7.2. PRSR 07-14-2010Item: 7.2.A.
MEMORANDUM
Kiver
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Steve Benoit, Recreation Manager
DATE: June 28"', 2010
SUBJECT: Great Northern Trail Horseback Riding
At the June 9~' Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, discussion was held regarding
horseback riding on the Great Northern Trail. Concern has arisen from pedestrians who
utilize the trail in conjunction with horseback riders. The Commission directed staff to
conduct a survey of other agencies in how horseback riding is addressed in their
organizations.
Staff contacted four organizations that offer horseback riding in their facilities including the
Anoka County Parks and Recreation Deparanent, Washington County Parks and Recreation
Department, Three Rivers Park District, and the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources. Following are results of the survey:
• All agencies stated they generally do not have horseback riding occur on paved trails.
The only exception is the Three Rivers Park District that has one 100 foot section of
paved trial that horseback riders utilize for accessing other parts of the horseback
riding trail system.
• The majority of joint uses with horseback riding trails are for hiking. The only
exception is Washington County which has one trail where mountain biking is also
allowed. These joint uses are on turf trails.
• The concern expressed for permitting horseback riding on paved trails where other
uses such as biking and rollerblading occur is safety. Biking and rollerblading on
paved trails can occur at a higher rate of speed than on turf trails which can disturb
horses and possibly cause an injury.
Staff is looking for feedback from the Commission whether to continue to monitor use
patterns or pursue guidelines that would modify trail usage. One possible option to adjust
trail usage is to designate specific days and times for horseback riding and other activities. A
second option is to restrict horseback riding on the trial.
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