Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
2019-07-15 ENR Packet
AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Monday, July 15, 2019 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes: a. June 17, 2019 5. New Business a. Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan b. Environmental Purchasing Policy 6. Unfinished Business 7. Visitor Presentations 8. Commissioner Presentations 9. Staff Presentations a. GreenStep Cities —Step 5 Award b. Outreach Opportunities —2019 Park and Recreation Events C. Ramsey County Fair— July 10-July 14, 2019 d. Solar Power Hour— July 18, 2019 e. National Night Out—August 6, 2019 f. State Fair EcoExperience—August 29, 2019 g. Maplewood Nature Center Programs 10. Adjourn Agenda Item 4.a. MINUTES CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 17, 2019 Council Chambers, City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7 p.m. by Chair Redmond. 2. ROLL CALL Keith Buttleman, Commissioner Absent Joe Gould, Commissioner Present Mollie Miller, Vice Chair Absent Candace Okeson, Commissioner Present Ann Palzer, Commissioner # Present Ted Redmond, Chair Present Tom Sinn, Commissioner Absent Staff Present Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner Jeff Thomson, Community Development Director Jon Jarosch, Assistant City Engineer Meg Hannasch, Sustainability Intern 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Staff added Maplewood Trash and Recycling RFP to Staff Presentations. Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the agenda as amended. Seconded by Commissioner Gould. Ayes —All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Gould moved to approve the May 20, 2019, Environmental and Natural Resources Commission meeting minutes as submitted. Seconded by Commissioner Okeson. Ayes —All The motion passed. June 17, 2019 1 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes 5. NEW BUSINESS a. NPDES Phase II and MS4 Permit, 2018 SWPPP Annual Report i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall introduced the item. ii. Assistant City Engineer, Jon Jarosch gave the NPDES Phase II and MS4 Permit, 2018 SWPPP Annual Report and answered questions of the commission. The ENR Commission had the following questions and comments about the report: • How should residents drain their pools? We discussed the city requirement for dechlorinating the water first, and then draining the pool water into the yard so it filters into the lawn area. Pools should not be drained directly to a storm drain. The city should do some public education around pool draining right after the summer months. • How do residents learn about stormwater best practice grants that are available through the watershed district? The city has three watershed districts in its boundaries. All offer some form of cost sharing grant for residents to implement stormwater best management practices, such as a rain garden in their yard. The city should partner with the Watershed Districts and do some public education around the grant opportunities. • Is there a concern about residents washing cars in their driveway? It is better for the environment to take your car to a car wash where the water is filtered prior to entering the storm system. If residents wash cars at home, it is best to wash the car on the lawn so the water filters into the lawn area. The city should do some public education on tips for at home car washing. No action was required b. Community Development Director and Sustainability Intern Introductions i. Community Development Director, Jeff Thomson introduced himself to the commission. ii. Sustainability Intern, Meg Hannasch introduced herself to the commission. 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Community Food Assessment Follow Up —Caiti Pyrz, St. Paul — Ramsey County Public Health Intern i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall introduced Caiti Pyrz for the update on the Community Food Assessment Follow Up. ii. Caiti Pyrz, St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health Intern addressed the commission with an update on the Community Food Assessment and answered questions of the commission. The Maplewood CFA included recommendations for the City to improve food security and food access for the residents of Maplewood. Caiti Pyrz reviewed implementation strategies for moving those recommendations forward. Through her work with the County, Caiti is able to assist the City with a local food guide and supply the City with a list of local food resources. Caiti will present a draft of the guide at a future ENR meeting. June 17, 2019 2 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes 7. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS None present. 8. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS None. 9. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a. Maplewood Trash and Recycling RFP staff gave a brief update. b. Waterfest Follow Up — No Report— Meg gave an update on Waterfest which took place on June 1, 2019. C. Planning for Resilient Cities - June 20, 2019 at Roseville Oval Ice Skating Arena. d. Light It Up Maplewood! —July 4, 2019 4-10 p.m. (no report) e. Ramsey County Fair—July 10-July 14 free event (no report) f. National Night Out—August 6, 2019 (no report) more information to follow. g. Maplewood Nature Center Programs i. For more information contact the Maplewood Nature Center at (651) 249- 2170. 10. ADJOURNMENT Chair Redmond adjourned the meeting at 8:00 June 17, 2019 3 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Agenda Item 5.a. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date July 15, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Ann Hutchinson, Lead Naturalist PRESENTER: Ann Hutchinson, Lead Naturalist AGENDA ITEM: Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan Action Requested: ❑ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The Parks and Recreation System Master Plan recommends that the Nature Center complete a Master Plan. Recommended Action: No Action required. Discussion only. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ❑ No X Yes, the true or estimated cost of drafting the Master Plan was $50,000. Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: Park Improvement Funds Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ❑ Operational Effectiveness ✓ Community Inclusiveness ✓ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. A Nature Center Master Plan will help provide action strategies that will address immediate and future facility and staff needs, amenities, and programs. Background In September 2018 the City Council approved funding for the Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan. Consultants Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. (HKGi) were hired to develop the plan and facilitate the process. In November and December 2018, assessment meetings were held to gather input on the Nature Center Visitor Center building, trails, and programs. In February and March 2019 three vision meetings were held. An online and hard copy survey were made available with 258 people responding. On May 23, 2019, HKGi held an Open House at the Nature Center for everyone to review vision strategies and site concept plans. Ann Hutchinson, Lead Naturalist, will present a Power Point on the Final Draft of the Master Plan and ask for input from commissioners. The City Council will review the Master Plan on August 12, 2019. Attachments 1. Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan 2 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN I o Maplewood Nature Cente y Master Plan V� OERTEL June 2019Maplewcoc# ARCHITECTS Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN . F 11V 4 t n Acknowledgements: Maplewood Nature Center Staff Friends of Maplewood Nature Center ANCA Peer Group Members Maplewood City Council: Mayor Marylee Abrams Kathleen Juenemann Bryan Smith Sylvia Neblett Bill Knutson The Maplewood Parks & Recreation Commission: Craig Brannon Terri Mallet Rick Brandon Nikki Villavicencio Dorothy Molstad Kimii Porter Bruce Roman This plan was adopted by the City of Maplewood on June th,2019. 11 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN •� ,. � � .. �.-. ^� ,do- 4 CONTENTS 01 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................�. Historyand Background...........................................................................................2 Programming &the Current Role of the Nature Center in Maplewood......................5. NeedsAssessment...................................................................................................9 02 MASTER PLAN....................................................................................................15 Vision &Guiding Principles......................................................................................16 The Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan.............................................................17 Phasing of Physical Investments.............................................................................21 Buildings................................................................................................................23 03 IMPLEMENTATION........................................................................................... 25 Strategy................................................................................................................. 25 Costs......................................................................................................................26 Operational Action Items........................................................................................27 TABLE OF CONTENTS `S T , �� f f �- 1 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN ti The Nature Center's Visitor Center Building History & Background At 40 acres,Maplewood Nature Center(MNC)is"tiny but mighty,"and is looking to plan for the future.MNC was established in 1979 to provide natural history and environmental programs for the citizens of Maplewood. Owned and operated by the City of Maplewood,the Nature Center is part of rj,. the Parks and Recreation Department. The Nature Center has offered a diverse range of outdoor education and nature-based programming over the past 40 years,in addition to operating _ a Visitor Center and caring for the surrounding land.Nature Center program j` topics include a variety of natural history,environmental,recreational,and multi-cultural topics for all ages from preschool through adult.One full-time lead naturalist,two part-time naturalists and one part-time secretary make up the staff,with up to three very part-time seasonal naturalists and park maintenance support.Annual visitation averages about 9000-10,000 people, Maplewood Nature Centerstaffand volunteers not including trail use.The City owns several Neighborhood Preserves where the Nature Center does programming,outreach,and natural resource management. ` In 2017,the Nature Center made improvements to the building's siding,flooring,roofing,and amphitheater in order to address critical recommendations made in the City's 2015 Asset Detail Report.In 2018,CIP funds were to be made available for a new storage building;however,these 'r funds were diverted to the creation of a master plan,guided by the foresight of staff who understood that completing a master plan for the Nature Center before pursuing any additional improvements would ensure that x future investments are grounded in a strategic vision that guides the Nature Center's evolution over the next 20 years. �St< View from the Nature Center Trails CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 02 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN V Michael Lane ` {� r i• i res ► near Evar StreetAr .. Ips v • _ Ferndale and t Brand Street ,, Brand stet mk Visitor *^ Center ea A 1(— tit \4 - �., 7th - . Sterling and 7th Street 7th Street (Main Entrance) r - " : Figure 1.1 Maplewood Nature Center's 40-acre Site and Entrances hed Maintenanc Yard PIL, Amphi Entry • _ �. ems: '� i4 Parking Air- ` - - � Play Yard • { Figure 1.2 Main Entrance to Maplewood Nature Center 03 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Purpose of the Master Plan This master plan takes a comprehensive look at the Nature Center's operations and facilities,suggests updates or additions to programming and interpretation in order to address topical subjects,explores opportunities to make the Center more attractive to visitors and school groups,and offers dynamic,flexible,and adaptive ways for visitors to participate in outdoor education and explore Maplewood's many ecosystems. The master plan addresses maintenance and operations of the Nature Center and works to ensure that the facilities are not only adequate,but positioned g ppGE to meet the demands of the next 20 years efficiently and effectively. Nature Center Description MECH4NICAL Maplewood Nature Center is centrally located in Maplewood on East 7th o gAGS400M Street,west of Century Ave.The 40-acre preserve has four entrances,with o FMMENtS the main entrance off of 7th Street.The locations of the three neighborhood !7 entrances can be seen in Figure 1.1. The site,which operates as an outdoor learning laboratory,includes 1.5 miles of trails,a 600-foot floating boardwalk, 21 acres of wetland, 18 acres of woodland,observation decks,demonstration �'"M EN'S E�� R o gardens,and a picnic area with play yard. o STORPGE 0 Visitor Center ILE FECEWM 0 0 At 3,030 sf,Maplewood Nature Center's Visitor Center is the smallest in the Twin Cities Metro. The buildingincludes a classroom/exhibits ace,reception GRCE MEEo M p p GENERPIGFFlCE desk,staff offices,a meeting room,storage,and restrooms,as shown in FWI Figure 1.3.Staff are available Tuesday-Saturday from 8:30 am-4:30 pm year-round to offer educational materials,snowshoe rentals,and in-person _L___ F" resources for the public. Figure 1.3 Existing Visitor Center Layout Of Sy, 6 �? The Visitor Center's Exhibit Room Demonstration Gardens&Solar Panels CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 04 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Programming & the Current Role of MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER the Nature Center in Maplewood IMPACT An Environmental Resource for the City of Maplewood SPREADING KNOWLEDGE More than just a visitor center,Maplewood Nature Center's professional naturalists offer valuable guidance on issues around environmental sustainability,helping to craft meaningful policies and practices in other City Staff have led nearly 1,150 departments and forge partnerships with local organizations.Nature Center group presentations staff have provided support for many City programs,including: since 2014 (that's 230 per coordinating the Edgerton Community Garden year On average!) coordinating the City-wide buckthorn program • Maplewood rainwater garden projects • writing the Seasons insert for the Maplewood Living newsletter,which reaches up to 17,000 households 4 times/year • helping to facilitate Maplewood's Green Team The Greening qfMaplenoovd • assisting with the City's Tree Program ra•� .,i fi aha,,, x _ engaging in dozens of activities that assisted Maplewood in achieving � n 5-step recognition as a MN GreenStep City(only 12 of 3,761 Minnesota • ;q ° -1 Pia��, n��;ro• ��N� communities have achieved this) 1 o a« d • providing educational support for environmental ordinances(trash, nI... mLn,dao " ea „rertma�aW np recycling and organics,energy policies,tree disease management, sustainable landscape practices,stormwater management,pollinator e,Ed landscapes,urban agriculture,etc.) e, • participating in the noxious weed early detection monitoring program eta the Sustainable Maplewood Project 2050 Through these efforts and the development and administration of programs, - „- classes,and demonstrations on topics like stormwater management, pollinators,energy efficiency,and gardening,MNC's professional staff have helped Maplewood to stay ahead of trends and establish itself as a leader in environmental sustainability. City-wide Programming Maplewood Nature Center serves as the"program hub"for nature-based ` - education in the City,offering over 200 programs in 2018.It also functions rd _ as the gateway to Maplewood's Neighborhood Preserves,14 properties totalling over 300 acres,which offer visitors places to explore Maplewood's natural heritage.Nature Center staff coordinate remote programming and events throughout the City at the Preserves,local and regional parks,and at civic destinations(see Figure 1.4). Programs both at the Visitor Center and at 'x locations around Maplewood are available to suit environmental exploration '= at any age,from ECFE programs and naturalist-led birthday parties,to phenology walks,to demonstrations on sustainable practices for property owners. Gardeners at Edgerton Community Garden 05 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER PROGRAMS THROUGHOUT THE CITY ---o Seed Collection Programs Open Space Monitoring o Knapweed Control o Buckthorn Removal Co Rd 0- Kohlman ¢1'E� Joy Park ®Service Learning Hidden Creek tea.— o Halloween Programs Arbor Day Event Marsh Fisher's famsey \b o Da Cam Corner lbrary v Turkey Talk Program y p _ ,C RdC- -�I s h Spoon Lakes Four seasons 2 Bird and Fishing Programs Raingarden Plantings Coordinate Registration _ �3 Pa." Facilitate Plantingso Native Plantings Keller City Hall o Litter Pick Up - Provide Multi „n,,, {Lake campus o Buckthorn Removal Resources {{ Pa knhoo Raingarden Plantings 1 Rro t Plan and Implemento I r Fir dst tion Hwy s, Trout Gladstone Upgrades western `'— Community Events Broo Savanna Wakefield Community Eventso Hills Park =Community Building o Native Plantings&Maintenance The Prior Larpl nreur - Phalen r o Spring Cleanup Regional Nebraska Park I'll Park Service Learning .Jim's Prairie Service Learning Programs Raingarden Plantings Programs g g Raingarden Beaver Creek Water Fest Plantings Service Learning Programs MAPLEWOOD Program Hub o NATURE o Watershed Education o Nature Play Yard CENTER iorh sr. - o ECFE Programs o Demonstration Gardens Lions Park 0 Service Learning Programs o Family Programs o Frog Monitoring o School Groups o Bat Survey _ 94t Bird and Fishing Programs o Scout Groups o American Indian Traditional Games o Birthday Parties o Nature Walks in Hmong,Somali,&English o Service Learning Programs o Plant Bio Blitz Afton HeiCommunity Events o Room Rental o Foraging o Snowshoe Rental o Pollinator Programs o In-person Staff Resources o Nature Photography o Self-guided Tour Backpacks o Maple Syruping o Exhibits and Interpretation o FurTrade Programs r Buckthorn Events � Applewood Service Learning LEGEND Programs , f Hi9hwo ;- 0 Neighborhood Preserve Program Locations ( Carver• u b� • Community Preserve Program Locations Service Learning w_a a�e carver Birding Programs o a- t e Other Nature Center Program Locations Pollinator Programs o * Park Program Locations Fall Hikes o Bat Survey o City of Maplewood Boundary i Bio Blitz o 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 Miles Figure 1.4 Maplewood Nature Center Programs throughout the City �.. School Programs Nature Center Staff offer a written Environmental Education Curriculum ! 7 - Ilk I♦ aligned with K-12 science and STEM standards.Naturalists are degreed ;7'" I professionals in Natural Resources,Science,and Environmental Education. _,� Xr With nature as a unifying central topic,Maplewood Nature Center is able to engage a wide variety of groups of all ages,backgrounds,and ethnicities. l .., Nature Center programs draw attendees from diverse public elementary schools(47-84%students of color)including Carver,Castle,Cowern,Eagle Point,Edgerton,Harambee,Oakdale,Richardson,Skyview,Weaver,and Webster;and students from around the east Metro,including Higher Ground .� Academy,L'etoile du Nord French Immersion School,the American Indian _m Magnet School,Century College,and Harmony Adult Education.The Nature 5Fl Center provides students a welcoming and safe environment where they can come together to learn about nature,sharing fascination despite language barriers and different levels of exposure and comfort with the outdoors. Map ofMaplewoods Neighborhood Preserves CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 06 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Volunteering&Service Learning Projects MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER Maplewood Nature Center has a focus on service learning,volunteering,and IMPACT SHAPSHOT building individual stewardship that makes the Center stand out among other nature centers.Staff aims to provide hands-on learning opportunities VOLUNTEERING that enable people to build skills and make a positive impact in the community. Each year,the Nature Center connects hundreds of people to the world around them through volunteering events and service learning Nature Center staff trained projects. Staff identify projects throughout the City,organize events, and coordinated volunteers mobilize participants,gather and transport materials and equipment,offer that contributed more than training,supervise,and direct volunteers to accomplish the desired tasks. 2,100 hours of labor on Learning in the field and coming away from an activity with newfound projects across Maplewood knowledge and a sense of accomplishment has immeasurable benefits in 2018. to those involved and helps to build a conservation ethic that can last a These hours, calculated lifetime. Research shows that volunteering teaches new skills,expands social connections,and offers health and wellness benefits including boosted self- at the National Volunteer confidence,improved self-esteem,better reported life satisfaction,and stress Wage Estimate ($24.69Ihr), reduction. represent a gift of nearly Volunteerism also provides great economic value to communities.Volunteers $52,000 to the City last have 27%higher odds of finding a job after being out of workthan non- year! vounteers,and have a 51%greater chance of obtaining employment even without a high school diploma(Source:Minnesota Association of Volunteer b Administrators).In 2018,volunteers contributed more than 2,100 hours of labor on projects across Maplewood. Service learning groups combine learning about the value and ecology of Maplewood's many natural areas with a service project.Regular participants include Century College biology classes,Scout Groups,elementary classrooms,middle schools,high school seniors,honors societies,church groups,summer Junior Volunteers(ages 10-14),and corporate groups. Countless staff hours are spent preparing for and coordinating projects in order to make these experiences possible. Projects and programs include: -- » Native plantings&maintenance » Tree plantings » Prairie seed collection Service Learning at Edgerton Community Garden » School program trail guide » Buckthorn and other invasive plant monitoring and removal » Trail clearing » Raingarden plantings and maintenance » Frog monitoring » Monarch tagging » Bluebird monitoring » Prep and cleanup at Edgerton Community Garden » Nature Center trail monitoring » Open space monitoring Century College Program Participants 07 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN INDIVIDUAL OLU TEE SU L VOLUNTEERS Individual volunteers are interviewed, Do not require background background checked, and trained to: checks or special training: ® Implement Nature Center programs and Monitor the neighborhood events preserves (walk the trails, ® Maintain trails, children's play yard, report issues, and pick up demonstration gardens, and exhibits litter) ® Provide receptionist work and online Perform court-ordered service program publicity Attend public Nature Center ® Care for the live display animals programs with a service component (weed native ® Document Citizen Science observations gardens, remove buckthorn, (bluebird monitoring, frog monitoring, spring cleanup) invasive plan patrol, iNaturalist, pollinator monitoring) s- q Planting at Edgerton Community Garden 5th Graders from Carver Elementary helping with plantings at Fish Creek 77.77 Dill ��tr�+,.a� �,.�i�;9�►�d�A��fgll�n[FT� :. The Nature Center offers opportunities for kids and community members of all ages to make a positive impact in Maplewood through restoration and management of habitat,creation of raingardens,spring cleanups,wildlife surveys,and open space monitoring CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 08 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Needs Assessment Visitor Center Building Condition Having undergone a renovation in 2017,the condition of the various building -"" systems is generally good;however,there are some minor issues that were not resolved as part of that renovation.Comments are as follows: -i .���>_ Foundation(visible part):There are a few locations where pointing is missing. Walls and exterior materials:There were no apparent flaws in the siding,and no cracks,open seams,or flaking of the finish surfaces. Walls appear to be true and uniform. Doors and windows:The main entry door is not ADA compliant.Other doors have gaps which prevent a good seal.The four windows in the meeting room were replaced in 2017 and are in good shape;however,some of the remaining original windows are showing signs of water damage.The lack of properly fitting windows and doors has resulted in uneven heating throughout the reception area and offices. Interior walls,surfaces,and built-in components:Interior walls indicate cabinet/counter Damage minor use and wear typical of the Visitor Center's public use.Counters and cabinetry in the exhibit room are warped and chipping.Tile and baseboards in the storage closet were not replaced after the last renovation,leaving the flooring unfinished and susceptible to water damage. Roof:Roofing appears to be in good condition. There were no leaks mentioned by staff during the assessment. Unfinished Storage Room Floor - t - - s The exterior of the Visitor Center Building r� + 1 rwb The Exhibit Room struggles to accommodate full school classes Access to the mop sink in the maintenance closet is limited 09 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Visitor Center Building Function& Limitations The Visitor Center's operations and programs have outgrown the building's useful capacity. With just a single rental room for meetings/classes and 's N' � NEEDS: an exhibit room that cannot accommodate program attendees and public visitors simultaneously,MNC has severe space limitations that affect the experience of the general public,prohibit many schools from being able >> More storage is essential, to bring a full grade of classes for programs,and hinderthe staff's ability both inside and out(files, to efficiently and effectively work.Despite efforts to make interior spaces program materials,tools, more efficient and store items at other facilities,room for staff,visitors,and maintenance supplies,etc.) supplies has reached its max,limiting existing use and prohibiting expansion of program offerings.The following comments expand on how the building >> Better arrangement of the functions to serve the Nature Center's staff and visitors: office area or additional space The exhibit room can accommodate small groups of people,but if large would help the cramped groups or more than one group(as is the case for most school grades with condition. multiple classes)desires to attend a program,the noise,commotion and available space is a challenge. >> The reception area could be The exhibit room has less capacity for gathering than it used to,because improved with more space its amphitheater seating had to be removed due to drainage issues. and a better orientation to the entrance. The layout of the exhibit room works well,with the exception of the live animal displays.These terrariums are a focal point of the room(and much )> An expanded and beloved by the public!),but sit on an open counter,with no hidden access reconfigured exhibit room, for tank cleaning or animal care.Routine maintenance and cleaning must with improved live animal be done out in the open,which results in a utilitarian aesthetic highly exhibits,flexible space for visible to the public. interpretation,and space for While the interpretation offered is interesting and explores a variety wildlife watching/reading of topics,many of the exhibits are permanent. Room for a rotating or would benefit the Nature traveling exhibit,display of local art or merchandise,digital interpretation, Center's Mission and attract or the ability to interchange interpretive content seasonally would better more and repeat visitors. engage drop-in visitors and prompt return visits. There is a severe lack of storage of all types,which limits staff's capacity to >> Another larger classroom is efficiently prepare for programs.Even the exterior shed is at capacity.Most necessary to accommodate supplies are currently stored off-campus at the Park Maintenance Building. school groups or multiple The office area is not sized appropriately for staff,files,and materials.The programs at once. reception area functions as overflow office storage,which can make it appear unwelcoming to guests.The reception desk is not immediately >> A garage for a vehicle and visible from the entrance,making it difficult to greet and orient visitors. service learning/volunteer The design of the structure and its location in a low area surrounded by programming supplies is wetlands limits opportunities for expansion. The interior layout,structural desired. components,and overall shape make an addition trickier than it would be if the building had a simple box-like form. Any addition must consider the structure's irregular roofs,angled walls,and necessary wetland setbacks. The HVAC system(gas-fired furnace type)is adequate,although residential in nature,with simple controls and system components. The equipment is stored in rooms which have little to no working space around the units. As a consequence,any additional or new HVAC equipment will need to be located in a new location.If the existing equipment remains in the case of an expansion,there could be some uneven heating and cooling. CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 10 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Improving Efficiencies in Operations With a mission to"enhance awareness of land,water and wildlife resources, ,r and to empower the community to become stewards of the environment,' Maplewood Nature Center has made great strides;but,without increasing efficiencies both operationally and in the physical building space, programming is largely at capacity and the Nature Center cannot expand its community outreach or plan to attract greater numbers of visitors.Several factors weigh into this assessment: • Staff programming at satellite sites around Maplewood has helped to extend the reach of the Nature Center,but is challenging due to the need to haul supplies to remote locations without a designated vehicle or enough storage space for program materials at the Visitor Center.Nature Center staff utilize personal vehicles to transport supplies and store over half their materials at City Hall rather than the Visitor Center due to lack of space. • Maintaining the demonstration gardens,native habitats,and restored natural areas of the Nature Center's 40-acre grounds,and organizing Hauling supplies with personal vehicles monitoring and maintenance of the Neighborhood Preserves is no small task.Without a dedicated groundskeeper,it is up to staff to identify and relay the necessary technical information about maintenance of these sensitive habitats to Parks Maintenance staff,volunteers,or to y take on maintenance themselves.A skilled groundskeeper devoted to management of the Nature Center and Preserves,knowledgeable in the maintenance of native landscapes,would be able to develop an intimate understanding of the needs of the land and maintain these resources - - throughout the City efficiently and effectively.Access to a dedicated groundskeeper(as was the case in the past),would free up additional time for staff to focus on expanding Nature Center programming and outreach. • Nature Center staff should seek assistance from the City's IT staff in order to better make use of interactive technology,scheduling/registration programs,and software for tracking and evaluating metrics • Staff should work with Maplewood's Communications Department to 1' develop more robust branding/messaging,post informational videos,and identify marketing opportunities in order to expand its reach Comparison to Other Metro Nature Centers The Visitor Center's storage closet is over capacity Maplewood Nature Center's"tiny,but mighty"mantra is well-earned.In addition to having the smallest visitor center,the adjacent 40-acre site is also smaller than other nature centers in the region,most of which have 3-4 times more land to explore.At$227,000 per year,MNC's operating budget is less than half similarly-sized Wood Lake in Richfield.Despite its size and operating budget,Maplewood Nature Center still managed to offer more programs and draw more program participants than nearby Harriet Alexander Nature Center in 2017.Maplewood Nature Center programs,events,and drop-in visits to the Visitor Center have yielded about 10,000 visitors annually.However,use of the Nature Center's trails-the most popular activity according to the General Use Survey-has not been tracked,and most certainly would result in a significant jump in attendance numbers. 11 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN In a meeting with local nature center administrators,discussion yielded several meaningful points: • Conflicts between scheduled use and drop-in use(as is the case currently at MNC)are seen as a major justification for a new or expanded facility ib • Visitors value consistency in hours(including weekend availability) • Weekend hours are popular for birthday parties and other rentals,which 6: generate revenue and provide guaranteed engaged program audiences • Most Nature Centers have at least one vehicle for grounds maintenance, - and all agree that a dedicated maintenance person is valuable because of 7 ire the intimate knowledge and familiarity that they bring to operations R • In order to provide equitable access to information,having tablets available at the nature center provides support to visual/hearing impaired visitors and Google translate to non-english speakers J` � • Having exhibits with interchangeable(seasonally-themed)panels, interpretive dioramas,or displayed local art can help to provide ongoing interest for repeat visitors • Drop-in or open house-style flexible start programs are becoming more popular,but require an on-call staff person in case of large attendance • Memberships are one funding option that has worked locally($50/family or$30/individual)and provide easy program access and benefits • Other nature centers in the region typically have two or more classrooms and rentable spaces in order to be able to handle a full grade of multiple classes for school field trips.Being able to accommodate public school Springbrook Nature Center recently invested in programs allows the nature center to form valuable relationships with expansion of their Visitor Center(now a 13,000sf local school districts,is a source of regular attendance,helps to fulfill facility).Expanded capacity for program offerings and exhibit updates were large motivations necessary curriculum requirements in a memorable way,generates repeat to expand,and helped to raise funds for family visits spurred by engaged students,and offers impressionable implementation. youth an approachable way to experience nature early on-a necessity to forming an attachment to nature and a stewardship ethic as one grows. Q19 What facilites do you feel are important to add at Maplewood Nature Centel.[check all that apply] Community Engagement Summary Over the course of the master planning process,the project team sought to obtain feedback from a diverse array of stakeholders to learn how the Nature Center is currently used and perceived and what people would like to see and o:� do in the future.The following community engagement methods provided major guidance on this master plan: • A General Use Questionnaire was developed and posted on the City's website,Maplewood Nature Center's Facebook page,and sent to a diverse mailing list including teachers,past visitors and volunteers "- • Hard copy questionnaires were available for visitors to fill out at the Visitor ROM Center • Program attendees were surveyed about their experience at the Nature Center and what they would like to see in the future • Nature Center staff posted notifications and articles in Maplewood's Seasons Newsletter 33 A page from the General Use Questionnaire CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 12 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN • Three stakeholder input sessions with volunteers,Friends of Maplewood THE GENERAL USE Nature Center,Parks Commission members,and visitors QUESTIONNAIRE REACHED A peer group session with local Association of Nature Center 258 COMMUNITYAdministrators(ANCA)members provided invaluable insights on the MEMBERS, INCLUDING: ways that other local nature centers advertise and run programming,use the resources they have at their disposal,advocate for themselves in their communities,and operate » People of Color: 11%of respondents were An Open House was held on May 23rd,2019 to collect input from the people of color(another 10% public on the Master Plan preferred not to answer) Results of the General Use Questionnaire » Youth: How the Nature Center is Used Currently 9%were age 18 or under » Most people spend most of their time on the trails and boardwalk >> Older Adults: » Participating in unstructured exploration and learning in the Visitor 23%were age 65 or older Center,wildlife watching,programs for adults,and self-guided tours are the next most popular activities Lapsed Visitors and Those » Of those who visit with children,nearly all spend some time at the Nature Unfamiliar with the Nature Play Yard and most use the picnic area Center: » 85%of people spend at least some time in the Exhibit Room 15%of respondents hadn't > Lapsed visitors haven't been to the Nature Center recently because their been to the nature center in kids are grown and they don't perceive there to be enough for older kids the last 12 months (and of or adults to do those,half had never been) Satisfaction Levels » Knowledgable Visitors: » Respondents are least satisfied with benches,parking,and the nature play 16%of respondents had yard volunteered at the Nature Center » Many wish that the Visitor Center were open on Sundays,or would at least like a remote restroom for when the building is not open OF THE RESPONDENTS: » People also want to see more seating/overlooks,more interpretive exhibits/displays(including live animals),outdoor shelter,more nature » Roughly half of visitors bring play,trail improvements,and more classroom space kids Programming Desires » Visitors come to the Nature Center Respondents are most interested in attending programming on: alone,with one other person, - General nature study and with a small group in - Environmental practices for theirhome/yard roughly equal proportions - Luminaryhikes 63%of visitors travel 0-5 - Learning about environmental issues like water quality,climate change, miles and 15%of visitors travel and pollinatorhealth >I 0 miles » 92%of respondents are interested in attending at least one event or program a year at one of the City's Neighborhood Preserves.Nearly 50% 10%of visitors walk and 75% said they would attend two or more. of visitors drive.Less than 1% bike. 13 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN May 23,2019 Open House Prior to drafting the Master Plan,a community open house was held at the EXISTING SITE Nature Center to collect feedback on the vision,guiding principles,strategic opportunities,proposed actions,and phasing developed over the course of the master planning process.Twenty-five attendees reviewed boards of the materials,participated in discussions,and shared their thoughts by placing post-it notes on the boards.Refreshments and kids activities were available to make the event a welcoming experience for participants.A summary of feedback received includes: A desire for more specific trail improvements to be called out as part of the plan,such as: - Replace and maintain the entry stairs off ofMichael Lane and Evar Street - Improving water crossings through the south woods SUGGESTIONS - Replacing the trail en try gate with a more welcoming gateway to the trails - Adding bird blinds and clearing brush to improve overlook views FROM THE QUESTIONNAIRE - Adding a portable restroom on the northwest side of the pond AND OPEN HOUSE: - Offering a rentable all-terrain wheelchair for disabled visitors - Adding movable seating/flexible gathering space at the trailhead near » at theer programsC sNNeighborhood h d events the wildlife watching area at the City's Neighborhood Preserves Concern about safety and security in the parking lot(ideas for a gate or updated security cameras) >> Plan Luminary Hikes Support for existing proposals,such as: - Increased digital participation(trail cams,online bird observations and )> Expand Programs about phenology logging,a youth online portal with monthly topics to explore) the Impacts of Humans on - Expanding program offerings to other Neighborhood Preserves to be able Nature to highlight Maplewood's diverse habitats >> Composting Resources - Satelliterestroom(s) >> Recycling Impacts and Tips - Building Expansion(more live animals,additional classroom(s)) >> Pollinator and Insect - Strengthening and expanding partnerships with schools and social service Population Recovery Efforts agencies(emphasis on east metro) >> Climate Change Mitigation - Accessibility improvements More specific building/exhibit ideas,including: >> Offer art/photography - Animal care/tank cleaning access behind live animal displays classes and display - An aquarium with native fish,and terrarium for caterpillars and butterflies rotating works - Display of local art and photography(rotating) Support for an additional full-time position,especially as programming » Expand the Wildlife Viewing Area expands Support for a dedicated maintenance person/groundskeeper for the >> Showcase More Live Nature Center and Preserves(intimate knowledge of the sites will improve Animals quality of management) Site design suggestions,including: » Offer more interpretation - A desire to remain open and flexible to expansion eastward,if adjacent about the Dakota and properties can be acquired other native cultures - Suggestion to move the garage farther south to shorten length of driveway CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION 14 y + � -AM a` t r{ a 7 � � a Maplewood Nature Center's Mission is to - .- enhance awareness of land, water and wildlife resources, em and to ower the 6 p a community to become stewards of the 0 environment. a Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN w.Y ---i, a_� 4•�- � _;a. - Vision & Guiding Principles The vision for Maplewood Nature Center focuses on the future and serves as a source of inspiration and motivation. = ;r r ' Maplewood Nature Center's Vision: �¢ ~ Maplewood Nature Center is the City's hub for environmental education, natural resources management,and stewardship. Guiding Principles focus on how the vision will be achieved. Ensure the Nature Center is an inviting place to explore nature and learn a about other community natural areas. Empower visitors to make positive impacts in their own neighborhoods. Conduct programming and provide service-learning opportunities throughout the community. Ensure the Nature Center is equipped to adapt to the variety of visitors that it serves,from classes,to drop-in visitors,to birthday parties. Develop new programming,initiatives,and partnerships to respond to issues,trends,and opportunities. Provide opportunities for volunteers to contribute to the community's natural resource management. Support the sensitive management of Maplewood's natural areas through technical assistance and volunteer oversight. • Contribute technical expertise to the development and implementation of City-wide sustainability policies and initiatives. • Cultivate partners to reach new audiences,improve efficiencies and influence broader policies. ` Broadly market programming,the City's preserve system,volunteer opportunities,and available technical expertise. CHAPTER 2 MASTER PLAN 16 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN The Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan Because Maplewood Nature Center is both a physical place and an organization that provides a wide range of City-wide programs and functions,the Actions(page 19)that the Master Plan suggests include both physical investments(Chapter 2) and operational action items (see Chapter 3)that work together to achieve the Vision over the next 20 years.Figures 2.1 and 2.2 illustrate the proposed physical investments. Basis in the 2015 Maplewood Park MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER and Recreation System Master Plan MASTER PLAN Creation of this Master Plan came as a result of the 2015 Maplewood Park and Recreation System Master Plan.The System Plan identified a series of actions, ALIGNMENT WITH projects,and capital improvements intended to shape parks and recreation SYSTEM PLAN PRIORITY in Maplewood over the next 20 years.The Maplewood Nature Center Master ACTIONS& PROJECTS Plan is grounded in the City's system-wide vision,and as it is implemented, will help to fulfill City-wide recreation initiatives. Priority Actions ® Expand funding SUPPORTING MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER11/12 for regular park maintenance and PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS, AND equipment replacement _ OF THE SYSTEM PLAN'S PROGRAMMING ® Improve System STRATEGIES Wayfinding ® Continue to expand Park and Recreation System Plan Programming Recommendations neighborhood and community events ® Program for community and neighborhood gathering ® Expand nature center ® Maintain and improve high quality, diverse program programs offerings for all ages (children, teens, adults, and Priority Capital seniors) Improvement Projects ® Ensure equitable access to programs ® Maintenance and ® Promote performance arts and cultural events in parks Reinvestment (includes and at recreation facilities Nature Center upkeep, ® Connect people with nature, including land, water, and $7m total projects) wildlife resources, and empower them to be stewards ® Actively manage of the environment high quality natural ® Respond to changing recreation trends and ensure resources ($600k) quality programming ® Update Park Signs ® Use volunteers and service learning programs to ($125k) support recreational, arts, cultural, and natural resource ® Improve system management programming wayfinding ($300k) ® Improve outreach to diverse populations and minority ® Improvements to groups Preserves and Open ® Become the "go to" parks and recreation clearinghouse Spaces ($800k) ® Provide opportunities for community involvement in the ® Replace/refurbish design, development, and implementation of parks and Nature Center ($2.5m) recreation ® Make Sustainability Education/Outreach a Priority 17 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN IN Trail Improvements • Bench repair/replacement • Selective Clearing • Surfacing Accessibility Improvements • Bird Blind Undevdopable Due to Wetland Buffer� New path amwld building expansion Undcvctopablc Due Long-term to wetland Buffer Nature Center Expansion& moo oit � Reconfiguration Opportunities Wildlif wale„ g New Shed with Exhibit Updates [ expanded footprint (12'x50'=600 sf) i tl ADA Accessible Entry Doors :ea Technology Upgrades (translation,digital content display) Kiosk and Patio Repairs including New Trail Entry Gateway e, Parking = - tiarage for Leased Vehicle ` Natnre e Wrap with creative play facade r rd Pla = Option for fence along drive for safety/screening Play Yard Improvements Upgraded Welcome and and Upgrades ❑i I Entry Signs(all entrances) Portable 'Y tatable Res roona - Path Connection to Century Ave Add signage along Boardwalk Repair/Replacement Century and Minnehaha • 3 Observation Decks R • ADA Accessibility Improvements Install signage/surfacing for parking expansion on either side of 7th Figure 2.1 Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan:Visitor Center&Entry Grounds Legend ��, 1 G ■s >S . g - + Entrances(Upgraded Entry Signs) e v .b Michael Lane { = =Trail(Accessible natural surfacing) 1 1� near Evar Street " Improve Trail Conditions&Structures t at��ae overlooks(add seating/platforms, maintain cleared vegetation) s 1_I New Bird Blind Ferndale and Brand Stree • a.Yt. �. Y- I n �1 Visitor Center �. '"n � .. _ >�•'� :. Sterling and 7th Street ° 7th Street - , :, (Main Entrance) Figure 2.2 Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan:Overall Site Improvements CHAPTER 2 MASTER PLAN 18 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Working to achieve a new vision for Maplewood Nature Center offers several Strategic Opportunities for improvement.The Actions that follow MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER each represent physical investments or operational adjustments that will MASTER PLAN help to realize these opportunities,making the Nature Center operate more efficiently,expanding its impact,and improving the visitor experience: STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES Improve Delivery Efficiencies&Effectiveness Reconfigure storage to bring supplies and materials on-site to reduce staff ® Improve Delivery time in gathering supplies from off-site storage Effectivenesss Efficiencies Explore opportunities to use technology and/or skills of administrative staff to more effectively manage registrations—school programming, ® Expand the Impact of community garden,buckthorn curb-side pick-up,etc. the Nature Center » Strengthen relationships between Nature Center Staff and other City departments so skills and resources can be better leveraged(i.e.parks ® Improve the Visitor maintenance,IT,communications) Experience » Provide a vehicle that can be stored securely on site that can be loaded with equipment,supplies and presentation materials to facilitate mobile programming Add a dedicated groundskeeper position to help maintain the Nature Center and Neighborhood Preserves Expand the Impact of the Nature Center Focus on cultivating partnerships with schools(see Figure 2.3)and continue to offer programming that serves underserved populations Bring programs to the people by offering service learning and other experiences at the Preserves and locations around Maplewood Lead by example:showcasing best practices,actively stewarding the City's natural resources,and assisting community members in adopting the City's sustainability practices on their own properties Maximize hands-on learning opportunities Pursue digital marketing,interpretation,and outreach in order to make knowledge more accessible to all Seek opportunities to reconfigure presentation spaces and site design to maximize capacities Reconfigure the building so that informal visitors can access exhibits while group programming occurs Improve the Visitor Experience Repair or replace boardwalk Improve surfacing of existing trails,stairs,and water crossings to facilitate access,and add/replace benches for rest,maintaining clear views Bring Nature Center entry into ADA compliance Add a bird blind along the trails Replace the trail entry gate with a more welcoming trailhead gateway Improve community connections—update signs at all entrances;add signage on Century Ave and Minnehaha;support transit and non- motorized connections 19 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN PROXIMITY-BASED OPPORTUNITIES FOR SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS AND PROGRAMMING AT NEARBY PRESERVES 1-694— Co -694Co Rd D • •J m � Richardsons Co Rd Z Elementary W e Harmony • •Castle Elementary M 3� Learning Centel North High Hwy 36 w 3 • •School 01 MN Waldorf Weaver School Elementary John Glenn — Edgerton • • •Cowern Harambee•• Elementary Middle I Elementary Elementary"") • Fr r Gladstone Webster• �Ma lewood Hwy s • 1 _- Elementary p TROUT BROO@ St.Jerome Community Middle �4F PRIORY School LADSTONI Center* 1 • %$1 Hill-Murray SAVANN{ Mounds Park y Lar nreur Presentation Academy \�� School School JIII � • V 1 Beaver Lake BEAVER CREEK re • roes Eagle Point Gethsemane SNV MAPLEWOOD)orhc0, Transfiguration Elementary School 19 Sr.I•Skyview Middle NATURE • *Tartan High School CENTER Oakdale Elementary -94 • Carver Elementary v � � 9F •Woodbury 'on Q Elementary LEGEND r• • Neighborhood Preserve Program Locations Highwood • Community Preserve Program Locations 0] b� • Schools ,{ Carver Opportunity Areas for School Programming at Preserves(<1 mile distance) Figure 2.3 Proximity-based Opportunities for School Partnerships and Programming at Nearby Preserves Explore multi-media/technology as means of deepening visitor engagement and multi-lingual access(offering tablets with Google Translate;mounting a screen in the Visitor Center for digital content& program advertising,and display of photography from Maplewood's Neighborhood Preserves) Nature Play Yard improvements and upgrades Update exhibits with an aim to make them easier to regularly change (seasonally)and incorporate interactive technology(trail cam footage, phenology tracking,etc.) CHAPTER 2 MASTER PLAN 20 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Uud-elopable Due to Wetland Buffer Undeselopable Due to Wetland Buffer New Shed with expanded footprint (12'x50'=600 sf) ADA Accessible Entry Doors Picnic area Arking N.,u P Yard Restroom Boardwalk Repair/Replacement • 3 Observation Decks ADA Accessibility Improvements a \ - Figure 2.4 Phased Physical Investments:Immediate(0-1 Year) Phasing of Physical Investments The phasing of the master plan's proposed investments is subject to political will,financial availability,and logical sequential parameters,but is laid out according to the following strategy: Immediate (0-1 Year): Long-term (7+Years): These items are already funded in the City's current CIP: These items are future CIPS and can take advantage of Shed replacement other funding/implementation resources: Boardwalk&observation deck repair/replacement » Visitor Center expansion/reconfiguration Other immediate actions: » Exhibit updates ADA Entry Door » Parking expansion Path connection to Century Ave Near-term (1-6 Years): » Signage additions along Century and Minnehaha These items are future CIPS and can take advantage of » Nature Play Yard improvements and upgrades other funding/implementation resources: Trail improvements Technology upgrades Kiosk&patio repairs including new trail entry gateway Garage&leased vehicle Upgraded welcome and entry signs at all entrances 21 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Trail Improvements Bench repair/replacement Selective Clearing • Surfacing Accessibility Improvements �. Bird Blind Undtl l,pable Doc to W nd Buffer _ Un developable Due to Wetland Buffer t Technology Upgrades t,en,,jig (translation,digital content display) Kiosk and Patio Repairs including New Trail Entry Gateway 11�,khng {„ Garme for Leased Vehicle • AWapwith creative play facade • Option for fence along drive for safety/screening Di Upgraded Welcome and rnr ble • Entry Signs(all entrances) Restroom t Figure 2.5 Phased Physical Investments:Near-term(1-6 Years) a to Wetland Buffeable to Wedand Buffer Nature Center Expansion R o� csacsa r�'•. Reconfiguration Opportunitics Exhibit U � Vud on Path Connection to Century Ave Add signage along —_ Century and Minnehaha Install signage/surfacingfor parking expansion on either side of 7th Figure 2.6 Phased Physical Investments:Long-term(7+Years) CHAPTER 2 1 MASTER PLAN 22 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Buildings Shed Expansion &Reorganization Utility setbacks limit the space available for a new shed.As such,Oertel Architects recommends replacing the existing shed with a new and expanded shed in the same location.This shed would have a number of access doors for storage,with direct access to various materials. It would also include a heating unit in a portion of the shed,along with a sink. As a portion of this phase,some minor interior work might be done, dependent on funds available. 12 13 5 8 13 6 12 11 7 C? 2 3 4 17 7 10 N 7 1 I 5 HEATED PORTION OF SHED 9 5 11 IAV NOTES: � 0 wsE n ENLARGED STORAGE SHED PLAN o N—NATsoaAr£NaeINE, z o EYEw s—10N o ITLNSNK ©NON�,ETEN�� ©wNEEaA�,�Ns o GENERAL—All ®-ANBENIN o ENTEAoAasET CoTNNSNN—A o 4 DWR Figure 2.7 Proposed Shed Layout °4.ING—E o= -0a PLAY FACADE New Garage In conjunction with procurement of a leased vehicle,a garage is proposed �STOWE to be constructed to house the vehicle,tools,supplies,and materials needed to facilitate remote programming.The structure would not need to be utiDoosTORAGE climate controlled.The proposed garage is sited near the nature play area and set back from the entry drive which respects setbacks and easement requirements and ensures that the garage does not visually impact the entry PLAY FACADE /T experience.It is suggested that the facade be wrapped with playful design MIRI iFAD DOOR) elements,in order to better integrate with the nearby nature play. Figure 2.8 Proposed Garage Layout 23 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN 57-0%" BOOK SHELFILOW MECHANICAL STORAGE O WILDLIFE WATCHING/ LIBRARY NOOK NEW CLASSROOM/ 6 RENTAL SPACE occuPANTs Potential Visitor Center ACCORDION CLOSET OR Expansion PARTITION WALL CABINETS While it should be noted that the Nature Center is open to exploring a new Visitor Center building on City land(such as the Priory),or on land adjacent to the existing STORAGE Nature Center(should the opportunity 2 to acquire additional parcels arise),this master plan focuses on an exploration of s FAM/ expansion/reconfiguration of the existing T RESTR JL 1 building,given that the long-term EXHIBIT ROOM nature of this phase of the master plan D om makes circumstances difficult to predict. 10 / Slated for construction 7+years out,the expansion/reconfiguration shown would eliminate the conflicts between drop-in R�Ro , public and reserved private programming ,:/ that the Center currently experiences by addinga new classroom/rentals , UNISEX ace p RESTROOM MECHANICAL reconfiguring the exhibit room,and ° 07 +08 adding a library/wildlife viewing area. The new classroom would be divisible byRECEPTION STORAGE an operable partition for use by either 102 os one large group or two smaller groups, ENTRY 00 making Nature Center programs more VESTIBULE 101 attractive for school groups to attend and offering a more accommodating space for special events and public programs. OFFICE +03 Other elements include expanded space for display of live animals,new exhibits, additional restrooms with exterior access for use outside of building hours, CLASSROOM reconfigured and expanded staff space to F105 improve efficiency,increased storage,and a new reception area better oriented to 2s,i° visitors. Figure 2.9 Proposed Visitor Center Expansion Plan - NORTH CHAPTER 2 1 MASTER PLAN 24 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN i�4 rr S yy Strategy This Master Plan was developed in order to make sure that future investments are grounded in a strategic vision for the Nature Center.By planning now,we can leverage a variety of funding sources and support, and ensure that we have enough time to mobilize the necessary resources to achieve the desired outcome. The phasing explored in the previous chapter largely limits immediate actions to those already funded(shed and boardwalk).Investments in future phases of the plan have a variety of funding options that can be explored prior to use of general funds or pursuit of a park bond referendum.Potential sources that can defray the full cost of implementation from falling on the City of Maplewood include: Y Outside Funding » Community and Friends Group support(fundraising events and u _ donations) a- Local business sponsorships » Public Health grants » Watershed District grants r » State-funded outdoor recreation grants Other"In-kind"Contributions » DNR Programs(Participation in the School Forest program to access P maintenance and stewardship assistance at the Preserves and resources for schools interested in nature-based educational programming) » Service Learning Volunteers(bench replacement,clearing,natural .,I resource management,restoration) Being Efficient with Existing Resources » Utilizing existing City contracts and services(vehicle leasing,trail maintenance,communications and marketing) » Sentence to Serve(STS)Crews 25 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Costs Projected costs are for high level planning purposes only and take into consideration known conditions.The Nature Center is open to acquisition of adjacent properties in the case of a willing seller,which would present alternate options for Visitor Center expansion that should be studied at such time. Table 3.1 Projected Costs PHASE INVESTMENT COST SOURCES c 3 Shed Replacement $75,000 Existing CIP 3 Boardwalk+3 Observation Decks Repair/Replacement $125,000 Existing CIP+Grants mo M Entry door(ADA) $15,000 City YEARS 0-1 INVESTMENT 111 Garage(include playful facade)+Driveway $25,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor Leased Vehicle for remote/mobile programming and *per City City Contract service learning Contract Portable Restrooms and gathering amenities at *per City City Contract neighborhood preserves where programming takes place Contract z Trail Reconfiguration&ADA surfacing improvements $60,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor,Service Learning m Volunteers,Public Health grant a .4 Technology Upgrades(Trail Cams&Visitor Center Digital Future CIP,Friends Group fundraising,Non-profit Content Display,Tabletsfor translation) $15,000 partnerships M Kiosk and Patio Repairs at Nature Center Trail Entrance $25,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor,local business sponsorships rn Installation of New Entry Gateway atTrailhead $12,000 Future CIP,Friends Group fundraising ., Stairway repairs at Michael Lane Entrance $14,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor,Service Learning Volunteers,Non-profit partnerships Upgrades to Welcome&Entry Signs at all entrances $40,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor,Friends Group fundraising Future CIP,City Crew labor,Service Learning Bird Blind and connecting natural surface trail(275 If) $15,000 Volunteers,local business sponsorships,Non-profit partnerships YEARS 1-6 INVESTMENT $206,000* • Contract services) Visitor Center Expansion/Reconfiguration $750,000- Future CIP,Friends Group/Community fundraising, $1,000,000 local business sponsorships,Watershed District grant Future CIP,Friends Group/Community fundraising, Exhibit Updates $100,000 local business sponsorships,Watershed District grant, Non-profit partnerships Parking Expansion $30,000 Future CIP,City Crews ADA surfacing improvements ongoing as Future CIP,City Crew labor,Service Learning needed Volunteers,Public Health grant Future CIP,Friends Group/Community fundraising, Nature Play Yard improvements and upgrades $30,000 local business sponsorships,grant Signage Additions along Century and Minnehaha $15,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor,Friends Group fundraising Path Connection to Century Ave $50,000 Future CIP,City Crew labor CHAPTER 3 1 IMPLEMENTATION 26 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Operational Action Items The Operational Action Items that follow complement the physical "r. investments detailed in Chapter 2;together,these actions fulfill the Strategic Opportunities made possible by this master planning process(improving delivery efficiencies and effectiveness,expanding the Nature Center's impact, kY t _r and improving the visitor experience). - — Improve Tracking of Metrics (Immediate/Ongoing) —.--.N 3t j._v ✓` While staff have been able to track some statistics,a solid baseline of Nature Center use has not yet been established,largely because trail visitors have • ` not been able to be quantified.By investing in more comprehensive metrics tracking,Nature Center staff will be able to set attendance goals,adapt programs,evaluate successses,build targeted partnerships,determine capacity threshholds and triggers for additional staff/support needs,and will be able to better meet the needs of visitors overall.Proposed metrics include: » Visitor Center building attendance » Trail Use A » Attendance of City-wide(remote)Programs and Events » Attendance of Nature Center Programs and Events + » Volunteer Hours » Rentals » Types of programs and their popularity Promote staff professional development training and continuing education (Immediate/Ongoing) rr » Maintains staff's ability to stay ahead of trends L » Helps keep Maplewood a leader in sustainability » Enables the Nature Center to continue to offer valuable technical expertise to Maplewood residents Optimize the Visitor Center's Use (Near-term:2021-2026) Study potential for expanded seasonal hours,or adjusting the days that the Visitor Center is open » Begin accepting on-call reservations for Visitor Center rentals during off- / ^, days Expand City-wide(remote) Program and Event Offerings (Near-term:2021-2026) This operational action item first requires the physical investment in a garage, the leasing of a vehicle to transport supplies/equipment,and the addition of portable restrooms and gathering amenities at the Preserves where programs are to take place.Operational adjustments that will enable staff to be able to devote more time to expanded remote programming include: » Improved technology/administrative support that increases the efficiency of registration and coordination of programs and volunteers » Strengthening and expanding partnerhsips with Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District and local school districts 27 MAPLEWOOD NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Building targeted partnerships with schools located near Neighborhood I Preserves to meet their curriculum needs through Nature Center program 4 offerings(may include pursuing DNR School Forest designation) Develop Best Practices for Integrating Technology into the Nature Center Experience (Near-term:2021-2026) This operational action item requires physical investments in technology upgrades,including trail cams,a digital content display at the Visitor Center, and tablets.Incorporating these pieces of equipment serves multiple aims: A digital content display will provide visitors to the Visitor Center with = = dynamic,ever-changing information and content that creates a unique experience each time and will encourage repeat visits without having to make a major investment in exhibits a Tablets provide non-english speakers the opportunity to interact with staff and understand exhibits through the use of Google Translate Footage from trail cams can be used to track the animal kingdom's use of the the Nature Center and Preserves,but can also be streamed online, posted to a Maplewood Nature CenterYouTube channel,and shared at , the Visitor Center's digital content display.This technology expands the s Nature Center's reach to those who can't necessarily visit,but still want to be able to access nature and learn about it from home.It can also increase t ' visitors by generating interest and excitement. Integrate Maplewood Nature Center into the Learning Experience of Maplewood Students (Long-term:2027+) Y Maplewood Nature Center is a great resource to the City's residents that aims to be enjoyed and shared by all.One of the surest ways to have a guaranteed s impact is to get kids involved in Nature Center programs through their t schools.Enthusiastic youth then share their experience with their families = and generate repeat visits.The Visitor Center currently has space limitations that make taking field trips of full grades of students difficult;as such,this operational action item likely requires an expansion of the Visitor Center before it is achievable. Reach out to Maplewood high schoolers by making service learning programs attractive and available f Establish partnerships and value within City and School District Pursue grants and other funding to help with transportation costs Invite all Maplewood students to the Nature Center for a school program by 5th grade Assess the need for additional staffing to accommodate the increased capacity for programs and attendance �r CHAPTER 3 IMPLEMENTATION 28 Attachment 1 DRAFT NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN Maplewood Nature Center Master Plan OERTEL hlagl�,,rc7}:� © ARCHITECTS p w; - -s,- z . Agenda Item 5.b. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date July 15, 2019 REPORT TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission REPORT FROM: Meg Hannasch, Sustainability Intern Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner PRESENTER: Meg Hannasch, Sustainability Intern AGENDA ITEM: Environmental Purchasing Policy Action Requested: ❑ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: An Environmental Purchasing Policy establishes guidelines for environmental purchasing as an addition to existing procurement policies. Recommended Action: Review the Maplewood Environmental Purchasing Policy and proposed amendments and offer comment and feedback. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0 Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ❑ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ❑ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. Adopting an Environmental Purchasing Policy (EPP) demonstrates the City's commitment to buying goods, materials, services, and capital improvements in a manner that reflects Maplewood's core values of fiscal responsibility, social equity, community, and environmental stewardship. In addition, an EPP can help the City comply with regulations and achieve energy and sustainability goals. Background Environmental purchasing is the practice of ensuring that all purchases prioritize goods and services that have a lower impact on the environment and human health when compared to competing products. Environmental purchasing considers metrics such as pollution, toxicity, waste generation, water and energy use, recycled content, and greenhouse gas emissions in addition to price when determining which products to purchase. As a part of a purchasing policy, it is intended to shift purchasing decisions toward more sustainable alternatives while remaining fiscally responsible. The City's 2009 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy document was approved by the City Council in 2009. That document outlined several strategies for creating more energy efficient City operations, including the adoption of an EPP. The Green Team and Environmental Commission drafted the EPP, which was approved by the City's Management Team in April 2011. The EPP contains six major focus areas: • source reduction, • toxics reduction and pollution prevention, • recycled content, • energy and water savings, • green building, and • landscaping. Several City policies and programs support the implementation of the EPP, including its turf management plan, green event guidelines, the Green Building Code, and participation in the State Energy Challenge. Members of the Green Team also help guide day-to-day purchasing decisions within their departments. It has been several years since the adoption of the EPP, so updates and revisions may be necessary. The Green Team's 2019 goal is to update the City's EPP and conduct employee education and outreach on the policy. After an initial review of the EPP, the Green Team recommends the following changes: • Finalize changes suggested by MPCA in 2011 (applicable standards and certifications for some products, recommendations for text changes). • Integrate EPP with existing purchasing policy and procedures. • Set goals for sustainable purchasing such as energy savings or waste reduction. • Track and report performance metrics where practical (e.g., energy savings can be tracked through Minnesota's B3— Buildings, Benchmarks, and Beyond program). Further recommendations may be suggested as Green Team members review each focus area over the next few weeks. In the meantime, City staff is recommending that the ENR Commission review the EPP and offer comment and feedback on the proposed amendments. Attachments 1. Maplewood Environmental Purchasing Policy 2 Attachment 1 Sustainable hle MAPEWC3DD ENVIRONMENTAL PURCHASING POLICY CITY OF MAPLEWOOD April 20, 2011 1.0 STATEMENT OF POLICY It is the policy of the City of Maplewood to: • Support the Precautionary Principle of Environmental Protection which states if an action or policy has a suspected risk of causing harm to the public or to the environment, in the absence of scientific consensus that the action or policy is harmful, the burden of proof that it is not harmful falls on those taking the action. • Require the purchase of products and services that minimize environmental and health impacts, toxics, pollution, and hazards to worker and community safety and to protect the larger global community to the greatest extent practical. • It is not the intent of this policy to require any department, buyer or contractor to take any action that will conflict with local, state or federal requirements or to procure products that do not perform adequately for their intended use, exclude adequate competition, or are not available at a reasonable price in a reasonable period of time. 2.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE This policy is adopted to meet the goals of a Precautionary Principle Program of Environmental Protection that include, but is not limited to: • minimizing health risks to city staff and residents, • minimizing the city's contribution to global climate change, • improving air quality, • protecting the quality of ground and surface waters, and • minimizing the city's consumption of resources and energy. This policy is further adopted to encourage purchasing that reflects the city's commitment to sustainability in order to: • ensure that purchases include a consideration of their life-cycle cost and the ultimate disposal cost of the product as a factor in making the final selection of the specific goods and services procured for use by city departments, • purchase products that include recycled content in order to support strong recycling markets, 1 • institute practices that reduce waste by increasing product efficiency and effectiveness, use products that are durable and long-lasting, and reduce materials that are land-filled, • purchase products and institute practices that conserve energy and water, use agricultural fibers and residues, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, use unbleached or chlorine free manufacturing processes, and use recycled wood and wood from sustainably harvested forests, • purchase energy from renewable or green sources in preference to fossil fuels, • purchase products that are free of mercury, cadmium and lead and eliminate the use of other persistent bioaccumulative toxic chemicals where possible, • increase the use and availability of environmentally preferable products, services and distribution systems that protect human health and the environment, • support emerging and established manufacturers and contractors that reduce environmental and human health impacts in their services, production, and distribution systems, and • create a model for successfully purchasing environmentally preferable products and services that encourages other buyers and consumers in our community to adopt similar goals. 3.0 DEFINITIONS 3.1 "Agricultural Bio-Based Products" means commercial or industrial products (other than food or feed) that utilize agricultural crops or residues but does not include products made from forestry materials. 3.2 "Buyer" means personnel authorized to purchase or contract for purchases on behalf of the City of Maplewood or its subdivisions. 3.3 "Chlorine free" means products manufactured or processed without chlorine or chlorine derivatives. 3.4 "Contractor" means any person, group of persons, business, consultant, designing architect, association, partnership, corporation, supplier, contractors or other entity that has a contract with the City of Maplewood or serves in a subcontracting capacity with an entity having a contract with the City of Maplewood for the provision of goods or services. 3.5 "Dioxins and furans" are a group of chemical compounds that are classified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) by the Environmental Protection Agency. 3.6 "Energy Star" means the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) energy efficiency product labeling program. 3.7 "Energy-Efficient Product" means a product that is in the upper 25% of energy efficiency for all similar products, or that is at least 10% more efficient than the minimum level that meets federal standards. 2 3.8 "Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)" is a program of the Department of Energy that issues a series of product energy efficiency recommendations that identify recommended efficiency levels for energy-using products. 3.9 The "Forest Stewardship Council" is a global organization that certifies responsible, on-the-ground forest management according to rigorous standards for sustainably harvested forests developed by a broad variety of stakeholder groups. 3.10 "Green Seal" is an independent, non-profit environmental labeling organization. Green Seal standards for products and services meet the U.S. EPA's criteria for third-party certifiers. The Green Seal is a registered certification mark that may appear only on certified products. 3.11 "Integrated Pest Management (IPM)" is an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Least toxic pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and nontarget organisms, and the environment. 3.12 "LEED Rating System" means the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council designed for rating new and existing commercial, institutional, and high-rise residential buildings. 3.13 "Organic Pest Management" prohibits the use and application of toxic chemical pesticides and strives to prevent pest problems through the application of natural, organic horticultural and maintenance practices. 3.14 "Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxins (PBTs)" are chemicals and/or pollutants that remain in the environment for a long time (persist) without breaking down, accumulate in the environment and build up in the tissues of humans, fish, and animals (bioaccumulative), and are toxic (causing cancer and other health problems) to living organisms, including humans. 3.15 "Postconsumer Material" means a finished material which would normally be disposed of as a solid waste, having reached its intended end-use and completed its life cycle as a consumer item, and does not include manufacturing or converting wastes. 3.16 "Postconsumer Recycled Material" means residential waste reused in industrial process, such as recycled newspapers used to manufacture more newsprint. 3.17 "Practical" mean whenever possible and compatible with local, state, and federal law, without reducing safety, quality, or effectiveness and where the product or service is available at a reasonable cost in a reasonable period of time. A reasonable cost shall mean that the product has a life-cycle cost that is reasonably 3 similar to the life-cycle costs of other similar products and has a 10 percent or less price preference. 3.18 "Precautionary Principle of Environmental Protection" means if an action or policy has a suspected risk of causing harm to the public or to the environment, in the absence of scientific consensus that the action or policy is harmful, the burden of proof that it is not harmful falls on those taking the action. 3.19 "Pre-consumer Material" or Post-Industrial" means material or by-products generated after manufacture of a product is completed but before the product reaches the end-use consumer. Pre-consumer material does not include mill and manufacturing trim, scrap, or broke which is generated at a manufacturing site and commonly reused on-site in the same or another manufacturing process. 3.20 "Recovered Material" means fragments of products or finished products of a manufacturing process, which has converted a resource into a commodity of real economic value, and includes pre-consumer and postconsumer material but does not include excess resources of the manufacturing process. 3.21 "Recycled Content" means the percentage of recovered material, including pre-consumer and postconsumer materials, in a product. 3.22 "Recycled Content Standard" means the minimum level of recovered material and/or postconsumer material necessary for products to qualify as "recycled products." 3.23 "Recycled Product" means a product that meets the City of Maplewood recycled content policy objectives for postconsumer and recovered material. 3.24 "Remanufactured Product" means any product diverted from the supply of discarded materials by refurbishing and marketing said product without substantial change to its original form. 3.25 "Reused Product" means any product designed to be used many times for the same or other purposes without additional processing except for specific requirements such as cleaning, painting, or minor repairs. 3.26 "Source Reduction" refers to products that result in a net reduction in the generation of waste compared to their previous or alternate version and includes durable, reusable, and remanufactured products; products with no, or reduced, toxic constituents; and products marketed with no, or reduced, packaging. 3.27 "U.S. EPA Guidelines" means the Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines established by the U.S. EPA for federal agency purchases as of May 2002 and any subsequent versions adopted. 4 4.0 GENERAL CONDITIONS 4.1 Source Reduction 4.1.1 The City of Maplewood shall institute practices that reduce waste and result in the purchase of fewer products whenever practical and cost-effective, but without reducing safety or workplace quality. 4.1.2 The City of Maplewood shall purchase remanufactured products (i.e. for equipment and vehicles) whenever practical, but without reducing safety, quality, or effectiveness. 4.1.3 All buyers shall consider short-term and long-term costs in comparing product alternatives, when practical. This includes evaluation of total costs expected during the time a product is owned, including, but not limited to, acquisition, extended warranties, operation, supplies, maintenance, disposal costs, and expected lifetime compared to other alternatives. 4.1.4 Products that are durable, long lasting, reusable, refillable, recyclable, or otherwise create less waste shall be selected whenever practical. 4.1.5 The City of Maplewood requires contractors to use packaging or dishware that is reusable, recyclable, or compostable whenever practical. 4.1.6 Packaging or dishware that is reusable, recyclable, or compostable shall be selected when suitable uses and programs exist. No polystyrene foam food packaging, Styrofoam drinking cups or plates, and beverages bottled in plastic where practical. 4.1.7 Contractors shall be required whenever possible to take back and reuse pallets and packaging materials. 4.1.8 Suppliers of electronic equipment shall be required to take back equipment for reuse or environmentally safe recycling when the City of Maplewood discards or replaces such equipment, whenever practical. 4.1.9 Rechargeable and recyclable batteries shall be purchased and used whenever practical. 4.1.10 All documents shall be printed and copied on both sides to reduce the use and purchase of paper, whenever practical. 4.1.12 All departments shall maximize the electronic distribution of information via websites and email for routine publications and flyers. 4.2 Toxics Reduction and Pollution Prevention 4.2.1 No product or service purchased by the City of Maplewood shall contain, emit, or create the following in its use, to the extent practical: 5 o known carcinogens and reproductive toxins, o persistent bioaccumulative toxicants, including lead, mercury, dioxins and furans for example, o compounds toxic to humans or aquatic life, corrosive to the skin or eyes, or that are skin sensitizers, and o substances that contribute to the production of photochemical smog, atmospheric ozone production, or poor indoor air quality. 4.2.2 All cleaning or products (i.e. for janitorial or automotive use) shall at a minimum meet Green Seal or EcoLogo Standards, whenever practical. 4.2.3 Purchasing products containing persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chemicals shall be avoided, where alternatives exist. This includes following the guidance to minimize/eliminate the use of products that contain or generate persistent, toxic, or bioaccumulative wastes during manufacturing or reuse/disposal such as mercury, lead, or dioxin. 4.2.4 The use of chlorofluorocarbon-containing refrigerants, solvents, and other products known to contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer shall be phased out and new purchases shall not contain them. The City of Maplewood shall not purchase any chlorofluorocarbon-processed food packaging. 4.2.5 When maintaining buildings and landscapes, the City of Maplewood shall manage pest problems through prevention and physical, mechanical, and biological controls and use least toxic chemical pesticide products only after safer approaches or products have been determined to be ineffective. The City of Maplewood shall adopt and implement an organic pest management policy and practices, or review and/or revise and further implement the City's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) policy and practices for indoor and outdoor areas using chemical controls only as a last resort and providing on-going education and training to City staff. 4.2.6 The City of Maplewood shall use products with the lowest amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), highest recycled content, and low or no formaldehyde when purchasing building maintenance materials such as paint, carpeting, flooring, adhesives, furniture, and casework. 4.2.7 The City of Maplewood shall reduce or eliminate its use of products that contribute to the formation of dioxins and furans. This includes, but is not limited to: o Purchasing paper, paper products, and janitorial paper products that are unbleached or that are processed without chlorine or chlorine derivatives, whenever possible. o Prohibiting purchase of products that contain or are packaged in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) such as, but not limited to, office binders, furniture, carpeting, flooring, other building materials and supplies, and medical supplies whenever practical. 4.2.8 The City of Maplewood shall purchase products and equipment with no lead, 6 Cadmium, or mercury whenever possible. For products that must contain lead or mercury because no suitable alternative exists or because they are more energy efficient, the City of Maplewood shall give preference to those products with the lowest quantities of these metals available and to contractors with established lead, cadmium and mercury recovery programs. 4.2.9 When replacing vehicles, the City of Maplewood shall lease or purchase only the most fuel-efficient models available that are suitable for each task and through carsharing and carpooling, shall minimize the number of vehicles purchased. 4.2.10 To the extent practical, the City shall use renewably-derived fuels or fuels that are cleaner and less-polluting than gasoline and conventional diesel fuel, including biodiesel, natural gas, and electricity. 4.2.11 The purchase of all pentachlorophenol, arsenic, and creosote treated wood by the City of Maplewood is prohibited. 4.2.12 The purchase of products which are treated with Fluorochemicals for stain resistance is prohibited. 4.2.13 The purchase of antibacterial hand soap containing Triclosan is prohibited. 4.2.14 The purchase of products which contain Nanosilver is prohibited. 4.3 Recycled Content Products 4.3.1 All products shall contain the highest postconsumer recycled content practical, but no less than the minimum recycled content standards established by the U.S. EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. 4.1.11 All departments shall minimize the use of colored paper for routine publications and flyers, especially the use of Neon Bright colors, unless these products can be proven to be made with at least 30 percent post-consumer waste product. 4.3.2 Copiers and printers purchased shall be compatible with the use of recycled content and remanufactured products. 4.3.3 The City of Maplewood shall purchase re-refined lubricating and industrial oil for use in its vehicles and other equipment, as long as it is consistent with the engine manufacturer's warranty and maintenance requirements. 4.3.4 When specifying asphalt concrete, aggregate base or portland cement concrete for road construction projects, the City of Maplewood shall use recycled, reusable, or reground materials when practical and consistent with accepted engineering practices. 7 4.3.5 The City of Maplewood shall specify and purchase recycled content transportation products, including signs, cones, parking stops, delineators, and barricades. 4.3.6 A 10 percent price preference may be given to recycled content products based on the lowest bid or price quoted by the suppliers offering the competing non- recycled content products. 4.3.7 Printing paper, office paper, and paper products will contain the highest postconsumer content practical, but no less than the minimum recycled content standards established by the U.S. EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. 4.3.8 All pre-printed recycled content papers intended for distribution shall contain a statement that the paper has recycled content. Whenever feasible, the statement should indicate the percentage of postconsumer recycled content it contains. 4.4 Energy and Water Savings 4.4.1 New and replacement equipment for lighting, heating, ventilation, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, water consuming fixtures and process equipment and all such components shall meet or exceed Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) recommended levels, whenever practical. 4.4.2 All products purchased by the City of Maplewood and for which the U.S. EPA Energy Star rating is available shall be Energy Star qualified, when practical. When Energy Star rating is not available, products shall meet or exceed the FEMP recommended levels. 4.4.3 All computers purchased by the city be EPEAT registered — the level (bronze, silver, gold) would depend on the type of computer. 4.4.3 When energy is purchased, renewable or green sources are preferred. These include solar power or photovoltaics, wind power, geothermal, and hydroelectric energy sources and do not include fossil fuels (coal, oil or natural gas). 4.4.4 Demand water heaters shall be purchased whenever practical. Where renewable forms of energy are unavailable or not practical, natural gas shall be used in lieu of electricity for space heating and water heating. 4.4.5 Energy Star and power-saving features for copiers, computers, monitors, printers and other office equipment shall be enabled during the initial installation and shall remain enabled unless these features conflict with the manufacturer's recommended operation and maintenance of the equipment. 4.5 Green Building - Construction and Renovations 4.5.1 All new city buildings and renovations shall follow Green Building practices for design, construction, and operation, where applicable, as described in the LEED 8 Rating System, to meet at least a minimum of a Silver level of LEED or LEED for Existing Buildings, or future Green Building Programs adopted by the city. 4.6 Landscaping 4.6.1 All landscape renovations, construction, and maintenance by the City of Maplewood, including workers and contractors providing landscaping services for the City of Maplewood, shall employ sustainable landscape management techniques for design, construction and maintenance whenever practical, including, but not limited to, integrated pest management, grass cycling, drip irrigation, composting, and procurement and use of mulch and compost that give preference to those produced from regionally generated plant debris and/or food waste programs. 4.6.2 Plants should be selected to minimize waste by choosing species for purchase that are appropriate to the microclimate, species that can grow to their natural size in the space allotted them, and perennials rather than annuals for color. Native and drought-tolerant plants that require no or minimal watering once established are preferred. 4.6.3 Hardscapes and landscape structures constructed of recycled content materials are encouraged. The City of Maplewood shall limit the amount of impervious surfaces in the landscape, wherever practical. Permeable substitutes, such as permeable asphalt or pavers, are encouraged for walkways, patios, and driveways. 4.7 Forest Conservation 4.7.1 To the greatest extent practical, the City of Maplewood shall not procure wood products such as lumber and paper that originate from forests harvested in an environmentally unsustainable manner. When possible, the City of Maplewood shall give preference to wood and wood products that are certified to be sustainably harvested by a comprehensive, performance-based certification system. The certification system shall include independent third-party audits, with standards equivalent to, or stricter than, those of the Forest Stewardship Council certification. 4.8 Agricultural Bio-Based Products 4.8.1 Vehicle and equipment fuels made from non-wood, plant-based contents such as vegetable oils are encouraged whenever practical. 4.8.2 Paper, paper products, and construction products made from non-wood, plant- based contents such as agricultural crops and residues are to be purchased and used whenever practical. 9 5.0 PRIORITIES 5.1 The health and safety of people who live and work in Maplewood is of utmost importance and takes precedence over all other City policies. All policies and practices shall be protective of the health of children, the elderly and other vulnerable populations, and the greater global community. 5.2 The City of Maplewood has made significant investments in developing a successful recycling system and recognizes that recycled content products are essential to the continuing viability of that recycling system and for the foundation of an environmentally sound production system. Therefore, to the greatest extent practical, recycled content shall be included in products that also meet other environmental specifications, such as chlorine free or bio-based. 5.3 Nothing contained in this policy shall be construed as requiring a department, buyer or contractor to procure products that do not perform adequately for their intended use, exclude adequate competition, or are not available at a reasonable price in a reasonable period of time. 5.4 Nothing contained in this policy shall be construed as requiring the City of Maplewood, department, buyer or contractor to take any action that conflicts with local, state or federal requirements. 6.0 IMPLEMENTATION 6.1 The City Manager or his or her designee shall implement this policy in coordination with other appropriate City of Maplewood personnel policies. 6.2 Implementation of this policy will be phased based on available resources and City priorities. 6.3 The Environmental Planner shall advise the City Manager or his/her designee regarding environmentally preferable products that comply with this policy. Recommendations will include input of applicable environmental staff and the Maplewood Green Team. Whenever possible, the City will use existing eco-labels and standards to make purchasing decisions. 6.4 Successful bidders shall certify in writing that the environmental attributes claimed in formal competitive bids are accurate. Contractors shall be required to specify the minimum or actual percentage of recovered and postconsumer material in their products, even when such percentages are zero. Third party verification of claims — Scientific certification systems or UL. 6.5 Preference for local businesses shall be accorded to promote businesses in Maplewood that provide environmentally preferable products and services. 6.6 Contractors and grantees shall comply with applicable sections of this policy for products and services provided to the City of Maplewood, where practical. In particular, contractors and grantees providing written materials to the City shall do so 10 on recycled content paper per the requirements of this Policy and labeled as such. Contractors and grantees shall be prohibited from using pentachlorophenol, arsenic, and creosote treated wood. 6.7 If the buyer making the selection from competitive bids or the requesting department seek to purchase products that do not meet the environmentally preferable purchasing criteria in this Policy, the buyer or the department shall provide a written justification to the City Manager or his/her designee for why compliance is not practical, e.g., the product is not technically practical, economically feasible, or available within the timeframe required. The City Manager or his/her designee shall be the authority to approve all contracts that do not require City Council authority or items covered under contracts executed prior to the effective date of this Policy. 6.8 If a contractor that is under contract to the City of Maplewood is no longer able to provide a product that meets the City's environmental purchasing policy, it shall notify the City Manager or his/her designee and provide written justification for why compliance is not practical. Prior written consent from the City Manager or his/her designee, or authorized City representative, shall be required before substituting any alternative product to any City employee. 6.9 The Information Technology Department shall be responsible for setting duplexing as the default on each workstation for all capable printers. This includes printing from network connected or stand-alone personal computer printers that are capable of duplexing. 6.10 The Information Technology Department shall be responsible for advising the City Manager or his/her designee on purchases of environmentally preferable electronic equipment with a major focus on power consumption, energy conservation in employee computer use, server farms and replacement IT equipment. 6.11 Training of buyers and other relevant city staff, contractors and grantees shall include instruction on the requirements of this Environmental Purchasing Policy by the Environmental Planner and Maplewood Green Team. 7.0 PROGRAM EVALUATION 7.1 The Environmental Planner and City Manager or his/her designee shall evaluate the success of this Policy's implementation by providing an annual report to the City Council. The report shall relate progress in meeting the goals and objectives of this Policy and note any barriers encountered, recommendations for resolution, and/or description of assistance needed to continuously improve staff's ability to meet this Policy's objectives for the procurement of environmentally preferable products and services. 11