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MINUTES OF THE PARK COMMISSION MEETING OF MAY 4, 1993 <br /> INTRODUCTION - CONT. <br /> Chair Flint stated he has been the Chair of the Park Commission for <br /> the past three years and has been with the Commission for <br /> approximately 6 years . He is an attorney. <br /> (#2) LOWRY WOODS - NATURE Conservancy <br /> Chair Flint explained that the Nature Conservancy may be interested <br /> in conveying to Orono the Lowry Woods Nature Preserve if Orono <br /> agrees to maintain the area in its natural state . He noted that he <br /> and Wilson have conveyed to the Nature Conservancy that purchasing <br /> the property is not an option for the City . <br /> Wilson explained the area is a segment of a maple/basswood forest , <br /> but is too small for the Nature Conservancy to maintain for <br /> specific species . As part of their strategic plan , they are <br /> divesting themselves of many of their small parcels . <br /> Chair Flint inquired about access to the area. <br /> Gerhardson reported due to current development of property to the <br /> east and south , the City has required that access be provided to <br /> the Lowry Woods from Bayside Road . <br /> Wilson noted there are many wildflowers on the property. <br /> Chair Flint noted this property does not abut the Luce Line Trail . <br /> He noted that the property is wooded . It is high land on the south <br /> sloping northward to a field area near the Luce Line . He said <br /> access to the Luce Line could be obtained with an easement over the <br /> parcel to the north . <br /> McMillan questioned the City' s obligation if the property were <br /> donated and asked about walking trails . <br /> Wilson said she felt the Conservancy would insist that the area <br /> not be developed and must be maintained as natural land . She did <br /> feel they would not object to walking trails through the property . <br /> White asked if the area is fenced , and questioned the cost of <br /> maintenance and the necessity of such to disallow neighboring <br /> properties to use the property as a parking area. <br /> Wilson noted it is partially fenced . <br /> Chair Flint said the City has many parks abutting residential areas <br /> with no fencing to prohibit its use and the City has not <br /> experienced problems to his knowledge. He suggested they add this <br /> area to their scheduled park tour . <br /> 2 <br />