner, any conditions that the city has deemed appropriate for permission of the use, including a condition that the owner will provide an appropriate financial surety to cover the cost of removing the interim use and an interim structure upon the expiration of the interim use permit. (B) Termination: An interim use permit shall terminate upon theoccurrence of any of the following events, whichever occurs first: 1. The date stated in the permit; or 2. A violation of conditions under which the permit was issued; or 3. A change in the city's zoning regulations which renders the use nonconforming as provided in section 10-4-2 of this title; or 4. Redevelopment of the use and property upon which it is located to a permitted or conditional use as allowed within the respective zoning districts. (C) Application, Public Hearing, Notice: The application, public hearing, and public notice requirements for interim use permits before the board of adjustment shall be the same as those for zoning amendments as provided for in section 10-3-11 of this chapter. (D) Appeal: Upon appeal of a decision by the board of adjustment, the planning coordinator shall set a public hearing, transmit the application directly to the city council and mail a notice to the board of adjustment and property owners adjacent to the subject property disregarding public rights of way. The city council shall within sixty (60) days of the public hearing, decide to affirm or to overturn the decision of the board of adjustment with a four-fifths (4/5) vote of the city council. (Ord. 002-469, 2-19-2002) PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE CITY OF FARMINGTON REQUEST: An ordinance amending Title 10, Chapter 6, Section 3 of the City Code regarding Signs, specifically, Off Premises Directional Signs. APPLICANT: City of Farmington, 430 Third Street, Farmington, MN 55024 WHEN: Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.; or as soon thereafter, as the parties may be heard. All persons desiring to be heard, in person or in writing, will be heard at this time. WHERE: Planning Commission Meeting, City Hall Council Chambers, 430 Third Street, Farmington, MN. QUESTIONS: Contact Tony Wippler, Assistant City Planner at (651) 280- 6822 or e-mail at twippler@cLfarmington.mn.us DATED: This 22nd -day of January, 2010. /S/: Peter Herlofsky, Jr. City Administrator City of Farmington 430 Third Street Farmington, Minnesota 651.280.6800. Fax 651.280.6899 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: Planning Commission FROM: Tony Wippler, Assistant City Planner 4 SUBJECT: Natural Resources Inventory Presentation - TKDA Engineers, Architects & Planners DATE: February 9, 2010 INTRODUCTION Attached for the Commission's review is the fmal draft of the Natural Resources Inventory (Farmington's Green Connections: An Inventory and Management Plan) as prepared by TKDA Engineers, Architects & Planners. REVIEW / DISCUSSION As you may recall, the City received a Redevelopment Incentive Grant in the amount of $7,500 from the Dakota County Community Development Agency early last year. This is a matching grant that has been designated for the completion of a citywide Natural Resources Inventory [NRI]. The City has since entered into a contract with TKDA Engineers, Architects & Planners for completion of the NRI. TKDA outlined a scope of work, which included the following: . A land cover inventory to develop comprehensive baseline information about the natural habitats in Farmington, and relationship to the City's current and proposed land uses, and relationship to natural corridors and habitats in adjacent communities and Dakota County. Identification of natural resource corridors and priority areas for natural resource protection, management, and enhancement. Work with City staff, advisory committees, and the City Council to discuss options for protection and enhancement of corridors and natural resources, including both regulatory and incentive approaches. Develop policies, ordinances, and other approaches that conserve natural habitats and guide decision-making that may impact natural habitats and resources in the community. . . . Over the past year, a series of meetings have taken place between the consultants and the various interest groups (Le., staff, Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, Dakota County, Pheasants Forever, SWCD, Ducks Unlimited, and the Southern Dakota County Sportsman Club) and through these various meetings TKDA developed the attached report. Ms. Sherri Buss of TKDA will be present at the February 9th meeting to give a presentation to the Commission on the NRI report and recommendations. ACTION REOUESTED Review the attached report and recommendations. If they are in a form acceptable to the Commission, make a motion to forward the report and recommendations onto the City Council for approval. Respectfully submitted, ~ Ton~Pler, A sistant City Planner Cc: Sherri Buss, TKDA Engineers, Architects & Planners Report and Recommendations FARMINGTON~S GREEN CONNECT~ONS: AN INVENTORY AND MANAGEMENT PLAN '., ! City of Farmington, Minnesota December 2009 Project No. 14412.000 TKDA ENGINEERING. ARCHITECTIJRE . PlANNING ~ ~ .. . Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No. I. . Executive Summary....................... ...... ...... ................... ............ ................ ........... ....1 II. Farmington is a City of Green Connections ............................................................2 III. The Green Connections System is an Investment that adds Value......................"'.6 IV. Key Natural Resources in Farmington - Goals and Priorities..................................8 V. Implementation ... ................................... .......... .................... ............ .... ............... ...14 LIST OF FIGURES Page No. Figure 1. City of Farmington Green Connections System .................................................3 Figure 2. Green Connections Schematic Map ............""..".................."'...........................4 Figure 3. Remaining Natural Areas and Restoration Opportunities................................. 10 APPENDIX . Elements of City of Farmington Green Connections System . Wetland classifications map and descriptions, from City of Farmington Surface Water Management Plan Decem bar 2009 TOC-I 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Falmington developed on a rich canvas of natural resources. The community developed at the confluence of the Vermillion River and its tributaries, on a rich matrix of prairie, wetlands and oak woodlands. These resources are at the core of the City's heritage, and fueled its early economic growth. Significant natural resources and natural communities still remain within the fabric of the community. They connect the City with surrounding townships, the County and the Region. This study suggests that with good planning and care, these resources can be an important part of the community's future, add significant value, and help to shape its identity. The City's natural resources and open space system form a unique set of Green Connections that knits the community together. The City's Green Connections system include: . The City's waterways, trails and floodplains - these are lineal elements that make connections throughout the community and among natural resources . Natural communities, including prairies, wetlands and woodlands that are located on public and private lands within the Green Connections system . The City's parks and open spaces, which are key nodes within the system The City of Farmington completed this natural resource inventory and management plan to identify and recognize its resources and plan for the future. The plan includes the following: · An inventory and maps of significant resources and resource corridors within the City and in adjacent Township areas that may become part of the City . An analysis of the value that natural resources and open spaces contribute to the community . Goals and priorities for managing the City's Green Connections system . Specific implementation steps the City can take on its own, and in cooperation with others, to develop and maintain its Green Connections Development of this plan included input from City staff, Dakota County, the Dakota Soil and Water Conservation District, the Southern Dakota County Sportsmen's Club, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, and the City's Planning Commission and Parks Commission. December 2009 Page 1 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations II. FARMINGTON IS A CITY OF GREEN CONNECTIONS Figure I identifies the Green Connections system in Farmington. The elements of the system include the following: . The Vermillion River and its tributaries: North and t-,'Iiddle Creeks, the South Fork of the Vermillion River, a\ldthe Prairie Waterway . High quality wetland and wel prairie resources within and connected to the corridors. These include native wctlands and pmiric rel11nants and prairies and wetlands that have been reslOrcd by the City . Oak savanna and woodland resources, particularly those located along the Akin Ridge Grecnway . The City's park lands, open space areas and trails systcm The components of the system are detailed on maps included in the Attachments. The Vermillion River and local waterways have shaped the growth of the community and connect it with other communities in Dakota County and the Region. They form the major arteries of the Green Connections system, providing the vital connections between natural community areas, parks, and open spaces. As proposed County and City trails are developed along the greenway corridors, the system can provide community-wide connections and benefits similar to those provided by the Grand Rounds system in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The Vermillion Ril'er a//d its tri[JIt/arie.\' cu//I/{!ct/he City's //at//ml arl:'(/S, pllrk lIl1d opell space systelll, and its existi//g lInd./iltllre neighborhoods, Colleclil'ely, these elem//tsj(m// a comprehe//sil'e grel:'lIl\'(fY system Wid COli crea/e a special iden(iryfur FaJ'///ing(o// liS the c01/l1/lu//ity (!{CreeJl COl/l/ectiol/s. December 2009 Page 2 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Figure 1. City of Farmington Green C01lnectio1ls System Legend D City Greenways I L II County Greenways (1000 It corridors) D High Quality Natural Resources D Wetland Banking D Existing and Proposed Restoration Areas *' Proposed Community Park ~;? Proposed Neighborhood Park Existing Trails Proposed Trails Source: DNR. Metropolitan Council. City of Farminolon. Dakota County. TI<DA N IktMl City Parks A D Private Parks II High School I 'L1t.. TKDA Mn ) Dale: December 2009 December 2009 14412.000 Page 3 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations The Green Connections system is an infrastructure system, much like a transportation system. The stream corridors and major trail corridors are the system's "arterials." Neighborhood trails complete the system, and provide easy access for residents. The City's Parks and Open Spaces are key nodes within the system. Figure 2 is a schematic version of Farmington's Green Corridor system, illustrating the arterials and neighborhood hierarchy. Figure 2. Greell Connectiolls Schematic Map c'., I I' \. . ~ I --\ .'I~ -. ..'..- i t . I " I tt. ,\ - .- - -4-' I r t - \\- i - L.. 1:-. -; '- ~ j ~ \ ~.~ . . - I. . I. II I~\. - i .~ ~ ':-1-:- _1. . \~. - '_ . \ I ,...,. ~ .~ ...... I -, ~ . ~ \ \ . ... ~ ~ I. ...\.....-!... ; .~ p, ~___lfi ,~~."~~~J~..~.~._ {t.- ;~~:1L~~." ~ ;J1~ I. - - -uoI t - -'I:~.. /:.?' - - f r I. . ? __T.J', " e- "'.!".- A --- .;t!'. '" LCl!cnd Greenway Corridor ........~ -.. Arterial trail ,_.... - -., Neighborhood trail ..... ".J Park/open space Downtown Farmington December 2009 Page 4 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Communities across the U.S. and around the world are recognizing the importance of green infrastructure systems, and planning for multi-modal systems that provide connections within and between communities. Research and experience have shown that maintaining connections and movement is critical to the health of human communities and to natural communities. Farmington is fortunate that it has an existing, natural network that forms the backbone of its green infrastructure system, and that its parks and trails planning to date has recognized the imp0l1ance of a connected, community-wide system and developed significant elements of this system. This report discusses ways for the City of Farmington to recognize, maintain and enhance its Green Connections system to add value to the community for the long term. Section V of this repOlt details the implementation strategies that are recommended to develop the Green Connections system. The goals and implementation strategies focus on the following general activities: . Recognize the Green Connections system on the City's maps and in its policy documents . Update the City's code to include system implementation · Continue to develop the Green Connections as new areas are developed and added to the City. · Maintain existing resoures and areas of high quality · Restore and enhance additional prairie, wetland and woodland areas · Continue to develop the community's planned park, trail and open space system in coordination with the Green Connections system . Cooperate with Dakota County, surrounding communities, and others to extend the connections by linking to the County-wide greenways system. These recommendations recognize that the Green Connections system includes areas of public and private ownership. Successful development of the system will require a partnership and investment by both public and private interest'), and both of these interests will reap rewards from development of the community-wide Green Connections system. December 2009 Page 5 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations III. THE GREEN CONNECTiONS SYSTEM IS AN INVESTMENT THAT ADDS VALUE Farmington's Green Connections system deserves investment because it adds value to the community in several ways: · Economic value . Recreation and transportation value . COllllllunity health and well-being . Historic and aesthetic value, and community identity Eco1lomic ,,((Tile. Recent analysis in Minnesota and other states indicates that properties near open spaces and greenways have a higher economic value than properties that are not near these areas. Recent data and analyses from Hennepin and Washington counties in Minnesota indicated that there is an average "open space premium" or added value of $16,000 per home on properties within 500 feet of greenways or open space. This translates into added value for homeowners as well as for cities and counties through increased property tax revenues on those properties. Cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul provide examples of how greenway systems add value and help to maintain it for the long-term. The highest-value homes in both communities are concentrated along the connected "Grand Rounds" system of trails and parkways that connects lakes, Minnehaha Creek, the Mississippi River and the Cities' parklands. These areas have maintained and increased their value over a hundred years, and the system as a whole is a highly visible and marketable element that helps to define and attract residents to these communities. December 2009 Pago 6 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Traflsportation ~'a/1fe - for reaeatioJ/ and otller trips. Farmington's Green Connections system includes a trail network that is interconnected with its transportation system and parks system. These linkages will help to connect new and developing neighborhoods with older neighborhoods as the City grows. The system also provide important links to County and Regional trail systems. The Green Connections should be seen as part of the community's transportation infrastructure. Bike and pedestrian routes within this connected system offer commuting opportunities as well as recreational resources. They provide residents with routes to work, shopping areas, entertainment, and recreation. Use of this system can reduce the community's dependence on fossil fuels, reduce pollution, and minimize the community's "carbon footprint." CO/1111lflnity Ilea/th I'a/ue. The Green Connections system can help to maintain the health of community residents as well as its natural resources. The trail and greenway system that is part of the community's Green Connections provides easily accessible routes for walking, biking, and access to the City's park and recreation facilities. Easy access to such systems is one of the key factors in encouraging healthy lifestyles. Ecologists also emphasize the importance of connected habitats in maintaining the health of species and natural systems. The Green Connections system helps to maintain natural connections among habitat areas, which is critical for many species that need to access multiple habitats during their lifecycles. It provides opportunities for plant and animal species to escape from disease and predation, and multiple areas for foraging and breeding. Maintaining connections among habitat areas is particularly important as the growth of urban areas tends to fragment and isolate habitat areas. Historic al1(/ aestlietic !'a/lies, and cOl1l11l1l1lity identity. Farmington developed as an agricultural and local trade center. Prairies and waterways created the soils and setting for the growth of agriculture and the community. The City's waterway system and remaining prairies, wetlands and woodlands help to keep this history alive as the community grows. Few communities have the unique network of Green Connections that connects the older and newer neighborhoods of Farmington. The system and concepts of Green Connections can help to unify the community, and give it a special identity for current and potential residents. December 2009 Page 7 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations IV. KEY NATURAL RESOURCES IN FARMINGTON -- SYSTEM GOALS AND PRIORITIES Field 1T1l'ellfUJ:V Results {{fI(l Origil/al Vegefafioll This natural resource inventory incorporated data from previous wetland inventories completed in Farmington, and expanded the data using map and field inventories. The field inventories included uplands and wetlands in the existing community and adjacent areas that may becomc part of thc City in the future. The inventories identified the high quality natural areas and resources in Farmington based on criteria used by ecologists and wetland scientists. The Minnesota Depattment of Natural Resources and other state agencies have developed systems to evaluate and rank habitats based on native species diversity, size, connectedness, and habitat characteristics. "High quality" resources are those that have a high level of natural species diversity (compared to the natural communities that existed in this region at the time of settlement by Europeans), have minimal invasion by exotic species, and are of sufficient size and connectedness to provide good habitat. The resource areas of high quality in Farmington and adjacent township areas are mapped on Figure 3 and include the following: o The Vermillion River and its tributary streams. These streams are still of high quality, and some reaches have been designated trout streams by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Vermillion River Watershed has recently been recognized as one of two Watersheds of High Significance in Minnesota's statewide natural resources plan. (The other watershed of high significance is the St. Croix River Watershed.) o Higher quality wetlands identified throughout the community, including areas that offer the potential for restoration and creation of wetland banks. These were identified as "Protect" and "Manage I" wetlands in the City's Surface Water Management Plan. o Prairie remnants and restoration areas along the railroad, in several locations along the Vermillion River, near Meadowview Elementary School (created as part of the North Creek remeander project), and near the Dakota County Fairgrounds south of Farmington. o Oak savanna and woodland areas along Akin Road identified as the Akin Oak Greenway. These areas are shown as potential restoration areas on Figure 3. These natural areas and potential restoration areas are the remnants of the natural communities that were present in Farmington at the timc of settlement. The Minnesota County Biological Survey (MCBS) identified the natural community areas around Farmington at the time of the original Land Survey in the 1840s. The December 2009 Page 8 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations MCBS has noted that the original vegetation of the area included prairies, wet prairies, and oak openings and woods, as well as the streams that connected the landscape. The inventory indicated that examples of each of these communities and resources still exist in the Farmington area. In Farmington, as in much of Minnesota, most of the original prairie, savanna, wetlands and woodland communities have been lost or altered. The Minnesota DNR has found that less than one percent of the original oak savanna and prairie habitats in Minnesota remain today. The DNR has identified Oak Savanna as one of the five Key Habitats in Greatest Conservation Need in the state. The Akin Oaks Greenway area includes oak woodland and savanna remnants, presenting an excellent opportunity to preserve and restore this key habitat in Farmington. The streams and natural community areas identified on Figure 3 are the remaining areas of "high quality" natural communities in Farmington. The areas provide significant habitat for song birds and other animals. They also provide residents a glimpse of how the land looked as settlers first developed fanns and communities in the area. December 2009 Page 9 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Figure 3. Remaining Natural Areas and Restoration OpportulIities Legend D Existing High Quality Natural Resources - Wetlands: Protect & Manage 1 - Prairie remnant D Existing and Proposed Restoration Areas N A I Mile Source: DNR. Melropolitan Council. City 01 Farmlnolon. Dakota County. TKOA M<lp Dalo: Oclober 2009 TKDA December 2009 Page 10 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Natural COl1lmullity luvellf01:v and Goals for lH{(J/{/gemellt The sections that follow list the key resource elements in Farmington, including the Green Connections ancl natural areas. The sections include priorities and general recommendations to improve and protect the health of these resources for the long term. Section V of this report includes specific implementation recommendations to accomplish thc identified goals. Greell C01lnections iHanageme1lf Goals Development and maintenance of the Green Connections system as a whole is the highest priority. The system needs to function as a connected whole to provide full value, just as transportation and other infrastructure systems do. Maintaining the connectedness of the system is critical to maintain the health of the natural resources and realizing the human health, recreational, economic and aesthetic benefits for the community. The Green Connections system includes the following elements: o Corridors along the Vermillion River and North Creek, Middle Creek, and the South Fork of the Vermillion River within Farmington and adjacent Township areas o Akin Oaks Greenway Corridor - a collection of oak woodland and savanna areas along the ridge on the east and west side of Akin Road o The City's parks, open space and trails system -~ - ~~ Ii! ~~ ~ ~ c:: "",'1:\ . _, ~ 'II~~. "",;r"".. '.ftI'""':: ~.}~ t f _ ,n _ __ . Farmington's Green Connections system includes prairies, woodlands, wetlands, trails and parks. December 2009 Page 11 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Goals for developing and maintaining the Green Connections system include: l. Establish the current Green Connections system within Farmington as a basic infrastmcture system for the community. Extend the system as new areas are added to the community 2. Maintain and improve the health of the Vermillion River and its tributary streams, and provide opportunities for recreation in and along the stream corridors 3. Maintain and develop natural and trail connections to create a unified system 4. Continue development of the community and neighborhood parks and open space "nodes" within the system 5. Develop and maintain connections to major County and regional cOlTidors High Quality Natural Comlllunities - Oak Woodlands and 8m'mllla.\' - Ll1allagemellt Goals The oak resource areas are concentrated along Alan Road from Lake Julia Park and the Autumn Glen Open Space to Middle Creek. Many of the remaining oak savanna and woodland remnants exist on private properties, as well as within the following public parks and open spaces: o Autumn Glen o Farmington Preserve Park o Vermillion Grove o Pine Knoll Park o Middle Creek Park Goals for management of these resources include the following: 1. Include the Akin Ridge Greenway on City maps and identify its value to residents. 2. Maintain or improve connections within the oak canopy and among oak savanna and woodland communities within the Greenway from Autumn Glen to Middle Creek. 3. Improve the health of oak savanna and woodland communities and expand thse areas within the Greenway through public and private efforts. December 2009 Page 12 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations 4. Provide interpretive facilities that identify the oak savanna areas and provide information about this natural community and restoration efforts. Prairies and Wet Prairies Management Goals The prairie and wet prairie community areas in Farmington and adjacent areas include remnant natural communities as well as restoration areas along the Prairie Waterway and in City parks, such as Middle Creek Park. An inventory of these areas includes the following: o Wet prairies along the Vermillion River east of Highway 3 o Prairie along the Union Pacific Railroad tracks between Rambling River Park and Middle Creek o Prairie restoration west of Meadowview Elementary School and at the City's Fire Station/Police Station o Prairie restoration near the Dakota County Fairgrounds, south of Farmington o Prairie Waterway prairie restoration o Prairie communities created in wetland buffers and community parks The City and other agencies have committed significant resources in recent years to the restoration of prairie communities within Farmington, ancl to the creation of wetland buffers using native prairie vegetation. The ongoing maintenance efforts by the City have helped these areas to become attractive communities that provide good habitat ancl help to protect local water resources. Maintaining these efforts will support the City's investment ancl the value of the community's Green Connections system. Goals for management of the community's prairie resources include the following: 1. Maintain the connections among these communities and the streams and uplanclnatural communities along the City's greenway corridors. 2. Continue the maintenance activities that are supporting the prairie areas established by the City in the Prairie Waterway and in city parks. 3. Restore additional prairie ancl wet prairie arcas as development occurs and the Green Connection system is developed. December 2009 Page 13 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations v. IMPLEMENTA TION The sections that follow detail actions that the City of Farmington can take to develop its Green Connections system and protect and enhance its natural resources. The actions recognize that the Green Connections system includes both public and private lands, and that some actions will require a partnership with developers and residents. While the City will need to acquire lands for public trails and open space, in other cases it can set standards or provide incentives for private land owners to maintain corridors and natural communities. The actions also include activities that the City can pursue in cooperation with other organizations - including Dakota County, the Dakota Soil and Water Conservation District, other agencies, and local service clubs, such as Trout Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. Working cooperatively can multiply the value of the City's investment and make connections between the City's system and the larger County and Regional corridor systems. BuildiTlg ((1U1 Highlighting tlre Green ConTleclioTls System The following actions will establish the Green Connections as a significant infrastructure system: 1. Officially adopt the Green Connections system map as a City system. The system could be adopted as an official "overlay zone," similar to the Shoreland and Floodplain overlay zones, or it could be adopted and mapped on City zoning maps as an infrastructure system. The map should give names to the corridors, such as the "Akin Ridge Greenway" or "Akin Oaks Heritage Corridor." 2. Include a map and description of the system on the City's website. Promote the system in the City's marketing materials and communications with residents. 3. Integrate the system into the City Code and policies. For example: Require developers to map and identify the system areas within their developments on concept plans, preliminary plats and final plats. Plat submissions should indicate the steps developers will take to comply with City zoning and subdivision standards in the Green Connections areas. Revise sections of the Zoning Ordinance to include common requirements and performance standards for areas within the Green Connections system for landscaping, restoration of native plant communities, tree preservation, and site plan review requirements. December 2009 Pago 14 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendalions Revise sections of the Subdivision Ordinance to include requirements and standards for the Green Connections system. The City's code may include requirements or standards that Developer's must follow on lands within the corridor system. It may also include incentives to encourage participation in the system, such as incentives to cluster development. Some items may either be requirements or incentives, such as use of native plant materials and minimizing impervious surfaces within the Green Connections. 4. Develop and install signage for the City's Green Connections system. 5. Utilize Park Dedication resources to add trails and park areas to the Green Connections system as development occurs. 6. Work cooperatively with Dakota County to include the County's Greenway Corridors system as a part of the City's Green Connections. 7. Seek funding through County and State sources to acquire corridor connections that cannot be obtained through Park Dedication or as part of subdivision approvals. Possible funding sources include the Lessard-Sams Conservation Grants and Conservation Partners grants through the Minnesota DNR, and Pilot Projects funding through the Dakota County Greenways program. High Quality Natural C01/l1/lullitie,\' - Vermillio/l River alld Its Tributaries The health of the Vermillion River and its tdbutaries is dependent on management of the land and water within the entire watershed. The City works with the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization to manage land and water within the watershed. The City can take the following actions to protect and improve the quality of the Vermillion River and its tributaries, and enhance their role in the Green Connections system: 1. Implemcnt the actions identified in the City's Local Surface Water Managemcnt Plan to protect and enhance the quality of surface waters and manage storm water. 2. Work with developers andlanclowners to protect and manage a connectcd system of natural vegetative buffers along the river and its tributarics. These buffers protect water quality, provide habitat conncctions, and may provide locations for trails. 3. Protect and restore the natural community areas identified within the river and tributary corridors 4. Work with Dakota County and other partners to develop the connected trail system proposed for the river and tributary corridors. December 2009 Page 15 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations High Qualify Nlltum/ C01/l1/1ullities - Oak Wood/allds ((lid Sm'((IlIU1S The following actions will maintain and enhance the quality of oak woodlands and savannas in Farmington: 1. Complete restoration efforts within the existing oak areas in City parks and open space areas. These efforts should include removal of exotic species such as buckthorn and prickly ash, and replanting native understory and slu'ubs as needed to control exotics, prevent erosion and improve habitat. State or other grants and volunteers may be available to assist with efforts. 2. Update the City's Tree Preservation ordinance to include requirements or incentives to protect oak and other woodland communities, and to restore these communities on private and public lands with development. 3. Acquire additional oak woodland and savanna areas that are within the Green Connections system tlu'ough park dedication or other acquisition. A key priority is creation of the Akin Oak Greenway corridor east of Akin Road though public and private efforts as development occurs. 4. Provide information, praise and encouragement to landowners within the Green Connections system and Akin Oaks Greenway corridor for eff0l1s to preserve the oak canopy in the corridor and maintain or restore oak savanna and woodland communities. Oak savanna remnant in Farmington Reserve Parl<, along the Akin Oaks Greenway. December 2009 Page 16 14412.000 Farmington Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations Pndl'ies (Iud Wet Pmiries The following actions will maintain ancl enhance the quality of prairies ancl wet prairies in Farmington: 1. The City ancl other agencies have committecl significant resources in recent years to restoration of prairie communities within Farmington ancl to the creation of wetland buffers using native prairie vegetation. The City should continue its current maintenance efforts in buffer areas, along the Prairie Waterway, at City buildings and in other restoration areas in the Green Connections system. 2. Restore additional prairie and wet prairie areas within the Green Connections system. Priority areas include the potential wetland banking areas identified in the City's Wetland Management Plan. Restoration may include public and private efforts. The wet prairie restoration near Meadowview School is a good model for future restorations. ~.- 'fl.'" '~.. ". "1'f.i~II'~ j.j;.9~~""'.4.l:.'. .s.. ~ il.' '''. ..' " (. ~~:.r '(.M," .' ;{~r;a.1~:'J}.:':,;~. ,;:-1." :..",' jI; ..' -I", ., "1'. 11:l>-~'.'\'7 r,::.. ~~.. ~J~:%1 ,\\. ifl~l~~tW~~. fJ'. :1I.l.;~~~[r r?'~ f\}~' t..". Nt 'p,l. .~~...."" ,IJ.. .~\. .t. ::~;~~jl' ~. ~ 11.nP~. :.JI'\....,.;,~~,.~ II :,_lr,;';"'l p.,.;.... ---_t.. ,\:.~ . ..l'P~"'If), 11 - .... ,. ~ ........... - ~".r.l..~.:..,.~.. ~I,\~. ./,~.'ti:;.'I,.:. ".r{;":"'i.;f,:,./'~~. ..:;;..."~.. ~ ~"i, \ ,".~'J r: lfl I 'l'lpo~; 1 ,. . ~ :~~.~" ...~_ ~\. -. .~.It . 1 . L' .~. ',. '-r.'" . 1/:' - .~,~~.:.<~ r, i[( J.\~~'\/.' ;~h'~ """. .~I~. ,~, ... ,." -~'Ill, ~. '~.:' "'r:"\'l'~'.:' J .I...~- .', '\.' tt. "~~.At .~ ~. ".1 . -' I !\ ,;,:,... ~~!"I .~..,~-;;~ .'.. "", r-~~..~t'.~:', ~~r~ ;'lNl"'.~"tr~i.'lit..~ ~'$.~'::~' .\}~ t, .~. "'fl. ~ lr::' ,..~te~~ . ~ '-If: . ..... " ,J!, r 1 .... II . ~ '~'1 ~~ . . . -".1.( ~. ..;: ~.... f ~. .'1, t.,.:.,. "'iA-:o.~' f.I.q fti c.;t'h ~ -~ ' . . 'D ......~ .J.~ -- &':\tp. .... ~r(:~ '~,~, 1(',' ~.rl,";r (~~V! A \~ i~!~\:~ ,'1,r: .~~;! ~~.of.\. . ~ .\~~1~ ~~~\ ~) r':'::..~ "::t ::&:-<' . ~ .~.. .... ",,: ,:\ .j ,fit" . I t!:' r. ,,:.., '1'.;.1 L'!" ......~ Ii. , "" . .~.EA.o. .-0" .........-~---...,;.~.-c Black-eyed susans in a prairie restoration at Meadowview Park. December 2009 Page 17 14412.000 APPENDIX City Greemvays , , Legend D City Greenways N A 11.1M TKDA SOlllC6: DNR. Metropolitan Council. City or Farlllim ton. O.,kola COllnty. TKDA Ma Date: December 2009 COllnty Greemvays .'.;'lI,F,.l r,.... " Legend I::....J I County Greenways (1000 It corridors) ~.'.' ~:\.,,,,, , t. n . . .. . '.;..0 ....... Source: DNR. Metropolitan Council. City of Farmin lon, Dakota County. TKOA N A 11.t,~ !~A._ Mn Date: December 2009 High Quality Natural Resources l .t Legend D High Quality Natural Resources N A lUll. TKDA Map Dato: December 2009 Wetland Banking Wetland Banking N A 1I.111e Sotllce' DNR M . . ellopoliloll Council Ct . I V of Famunytol1. Oakol' C a OlllltV. TKDA TKDA Map Dalo: O;:~ili:'2009 Existing and Proposed Restomtioll Areas ;.ilfcil~'1. . 17.;" _! ~ _ ~.:. 'J, Legend o Existing and Proposed Restoration Areas N A 11.111e TI{])A SOIlfCO: DNR. Motropolitan Council. City or Farmington. Dakota County. ThOA _.loIOntn.....,.. Ma D.lle: Oece-mber 2009 Existing and Proposed Parks . .t Legend lul City Parks D Private Parks High School '* Proposed Community Parl< * Proposed Neighborhood Park N A JUIS. Sourco: OUR. MOlropolitan Council. City of F~nnington. Dakota County. ThOA TKDA ;:am.":i~ Map 0.:.10: Oecclnbcr 2009 Existing and Proposed Trails Existing Trails Proposed Trails N A 11.1l1o! TKDA Salllee: DNR. Met(opolil~11 Council. Cit of Fallningloll. Oakola County. TI<OA M..1p Dale: December 2009 Wetland Classification Map -~, .-, 1 ~ '~,,~,'~\ /I~~,,_I ~ '--1 "\J.~..~~~". ".! I - r"-'fi;~;',- .". 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':'U1 ;'0; - ~: ~"'~;'-;.:;/ . :>" "" ._,r--"';" ~~~""';';, ....\ ';;';':'., ~!,pI%- ~.. ;:,:'f,1[~-.J' ----I' ..;. -,;:,~ _,,r;:.. \lj--" '-'1: ..~~.... ~ .~...q:g J./ .....Jr ._. iP' r,' i .. 1~:~"'~C_~~"~-,,1;, '~'=l~:'/ - -. --- ....- .~: :~::'j~ I I .,,' ' .~----=. I'" r;;;Eii:'~" I~ I \'~-~i'.~ ..:_u, //1 .~. - I '" :l\1 "'''l ~ I ':;;...~~tI./ t:. ,._j I I <.... ~. - j !).,.. " ~ ,,;;t.1f!-~~" " ",: ,/ ...... \. '. J; l~ .', I _ "''f:O.;:.;'?1 . " c. ...... ......\ '0'" ',,~ '-. .if...-<J.,-t.'''' ./ I . :1, I -.,:-- t\. ._..-<<,"; 14' /'/_' \\.... I '-'-,,-;:...~,.~, ..u-:-,;",.".:;.~/t.1.;.., ./f' --.J I ..,.~;)(~~I~......~"'t:.4'~1 -- . '7 I ~... -- t'-lJ~.. ___ I ., ~"~'.~~.-.I...i... (.j "1"'" :...:;:~~---[-::J l-.------.:,. .."...." I . ~ I ","~,", if'" '''':kf . l:;:::;j _ ....,~::,;;.~, . i/!/ \ =-: _. J ~'''' .Jij G-"~f U::I'.I' ..I...~t' l' _+ '.......... I (.~.: ,c:F- ~5;;"'-"------I--~'--~}=7-0(-~:~'-\.1 lj '- ,. ....-'. ~ - ----;,- -'~, '-------':--".- (/ ... ---... ./ \ (,-.. .~ --"". / . .' , /-- / .-"-,,,-,, --,---,,-- WETLAND CLASSIFICATIONS July 2008 r.1ap 3 ~- ;.....;. u... ':b~~ -~ .~.;~ -t~ Bonestroo ~)~1~,;. ,.ti) ~~.,'~ r.an;a(Jt'nlf'ntCLn~lic.tlo" . C p.v';i<t ~l ~~e;~~'.;~j~~:j:l xHbr;;tJOl =J ~.hl'.!!,,~!. ~ ~""'~"r cori~:Ir '\ ~hr.!!,~ 1 0 r;"tR p.Uit \..:t...~ li\.nll:" r ~'l~r.:,~] ""\',1 (llr.... ;r%:~:;;;:;~:;;~\.~:;~ ~ ~:~.~.:~:;:;,:::0;..;~:.::.;.:; ~'-.:,:;: ;C'.,'-' ., R . 'G'.":S:rH"~ -~ ::I'lft PR~I;~ \'.It. 'to...... ~- 5';1.;:1')1..r.j~ -"::WLn1:".: >:IfC..~1 c,oM 1.~I.) SR..' 0: F,un'"in~ton Surf;."!/;" Vlat~.r Nana~li m9nt ::t an ~ .6)/\ \\ '{{57 I. , Wetland Classifications City of Farmingtoll SllIface Water Management Plan WETLANDS, MANAGE 1: These wetlands have plant communities that are in a largely unaltered state. The vegetative communities of these wetlands are characterized by moderate floral diversion and are slightly to moderately susceptible to stormwater and snowmelt impacts. WETLANDS, MANAGE 2: These wetlands have usually been altered by human activities. These wetlands have low to medium floral diversity and wildlife habitat components. These wetlands are slightly susceptible to impacts fTom stormwater. In addition, if a wetland has characteristics of a utilized basin but is located within a park or greenway corridor (as shown on the wetland and water body classification map) it was put in this management classification. WETLANDS, PROTECT: These wetlands exist in a largely unaltered state and have special and unusual qualities that call for a high level of protection. These wetlands may provide habitat for rare, threatened and/or endangered plant and animal species present; and/or have moderate to exceptional floral diversity/integrity and moderate to high susceptibility to stormwater and snowmelt; and/or are within the designated trout stream cOlTidor identified on the city's wetland and water body classification map. WETLANDS, UTILIZE: These wetlands have been significantly altered and degraded through past disturbances, They may be isolated, with altered hydrology from urban or agricultural land uses. These wetlands have low floral diversity, and for the most part are not connected to other ecosystems. These wetlands are the least susceptible to impacts from stonnwater. !~~ follo\\lillg~lJXf~l:a~~~ ~.i~,?s. ~l:elI1i~iIlll1m requireln~nts: ... .... .. . " . '_n'"" ,"', ,"____"', _ _._........:.';."".._......,-..__..._........,.....'..'."..... ",", .;.".....--...:,.,' .....,.......,....'... .." ..>.:..,:':".:..."....:....,'.:.,.. Wetland Type Protect :1 Manag;;-ll Manage~[ AVerage~ll~~~r Width. ..11 75 feet i~ect .. tM3.O feet .. :1. 100 feet "protect" wetlands in the designated trout stream con'idol' Utilize , 25 feet i ..';;...:.. , . .. . - . . .--'.--;';-"-:--'-'-'- ;j Minimnm!>"ffe! II 75f~tl ,:eel J~lee~ t;~~ ~lDfeet iIDfeel .:[ to feet .. . r 0 feet