Public asked to shape the future of Big Marine

Residents can share ideas on the character of Washington County's newest park.

By KEVIN GILES, Star Tribune

Last update: October 19, 2009 - 12:29 AM

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www.co.washington.mn.us/info_for_residents/parks_division/parks_and_trails/big_marine_park_reserve/

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Residents will have a chance to review camping and other ideas for Big Marine Park Reserve, the newest Washington County park, at a public open house Wednesday at the Headwaters Service Center/Hardwood Creek Library in Forest Lake.

The county, in updating the park's original 1988 master plan, will take comments in a series of public meetings. "People have enjoyed a portion of what eventually will become a bigger park," said Peter Mott, the county's park planning manager. "What we'd like to know is, what is the character of camping they'd like to acquire?"

Washington County has acquired 624 acres and hopes to gain about 1,200 more from private landowners when they decide to sell. The park opened in 2008 and includes a boat launch, swimming beach, picnic area and shelter, hiking trails and a park office.

Big Marine is off Manning Avenue, west of Marine on St. Croix and southwest of Scandia. The park, which surrounds Big Marine Lake on three sides, will remain 80 percent undeveloped.

Residents who attend the open house will be asked to advise on camping locations and what types of camping should be installed, whether for groups, tents or RVs, Mott said.

The Wednesday open house, from 6-8 p.m., will include a presentation of background information collected for the park. Public comments will follow. Additional meetings will be held in coming months, Mott said.

The updated plan will review existing development, evaluate the remaining planned facilities, and investigate new program areas. Among the current park features is a playground with a two-story enclosed slide.

"Young families say it's the best playground around," Mott said.

The park will stay open through October, he said, because many residents still bring kids to the playground.

Anyone who is unable to attend the meeting but still wants to comment can contact Mott at 651-430-4328 or e-mail at peter.mott@co.washington.mn.us

Kevin Giles • 612-673-4432

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