8.1 PRSR 12-11-2019
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
8.1
Agenda Section
Discussion Item
Meeting Date
December 11, 2019
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
Alba Ridge Park and Oxbow Park Properties
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discussion of Alba Ridge Park and Oxbow Park properties.
Background/Discussion
Alba Ridge Park and Oxbow Park have recently been brought to our attention with issues requiring staff
attention. Both parks are undeveloped and acquired primarily for open space with no development or
future uses planned. Neither park is mentioned in the 2015 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Alba Ridge Park was purchased by the city in 2006 as a means to acquire 20-acres of dense woods, prairie
and wetlands in the northern part of the city. We have continued issues with the ditches and beavers
requiring time and resources for trappers this past summer/fall to trap beavers. The sod farmers
upstream of the park have complained about continued damming and the increased water levels
damaging their property/sod. Recently, beavers have returned again to the ditch traversing the northern
boundary. The trapper will return again this month to trap and relocate the pesky beavers and destroy the
dam for the third time this year.
We have received a neighbor complaint regarding Oxbow Park of hunters parking on the street and using
the park to access the William H. Houlton Conservation Area (WHHCA). It has been suggested that this
park has become an access arm for the WHHCA. The 2.7-acre park was purchased with park dedication
monies in 2003. The Commission chose the name Oxbow Park due to the parks location adjacent to the
Mississippi River. Staff feels this park could be easily assimilated into the WHHCA.
Financial Impact
Alba Ridge is one of the few parks in our park system that could be re-sold by the city since gifting or
park dedication funds were not involved.
Attachments
Alba Ridge Park original concept plan
Alba Ridge Park aerials
Oxbow Park aerials