ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES 5.1 INTRODUCTION The Environmental Resources component of the Comprehensive Plan is intended to guide the use of the physical environment, protect and enhance environmental quality and promote a greater understanding of the physical environment. Since all human activity takes place in the physical environment, the health of the community is dependent on the health and well-being of the environment. Natural resources serve as neighborhood enhancements, economic development, image, beautification, parks, recreation and leisure enjoyment. Natural resources include but are not limited to trees, wildlife, wetlands, waterways, ponds, soils, and ground water. Champlin is fortunate to have two major natural features areas along with four other significant natural resources. The Mississippi River and the Elm Creek Park Reserve provide the City with natural amenities uncommon to many other communities. Further, the Elm Creek, two State Wildlife Management areas, Oxbow Park and Galloway Park provide even more natural beauty. The preservation of natural resources does not mean absolute avoidance. If avoidance is not possible, mitigation may be acceptable. There will be developments that will affect some portion of the natural environment. The key is in balancing community growth with environmental protection through development projects that preserve environmental features, such as the River, wetlands and woodlands through good design. It becomes important to analyze an entire development and the purpose of a resource and allow encroachments when there is minimal damage and overall benefit. As established in Section 1 of the Comprehensive Plan, the City s vision regarding natural resources is as follows: Protect and Enhance Open Space and the Natural Environment Promote the use of green technology and sustainable development Protect and improve our water resources and woodlands Facilitate open space preservation Respect the natural environment while managing growth Explore opportunities to connect with the Mississippi River and the Champlin Mill Pond 5-1

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES 5.2 NATURAL RESOURCES Several environmental features make the City of Champlin unique. The protection of these environmental characteristics is important for the future of the City. Protection not only includes the preservation of the existing natural features, but improvement of those features. OPEN SPACE The preservation of open space areas is important to the diversity of Champlin. The Elm Creek Park Reserve, Oxbow Park and the State of Minnesota Wildlife Management Areas provide natural settings for wildlife and vegetation growth. Unlike many inner ring communities, the natural open spaces provide for passive recreation and aesthetic beauty. The Elm Creek Park Reserve is a relatively new amenity in Champlin. Although Three Rivers Park District governs the primary use of the Park Reserve, it is important for the City to protect the Reserve through the regulation of uses abutting it. Access from Champlin is important for the residents; however, the number of accesses should be limited in order to protect the naturalness of the Park Reserve. Oxbow Park and Oxbow Creek are important natural features to Champlin. Combined with the City s prairie restoration program, this area provides a unique educational opportunity for residents of Champlin and adjacent school facilities. Along with the environmental benefit of this park, the area also serves as the storm water outlet for the large portion of southeastern Champlin and northeastern Brooklyn Park. The City of Champlin contains two wildlife preserves that are owned and managed by the State of Minnesota. The preserves, located in the southwestern part of the City, are 10 and 40 acres. The purpose of the land is for wildlife refuge and natural vegetation preservation. Developments adjacent to the preserve will need to be designed to protect and enhance the areas. Open Space Protection Plan 1. Coordinate and collaborate with Three Rivers Park District to allow for the continued use of the Elm Creek Park Reserve by the residents of Champlin. 2. Regulate development of property adjacent to the natural open spaces through the zoning ordinance and via the planned unit development 5-2

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES process. Increased lot sizes, lot depths and widths and building setbacks should be encouraged in order to protect the natural environment. 3. Monitor the activities within the State Wildlife Management Areas and make changes when necessary due to encroachment of development. 4. Monitor the border areas between development and open space to ensure that no dumping of material occurs that may damage the environment of the areas. 5. Enhance open space areas through environmental techniques such as prairie grass and natural/native vegetation. FOREST AND WOODLANDS Trees have been recognized for the beauty and value they provide to neighborhoods, parks and business areas. At the same time, trees conserve energy, clean the air, protect rivers and streams and provide a home for wildlife. The City of Champlin s woodlands line the Mississippi River shore, diminishing as they stretch to the southeast. Champlin s primary woodland areas border the City s other two natural watercourses Elm Creek and Oxbow Creek appearing more sporadically in clusters around the south side of Lemans Lake. Other woodland areas in the community consist of scattered clusters of former farm windbreaks, shelterbelts and farm woodlots. The concern for protecting woodlands extends beyond the recreational and aesthetic benefits. Woodlands moderate climatic conditions, such as high winds and flooding and thereby assist in protecting the watershed from siltation and erosion. In addition, the ground within a woodland area can act as a filter to recharge groundwater reservoirs. The trees act as a natural air filer while moderating temperature extremes. While larger tracts of trees are protecting by State preserves, some wooded areas are subject to the threat of urban development. In some instances, ease of design and reduced construction costs may lead to clear-cutting and leveling sites for home construction. In existing wooded areas, where it is desirable to preserve as much of the woodland ecology as possible, cluster development should be encouraged and plats designed to minimize tree removal. Although woodlands are subject to the potential threat of urban development, experts have recognized that disease, natural disasters and an aging tree population must be considered as threats to tree loss. With the spread of Dutch Elm Disease and Oak Wilt, there is concern of losing natural stands of trees. To reduce the affects of tree disease, the City of Champlin 5-3

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES will encourage the planting of a wide variety of tree species with a specific focus on trees native to Champlin. Forest and Woodland Preservation Plan 1. During public and private construction, the removal of trees should be limited with replanting required where tree removal is in excess of established maximums. 2. Subdivision regulations shall require identification of existing trees and trees to be removed and proposed plantings. 3. Cluster developments should be encouraged in areas containing forests or woodlands 4. Clear cutting of trees shall be prohibited except by permit. 5. Continued tree planting for residential, commercial and industrial projects shall be required. 6. Encourage the replacement of trees lost to disease and the planting of a variety of trees with an emphasis on trees native to Champlin. 7. Implement the disease control plan to minimize the loss of existing trees. 8. Increase the public land and boulevard planting programs. WATER RESOURCES Preservation of the water resources within and adjacent to the City of Champlin takes on many dimensions. Champlin s water resources do not end with the actual water surfaces such as the Mississippi River, Elm Creek or Oxbow Creek; it includes the land that surrounds the resources (shorelands), natural low areas that often times contain aquatic vegetation and water (wetlands), non-surface water (groundwater), areas that contain seasonal water or event water (floodplains) and man-made water courses (drainage swales and storm sewers). Because of the interconnection among the variety of water resources, it is important to preserve them all. Natural Watercourse A natural watercourse is a channel for water movement, such as creeks, streams or rivers. The City of Champlin contains three major natural watercourses that provide natural enhancement to the community, natural preserves and storm water protection. The primary watercourse is the Mississippi River and the other two are Elm Creek and Oxbow Creek, both of which flow to the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River is by far the most important natural watercourse in Champlin. Not only does it provide an amenity and recreational feature not 5-4

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES found in many metropolitan communities, it is the main water body for all storm water. Both watersheds in Champlin, Elm Creek and West Mississippi, outlet to the Mississippi River. Because of this, it is important to protect and preserve the Mississippi River water flow. In protecting the Mississippi River, it is important to preserve the banks and outlets. Elm Creek is another natural watercourse. Located in the northwest part of Champlin, Elm Creek runs from the western boundary to the Mississippi River. It drains a large watershed, including Champlin, Dayton, Maple Grove, Corcoran, Plymouth and Medina, before emptying into the Mill Pond and then into the Mississippi River. Elm Creek is associated with a large amount of open space providing vegetated open space adjacent to the water. In comparison with other watercourses, the land adjacent the Elm Creek is undeveloped. Thus, as development continues to move west, it will be important to protect the Creek with building setbacks, natural open space dedications, housing clusters and National Urban Runoff Program (NURP) ponds. Oxbow Creek, located in the southeastern part of Champlin, is a natural watercourse that runs from Champlin s southern border to the Mississippi River. A majority of the Creek is located within the Oxbow Nature Park. Oxbow Park provides a natural setting for the Creek. Oxbow Creek is part of Champlin s storm water system creating the need to preserve the entire watercourse in the future to allow for the proper flow to the Mississippi River. With storm water runoff in the area increasing, there may be a need to better define the watercourse to protect the natural environment and development surrounding it. Mississippi River Critical Area The Mississippi River, as it flows through the Twin Cities Area, is exciting because of the contrast in both natural and man-made features. From a shallow stream, scattered with sand bars and sandy banks, to a commercially navigable river with rock bluffs; from rural open space to commercial and industrial developments; and from residential subdivisions to heavily wooded natural areas; the varied uses and features dictate the need for the State Critical Area designation of the Mississippi River corridor. The portion of the Mississippi River running through the Cities of Champlin, Anoka, Dayton and Ramsey represents the northern most reach of the Critical Area. To protect the Mississippi River, the Critical Area Plan (attached as an addendum) outlines the need for land use controls (lot size, setbacks, density, building heights, public access, re-evaluation of land use and site 5-5

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES review standards), including the protection of natural vegetation and river banks. Shoreland In recognition of the impact that uncontrolled development can have on shoreland, the State Legislature approved development regulations for all public lakes and rivers. The legislation gave the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) the responsibility of providing guidance to local governments on shoreland regulations. The Minnesota Municipal Shoreland Regulations apply to all lands within 300 feet of the ordinary high water mark of rivers and creeks and 1,000 feet of lakes. The regulations have created three shoreland categories, each with separate development standards. Shoreland property in Champlin has been designated General Development. The City is committed to working with the DNR to implement all shoreland regulations that are determined appropriate for the Community. The City of Champlin understands the importance of protecting shorelands. The adoption of a shoreland ordinance will protect the shoreland through setback requirements, lot sizes, building heights and impervious surface limits. Floodplain The State of Minnesota adopted the Flood Plain Management Act in 1969. The Act requires all local units of government to adopt, enforce and administer a Flood Plain Ordinance. The Flood Plain Act was in response to the financial and personal losses resulting from floods. In order to stop the continued escalation of public costs related to flooding, the emphasis in Flood Plain Management was shifted from flood controls (dikes, channelization, etc.) to regulatory controls (zoning and subdivision regulations). The regulatory approach establishes guidelines requiring that part of the flood plain, which is more susceptible to flooding (floodway), be left in a natural state or developed under intense restrictions. In the less susceptible parts (flood fringe), a broader range of land use activities can be permitted. There are two areas subject to flooding in Champlin. Along Elm Creek, there is a floodway and flood fringe extending south of the present creek channel toward the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River also has small areas designated floodway and flood fringe, the most sizable being in the northwest stretch of the River. 5-6

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES Wetland Wetlands are low lying areas dominated by hydrophytic vegetation or covered with shallow or intermittent waters. Swamps, marshes, bogs and other low lying areas are wetlands, and may occur as part of a river, stream, drainage way or as a low area of upland. Wetlands serve as floodwater storage and retention areas, nutrient assimilation, sediment entrapment, ground water recharge, low flow augmentation, aesthetics and recreation, shoreland anchoring and erosion control. Because of the number of uses of wetlands and the growing concern regarding the loss of wetlands throughout the State, the legislature adopted the 1991 Wetland Conservation Act. The intent of the Act is a net increase in the number of Minnesota wetlands. The implementation strategy is to preserve wetlands through avoidance or the replacement at a 2:1 ratio. It is the intent of the City to prepare a wetland inventory and design a wetland ordinance. There are two existing wetland inventories on hand including the National Wetland Inventory (NWI) and the Protected Waters Inventory (DNR). The size and location of wetlands are important in determining the value in maintaining water quality, minimizing flood damage and preserving natural habitat. Groundwater Groundwater is frequently overlooked as a natural resource. It is extremely important to preserve and maintain the water supply that exists. Although Champlin is in no danger of running out of water, water conservation is still important. Developments need to be managed/controlled to minimize groundwater contamination and pollution. Water Preservation Plan 1. Apply the National Urban Runoff Program standards for the design of new storm water ponds and the MPCA s urban best management practices titled Water Quality in Urban Areas. 2. Prepare an inventory of wetland areas in the City. 3. Encourage the maintenance of the natural environment of the River and encourage uses, which will not be a cause of deterioration of this natural environment. 5-7

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES 4. Preserve adequate area for impoundment of flood waters in the flood plain. 5. Consider adopting the DNR s state shoreland regulations. 6. Continue to enforce the flood plain restrictions. 7. Require riverfront land use activity to preserve and enhance the River corridor area. 8. Protect resources through enforcement of existing legislation, new regulations and design guidelines. 9. Create development and improvement design guidelines to achieve the vision articulated in the Plan. 10. Require the extensive use of plant materials on riverfront areas to control erosion. 11. Natural watercourses shall be maintained to handle storm water runoff. 12. Preserve and manage the use of wetlands and major aquifer recharge areas to insure the continued performance of their natural functions. 13. Preserve natural drainage ways and recharge areas to insure the continued performance of their natural functions. 14. Subdivision regulations shall require protection of natural watercourses should meet minimum standards established by the DNR. 15. Comprehensive storm water drainage plans shall be completed prior to urban development. 16. Review developments as to their affects on the groundwater and prohibit development that will adversely affect it. SOIL PRESERVATION When land is designated for a particular use, it is essential that consideration be given to the limitations of various soil types. Soils vary greatly in composition, and this variation in soil properties impacts its productive capacity, it ability to support heavy loads and its ability to hold shape after excavation. The Natural Resources Conservation Service has mapped and classified the soils of Hennepin County. The information is published in the Hennepin County Soil Survey. These soil classifications have been categorized according to suitability for urban development and can provide the following information: 1. Suitability of soils for intensive residential, commercial, industrial, recreation or agricultural land uses; and 2. Suitability of soils for building foundations. 5-8

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES Soil conditions that impact development are classified as slight, moderate and severe. Slight means that the soil conditions are minor and can be easily corrected. Moderate indicates that the soil conditions are limiting; but with proper design and planning limitation can be corrected for the intended use. Severe indicates that soil properties are not suitable for development and corrective measures require soil reclamation, intensive maintenance and/or special design. Within Champlin, there are several areas containing severe soil limitations for urban development. According to the Hennepin County Soil Survey, the major problems are erosion of slopes with gradients that exceed 18 percent and high ground water levels. Soil Preservation Plan 1. Encourage residential and agricultural soil management practices that minimize siltation and pollution of rivers, lakes and streams. 2. Land shall not be developed until public sewer is available. 3. Soil survey information shall be used as a basis for determining appropriate land use and building design. 4. Grading, filling and any topographical alteration shall not be permitted without a permit from the City. SLOPE PRESERVATION Regulating development on hillsides has not been a major concern of the northern suburbs of the Metropolitan Area due to the availability of flat land. The slopes, soil, vegetation and underlying geological formation of hillsides determine their susceptibility to erosion. Removal of vegetation from slops alters soil stability and increases erosion and siltation. Erosion is also caused by rain, wave action, and changes in the water elevation. Champlin contains a few areas that are considered to have steep slopes. The Mississippi River bank, particularly in the north part of the City, and slopes of property in the southwest part of the City. Erosion is of special concern along the Mississippi River bank as some properties are experiencing problems aggravated by periods of high water and motorboat wakes. It is necessary to identify slopes subject to erosion. Poorly designed or hillside developments frequently result in a substantial cost to the public. Development standards are necessary to minimize this problem. Slopes prone to severe erosion should be protected by requiring developers to 5-9

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES obtain a permit prior to any construction, grading or filling. Property owners planning to develop slopes subject to erosion should provide information demonstrating that proper construction will occur and that vegetative cover will be replaced. Slope Preservation Plan 1. No structure shall be allowed on slopes susceptible to severe erosion. These slopes shall be maintained in a natural state and regulation shall required preservation of vegetative cover to minimize erosion. Owners of riparian property with banks exceeding 18 percent shall obtain a permit from the City prior to constructing. 2. Development controls shall be adopted to minimize erosion and slippage on slopes subject to moderate erosion. Controls shall require replacement of all vegetative cover on slopes to minimize erosion. 3. During construction, soil shall be left bare for the shortest time possible. 4. Shoreline protection and stabilization shall be the individual property owner s responsibility. 5.3 ENERGY CONSERVATION In recent years, attention has been drawn to the nation s energy supply. Most of the nation s and Champlin s energy comes from non-renewable sources such as petroleum, nuclear, coal, and natural gas. These resources are in limited supply as well as having been linked to negative environmental impacts. The City of Anoka Electric Utility and Xcel Energy supply electricity to Champlin and have increased use of renewable-based systems over the past few years. The City will continue to support those efforts as well as support residents and businesses that choose to implement personal alternative energy systems. SOLAR ACCESS The City is committed to allowing business and resident access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Solar energy collectors are permitted uses in all of the City s zoning districts. Residents and businesses are encouraged to include such systems as part of their homes or buildings. 5-10

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES WIND Wind turbine generated power has been a popular energy choice for utility companies in recent years, albeit in rural areas. As individual wind system technology improves, the City will work with businesses and residents who would like to own and operate such systems on their properties in the urban/suburban environment. City ordinance does limit the height of structures on certain zoning districts. The City should consider amending the ordinance to address wind systems. GREEN BUILDINGS Many businesses and residents have included environmentally-friendly or sustainable components into constructing or remodeling buildings or homes. These components could include the use of recycled or re-used materials, sustainable or low-impact materials, low-consumption utilities, sky-lights or properly placed windows, and energy-saving mechanical equipment and appliances. Champlin will continue to encourage residents and businesses to implement the U.S. Green Building Council s design guidelines for sustainability. The following is from the USGBC s website (www.usgbc.org) describing LEED: The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED gives building owners and operators the tools they need to have an immediate and measurable impact on their buildings performance. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. The City is committed in including these design guidelines in public facilities owned and operated by the City and encourages our governmental partners (Hennepin County, school districts, state, and federal governments) to do the same on projects within Champlin. Any sustainable design that would yield long-term energy savings is strongly encouraged, provided that it is cost-effective to do so. LAND USE As described in the Land Use Plan (Chapter 3) and the Transportation Plan (Chapter 6), the City is encouraging land use choices that allow for walking 5-11

SECTION 5: ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES and bicycling short trips, rather than driving. Pedestrian connections (sidewalks and trails) between residential areas and business areas will provide a safe, convenient, environmentally-friendly neighborhood Alternative Energy Plan 1. Consider provisions for flexible setbacks based on solar access. 2. Examine current building heights, lot sizes and setbacks in order to ensure the protection of solar access rights of all residents. 3. Establish a minimum degree of solar access protection by adopting policies and regulations establishing solar access protection. 4. Establish land use regulations for the protection of solar access to rooftops and south building elevations in all new residential developments and to rooftops for commercial and industrial uses. 5.4 CONSENSUS STATEMENTS ON NATURAL RESOURCES 1. Protect the Mississippi River and its surrounding natural environment, such as creeks, wetlands, natural ponds, open spaces and natural flora and fauna. 2. Explore the need for a Wetland Ordinance. 3. Monitor future development to minimize adverse environmental impact on Champlin s natural amenities. 4. Encourage the use of alternative energy sources. 5. Review proposed development to reduce pollutants in groundwater and storm water runoff. 6. Promote policies to protect and improve air quality. 7. Increase public awareness of the proper methods to care for hazardous waste materials, methods or solid waste reduction and recycling. 8. Encourage alternative transportation to decrease environmental impact. 9. Preserve historic and archeological sites are required by State and Federal law. 5-12

CITY OF CHAMPLIN MISSISIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR PLAN Approved 1999 Amended 2009

MISSISSIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS Purpose Statement....................................................... 4 Section I: OVERVIEW................................................. 5 Critical Area Designation Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) Current Management and Protection Efforts -Critical Area Requirements -Conservancy District Ordinance -Flood Plain Ordinance -Municipal Shoreland Regulations -Land Use Plan -Surface Water Management Plan Section II: LAND USE.................................................. 12 Overview Residential Commercial Future Land Uses Goals/Policies Section III: RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.................................. 18 Natural Environment -Natural Watercourses -Slopes -Soils -Flood Plains -Wetlands -Woodlands Cultural/Historical Resources Goals/Policies 2

Section IV: PUBLIC FACILITIES AND PUBLIC USE......................... 29 Parks and Open Space Transportation Public Utilities Goals/Policies Section V: IMPLEMENTATION.......................................... 33 Education Capital Improvement Plan Local Controls 3

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 - Figure 2 - Figure 3 - Figure 4 - Figure 5 - Figure 6 - MNRRA / Critical Area Corridor in Region Land Use Future Land Use / Mississippi Crossings Area Significant Natural Features Wetland Inventory Cultural and Historic Sites 4

PURPOSE STATEMENT The City of Champlin Mississippi River Corridor Plan has been prepared in compliance with the Minnesota State Legislature Executive Order 79-19, the state of Minnesota Critical Area regulations, and Mississippi National River and Recreation Area standards for the citizens of Champlin to accomplish the following: A. To protect and preserve a unique and valuable state and regional resource for the benefit of the health, safety and welfare of the citizens for the state, region and nation; B. To prevent and mitigate irreversible damage to this state, regional and national resource; C. To preserve and enhance its natural, aesthetic, cultural and historical value for the public use; D. To protect and preserve the river as an essential element in the national, state and regional transportation, sewer and water and recreational systems, and; E. To protect and preserve the biological and ecological functions of the corridor. The plan documents existing conditions in the Mississippi River Corridor and develops strategies to preserve and enhance the environmental, scenic, historical, cultural, biological and scientific values, to enhance public outdoor recreation opportunities and communicate the significance of the Mississippi River. The plan is intended to be an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan and as such provides general direction to the decision-makers and staff of the City on how to handle river corridor decisions in an informed manner consistent with corridor goals and policies. The goals and policies of this plan were developed through a public participation process including a citywide visioning meeting as well as development sessions with various Champlin commissions including the Environmental Resources Commission, the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Planning Commission. In addition, City staff members input was embodied in the plan. 5

OVERVIEW CRITICAL AREA DESIGNATION In 1973, the Minnesota Legislature enacted the Critical Area Act, establishing a process for planning and managing areas of regional or statewide significance in order to preserve areas of significant natural and cultural resources. Before an area could be designated as a Critical Area, the following criteria had to have been met: 1) The area must be of significant regional and statewide public interest. 2) The area is one of a limited number in the state or region. 3) The area must be described specifically enough to permit delineation by legal description. The Mississippi River, as it flows through the Twin Cities Area, is exciting due to the contrast in both natural and man-made features. From a shallow stream, scattered with sand bars and sandy bands, to a commercially navigable river with rock bluffs; from rural open space to commercial and industrial developments; and from residential subdivisions to heavily wooded natural areas, the varied uses and features dictated the need for the Critical Area designation of the Mississippi River. After a series of public hearings, on October 18, 1976, the Governor designated the Mississippi River Corridor, in the Twin Cities, as a Critical Area. The stretch includes a corridor from Ramsey (Anoka County) to Ravanna (Dakota County). In 1979 the Governor and later the Metropolitan Council continued the designation of the Mississippi River Corridor as a Critical Area in Executive Order 79-19. This order stated the following purposes for designating this part of the River as a Critical Area: 1) To protect and preserve a unique and valuable state and regional resource for the benefit of the health, safety and welfare of the citizens for the state, region and nation; 2) To prevent and mitigate irreversible damage to this state, regional and national resource; 3) To preserve and enhance its natural, aesthetic, cultural, and historic value for the public use; 4) To protect and preserve the river as an essential element in the national, state and regional transportation, sewer and water and recreational systems; and 5) To protect and preserve the biological and ecological functions of the corridor. The order also established standards and guidelines for preparing critical area plans and regulations. These plans and regulations, created by local governments, reviewed and approved by appropriate state agencies, ensure consistency with state laws. MISSISSIPPI NATIONAL RIVER AND RECREATION AREA (MNRRA) On November 18, 1988, Public Law 100-696 established the MNRRA as a unit of the national park system. The MNRRA was established by Congress to (1) protect, preserve, and enhance the significant values of the Mississippi River corridor, (2) encourage coordination of federal, state, and local programs, and (3) provide a management framework to assist the state of Minnesota and units of local government in the development of integrated resource management programs. MNRRA includes 72-miles of the Mississippi River and four miles of the Minnesota River and 54,000 acres of land, stretching from the cities of Dayton and Ramsey to just south of Hastings. Also, the 1988 MNRRA legislation directed a comprehensive management plan be prepared for the corridor. This plan details the policies and programs essential for river protection and 6

enhancement and is the primary reference for MNRRA. Figure 1: Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (Source: Comprehensive Management Plan) MNRRA does not add any further regulatory controls to the river corridor. Rather, MNRRA seeks to enhance and build upon the types of policies and regulations set forth in such state legislation as the Critical Areas Act (Executive Order 79-19), the Shoreland Management Act, or the Floodplain Management Act. The partnership between the Metropolitan Council, the National Park Service and the Department of Natural Resources is intended to assist units of government in providing adequate controls to ensure orderly and environmentally sound development of lands within the corridor. To accomplish these ends, MNRRA calls for two tiers of community involvement. Achieving Tier I status denotes meeting the requirements of state legislation to protect critical areas. Tier II goes beyond what is required by state statute and addresses issues relating to image, heritage, education, and orderly economic development. Although Tier II is a voluntary stage in the plan, it is required in order to be eligible for federal funds to assist in implementation of the plan. CURRENT MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION EFFORTS The Mississippi River, as it stretches through Champlin, is one of the northern most communities of the Mississippi River designated as a Critical Area. Development along the river has been carefully managed and regulated since the early 1970 s through such programs as the Critical Area Act (1973), Shoreland Management Act (1973), Floodplain regulations and local zoning controls. The following summarizes these 7

programs: Critical Area Requirements The City of Champlin completed a plan in collaboration with the communities of Anoka and Ramsey in 1979 to meet the requirements of Executive Order 79-19. At that time the State Environmental Quality Board (EQB) was the responsible agency for reviewing and approving local Critical Area Plans and Ordinances. Implementing the 1979 plan, Champlin adopted an environmental ordinance (Conservancy District) that regulated development in the corridor. Many of the elements of the plan from 1979 still hold true today and will be repeated in this plan. In recognition of the existing land use diversity along the river, Executive Order 79-19 has established four districts on the Mississippi River which are used to determine land uses as well as land use standards. Champlin is in the Urban Developed and Rural Open Space Districts. Executive Order 79-19 has established zoning standards and guidelines on the use of the land along the Mississippi River. Within the Urban Developed District uses shall be largely residential, and expansion of existing and development of new nonresidential or nonrecreational uses shall be limited to preserve and enhance residential character. The Rural Open Space District shall be used and developed to preserve the open, scenic and natural characteristics and ecological and economic functions. Executive Order 79-19 s concerns include protection of environmentally sensitive areas, protection and preservation of the aesthetic qualities, assurance of no premature extension of Metropolitan services, maximization of creation and maintenance of open space, and recreational potential in accordance with guidelines. Conservancy District Ordinance Champlin s primary tool for regulating corridor development is the Conservancy District Ordinance. It is the purpose and intent of the ordinance to prevent damage to natural resources and to preserve and enhance their values to the public. This ordinance is a product of the 1980 Critical Area Plan and in general met the intent of the Development Framework, Critical Area and Municipal Shoreland, with some modifications to fit the local situation. The following standards reflect this philosophy, and are the standards Champlin observes along the river. Table 1: Champlin s Critical Area Zoning Standards URBAN SERVICE AREA SEWERED NON-SEWERED Non-Riparian Riparian Non-Riparian Riparian Lot Size 10,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft. 5 acres 5 acres Lot Width 80 feet 80 feet 300 feet 300 feet Lot Depth 120 feet 200 feet 300 feet 300 feet Setbacks Bluffline - 40 feet - 40 feet Ordinary High Water Mark - 100 feet - 100 feet Height 35 feet 35 feet 35 feet 35 feet 8

The ordinance also outlines the required approvals for certain development/redevelopment activities within the corridor. Floodplain Ordinance The Floodplain Management Act was passed in 1969 as a tool to minimize damages due to flooding. Using standards established by the DNR, the City put in place a Floodplain Ordinance that regulates development within floodplain areas. Maps prepared by the Federal Insurance Administration in 1977 were first used to delineate floodplain areas. The maps were updated in 2004. With the map updates followed an update of the City s Floodplain Ordinance. Municipal Shoreland Regulations In recognition of the impact that uncontrolled development can have on shoreland, the State Legislature in 1969, approved a law regulating development on all public lakes and rivers. The legislation gave the Department of Natural Resources the responsibility of providing municipalities with minimum standards for land development along the State's streams and lakes. The Minnesota Municipal Shoreland Regulations apply to all lands within 300 feet of the normal high water mark of rivers and creeks and 1000 feet of lakes. The management regulations effective from 1973-1989 created three shoreland categories, each with separate development standards. Shoreland property within Champlin during that period was designated General Development, which is the least restrictive of the categories. Since 1989, shoreland portions of the Mississippi River in Champlin have been designated Agricultural and Urban; Mill Pond as General Development. Development Standards, which have been provided by the Department of Natural Resources, are minimal, but other governmental agencies have developed more restrictive standards for river development. The Municipal Shoreland Standards are as follows: Table 2: Municipal Shoreland Standards 1973-1989 NON-SEWERED SEWERED Riparian Non-Riparian Lot Size 20,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft. 10,000 sq. ft. Width 100 feet 75 feet 75 feet Height 35 feet 35 feet 35 feet Setback Water 75 feet 50 feet 50 feet Road 50 feet from right-of-way line of federal, state or county 20 feet from right-of-way line of road, public street or others Table 2A: Shoreland Standards for General Development Single-Family - 1989 on NON-SEWERED SEWERED 9

NON-SEWERED SEWERED Riparian Non-Riparian Riparian Non-Riparian Lot Size 20,000 sq. ft. 40,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft. 10,000 sq. ft. Width 100 feet 150 feet 75 feet 75 feet Height 25 feet 25 feet 25 feet 25 feet Setback Water 75 feet 75 feet 50 feet 50 feet Road 50 feet from right-of-way line of federal, state or county 20 feet from right-of-way line of road, public street or others Table 2B: Shoreland Standards for Agricultural & Urban Rivers Single-Family 1989 on AGRICULTURAL URBAN NONSEWERED URBAN SEWERED Lot Size 20,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft. 10,000 sq. ft. Width 150 feet 100 feet 75 feet Height 25 feet 25 feet 25 feet Setback Water 100 feet unsewered; 50 feet sewered 100 feet 50 feet Road 50 feet from right-of-way line of federal, state or county 20 feet from right-of-way line of road, public street or others The City of Champlin is lacking a shoreland ordinance, however, the City has adopted shoreland standards as part of the Conservancy District Ordinance. There has been interest in adopting the Department of Natural Resources standard shoreland ordinance and it is anticipated that a one will be adopted at a future date. Land Use Plan The land use plan for Champlin must take into consideration all the environmental constraints, state and metropolitan requirements, as well as local concerns such as: established or emerging development patterns; physical characteristics of the site and setting; accessibility, availability or timing of essential public services; impact on or compatibility with adjoining properties, neighborhoods and communities; economics of developer and public bodies; ability to positively alter present undesirable development and growth patterns; and expansion of open space. Much of the land within the Critical Area in Champlin has been developed. 10

The riverfront in Champlin is almost entirely developed. The shoreline development has been almost exclusively single family homes with some apartments in the older developed areas. Most of the shoreline within the developed area is privately owned, with the exception of Oxbow Park, Galloway Park, Mississippi Shores Park and Mississippi Point Park in Champlin and several undeveloped public rights-of-way on the river. Most homes in the Critical Area are served by public sewer. Although the developed neighborhoods along the river do not have the planning flexibility available in the undeveloped areas, some important issues such as building heights, existing river access, existing land uses, utilities, and site plan review procedures need consideration. Surface Water Management Plan The Mississippi River Corridor is managed in accordance with state regulations for clean water, including surface water. The City of Champlin is divided into two distinct watersheds for the purpose of classifying trunk conveyance systems that hydraulically connect retention basins and manage the flow of stormwater. The two watersheds are the Elm Creek Watershed and the West Mississippi Watershed. Currently all surface water is managed by the Champlin Surface Water Management Plan. The plan includes a layout of the storm sewer trunk system and ponding areas with major and minor drainage districts defined. The sizes and capacities of the proposed and existing trunk storm sewers are shown and design data are presented. Ponding areas have been designed using a regional approach to control runoff and minimize flooding. Pond high water levels and the storage volume required in each pond have been established. In addition, cost estimates have been prepared to quantify the required storm drainage system expenditures associated with the continuing growth and development of the City. The general objectives of the Champlin Surface Water Management Plan are as follows: 1. To prevent flooding; 2. To reduce to the greatest practical extent the public capital expenditures necessary to control excessive volumes and rates of runoff; 3. To improve water quality; 4. To reduce erosion and sedimentation from surface flows; 5. To preserve wetlands, lakes, and streams; 6. To promote groundwater recharge; 7. To protect and enhance fish and wildlife habitat; 8. To provide water recreational opportunities; 9. To enhance the natural beauty of the landscape; and 10. To secure the other benefits associated with the proper management of surface water. The Plan specifically addresses concerns for wetland preservation and enhancement through a set of goals and policies that are in compliance with the local, state, and federal wetland regulations. Under the guidance of staff, an inventory and classification of a significant number of wetlands and water bodies within the City was accomplished. The incorporation of wetlands into the storm sewer system includes recommendations to improve water quality, such as regional ponding, while maintaining adequate protection against the 100-year flood. 11

LAND USE OVERVIEW Ninety-five percent of the MNRRA Corridor within the City of Champlin is an urban developed district as described in Minnesota State Legislature Executive Order 79-19 with five percent being the rural open space district at Champlin s northern most point. Most of Champlin is fully developed along the Mississippi River with little municipally owned land along the river. The developed areas primarily consist of single-family residential homes. The publicly owned lands along the river in Champlin include parks at the mouths of Elm Creek (boat launch) and Ox Bow Creek, the park in the Mississippi Shores Subdivision, Galloway Park on the northern border, and several rights-of-way which abut the river. North of the U.S. Highway 169 Bridge, the river is characterized by sand bars, holes, and shallows. In addition, this area has a series of islands, the most notable being Cloquet, Goodin, and Foster. Multiple family residential land is located at a couple of sites adjacent to the Highway 169 Champlin/Anoka bridge and just north of the bridge along Dayton Road. Commercial land is limited to the Champlin Old Town area and consists of small retail strip centers and convenience gas/auto related facilities. Table 3: Land Use in the Mississippi River Critical Area LAND USE ACREAGE PERCENTAGE Single Family Residential 625 83 % Public Land and Open Space 93 12 % Multiple Family Residential 20 3 % Commercial 15 2 % Total 753 100% New development, expansion and redevelopment of existing land uses are permitted only after the approval of site plans conforming to the Champlin Zoning Ordinance, site design and aesthetic standards and riverfront location policies as described in this plan. Land use location decisions for development proposals will be based on a balance between resource protection, visitor use and needs of the corridor. Resource protection will be a primary factor in determining conflicting cases. At the time land is subdivided, compliance with state and local regulations shall be checked relative to drainage, erosion, flooding, sewer and water concerns. For all development except for construction or modification of one single-family residential structure, site plans will be required; and on these plans, information such as elevation, landscaping (existing and proposed), building materials and compliance with zoning requirements shall be provided. New development and expansion shall be permitted only after approval of site plans adequately assessing and minimizing adverse effects and maximizing beneficial effects, including measures to address adverse environmental effects. Site plans shall include standards to ensure that structure, road, screening, landscaping, construction placement, maintenance, and storm water runoff are compatible with character and use of corridor in that district and shall contain specific conditions with regard to buffering, landscaping and revegetation. Also, site plans shall include careful site design to maintain the ability to view the river from existing open space and developed areas. 12

Figure 2: Existing Land Use 13

FUTURE LAND USES As the current mix of land uses indicates, single family residential homes will continue to dominant land use within the Mississippi River Corridor and future development will continue to comply with City Code and the review criteria described in this plan. Future land use in the corridor has been explored most recently by a 24-member Mississippi Crossing Task Force. A product of their exploration is a guide plan that sets in motion a course of action for redevelopment of the Mississippi Crossings area. It is based on the visions and dreams of the Champlin community, as articulated through a citizen task force charged with shaping the area s future. The plan suggests that five areas be considered for action, and that the market be allowed to shape subsequent development. All proposed projects and development will comply with Executive Order 79-19, the City s Ordinance, this Plan, and other applicable state laws. Two of the projects have direct affects on the river corridor and they are: Gateway Development: As one crosses the Mississippi River and enters Champlin from the north, a new development forms a gateway to the community. Offering access to the river and being able to take advantage of Highway 169 s traffic, this development sets the tone for Mississippi Crossings. The concept includes a full-serve restaurant, offices, small retail and riverfront open space and condominiums all with a focus on the river and an orientation to pedestrians. Some special features include historic monuments along with public space for walks, gardens and native river plantings. Mississippi Commons: The Mill Pond has been described as the jewel of Champlin. Four parks surrounding the Mill Pond are separated by West River Road, cutting off pedestrian access between them. New facilities would be envisioned for Mississippi Commons. Water quality in the Mill Pond might be improved. In addition, historic buildings, such as Dunning School, might find a home here, where their visibility provides a stronger tie to the past. The centerpiece of a Mississippi Commons might be a facility for arts, history and the river. 14

Figure 3: Future Land Use 15

GOALS / POLICIES Land Use 1. All development within the critical area shall be limited in height to 35 feet. 2. Require retention of existing vegetation and landscaping in all of the corridor and encourage landowners to reestablish native vegetation. Provide information and encourage use of alternatives to fertilizer and pesticides. Manicured lawns near the river shall be discouraged. 3. Enhance existing vegetation by creating a program that offers discounted plant material and technical assistance to interested landowners. 4. Existing public access points to the river should be maintained and maximized to allow pedestrians to view the river. Natural screening should be provided to avoid conflicts with adjacent property owners and prevent encroachments. 5. With the exception of single family homes, all new developments shall require site plans that include: drainage plans, easements, landscaping, building materials, and compliance with all zoning requirements (lot size, setbacks, and parking). 6. Urban residential subdivisions (lots of less mm 5 acres) and urban oriented commercial development shall occur only with the expansion of the urban service area and accompanying urban facilities. 7. Non-developed areas which do not have public utilities should be designed with the possibility of resubdividing into smaller lots, securing additional public road right-of-w and land dedication in the event that public utilities are made available in the future. 8. Within the developed neighborhoods of the critical area, the predominant land use shall be residential of varying densities with commercial development limited to existing commercial zones and in the Mississippi Crossings Area. 9. Planned unit developments (PUD) should be encouraged on large undeveloped tracts to allow for more efficient use of land and to preserve natural features. 10. All requests for a building permit for a principal and accessory structures shall be accompanied by a "certificate of survey" which indicates location of building, trees, normal high water mark, bluff line, elevations, easements, and setbacks from property lines. 11. All signs that are visible from the river shall be prohibited and existing signs shall become nonconforming. 12. Substandard lots recorded by the office of the register of deeds prior to adoption of this plan and held in separate ownership, shall be considered legal building sites. 13. Water transportation facilities shall minimize any adverse affects. Riverfront location policies are applied to all development adjacent to the river to determine if the proposed development is compatible. New activities that do not meet the criteria or have some other detrimental 16