09-06-2016 Park Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday, July 5, 2016 6:30 o'clock p.m. Brenda Johnson stated within the work session notes was a recommendation to go through the attorney's files to identify important historical information on Saga Hill. Johnson stated that review has been started and that included in the information was an environmental assessment as well as an inventory of birds and wildlife and plant life. Johnson stated one of the goals of the park is to preserve it for habitat and that the Park Commission should think about how to restore some of habitat rather than simply preserve it. Johnson noted the inventory was done in 1995 and that it was divided into upland, meadow, basswood/maple forest, and ravine areas. Johnson stated the Park Commission could think about updating it and that some members of the Saga Hills Preservation Society expressed interest in having an inventory done. Johnson stated one of the interesting things contained in the inventory was the fact that the great gray borned owl was mentioned, which is a rare bird to this area. Soil sampling was also done as part of the environmental assessment. Bryce Johnson stated the Western Hennepin Historical Museum also has a large file on the park and that it mentions the woodland people. Brenda Johnson stated the woodland dugout was near North Arm. Meyers commented it will be nice to perhaps overlay some of the information on the maps Brenda Johnson stated the next step will be to review all the information as well as interview John Palmer, who lived next to Saga Hill. Johnson indicated she has been in contact with him and that he is excited about being interviewed. Johnson stated he has lived there since 1948 and that he has taken pictures throughout that time. Johnson indicated she, Julie, and Bryce will continue to go through the information. Bryce Johnson noted there is a question about whether that is really Saga Hill. Johnson stated the name Saga Hill actually came from a Norwegian settlement and that it is believed it meant the land up from that settlement. Later on the name Saga Hill was extended to the whole area, with the park being located at the highest part of the land. Meyers stated the next step will be to get an accurate map from Bolton and Menk and then have a workshop to discuss what should be done. Meyers stated the Historical Society could be invited and Mr. Palmer could do his slide presentation. Brenda Johnson asked whether they could have the intern work with them to identify the areas to be cleared. Edwards noted the intern from Bolton & Menk is not a forester and is a civil engineering student. Edwards stated if the Park Commission is interested in hiring a forester, it would be more expensive. Meyers requested Brenda contact Mr. Palmer to see whether he would be interested in going out with Bolton and Menk and whether he can attend the work session. Meyers requested Bryce also contact the Historical Society to see whether they would be interested in attending the Park Commission's work session. Page 7 of 9