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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br />MEETING HELD ON MARCH 3l, 1997 <br />CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING <br />• SPRING HILL GOLF CLUB <br />Dick Krueger asked the Commission to discuss the possibility of saving the entire Big <br />Woods as a park preserve. He feels this alternative should be studied. Krueger said the <br />ability to create a continuous Big Woods from Wolsfeld to Wood Rill is a one in a lifetime <br />opportunity. <br />Schroeder asked for comment from Fred Harris of the DNR. Harris indicated the <br />minimum standard for preserving a large parcel of land has been 40 acres but financially <br />difficult for most cities and preservation groups. He noted a land parcel smaller than 20 <br />acres is too small. He did indicate the SNA would assist an effort to preserve the Big <br />Woods. <br />Smith asked Harris to respond to what changes would occur to the Big Woods from the <br />i mpact of the golf cou r se outs i de o f the <br />rest canopy. Harris said the canopy opens up <br />the area to light resulting in a change in wildlife especially along the edge of the woods <br />and more shrubbery filling in underneath. He noted Buckthorn will colonize areas that are <br />opened up. <br />McMillan asked if there was any succession to the Big Woods. Harris indicated there is. <br />He noted oaks are not reproducing and maples are becoming more dominant. The natural <br />process changes as the trees age and die off. The woods become cooler and moister. <br />Crosby asked if the Big Woods impact will be approved. Lindquist informed him that the <br />Commissioners will have more information at the April 21 meeting after the commend <br />period ends for the EAW. <br />15 <br />