HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRCPacket20200211 City of Hastings
Parks & Recreation
920 W 10th Street ▪ Hastings, MN 55033 ▪ Ph: 651-480-6175 ▪ www.hastingsmn.gov
Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda
Tuesday, February 11, 2020 – 7:00 PM
City Hall – Council Chambers Room
I. Call to Order 7:00 p.m.
II. Determination of Quorum
III. Approval of Minutes
a. Approve minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on
January 14, 2020
IV. Schoolhouse Square 4th Addition – Park Dedication 7:05 p.m.
V. Vermillion Falls Park – Natural Resource Management Plan 7:20 p.m.
a. Friends of the Mississippi River – Karen Schik
VI. Department Updates 7:35 p.m.
a. EAB Treatment Program
b. City Forester
c. People Movement Plan
d. Trail Projects
e. Isabel Park Master Plan
f. Vermillion Linear Park Restoration
Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at 7:00pm
All times are approximate
City of Hastings
Parks & Recreation
920 W 10th Street ▪ Hastings, MN 55033 ▪ Ph: 651-480-6175 ▪ www.hastingsmn.gov
Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda
Tuesday, January 14, 2020 – 7:00 PM
City Hall – Council Chambers Room
I. Call to Order 7:00 p.m.
II. Present: Chair, Chelsea Piskor, Commissioner Dave Pemble, Nicole DePalma, Bruce Karnick, Parks and
Recreation Director, Chris Jenkins, Community Development Director John Hinzman, Sports and Recre-
ation Coordinator, Phil Vargas and Recreation Programmer, Paige Marschall Bigler
Absent: Commissioner Ben Spader
III. Determination of Quorum
Quorum Present: 4:5
IV. Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Karnick motioned to approve minutes, Commissioner DePalma seconded the motion.
Minutes approved 4:4
a. Approve minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on
October 8, 2019
V. Review Method of Park Dedication 7:05 p.m.
a. Bauer Property Annexation
Director Jenkins introduced John Hinzman, Community Development Director. Hinzman reviewed the
method of park dedication and asked Commission to provide a recommendation to allow final engineering
and design to commence in order to submit application for Preliminary and Final Plat approval. Commis-
sion discussed land dedication requirements and options available within City Ordinance. Commission
asked questions of Director Hinzman, the applicant and Director Jenkins. Director Jenkins explained how
funds received could be used.
Commissioner Pemble motioned to accept the option of Cash in Lieu of Land, Commissioner Karnick
seconded the motion. Motion approved 4:4
VI. Natural Surface Trail Proposal 7:20 p.m.
Jenkins introduced John and Andy Storkamp and Craig Santelman and their presentation of an idea for a
Natural Surface Trail. John Storkamp provided an overview of a proposed trail system including; location,
characteristics, usage, benefits, and examples from other cities. Commission asked questions of presenters
and discussed safety, use, timeline and maintenance responsibility. Director Jenkins explained that this
project would be a collaborative effort. Commission expressed support of the potential project.
VII. Levee Park Warming House and Rink 7:35 p.m.
Sports and Recreation Coordinator, Phil Vargas provided warming house attendance numbers from 2015
– 2019 seasons. Director Jenkins expressed the struggle to maintain and operate the warming house and
rink at Levee Park due to low daily attendance throughout the season since 2015 and ability to keep quality
ice on the labyrinth. For 2019-2020 season, staffed hours at the Levee Park Warming House have been
reduced to Saturday and Sundays 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Director Jenkins asked Commission to brain-
storm alternative ideas and use of the portable warming house.
VIII.Updates 7:50 p.m.
Director Jenkins informed Commission that the new City Forester/Parks Keeper position has been filled
and anticipate having the employee on-board by the end of January.
Commission highlighted the two vacant Commissioner spots for 2020-2021 term.
Commission asked to re-visit the idea for a Commission coordinated event in Hastings, and include this
item on the February agenda.
Commissioner Pemble motioned to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Karnick seconded the motion.
Motioned approved 4:4
Meeting adjourned: 8:29 p.m.
Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at 7:00pm
All times are approximate
Park and Recreation Commission Memorandum
To: Park and Recreation Commission From: John Hinzman, Community Development Director Date: February 11, 2020 Item: Park Dedication – Schoolhouse Square 4th Addition Commission Action Requested Review the method of park dedication for development of Schoolhouse Square 4th Addition, a one lot subdivision to contain a 90 unit senior housing apartment building as proposed by Real Estate Equities. The 2.07 acre subdivision is presently owned by
Schoolhouse Partners LLC and generally located northwest of 10th Street and Ramsey Street. Adjacent Zoning and Land Use The following land uses abut the property:
Direction Use Comp Plan District Zoning District
North 8th Street Single Family Homes Low Density
Residential
R-2
East Schoolhouse Square Townhomes Medium Density Residential RMU
South 10th Street Single and Two Family homes Medium Density Residential RMU
West Commercial – Green Mill, Premier Bank Commercial C-3
PARK DEDICATION REQUIREMENTS Subdivision Ordinance City Code Chapter 154.07 establishes public land dedication requirements for subdivision of land. All property subdivisions resulting in the addition of buildable lots are subject to
dedication requirements. The obligation can be fulfilled in the following ways: 1) Physical land dedication 2) Payment of cash in lieu of land 3) A combination of land dedication and cash.
4) Private open space and facilities for public use.
2040 Comprehensive Plan - Planned and Existing Parks and Trails
OPTIONS FOR PARK DEDICATION Option - Physical Land Dedication Physical land dedication would be required as follows:
Property Size 2.07 acres
Number of Residential Units 90
Residential Density 43.5 units\acre
Required Park Dedication 0.73 acres = 35.1% of the gross area 1) All or part of the land has been previously designated as open space, park land, or trailway in the Comprehensive Plan.
Analysis: The Comprehensive Plan does not identify any open space or park land on the property. A “linking trail” is indicated along 10th Street. 2) A need for additional parks or recreational facilities will be generated by the development.
Site Location
Analysis: 90 independent living senior apartments would be added. Connection to the Hastings Loop Trail System along Bailly Street is 800 feet to the east. Roadside park is located approximately 2,000 feet to the west. The facility plans
to add a private outdoor dog run and a roof top deck to serve residents. 3) The land adjoins an existing park or school open space property. Analysis: The proposed park does not abut an existing park or school.
4) The land could serve as a buffer between commercial\industrial property and residential. Analysis: The building is located within the RMU - Residential Mixed Use
Zoning District which serves as a buffer between commercial development to the west and lower density residential development to the east. 5) The land contains or abuts unique topographical features.
Analysis: The proposed land is generally flat and treeless. Option - Cash in Lieu of Land Payment of cash in lieu of land is based upon the number and type of residential units to be constructed. A total cash payment of $99,000 ($1,100 x 90 units) would be required. Option - Private Open Space and Facilities The Subdivision Ordinance allows for the development of private open space, park, and recreation facilities to account for up to fifty percent of the park land dedication
requirements provided the land is not occupied by buildings and structures, is open to the
public, deed restricted to ensure public access, provides for natural features, or has a desirable use and the proposed recreation facility will reduce the demand for public recreational facilities to serve the development.
All proposed community facilities would be restricted to use by residents of the
apartment and not eligible for consideration. RECOMMENDED METHOD OF PARK DEDICATION Payment of cash in lieu of land is recommended to satisfy park dedication
requirements. The subject property has not been identified for a park. The
amount of land required for a park would preclude development of the building. Based upon the proposed 90 units to total payment would be $99,000 ($1,100 x 90 units).
Attachments
• Location Map
• Concept Plan
LOCATION MAP
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NO T F O R CO NS T RUCTION Date
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Project Number
1301 American Blvd. E.
Suite 100
Bloomington, MN 55425
tel: (612) 879-6000
fax: (612) 879-6666
www.kaaswilson.com
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SD_1011" = 50'-0"1 Level 1 - Site Plan
19-02-J -Parking Schedule
Level Count
Level -1 61
Level 1 76
Grand total 137
19-02-J -Unit Mix by Floor
Name
Unit
Type Count Area Level Unit Type
Level 1
Unit 1-0 1BR/1BA 14 712 ft² Level 1
Unit 1-1 1BR/1BA 1 875 ft² Level 1
Unit 3-0 2BR/2BA 2 994 ft² Level 1
Unit 3-1 2BR/2BA 2 1,116 ft² Level 1
Unit 3-2 2BR/2BA 1 1,122 ft² Level 1
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Levels 2 - 3
Unit 1-0 1BR/1BA 15 712 ft² Levels 2 - 3
Unit 1-1 1BR/1BA 1 875 ft² Levels 2 - 3
Unit 3-0 2BR/2BA 5 994 ft² Levels 2 - 3
Unit 3-1 2BR/2BA 2 1,116 ft² Levels 2 - 3
Unit 3-2 2BR/2BA 1 1,122 ft² Levels 2 - 3
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Level 3
Unit 1-0 1BR/1BA 15 712 ft² Level 3
Unit 1-1 1BR/1BA 1 875 ft² Level 3
Unit 3-0 2BR/2BA 5 994 ft² Level 3
Unit 3-1 2BR/2BA 2 1,116 ft² Level 3
Unit 3-2 2BR/2BA 1 1,122 ft² Level 3
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Level 4
Unit 1-0 1BR/1BA 15 712 ft² Level 4
Unit 1-1 1BR/1BA 1 875 ft² Level 4
Unit 3-0 2BR/2BA 5 994 ft² Level 4
Unit 3-2 2BR/2BA 1 1,122 ft² Level 4
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Grand total 90
19-02-J -Unit Mix by Type
Name
Unit
Type
Coun
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1BR/1BA
Unit 1-0 1BR/1BA 59 712 ft²42,020 ft²
Unit 1-1 1BR/1BA 4 875 ft²3,500 ft²
63 45,521 ft²
2BR/2BA
Unit 3-0 2BR/2BA 17 994 ft²16,893 ft²
Unit 3-1 2BR/2BA 6 1,116 ft²6,698 ft²
Unit 3-2 2BR/2BA 4 1,122 ft²4,489 ft²
27 28,080 ft²
Grand total 90 73,601 ft²
19-02-J -Total Gross Area
Level Area
Level 4 22,564 ft²
Level 3 23,232 ft²
Levels 2 - 3 23,232 ft²
Level 1 23,238 ft²
Level -1 23,616 ft²
Grand total 115,882 ft²
53 Surface Parking Stalls adjacent to Building
36 Surface Parking Stalls at Lot A
Parking Ratio
150 Total Parking Stalls /
90 Total Units = 1.67 Stalls per Unit
Hastings Zoning
Zoning District -RMU Residential Mixed Use
155.08 SIGNS
(2) A, R, and PI Districts.
(a) Residential developments with 6 or more single-family or multiplefamily dwelling units may have 1 monument identification sign per the size indicated in
the table in division (D)(1)(e) above
Monument -Maximum Height -5 feet, Sign Face Size -50 square feet, Cap Height (max.) -8 inches
Wall -Maximum Size -Greater of 40 square feet or 5% of wall area
155.09 PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
(B) Design requirements.
(1) Standard dimensions. 90 degrees, Curb Length 9.0 feet , Stall Length 18.0 feet, Aisle width 22 feet (Aisles that are note between 2 ros of 90 angel parking spaces may be 18 feet
wide.)
(2) Compact car deimatnsion. 90 degrees, Curb Length 8.0 feet, Stall Length 16.0 feet.
(3) Compact car parking conditions. Compact car parking may be provided if the following conditions are met.
(a) A maximum of 25% of the total number of required parking spaces may be used for compact cars, provided the total parking area has at least 20 stalls.
(b) Compact car stalls shall be clearly marked with directional signs as approved by the city.
(c) Compact car stalls shall be distributed throughout the parking area to have reasonable proximity to the structure(s) served by and shall not have generally
(D) Setbacks/buffers
(1) Access drives, driveways, and aisles shall not be allowed to intrude into a required parking setback except at the access point or where a joint drive serving more than 1 property will
provide better/safer traffic circulation
115.26 RMU RESIDENTIAL MIXED USE
(B) Uses permitted
(1) Mulitple-family dwellings;
(C) Uses by special permit
(1) Multiple-family dwellings greater than 40 feet in height as measured by the International Building Code.
(D) Building and site design.
Approvals granted through building permit, site plan, special use permit, or planned residential development shall require conformance with the Origianl Hasitngs Design Guidelines...
115.50 RESIDENTIAL LOT REGULATION
RMU District
Minimum Lot Area -12 d.u. per acre
Front -5
Inteior side -1/4 bulding height (maximum setback required shall be 15 feet, but in no case less than 5 feet).
Corner -5
Rear -1/2 building height
Height -40
115.52 Architectural Standards
(B) Applicability. Architectural standards in this section shall apply to the exterior construction of new commercial, industrial, institutional buildings, and the like, as well as multiple family buildings
exceeding 8 units, and as follows.
(3) Original Hastings Design Guidelines. Buildings and properties as identified in the Original Hastings Design Guidelines (adopted by the City Council on 5-5-2003) must adhere to the
requirements of the adopted guidelines in addition to the provisions of this section.
(C) General requirements.
(1) Building design and construction standards must be used to create a structure with equally attractive sides. Primary emphasis shall be placed on the most visible sides of a building.
(2) Primary building entrances must be clearly defined to promote visual interest and architectural presence.
(3) Large, uninterrupted expanses of a single building material shall not be permitted, unless the use meets the purpose or intent of this section as determined by the Administrative
Official.
(4) No wall that faces a public right-of-way, parks, the public view from adjacent properties or a residential use or district may have an uninterrupted length exceeding 100 feet without
including at least 2 of the following:
(a) Change in plane;
(b) Change in texture or masonry pattern;
(c) Inclusion of windows; and/or
(d) Equivalent change or incorporation
(D) Specific requirements
(2) Classes of material.
Class 1 -Brick, Natural Stone, Glass, Seamless metal panels, Other materials not llisted elsewhere as approve by the Administrative Official.
Class 2 -EIFS, Masonry Stucco, Specialty Intergral Colored Concrete Block, Archiecturally textured concrete precast panels, Tile, Other materials not llisted elsewhere as
approve by the Adminstrative Official.
Class 3 -Industrial grade concrete precst panels, Smooth concrete, Ceramic, Wood, Aluminum or Vinyl Siding, Other materials not listed elsewhere as approved by the
Administrative Official.
(3) Required combinations of materials
(c) Multiple-family residential builidngs exceeding 8 units.
1. Front facades, and side and rear facade visible from public right(s)-of-way, the public view from adjacent properties, parts, or residential uses or distructs must be
composed of at least 25% of Class 1 materials, and at least 25% of Class 2 materials.
2. Side and rear facades not visible from public right(s)-of-way,
parks, public view from adjacent properties or residential uses or districts may use any
combination of Class 1, 2, or 3 materials.
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NO T F O R CO NS T RUCTION Date
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Project Number
1301 American Blvd. E.
Suite 100
Bloomington, MN 55425
tel: (612) 879-6000
fax: (612) 879-6666
www.kaaswilson.com
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SD_500
12" = 1'-0"2 View from 10th Street
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NO T F O R CO NS T RUCTION Date
Drawn By
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Project Number
1301 American Blvd. E.
Suite 100
Bloomington, MN 55425
tel: (612) 879-6000
fax: (612) 879-6666
www.kaaswilson.com
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SD_501
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12" = 1'-0"1 View from West - Entry
12" = 1'-0"2 View from Southwest
NO T F O R CO NS T RUCTION Date
Drawn By
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Project Number
1301 American Blvd. E.
Suite 100
Bloomington, MN 55425
tel: (612) 879-6000
fax: (612) 879-6666
www.kaaswilson.com
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SD_502
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12" = 1'-0"3 View from Southeast
12" = 1'-0"1 View from North
12" = 1'-0"4 View from East
City allocated funds as matching funds for grants to turn plans into reality.
support a variety of restoration projects, and historically FMR has been able to use
Financial Impact: Funds are requested annually during the budget process to help
time and funding allow.
Work Plan and will commit to assist FMR with implementation of each phase as
Staff recommend support of the NRMP and Ecological Restoration Management
be chipped and, in some instances, stacked and burned on site.
mechanized methods as well as targeted herbicide treatments. Woody debris will
the vast majority of work involves invasive woody removals through both hand and
and continue thru 2022, and are ready to move forward with City support. For 2020
Management work plan intended to begin ecological restoration projects in 2020
Friends of The Mississippi River staff have developed a Ecological Restoration
2022.
understand the scope of the proposed NRMP and work plans planned for 2020-
Parks & Recreation staff have met with FMR representatives to review, refine and
well as the desired outcomes. The full plan can be found on the City’s website.
Hastings. The NRMP plan details the history of the site, the current condition as
a Natural Resource Management Plan for Vermillion Falls Park for the City of
Background Information: In 2019 the Friends of the Mississippi River developed
Management work for 2020-2022.
(NRMP) developed for Vermillion Falls Park and support Ecological Restoration
Support the Natural Resource Management Plan
Item: Vermillion Falls Park Natural Resource Management Plan
To:
Commission Memorandum
Parks & Recreation Commissioners
Date: February 11, 2020
From: Chris Jenkins, Parks & Recreation Director
Action Requested:
Attachments:
▪ Vermillion Falls Park Natural Resource Management Plan Executive
Summary & Introduction.
▪ Ecological Restoration Management Work Plan 2020-2022
Vermillion Falls
Natural Resource Management Plan
Vermillion Falls Park
Hastings, MN
December 2019
Prepared by
Karen Schik, Senior Ecologist
Friends of the Mississippi River
101 East Fifth St, Suite 2000
St Paul, MN 55101
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................ 4
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 6
SITE INFORMATION ................................................................................................................ 8
LOCATION AND GOVERNANCE ..................................................................................................... 8
LANDSCAPE CONTEXT ............................................................................................................. 10
LAND USE ............................................................................................................................ 12
PHYSICAL CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................... 16
RARE SPECIES AND WILDLIFE ................................................................................................... 22
HISTORICAL VEGETATION ........................................................................................................ 23
ECOLOGICAL EVALUATION ..................................................................................................... 25
MAPLE-BASSWOOD FOREST (MB) ........................................................................................... 28
MESIC OAK FOREST (OFM1, OFM2) ........................................................................................ 29
DRY OAK FOREST (OFD) ......................................................................................................... 31
OAK WOODLAND-BRUSHLAND (OW) ....................................................................................... 32
ALTERED DECIDUOUS FOREST (UNITS DF1, DF2, DF3) ................................................................ 33
ALTERED DECIDUOUS WOODLAND (DW1, DW2, DW3, DW4) .................................................... 36
NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND (GRW, GRN, GRS) ............................................................................ 40
PARKLAND ........................................................................................................................... 42
ECOLOGICAL CONCERNS .......................................................................................................... 43
IV. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................... 45
A. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 45
B. TARGET VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ......................................................................................... 46
C. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS ....................................................................... 52
D. RESTORATION SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................ 56
REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................... 60
APPENDIX A: PLANT SPECIES RECORDED AT THE VERMILLION FALLS PARK ................................................. 62
APPENDIX B: PLANT SPECIES FOR RESTORATION AT VERMILLION FALLS PARK ............................................. 72
APPENDIX C: POTENTIAL ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS ................................................................................... 76
APPENDIX D: LIST OF NOXIOUS AND INVASIVE PLANTS .......................................................................... 78
APPENDIX E: METHODS FOR CONTROLLING NON-NATIVE INVASIVE WOODY PLANT SPECIES ......................... 79
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
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List of Tables
Table 1. Existing Land Cover and Target Plant Community ....................................................... 25
Table 2. Quality rankings of existing vegetation units. ................................................................. 27
Table 3. Target plant communities ................................................................................................ 47
Table 4. Five-Year Work Plan ....................................................................................................... 57
List of Figures
Figure 1. Site Location .................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 2. Parcel information ............................................................................................................ 8
Figure 3. Actual on-the-ground boundary of the park and the area of this NRMP. ........................ 9
Figure 4. Regional Context ............................................................................................................ 11
Figure 5. Historical aerial photographs 1937-2000 ....................................................................... 14
Figure 6. Surrounding Landscape in 1937 ..................................................................................... 16
Figure 7. Surficial Geology and Soil Types .................................................................................. 19
Figure 8. Site Topography ............................................................................................................. 20
Figure 9. Sensitivity of growndwater to contamination ................................................................ 21
Figure 10. Vegetation at time of European Colonization .............................................................. 24
Figure 11. Ecological Subsection .................................................................................................. 24
Figure 12. Existing Land over ....................................................................................................... 26
Figure 14. Target Plant Communities for Restoration .................................................................. 51
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
3
Acknowledgements
Friends of the Mississippi River would like to acknowledge the City of Hastings and the Tecla
Karpen estate for funding that made this management plan possible.
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This document was developed for the City of Hastings as a first step for Friends of the
Mississippi River to provide assistance in ecological management of Vermillion Falls Park, a 25-
acre city-owned park located southeast of the Vermillion River at Vermillion Street (Highway
61). Although small, the park is ecologically important as part of a linear habitat complex along
the Vermillion River. The park also provides important wildlife habitat and water quality
benefits, and is a popular community amenity. The most notable feature at Vermillion Falls Park
is the falls itself, which can be quite a roaring cascade, especially after significant rain events or
spring melt. The falls can be most easily viewed from the overlook pavilion at the top of the
falls. Excellent views of the rapids below the falls and the entire gorge can be seen further east,
from the bridge over the river.
Historically, the property was likely dominated by oak savanna in the level upland areas and
lesser amounts of mesic oak forest and maple-basswood forest in the ravines. Prior to becoming
a city park, the property was apparently mostly in passive uses, especially associated with the
railroad and visitors to the falls; there was no indication of past agricultural practices. A couple
of the ravines at the park, however, were used for disposal of construction-type debris at some
point in the past.
In the absence of natural fires that were historically common in the area, both native and non-
native trees and shrubs have encroached onto the site, so the vegetative cover has progressed to
the current condition of primarily oak forest, with some non-native dominated grassland in the
west half of the site. Non-native invasive plant and animal species are well-established,
especially earthworms and common buckthorn. The buckthorn ranges in size from very large to
very small, indicating it initially established at the park decades ago and has been spreading ever
since.
The site has been a City Park since the late 1960’s, but there has been little ecological
management over the years. The current native plant diversity throughout the park is low, but the
canopy tree composition is mostly intact and portions of the park have some interesting ground
cover plants, including Canada yew and walking fern, two relatively uncommon species. One
state threatened species, kittentail, is also present at the park. Although intensive management
and restoration is needed, there is good reason to believe much of the native plant diversity can
be recovered.
The overarching objective for Vermillion Falls Park is to protect and improve the wildlife and
water quality values of the site and to restore the ecological functions that the historical native
plant communities provided, including:
• habitat for a diversity of wildlife species
• nutrient and water cycling
• carbon storage
• moderation of water-table levels
• erosion control
• filtration of nutrients, sediments and pollutants
• development and enrichment of soils
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
5
• local temperature moderation
The best way to accomplish those objectives is by restoring and enhancing native plant
communities at the site. A robust and diverse native plant community offers the best protection
against invasive species, climate change effects and loss of animal species diversity. This
document describes the recommendations, methods and approximate costs for enhancing the
ecological health of this park and restoring natural communities.
There were seven different types of vegetation cover at the site, among 15 different units. In
order of quality, with the highest quality units having the most intact structure and species
composition, the vegetation types were: mesic maple-basswood forest, mesic oak forest, dry oak
forest, oak woodland-brushland, altered/non-native dominated deciduous forest, altered/non-
native dominated deciduous woodland, and non-native dominated grassland with sparse trees.
The target plant communities at this site are southern dry mesic oak woodland (8.3 ac) in the
more level upland areas in the eastern half of the site, southern dry savanna (4.2 ac) in the
western half of the site, southern dry-mesic oak forest (3.3 ac) along the south bank of the river,
and southern mesic maple-basswood forest (1.7 ac) in the dry gorge near the south side of the
park.
The primary proposed restoration involves removing invasive, non-native shrubs and trees
throughout the site, followed by enhancing the woodland and forests and restoring the grassland
to savanna. If nothing else is done, removing non-native invasive woody plants would be the
most important task and is by far the largest expense for management of this property. The
estimated cost for the initial removal and follow-up control for two years for the entire site is
about $90,000.
Additional restoration activities would involve re-seeding wooded areas and a complete
eradication and replacement of ground cover vegetation (grasses and forbs) in the grassland
units. These costs would be an additional approximately $28,000.
If initiated and completed in sequential order, it would take at least six to eight years to have the
invasive woody plants mostly eradicated and savanna species restored to the grassland. Full
control of the buckthorn to a point where it requires only modest annual maintenance could take
10 years or more. However, each year the investment will be less. Neither the buckthorn, nor
most of the other invasives, will ever be fully eradicated because they are abundant in the
landscape around the park. Volunteer events, such as brush hauls, can help offset the costs and
serve as excellent opportunities to connect the community to the site.
Friends of the Mississippi River is committed to collaborating on the long-term management and
restoration of this site. FMR has obtained grant funding for initial restoration and enhancement
steps that will be adequate for the first two years of work. FMR is also able to help with the
longer-term coordination and management of restoration activities.
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
6
INTRODUCTION
This Natural Resource Management Plan (NRMP) presents the site analysis and recommended
ecological management and restoration for Vermillion Falls Park, owned by the City of Hastings,
Minnesota.
Prior to European colonization, the vegetation at the project area consisted primarily of oak
savanna – loosely described as prairie plants with scattered clusters of bur oak trees and
brushland. As settlement occurred, both prairie and savanna communities were converted to
agricultural and other uses, leaving less than 1% of each of these plant communities on the
landscape, where they previously occupied over one-third of the state. What little was left has
largely been degraded by lack of fire and invasion of non-native species, leading to a dominance
of those species, decline of native species, and succession of savanna and grassland to forest.
Vermillion Falls Park has been similarly altered, and is currently dominated by oak forest, with
non-native grassland and small areas of maple-basswood forest and mesic oak forest.
This plan was developed to:
• Identify the existing condition of natural communities on the property
• Identify target natural communities and restoration goals
• Identify methods for improving the wildlife habitat and ecological functions of the
property
The overarching objective of ecological restoration and management is to restore the ecological
functions of a site, such as nutrient cycling, disturbance regime, carbon storage, and wildlife
habitat. This is accomplished by increasing the biological diversity, which brings stability to the
community, and by restoring processes such as fire, which restores nutrient cycling as well as a
disturbance regime. Other objectives are to:
• Provide connectivity with other natural areas in the landscape
• Maintain and manage the property for water quality by avoiding or controlling any
erosion that may develop
• Create a model of responsible land stewardship for park visitors
• Provide close-to-home opportunities for people to enjoy and interact with nature
A healthy functioning ecosystem inherently also provides important ecological services – those
functions identified as beneficial for humans, including filtering pollutants from soil and water,
absorbing air pollutants and carbon dioxide, and providing habitat for pollinators.
In general, the target condition often seeks to reflect the plant communities that were present at
the time of European colonization (approximately 1850), as that would often provide the optimal
biological diversity for a site and best support the native plants and animals of the region.
Historical conditions, however, are not always appropriate when succession has moved a
community too far in one direction, or where there are other desired uses for a site, such as
recreation. The existing conditions at the eastern half of Vermillion Falls Park are mostly too far
advanced past savanna to a forested community, and would be most suitably maintained as oak
woodland.
Natural Resource Management Plan – Vermillion Falls Park Friends of the Mississippi River
7
Figure 1. Site Location
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 3
ATTACHMENT A. VERMILLION FALLS PARK: Project Tasks & Schedule, Work Specifications,
Performance Standards, Maps
Project Tasks & Schedule
The project tasks outlined below are those expected to be necessary to meet the project goals.
However, this is a performance-based project, so contractors are encouraged to modify the tasks as
desired so that they can ensure they will meet the standards defined in the next section.
Note that this is an adaptive management process. Specific tasks may be modified or shifted as the
project results dictate. Contractor will work closely with FMR to assess and modify if needed.
Project tasks are dependent on available funding; not all tasks below may be funded.
Unit Description
MB High quality maple basswood forest in ravine. Low abundance of medium-sized buckthorn.
OFm1 High quality mesic oak forest in deep ravine. Difficult access. Scattered large diam (5")
buckthorn in west. Dense small diam (e.g. 4 ft tall thicket) in east.
Ofd, OW Good quality dry oak forest/woodland. Medium to low abundance of medium buckthorn,
larger 2" diam on edges.
DF1 Very high density small to medium size buckthorn (0.5-3" diam). Very low native diversity.
Level terrain. More intensive eradication methods will be used in this unit.
DF2 High abundance of 1-2" buckthorn, 3" on edges.
DF3 Patchy abundance of 1-2" buckthorn. Less toward east. Portions very steep.
DW3 Level blufftop north of trail. 95% of invasive woody was removed in fall 2019.
Year Month Units Ecological Task Acres Est
Cost/ac Est cost
Initial woody removal
2020 Feb-
Nov MB
Hand-cut & stump treat (G3a) non-native trees and
shrubs > 0.5 inch diam. Chip near trails, stack & burn
rest in base of ravine.
1.7 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov OFm1
Hand-cut & stump treat (G3a) non-native trees and
shrubs > 0.5 inch diam. Stack/burn - minimal piles.
Haul and chip at top of the bluff as much as possible.
2.5 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov Ofd, OW
Hand-cut & stump treat (G3a) non-native trees and
shrubs > 0.5 inch diam. Chip as much as possible,
stack/burn interior.
1.7 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov DF1 Hand-cut & stump treat non-native trees and shrubs >
1 inch diam. Then forestry mow unit.1.1 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov DF2 Hand-cut & stump treat non-native trees and shrubs >
0.5 inch diam. Chip and haul away. 0.7 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov DF3
Hand-cut & stump treat non-native trees and shrubs >
0.5 inch diam. Chip as much as possible, stack/burn
interior.
0.9 $ -
2020 Feb-
Nov DW3 Hand-cut & stump treat few remaining buckthorn.
shrubs > 0.5 inch diam. Haul and chip. 1.9 $ -
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 4
Year Month Units Ecological Task Acres Est
Cost/ac Est cost
Spring Burn & seeding (FMR provides all seed mixes)
1 2021 Spring
Ofd, OW,
DF2, DF3,
DW3
Rx burn all units shown, if feasible (e.g. not too much
woody debris).6.9 $ -
1 2021 Spring OFd Post burn, broadcast native woodland seed,
especially grasses such as wild rye.1.2 $ -
1 2021 Spring DF2 Post burn, broadcast native oak woodland seed mix.
Most of unit will need it.0.7 $ -
1 2021 Spring DF3 Post burn, broadcast native oak woodland seed mix.
Only needed in occasional openings.0.3 $ -
1 2021 Spring DW3 Post burn, broadcast native savanna seed.1.7 $ -
1 2021 Spring DW3 Spot-spray daylily patches 1.7 $ -
Follow-up woody control
1 2021 August DF1
Broadcast apply Triclopyr (Trycera or Garlon 3a) to
buckthorn carpet. (note different treatment than other
units).
1.1 $ -
1 2021 Oct-
Dec DF1 Broadcast native oak woodland seed mix (mostly
grasses)1.1 $ -
1 2021 Sept OFm1
Follow-up woody control: Apply bud inhibitor (Krenite)
in Sept OR wick-apply herbicide (Trycera or Garlon
3a) to seedlings/short plants. Do not broadcast apply
foliar herbicide.
2.5 $ -
1 2021 Sept Ofd, OW
Follow-up woody control: Apply bud inhibitor (Krenite)
in Sept OR wick-apply herbicide (Trycera or Garlon
3a) to seedlings/short plants. Do not broadcast apply
foliar herbicide.
1.7 $ -
1 2021 Sept DF2
Follow-up woody control: Apply bud inhibitor (Krenite)
in Sept OR wick-apply herbicide (Trycera or Garlon
3a) to seedlings/short plants. Do not broadcast apply
foliar herbicide.
0.7 $ -
1 2021 Sept DF3
Follow-up woody control: Apply bud inhibitor (Krenite)
in Sept OR wick-apply herbicide (Trycera or Garlon
3a) to seedlings/short plants. Do not broadcast apply
foliar herbicide.
0.9 $ -
1 2021 Sept DW3
Follow-up woody control: Apply bud inhibitor (Krenite)
in Sept OR wick-apply herbicide (Trycera or Garlon
3a) to seedlings/short plants. Do not broadcast apply
foliar herbicide.
1.7 $ -
TOTAL -$
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 5
Work Specifications
Contacts
FMR: Karen Schik 651-329-4210 kschik@fmr.org.
Alternate: Betsy Daub: 651-900-9460 bdaub@fmr.org
City of Hastings: Cory Likes 480-6178. clikes@hastingsmn.gov
General
1. Contractor will notify FMR contact person EVERY time they plan to work on-site, at least 24-hours
in advance, and will discuss with FMR any intended divergence from the tasks outlined.
2. For all tasks, follow best management practices to minimize negative impacts including but not
limited to: soil compaction, rutting, and other soil disturbances; herbicide drift and non-target
impacts; disturbance to nesting birds and other wildlife.
3. Contractors must follow best management practices to avoid bringing weed-seed onto the site. All
equipment coming from another site must be cleaned prior to entering this site. Personal gear,
especially boots and laces, must be cleaned off before arriving at the project site. The contractor
shall dispose of material cleaned from equipment and clothing at a location determined by the land
manager (sealed container, covered truck, or wrap with tarp) and legally dispose of offsite.
4. Final payment may be withheld until a final field visit is made with FMR and contractor, and this
evaluation demonstrates that work meets the outlined specifications and performance.
Site Access
1. If needed, vehicle may drive on paved trail. No vehicles on un-paved trails.
Herbicide and Applicators
1. Contract vendors must have a current Minnesota Commercial Applicators License issued by the
Minnesota Department of Agriculture. At least one certified applicator must be on-site at all times
and supervising uncertified crew.
2. Weather Guidelines. All weather guidelines specified in the product label will be followed for
pesticide applications. Application supervisor and applicators are responsible for pesticide
coverage, placement, and efficacy.
3. Aquatic formula is required when applying within 100 feet of a wetland or water body.
4. The least persistent effective pesticides available will be used. Pesticides must be registered for the
specified use by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minnesota Department of
Agriculture (MDA). The safety of employees, the public, non-target organisms, and the
environment will be given full consideration in the selection and use of any pesticide.
5. Use, storage, handling, or disposal of a pesticide, rinsate, pesticide container, or pesticide
application equipment must be done in a manner (M.S. 18B.07 subd.21):
a) consistent with labeling
b) that doesn’t endanger humans, and damage agricultural products, food, livestock, fish,
wildlife or beneficial insects
c) that will not cause unreasonable adverse effects on the environment.
6. All treatment sites will be posted as specified by the pesticide label, and as required by state
guidelines.
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 6
7. Records of pesticide application must be completed for each use and records maintained according
to state guidelines. Records must be submitted at the time of invoicing.
8. Do not use neonicotinoid insecticides.
9. Conduct spot treatments rather than broadcast applications whenever possible.
10. Choose bio-control over pesticides when available.
11. Ensure that crews recognize target species.
12. Spray in early morning or evening when bees and other pollinators are less active.
13. Avoid windy days (wind speeds less than 10 mph) and ensure a rain-free period of at least 3 hrs
after application.
14. Monitor pesticides for dispersal by drift, erosion, or runoff.
15. Prevent herbicide drift to non-target plants. Use wick application or physical barriers where
needed.
16. Minimize impacts to spring ephemerals.
17. DNR Operational Order 59 (Pesticides and Pest Control) and other appropriate state guidelines
must be followed when using pesticides on all lands and waters, regardless of ownership.
Tree & Shrub Control
1. Species to control include buckthorn, Tartarian honeysuckle, Siberian elm, black locust, mulberry,
Amur maple, peashrub, Scotch pine, and any other species not native to Minnesota that are
considered invasive.
2. Stem size: Only cut stems that are large enough to be stump-treated - about 1/2"
diameter and larger at the base. Do not cut whip-size stems that will not be treated
unless otherwise directed. The circle to the right is ½” diameter. It is essential that
ONLY stems that will be treated are cut. Small stems should not be cut. Contractor will be
responsible to meet 95% effectiveness of cut & treated stumps.
3. Cutting method: Cut stems as close to the ground as possible. Person cutting must also treat
stumps. To minimize misses, cut no more stems than can be easily remembered. Then stop and
treat. Exceptions may apply – consult first with FMR.
4. Dye: Please use dye with herbicide so contractor and FMR can see what was treated.
5. Herbicide application: Use dauber applicator for stump treating, unless pre-approved by FMR.
Foam applicator is desired for foliar application.
6. Herbicide type: Garlon 3a, or glyphosate or similar (e.g. Trycera) preferred unless otherwise
approved by FMR. Oil-based herbicide is not permitted unless prior approved by FMR.
7. Brush disposal: Where chipping is allowed, some chip can be blown back in the woods, but must
spread around and not exceed 3” deep. A few brush piles (up to 5 for the entire park) can be left
for wildlife habitat. Pile size about 10’x8’, up to 6 ft tall. Piles should be interior, not near the trail.
Do not make habitat piles in MB or OFm1 units.
8. Brush burning: Where brush burning occurs. stack brush in openings where heat will not damage
standing tree trunks or branches. Avoid making brush piles where native woodland vegetation is
well established. Seek disturbed areas, non-native vegetation or stumps of cut brush/trees. To
minimize burn piles, brush can be stacked and burned at same time as cutting if conditions for
burning are suitable. Otherwise burn piles in winter.
Forest management practices to protect pollinators & control erosion
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 7
• Contractors must follow MN State BMPs for pollinators
https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/natural_resources/npc/bmp_contract_language.pdf
• Avoid broadcast spraying of pesticides when other effective means of control are available;
encourage the use of spot treatments
• When managing for legacy elements (patches within a treatment area that retain native plant
community representation), select areas to include as many plants as possible that produce
pollen and nectar
• Minimize impact to spring ephemerals
• Retain standing dead and downed logs where possible to serve as nesting habitat for bees, as
well as feeding habitat for beetle and hoverfly pollinators whose larvae are saproxylic.
• When clearing brush on a slope, use trunks of larger brush or small trees (e.g. 4 to 6-inch
diameter), laid horizontally across the slope to help reduce erosion. Logs should be minimum
length of 4 feet, longer is better.
Forestry Mowing
1. Unless otherwise discussed with FMR, forestry mowing will take place on firm ground after fall
dormancy of native plants. If any rutting occurs, mower must stop immediately. Ruts must be
repaired.
2. Mower must reach the surface of the ground, preferably lightly scuffing the surface to better
reach the root collars of buckthorn and honeysuckle.
3. Mower should target non-native invasive woody plants and as much as possible avoid native
woody plants.
4. Mower must go back and forth to thoroughly shred the woody stems, leaving no stumps or
punji sticks.
5. Mower should likewise leave well-chipped debris, not large woody chunks, long branches etc.
6. Mowing should take place on level terrain or gentle slopes only.
Prescribed burning
1. Burn boss:
a. Subcontractor will provide evidence of qualifications of burn boss, including training,
experience (years and number of burns), and history (any escapes or other burn incidents).
b. Burn boss has led burns of similar complexity with similar fuel types
c. Burn boss will be onsite the duration of the running fire.
2. Training:
• Crew must be trained and have current certification (S130-S190)
3. Burn plan:
a. Must prepare a DNR approved burn plan (use DNR template).
b. Submit burn plan to FMR and any local officials by February 15 for spring burns, or
September 1 for fall burns.
4. Permits: Obtain all necessary permits and other arrangements, notifications and safety measures
for burning and related activities.
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 8
5. Neighbor notifications: Important: All immediately adjacent business and residences, as well as
other neighbors within at least ¼ mile of the burn must be notified by flyers at least 2 days prior to
burn and not more than 3 weeks.
6. Site access: Vehicle access locations will be identified in the burn plan AND a vehicle will be
available to access all parts of the burn site.
7. Water: Subcontractor will ensure an adequate water supply is available at the site at all times for
the duration of the burn and mop-up. Water tank on a mobile vehicle shall be available at the site
during the burn.
8. Communications: all crew have radios or similar means of communication for the entire burn
duration.
9. Smoke: Avoid winds that will heavily smoke neighbors, nearby roads, or other hazards. Check
smoke conditions regularly during burn. Be prepared to shut the burn down, if necessary.
10. Mop-up: Crew stays until all mop-up is complete.
11. Day After burn: A follow-up site visit the day after the burn is required. Contractor will identify to
FMR who will return and what time.
12. Documentation: Contractor will submit to FMR a brief follow-up report, (report form attached),
that will include weather conditions during the burn, burn results, unexpected events, deviations
from the plan etc, as well as conditions of next-day follow-up. Report will be submitted to FMR as
soon as possible or within 10-days of the burn.
13. For any incident occurrence - notify the City of Hastings and FMR contacts immediately.
Performance Standards
For each of the parameters below, work will be considered acceptable when the minimal outcomes
and standards listed are met. If work is considered not acceptable, contractor will take corrective
measures to achieve the standards. FMR retains the right to withhold payment until tasks are
completed to acceptance standards.
Exotic woody control
Acceptance Standard for cut/stump treat
§ By May 2022, there is no more than 5% coverage of invasive woody shrubs ½ inch diameter
(missed stems) or resprouts.
§ If resprouting and/or missed stems exceeds 5%, contractor will cut and treat misses or
resprouts for no additional charge.
Acceptance Standard for follow-up stem treatment (foliar application)
§ By May 2022, at least 70% of the foliar treated stems have been effectively killed.
§ Follow up treatment has had minimal non-target impacts – 90% of herbaceous vegetation is
intact.
Acceptance Standard for forestry mow:
• Punji sticks are minimal (less than 6” high, less than 10” of stems).
• Mowed debris is mostly shredded, with minimal branches or trunks; no debris larger than
3 ft long.
• Native trees and shrubs are NOT mowed or damaged.
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 9
Prescribed burn
Acceptance Standard
§ Burn Plan was submitted to FMR and DNR contact by February 1 (spring burns) or Aug 15
(fall burns).
§ Fire effectively reached 60% of the vegetation for woodland, 75% for grassland.
§ A crew person checks the site the day following the burn, and verbally reports to FMR that
same day.
§ Burn Report is submitted to FMR within 10 days after burn.
§ If a burn is conducted in sub-optimal conditions without FMR’s agreement, and results do not
meet minimum standard, contractor agrees to re-burn for no additional charge.
Friends of the Mississippi River 1/31/20 10
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1/31/20 11
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1/31/20 12
PRESCRIBED BURN REPORT
Add a MAP showing actual area burned
Site Name Burn Date:
Contractor Company Burn Boss Burn Crew Number/type of vehicles on-site
Weather
Time Wind Dir. Wind Spd Temp Rel Hum Hvy Fuel Moist Comment
Forecasted Fire Weather
Observed weather
Observed Fire Behavior Acres Burned
Time Spread Rate (mph) Flame Lengths Scorch Ht Fuel type Planned ac Actual ac
Grass
Woodland
Wetland
Burn Summary: include difficulties, unexpected events, deviations from plan - e.g. weather changes, extensive
heavy fuel mop-up, neighbor issues, etc (If significant incident occurred submit separate Incident Report to FMR)
Post Burn Observations : were objectives met, what burned or did not
Recommendations (for next burn)
Post Burn - Next Day Site Visit
Name:
Date: Results:
Burn Boss Signature
Name:
Title: Date:
Please email/mail this completed form to FMR within 10-days of the burn date: kschik@fmr.org
Karen Schik/ Friends of the Mississippi River/ 101 East Fifth St, Ste 2000, St Paul, MN 55101
Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program
Insurance Requirements
Grantees are required to carry insurance that meets or exceeds the requirements of the landowner
whose land they will be working on. Insurance requirements for working on State lands are listed below.
For all other lands, grantees should discuss insurance with the landowner/ land manager during their
project meeting and follow their requirements. Proof of insurance will be required prior to a grant being
encumbered. The cost of insurance is eligible for pre-award match if it is directly related to the project.
Grant funds may not be used to pay for insurance. Applicants should investigate the cost of insurance
before submitting an application.
1. General Insurance Requirements
a. The grantee must submit a copy of the Certificate of Insurance to the Grant Program Staff
before the grant agreement is executed. The industry standard Accord form is the typical
Certificate of Insurance provided.
b. All policies and certificates shall provide that the policies shall remain in force and effect
throughout the term of the service being provided.
c. Policy shall provide the State of Minnesota with thirty (30) days advance written notice of
cancellation.
d. The policy shall be primary insurance available to the State of Minnesota with respect to any
claim arising out of providing service to the State.
e. The State of Minnesota must be endorsed as an additional insured on the general liability
coverage, addressed as follows:
State of Minnesota
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
f. It is strongly recommended that all contractors meet the same insurance requirements as the
grantee. Contractors must file evidence of insurance with the grantee.
g. If Grantee is self-insured, a Certificate of Self-Insurance must be attached.
h. The Insurance Companies must have an “AM Best” rating of A- (minus), Financial Size
Category (FSC) VII or better, and be authorized to do business in the State of Minnesota.
i. The Grantee’s insurance company waives its right to assert the immunity of the State as a
defense to any claims made under said insurance.
2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
a. Statutory Compensation Coverage
b. Coverage B – Employer’s Liability with limits of not less than:
i. $100,000 Bodily Injury by Disease per Employee
ii. $500,000 Bodily Injury by Disease Aggregate
iii. $100,000 Bodily Injury by Accident
The grantee shall maintain insurance to cover claims which may arise from operations under this
contract, whether such operations are by grantee or contractor or by anyone directly or indirectly
employed under the grant.
An Umbrella or Excess Liability insurance policy may be used to supplement the grantee’s policy
limit to satisfy the full policy limits required by the contract.
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Insurance Requirements Rev. 7/15
The grantee and subcontractors, if any, must provide Workers’ Compensation insurance for
all employees, in accordance with the statutory requirements of the State of Minnesota,
including Coverage B, Employer’s Liability.
If MN Statutes 176.041 exempts Grantee from Workers’ Compensation insurance or if the
Grantee has no employees in the State of Minnesota, Grantee must provide a written
statement, signed by the authorized signer of the contract, stating the qualifying
exemption that excludes Grantee from MN Workers’ Compensation requirements.
The statement must also include “If during the course of the contract the Grantee becomes
eligible for Workers’ Compensation, the Grantee will comply with the Workers’
Compensation Insurance requirements and provide the State of Minnesota with a
certificate of insurance.”
3. Automobile Liability Insurance
Minimum Limits of Liability:
a. Passenger vehicle such as car, van or pickup truck: Minnesota State No-fault
b. If vehicle is towing anything or is a commercial vehicle, the combined single limit shall
be the same as required under the General Liability Insurance, below.
c. Coverages required:
i. Any Auto
ii. All Owned Auto
iii. Scheduled Auto
iv. Hired Auto
v. Non-owned Auto
d. The grantee and any contractors shall maintain insurance to cover liability arising out of
the operations, use, or maintenance of all owned, non-owned and hired automobiles.
Evidence of contractor insurance shall be filed with the grantee.
4. Pollution Insurance
a. Required Automobile Insurance when hauling hazardous substances, materials, or
pollutants:
The following endorsement to the Vendor’s/Contractor’s Auto policy is required to
cover liabilities, i.e., clean up monitoring, testing, stemming from pollutant discharge,
release, spills, while being transported if an accident occurs:
i. CA 9948 – Pollution Liability – Broadened Coverage Endorsement (or
equivalent), and
ii. MCS 90 Endorsement (based on commodity transported and the type of
vehicle transporting it):
o For-hire (in Interstate or foreign commerce) with a gross vehicle
weight rating of 10,000 or more pounds – Commodity Transported –
Property (nonhazardous)
o For-hire and private (in Interstate, foreign, or intrastate commerce)
with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 or more pounds –
Commodity Transported – Hazardous substances, as defined in 49
CFR 171.8, transported in cargo tanks, portable tanks or hopper-type
vehicles with capacities in excess of 3,500 water gallons or in bulk.
o For-hire and private (in Interstate or foreign commerce, in any
quantity; or in Intrastate commerce) with a gross vehicle weight
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Insurance Requirements Rev. 7/15
rating of 10,000 or more pounds – Commodity Transported – Oil
listed in 49 CFR 172.101; hazardous waste, hazardous materials and
substances defined in 49 CFR 171.8 and listed in 49 CFR 172.101.
o For-hire and private (in Interstate or foreign commerce, in any
quantity) with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000
pounds – Commodity Transported – Any quantity of Division 1.1, 1.2,
or 1.3 material, any quantity of a Division 2.3, Hazard A, or Division
6.1, Packing Group 1, Hazard A material; or highway route controlled
quantities of a Class 7 material as defined in 49 CFR 173.403.
o Requires Full Pollution Insurance:
i. Aerial applications of pesticides - if a vehicle is required to carry pesticides to
the airplane, they will need additional automobile endorsement: CA 9948
Endorsement – Pollution Liability – Broadened coverage
ii. Old Riverboat at Itasca due to potential risk if vessel were to sink.
o Requires only $500,000 Pollution Insurance:
i. Broadcast ground spraying of pesticides with the use of a:
• skidder
• tractor
• dozer
• ATV
o May Waive Pollution Insurance:
i. Pesticide cut-stump applications
ii. Ground spot spraying
iii. Spraying individual plants
iv. Backpack spraying
o Spraying of animal browse repellents: Animal browse repellents are
considered by MN Department of Agriculture as a pesticide but most
use non-chemical means of repelling with application on individual
plants.
5. General Liability Insurance
Minimum Limits of Liability:
a. $1,500,000 - Per Occurrence
b. $1,500,000 - Annual Aggregate
c. Coverages required:
• Premises and Operations Bodily Injury and Property Damage
• Personal & Advertising Injury
• Blanket Contractual
• Products and Completed Operations
• State of Minnesota and it agencies, officers, and employees (State) endorsed as
an Additional Insured
• Other (Note: please list, i.e., pollution liability, water or aircraft, chemical liability)
o Aircraft liability limits - $1,500,000 single limit for each occurrence for bodily
injury and property damage combined and $100,000 single limit for each
occurrence for aircraft passenger liability.
d. Contractor’s Pollution Liability (or equivalent) required for any project with herbicide
application or chemical treatment; coverage endorsed on another form of liability
coverage, such as general liability or professional errors and omissions policy.
i. Pollution Insurance minimum amounts are as follows:
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Insurance Requirements Rev. 7/15
o $2,000,000 per claim
o $2,000,000 Annual Aggregate
ii. The following coverages shall be included:
o Policy will include non-owned disposal site Pollution Liability
o Policy will not include a lead exclusion
It is a requirement of the State that coverage for the period of the Contract will be maintained
for a period of no less than three (3) years for claims-made coverage or (1) year for occurrence
coverage, after the expiration of the Contract.
Name the State, its officers and employees, and CPV members, their officers and employees, as
additional insureds with respect to services provided, except with respect to an equivalent (to
Contractor's pollution) pollution liability coverage endorsed on a professional errors and
omissions policy as approved by the State.
6. Insurance May Be Modified Under the Following Conditions
a. Government Agencies and Utility Companies
Insurance may be waived on all contractual services performed by government agencies and
utility companies provided the following clause is included on all contracts over $500. “Each
party agrees that it will be responsible for its own acts and omissions and the results thereof to
the extent authorized by law and will not be responsible for the acts of the other party and
results thereof. The State’s liability will be governed by the provisions of the Minnesota Tort
Claims Act, Minnesota Statutes, Section 3.736, and other applicable law.”
b. Other Modifications
i. Work involving only hand or small power equipment:
• Insurance Required: Workers’ compensation and minimum state no-fault auto
insurance.
• This includes projects that are labor intensive with no equipment involved except
transportation of crews or hand equipment.
• Possible activities: Site cleanup, seed harvest, hand planting of trees, shrubs or
other plants, hand timber stand work, bud capping, hand herbicide application.
• Beaver trapping
ii. Remote area work:
• Remote area defined: Areas where public contact is unlikely, no generally traveled
public roads are adjacent to the area, and no recreation area or area where
members of the public would be is adjacent to the area. The State Land Manager
must confirm that the project site and/or timing of the work qualify it as a remote
area.
• Insurance Required: Workers’ compensation and minimum state no-fault auto
insurance
• Possible activities: Farming operation work such as mowing, plowing, shearing,
disking, and mechanical tree planting.
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PRC Commission Memorandum
To: PRC Commissioners
From: Chris Jenkins, Parks & Recreation Director
Date: February 11, 2020
Item: Department Updates
2019 Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Program: In 2019, the City of Hastings again solicited
discounted pricing for the treatment of ash trees to prevent and slow the spread of Emerald Ash Borer
in Hastings. Rainbow TreeCare was once again selected as the preferred vendor as they offered the
best pricing for residents and have an outstanding record working here in Hastings as well as many
other communities. Rainbow TreeCare has been the preferred vendor since the program began in
2017.
During the 2019 treatment season, RTC protected 456 ash trees in Hastings, bringing the total number
of ash tree treatments to 1,307 for private trees in the past 3 years. This combined with the nearly 500
treatments the Parks & Recreation Department has completed brings the total to just over 1,800
treatments performed in 3 years. It is important to note that residents and commercial properties in
Hastings are using other vendors to perform EAB treatments, however we do not have a method to
collect that data.
The bottom line: Hastings is doing a great job protecting ash trees from Emerald Ash Borer! The
effort must continue in 2020 and future years to continue protecting Hastings’ Urban Forest from
EAB. Encourage every property owner to learn what trees are on their property and within the
boulevard, and encourage them to be proactive in protecting ash trees against EAB.
City Forester: We will soon have a new face working in our department, TJ Lucas has been hired as
the new City Forester (Parkskeeper/Forester is the actual position), and he will begin his time with us
on Tuesday, February 18th, 2020.
TJ brings a wealth of knowledge to the City, with many years working as a consulting arborist with a
reputable tree care company based in the Twin Cities. TJ also has relevant experience in park
maintenance that will serve him well in his new position. We are looking forward to bringing TJ on
board, getting him acclimated to Hastings and letting him get to work!
People Movement Plan: The City recently accepted a $35,000 grant and began work on a people
movement plan (similar in nature to a bicycle/pedestrian plan). The grant was awarded by the
Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) program administered by Dakota County.
The City has hired HKGI as a consultant to lead this planning effort. To date, the Steering Committee
has conducted a meeting to kick the project off, and staff will be meeting with HKGI to tour the
trail/sidewalk system here in Hastings later this week.
The overall goal of this planning effort is to understand how residents currently move about town
utilizing the trails and sidewalks, barriers to efficient movement, gaps in the system, and setting a
prioritized list of improvement/enhancement projects for future implementation.
As a part of this planning effort, this Commission, as well as targeted stakeholder groups and user
groups will be invited to participate and encouraged to provide input. We are excited to launch this
planning effort and encourage residents to get involved and provide input however they can. To that
end, a project webpage will be hosted on the City’s website, which will occur within the next couple of
weeks, and there will be online input gathering as well. Please stay tuned and encourage residents to
participate when the opportunity arises.
2020 Trail Projects: There are a couple in different categories, but both projects are positive for
Hastings.
• Budget CIP Trail Project: this project will replace the asphalt trail along General Sieben Drive
between 15th Street and Hwy 55. This trail segment was rated as one of the poorest surfaces
within the trail system and in dire need of replacement. Staff are currently working to develop
a scope of work and develop materials to bid out the project.
• MRRT Project: I’ve discussed this project a time or two with Commission in the past, but the
City has now formally approved the Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County so that
County funding provided for the work can be used. This project will reconstruct 3,300 feet of
trail along the Mississippi River near the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) Lock and Dam,
and within Jaycee Park. Along with reconstruction, crack repair along the whole MRRT will
be completed to the greatest degree possible within the funding allocation of $216,700.00.
Staff will be soliciting pricing information from qualified contractors in the very near future.
Isabel Park Master Plan: this budgeted master planning effort is beginning. I have discussed the
scope of the project with a consulting firm, and am awaiting their proposal. The intent for this
planning effort is to intently evaluate Isabel Park, its function, its uses and its future for the next 20+
years. The community as a whole as well as the surrounding neighborhood will be actively engaged in
the planning effort, and we are very much looking forward to this effort! Again, encourage residents
to get involved in this planning effort, even if it isn’t near their home, this is a park within Hastings
that provides an outlet for recreation for the whole community!
Vermillion Linear Park Restoration Work: Phase 3 work will begin in 2020. This work will
primarily consist of restoring 27 acres of low quality grasslands into high quality prairie habitat. The
acreage includes the ACOE spillway which parallels the Vermillion River between Hwy 47 and Hwy
61. This is a large tract of land to convert to prairie and will be a great benefit to the many species of
wildlife that live in or visit this area. A conversion to a prairie habitat will also serve to enhance water
quality through the installation of deep rooting, native grass species. This continues to be a great
project for our local environment and the residents of Hastings!