04-22-2019 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Big Island Nature Park Management Plan November 2011 ____________________________________________________________________________ 25 posting, sound amplification, motorized vehicles and bicycles, engine-powered models and toys, overnight camping, etc. - limitations on animals and pets, hunting & fishing, etc. - prohibitions on vandalism, disturbance of natural resources, interference with Park property (much of this is from the Conservation Easement language) - enforcement provisions With regard to formal or large group events, the ordinance specifically prohibits the reservation or designation of facilities for exclusive use by any individual group or organization. Removal of nearly all buildings on the property has reduced the likelihood of requests for exclusive use; however, special events, private events or large assemblies that meet certain criteria established by City Code will be required to obtain a Special Event Permit. Recreational Use and Visitor Services Recommendations 1) An assessment of the need for additional public boat docks in the future should be based on actual visitor counts and usage patterns in the Park. The existing concrete bulkheads should remain in place to allow for easy installation if a determination is made to add docks. 2) Consideration should be given to the installation of a dedicated seasonal fishing dock. 3) The existing trail system should be reviewed to determine whether and at what locations improvements or modifications may be necessary to increase connectivity, improve safety, manage erosion, and allow for enhanced handicap accessibility. 4) Methods and advisability of marking the beach and swimming areas to avoid user conflicts should be considered. 5) An assessment of the physical condition and potential uses of the existing entry portal building should be conducted to determine whether that structure should be renovated or removed. Absent that entry building, a kiosk or some method should be employed to provide visitors information about the Park near the main docks. 6) Active recreational facilities such as playground equipment, sports fields and the like are not appropriate in the context of Big Island Nature Park and should not be considered. 7) Because informal picnicking is one of the intended uses of the Park, consideration should be given to the development and maintenance of grassy picnic sites within the defined Recreation Area, but the provision of benches or picnic tables should be avoided unless they can be made vandal-proof. 8) Interpretive, directional and regulatory signage should be developed and installed throughout the Park at appropriate locations. Signage should be consistent in style to create a sense of uniformity and cohesiveness to the Park. 9) A methodology and ongoing program should be established for identifying who is using the Park, how they are using it, what areas receive the most use, and to identify the goals and expectations of visitors. This information will be valuable in future management and planning for the Park.