3A - Draft of Comprehensive Plan

Home Browse Search

�. RECREATION POLICIES The following policies are proposed to guide future recreational growth and development in Pequot Lakes: Preserve the integrity of city lakes by limiting development in sensitive shoreland areas. Levels of recreational use for many activities are high in relation to surrounding areas;two examples are hunting and fishing. Much of the present and future development in Pequot Lakes is concentrating on lesser value lakeshore where fish and wildlife habitat values are high; programs are needed to preserve some lakeshore from development. Make lakes,wetlands,and public forests more accessible to the public.The lakes and wetlands are scenic spots for recreating residents and tourists.Since development is prohibited on wetlands,they are prime locations for recreational opportunities such as hunting, birding, or winter trails. City lakes should offer more locations for public access in order to expand the lake experience to people beyond private shoreline owners. Lake plans and water surface management plans, including traffic management, no- wake zones,and time-of-use limits should be created to help preserve these city treasures. Partner with other public entities owning undeveloped property in Pequot Lakes to create a coordinated plan for future recreational use.The integration of public land could greatly enhance recreation opportunities in Pequot Lakes. City parks,State forests, and County and State trails can add connections for all kinds of recreation. It is essential for the City to coordinate preservation of public space for future use. Now is the time to possess the foresight before Pequot Lakes finds all open space completed divided out and privately owned. Maintain private resorts and facilities for public recreational use. Private recreation facilities act to provide balance for a variety of income levels. Due to this fact,they should be encouraged to continue the trend of offering affordable recreation options for families.Since private facilities are currently the only way for some residents and visitors to have access to water,the City should try to maintain their existence.This can be accomplished by providing incentives to private recreational owners to maintain the existing public recreational use on their property. Seek to increase the existing recreational resource base and to connect all new and existing recreational features and facilities. Recreational activities and use of facilities by both residents and non-residents has increased significantly in recent years, but the resource base available has actually decreased. Most of this recreation takes place on the limited amount of public lands and waters.Thus, preservation of key recreational features must be a component of all new developments.The City must take advantage of opportunities to expand and connect existing and future outdoor recreational facilities.