09-05-2017 Park Commission Packet

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In order to achieve the level of management needed to operate Big Island Park successfully, the City has begun the process of formulating and adopting a directed Management Plan for the Park. The Plan's draft Vision Statement establishes the following Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives for Big Island Nature Park: Mission The mission of OrODO's Big Island Park is to provide safe and enjoyable passive recreational and educational opportunities for visitors while preserving the natural, cultural and physical resources of the site. Vision Big Island Park on Lake Minnetonka is a serene natural refuge on an island surrounded by an intensely used recreational lake. Accessible only by water, it is characterized by open and wooded hills, wetland areas, and steep bluffs. Historically, a succession of diverse recreational uses has been accommodated on the property, and the remnants of those uses add to the character and mystique of the site. Through mutual collaboration between the City of Orono and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Big Island Park will be preserved, maintained and improved as a passive recreational, ecological and educational asset to the Lake Minnetonka community and its visitors. Overall Goal for the Park Achieve an appropriate and responsible balance between the recreational use, protection and interpretation of the biological, physical and cultural resources of the park. Specific Goals and Objectives/Policies Goal 1. Manage the Park in a manner consistent with its identity as a Natural Passive Recreation Area The City will: • Maintain the Park as a nature and wildlife preserve within the guidelines established in the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Conservation Easement while encouraging and allowing only minimal impact recreational and educational uses • Provide only facilities and amenities that are compatible with the level of recreational and educational activities intended for the Park • Provide an inviting impression of the natural character of the Park by planning and implementing shoreline and point -of -access improvements, regular maintenance and provision of tasteful directional or informational signage at strategic locations • Protect the natural scenic quality of the Park as viewed from internal and external locations • Define and constantly reinforce the unique character of the Park with every decision and communication related to the Park City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 4E-35