Chapter 2. Existing Conditions

Transcription

1 Chapter 2. Existing Conditions View of Central-Wright Dam from the future Glacial Edge Trail Evaluating Assets and Identifying Opportunities The planning process for the Glacial Edge Trail built upon the region s existing recreational infrastructure of state, regional, and local trails, sidewalks, parks and open spaces, as well as a wealth of destinations related to tourism and nature. The planning process considered existing trends in demographics, recreation, public health, tourism and economic development. A robust review of existing recreational trails and plans provided guidance on the final Glacial Edge Trail route and design, with the intention of creating a regional trail that supports and expands the work set forth throughout the region to promote trail recreation. This chapter contains information on the following: Trends in Demographics, Recreation, Public Health, Tourism and Economic Development Existing Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure Current Trail and Recreation Plans Chapter 2: Existing Conditions

2 Trends Demographic Trends Otter Tail County has recently launched the Rural Rebound Initiative, with the goal of developing and implementing short and long term strategies to attract, develop, retain, and expand the workforce in Otter Tail County. The Millennial generation has shown more of a tendency to move to places that have the amenities they desire, such as recreation opportunities, rather than just moving for a job opportunity. West Central Initiative launched the Live Wide Open campaign to market what the West Central Minnesota region has to offer as a place to live, work, and start a business, including living where there is a wealth of natural and recreational amenities. The goal of this campaign is to encourage people to move, return to, and stay in the region. Growing portion of the population is older with strong interest in recreational trails. Recreation Trends Pedal Fergus Falls, founded in 204, is a bicycle and pedestrian education and advocacy group for the community. This group is focused on making biking and walking the safe, easy and fun choice in Fergus Falls. Their intent is to serve as a resource for people, organizations and businesses who would like to incorporate biking and walking into their way of life. In 207, Pedal Fergus Falls became a chapter of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN). Fergus Falls was designated as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists in 205. In 207, Fergus Falls participation in the April 30 Days of Biking event was third overall in the state and first in biking percentage per capita. Otter Tail County just completed and adopted its st County-Wide Trail Master Plan in April 207. Growing interest in off-road biking activities in the regions, including mountain biking, gravel road biking, and fat tire biking. Mountain bike trails are planned for Ferber. The Alice 00 event, which is a century ride that loops.5 mile Alice, began in 203. Increase in paddle sports nationally ( ) which could be better supported on the Otter Tail River, including stand up paddling (26%), kayak paddling (7%), whitewater kayaking (0%), sea/tour kayaking (8%) MN DNR has recently begun holding its Paddlefest and I Can Paddle events on the Otter Tail River, adjacent to the planned Glacial Edge Trail. Fergus Falls was recently designated as a North Country Trail Town Public Health Initiatives PartnerSHIP 4 Health is a collaborative initiative in Becker, Clay, Otter Tail, and Wilkin counties involving community and public health partners. One of PartnerSHIP 4 Health s initiatives is to promote active lifestyles by assisting communities with adopting community design/ land use policies and practices that encourage people to increase their physical activity and use of nonmotorized transportation. Live Well Fergus Falls, which resulted from the Forward Fergus Falls initiative, is a Region Healthcare program that promotes healthy lifestyles in Fergus Falls. The city completed a Safe Routes to School Plan, which includes seven schools, in Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan

3 Clockwise from Top Left: Bikers in Fergus Falls, the Central-Wright Dam, Kirkbride Campus, Otto the Otter at Adams, River Walk trail along the Otter Tail River Chapter 2: Existing Conditions 3

4 Economic Development and Tourism Destination Opportunities Greater Fergus Falls and Otter Tail County offer a number of opportunities for economic development and tourism related to the planned Glacial Edge Trail, including the following: Revitalization of downtown Fergus Falls and the Otter Tail River, which will be guided by the city s Downtown & Riverfront Master Plan (completion and adoption anticipated late 207/early 208). West Central Initiative s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) includes an active transportation strategy targeting collaboration with state and local partners to expand and maintain the regional trail system. Connection to Central s State Trail and Wobegon Trail. Otter Tail River recreational activities, including viewing of the falls /Central Dam, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddling, fishing, and birdwatching. Enhancement of the existing 4-block long River Walk along the Otter Tail River, which is currently a narrow walking path, into a.7 mile multi-use regional trail. The whitewater rapids on the Otter Tail River are a unique regional feature and tourism opportunity as they are the only fast moving water within a 50 mile radius. Prairie Wetlands Learning Center, including hiking trails and a visitor/education center. Historic sites, including: -River Inn -Fergus Falls City Hall -Kaddatz Hotel/Gallery -Otter Tail County Courthouse -Hillcrest Lutheran Academy -Historic Kirkbride Campus Art galleries and studios in downtown Fergus Falls, including Kaddatz Gallery, Springboard for the Arts, Region Arts Council, Zachmann Art Studio, and opportunities to highlight local artist Charles Beck. Future connections to Maplewood State, Glendalough State, Phelps Mill County/ Regional. Future connections to Heartland/Paul Bunyan State Trails and planned Perham to Pelican Rapids Regional Trail. 4 Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan Otter Tail River kayaking access at Veterans

5 WESTERN AVE 80TH AVE CO HWY 27 DIVERSION DR CO HWY 90TH AVE N BROADWAY LAKE ST FIRST AVE ADA AVE SPRINGEN AVE OAKWOOD VW 25TH AVE 226TH AVE 225TH AVE 250TH ST CO HWY 8 240TH ST 230TH ST RIVER OAKS LN REDWOOD LN INTERSTATE 94 INTERSTATE 94 W STATE HWY 20 WEYRENS RD FRONTIER DR PIONEER RD CO HWY 5 N KENNEDY PARK RD LYDIA LN LAURA LN WEYRENS RD W LINCOLN AVE OTTERTAIL D R W ALCOTT AVE RAMP SILVER RIDGE RD N TOWER RD CO HWY 88 MnDNR Management Area Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) S TOWER RD COLLEGE WAY DEERFIELD DR FFCC Trinity Lutheran Otter Tail Historical Society ASPEN LN INTE R NATIONAL DR Kennedy Barefoot Pisgah Dam SW 94- CO HWY FRONTAGE RD RAMP NE 94- PROGRESS DR WESTSIDE DR SPARTAN DR PARK DRS SECOND AVE LINDEN ST W CAVOUR AVE WES TSIDE VW D R W DOUGLAS AVE VERLIN LN W BEECH AVE BIRCH AVE FIRST AVE Historic Kirkbride Campus N BUSE ST STANTON AVE MARTIN ST COTTAGE DR N CALVIN ST OAK ST W FIR AVE SEVENTH AVE FREMONT ST DAMIKA DR COTTAGE DR Noyes S OAK ST N VINE ST MAPLE AVE SPRUCE ST McKinley Elementary Our Lady of Victory W LINCOLN AVE LAUREL ST W SUMMIT AVE W VERNON AVE W VASA AVE S VINE ST S UNION AVE PARK ST S COURT ST S CASCADE ST CLEVELAND AVE W CEDAR AVE E CEDAR AVE W CHERRY AVE S VIN E ST W ALCOTT AVE S OAK ST W BEECH AVE W ADOLPHUS AVE W ST CHARLES AVE W SKOGMO BLVD MAY ST S LAKES S COU RT ST N MILL ST S MILL ST S MILL ST E LAKESIDE E FIR AVE E CHERRY AVE E BEECH AVE DR IDE DR 247TH ST TOWER VIEW RD E LINCOLN AVE E CHANNING AVE E EVERETT AVE 244TH ST E HILLSIDE A VE ARGYLE PL N WOODLAND DR CECIL AVE E WASHINGTON E VASA AVE E DOUGLAS AVE WOODLAND DR S SHERIDAN ST S WO ODLAN D DR FRIBERG AVE R ANDOLP H AVE HIGHLAND AVE E CAVOUR A VE AVE HAMPDEN AVE ARLINGTON ST E ADOLPHUS AVE E GUSTAVUS AVE E ST CHARLES AVE NORTHWOOD MABELLE AVE LUNDY'S LN LN RIVERSIDE AVE PECK ST VALLEY DR E VASA AVE E ALCOTT AVE PEBBLE LAKE RD LILAC AVE FIR AVE FOOTHILL CT SO MERSET R D ANN ST MT FAITH AVE E WA SHINGTO N COUN T R Y DEER AVE E DOUGLAS AVE VALLEY RD BUCK RIDGE DR LAKEVI E W EST O AK LOO P Cleveland Kennedy Secondary School Elementary Fergus Falls Senior High School Alice IQ Academy Ice Arena Center for E SUMMIT AVE the Arts Fitness Center Veterans Central-Wright City Hall/ E JUNIUS AVE Dam Hannah County Court Library E VERNON AVE Hillcrest Adams Academy Adams Elementary Morning Son Christian School Opperman YMCA Ferber Chautauqua Ice Margin E STATE HWY 20 WATER P L ANT RD NINETEENTH ST CONNELL DR One Mile Central s Trailhead Early Childhood and Family Education 242ND ST BRENVEI DR GODEL DR LAKEVIEW DR STATE HWY 20 Central s Cycle Hoot Prairie Wetland Learning Center Miles W RIVERS BEND R D CO HWY CO HWY 29 MIN NE HUTA DR MAIN ST BROKEN DOWN 244TH ST DAM RD Legend 245TH ST LAKEWOOD DR 226TH ST CO HWY ND ST 229TH AVE 224TH ST 229TH AVE 230TH AVE HIGHLAND DR OAKVIEW HEIGHTS DR RUS DIC CIR SOPHUS ANDERSON RD BIRCH WOOD ESTATES RD Community Destinations GET Trailheads Preferred GET Route 230TH ST Preferred GET Spur Connection Mills Crossing Option Falls Crossing Option 250th St Option 244th St Option Woodland Option Interim GET Route Municipal Boundary Water Wetlands s / Open Space Future Regional Trail Connection Figure 2-. Destinations in Fergus Falls Chapter 2: Existing Conditions 5

6 Existing Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure The existing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure of Fergus Falls consists of the following facilities, as defined in the current Fergus Falls Transportation Plan Update (202). Multi-use or shared-use paths These facilities are designed for shared use by both pedestrians and persons using bicycles and constructed or developed separately from the roadway or shoulder. Widths of shared use paths vary with the volume of expected use, but generally are 0-ft wide. Today there are just over 4 miles of multi-use paths within Fergus Falls. The existing paths on Highway 20, Pebble Road, and Cleveland Avenue lay within the preferred route of the Glacial Edge Trail. These multi-use path segments will become a part of the Glacial Edge Trail. Sidewalks Sidewalks are paved (concrete or bituminous) surfaces located within the right-of-way and are intended for use by pedestrians only. Typical sidewalk widths in Fergus Falls are 4 to 5-ft wide. Most street networks within the downtown area of Fergus Falls have sidewalks; areas of lower density and of rural character do not have sidewalks. For a few segments of the Glacial Edge Trail, existing sidewalks will be used (in combination with on-street bicycle facilities) for the Glacial Edge Trail route. This will happen along short segments where existing right-of-way widths, existing trees or buildings make the construction of a separate 0-ft multi-use path difficult to construct. Segments of Sheridan Street and Stanton Avenue will use existing sidewalks for the Glacial Edge Trail route. River Walk The River Walk is an existing 0.3-mile path connecting Veterans to George B. Wright along the south bank of the Otter Tail River in downtown Fergus Falls. This path is intended for pedestrian use and is 4 to 5-ft in width. The surface currently consists of modular pavers, and there are a number of places along the path with benches. The River Walk is one of the best places to view the Central-Wright Dam, and is accessed from George B. Wright, City Hall, Cascade Street, and Veterans. The River Walk provides a unique experience for pedestrians by providing excellent views and an off-road trail experience within the middle of the city of Fergus Falls. Interpretive signage along the River Walk informs trail users about the history of the area. The proposed Glacial Edge Trail route overlaps the River Walk through Veterans to the Central- Wright Dam. Depending on the final option chosen for the Glacial Edge Trail, the regional trail route will overlap the entire River Walk. This will require upgrades to the existing River Walk. Today, the River Walk overlaps the North Country Trail Urban Connector Route. Bikeways Bikeways are on-street facilities designated for the exclusive use of bicycles, or are intended to be shared with other transportation modes, such as vehicular transportation. A bicycle lane, bicycle path, or bicycle route are considered a bikeway in Fergus Falls. Today there are 6.86 miles of designated bikeways in Fergus Falls, most of which are designed as bicycle routes with signage. Broadway Avenue is an example of a designated bikeway. The Glacial Edge Trail route will connect to a number of the existing bikeways, to further complete the local bicycle network within Fergus Falls. The intersection of Channing Avenue and Pebble Road, as well as the Laurel Street trail spur are examples of where the Glacial Edge Trail will connect with existing bicycle facilities. 6 Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan Central s State Trail

7 WESTERN AVE 80TH AVE CO HWY 90TH AVE N BROADWAY LAKE ST FIRST AVE ADA AVE CO HWY 27 SPRINGEN AVE OAKWOOD VW 25TH AVE DIVERSION DR 226TH AVE 225TH AVE 250TH ST CO HWY 8 247TH ST COUN T R Y O AK LOO P INTERSTATE 94 W RIVERS BEND R D CO HWY 244TH ST 245TH ST 240TH ST 230TH ST IVER OAKS LN REDWOOD LN INTERSTATE 94 W STATE HWY 20 WEYRENS RD FRONTIER DR PIONEER RD CO HWY 5 N KENNEDY PARK RD LYDIA LN LAURA LN WEYRENS RD W LINCOLN AVE ASPEN LN OTTERTAIL D R W ALCOTT AVE RAMP SILVER RIDGE RD SW S TOWER RD 94- CO HWY N TOWER RD FRONTAGE RD CO HWY 88 COLLEGE WAY RAMP NE 94- DEERFIELD DR INTE R NATIONAL DR PROGRESS DR WESTSIDE DR SPARTAN DR FFCC PARK DRS LINDEN ST W CAVOUR AVE WES TSIDE VW SECOND AVE D R W DOUGLAS AVE VERLIN LN W BEECH AVE BIRCH AVE FIRST AVE N BUSE ST STANTON AVE MARTIN ST COTTAGE DR N CALVIN ST OAK ST W FIR AVE SEVENTH AVE FREMONT ST DAMIKA DR COTTAGE DR W LINCOLN AVE S OAK ST N VINE ST MAPLE AVE SPRUCE ST LAUREL ST W SUMMIT AVE W VERNON AVE W VASA AVE S VINE ST S UNION AVE PARK ST S COURT ST S CASCADE ST CLEVELAND AVE W CEDAR AVE E CEDAR AVE W CHERRY AVE S VIN E ST W ALCOTT AVE S OAK ST W BEECH AVE W ADOLPHUS AVE W ST CHARLES AVE W SKOGMO BLVD MAY ST S LAKES S COU RT ST N MILL ST S MILL ST S MILL ST E LAKESIDE E FIR AVE E CHERRY AVE E BEECH AVE DR IDE DR TOWER VIEW RD E LINCOLN AVE E JUNIUS AVE E SUMMIT AVE E VERNON AVE E CHANNING AVE E EVERETT AVE 244TH ST E HILLSIDE A VE ARGYLE PL N WOODLAND DR CECIL AVE E WASHINGTON E VASA AVE E DOUGLAS AVE WOODLAND DR S SHERIDAN ST S WO ODLAN D DR FRIBERG AVE R ANDOLP H AVE HIGHLAND AVE E CAVOUR A VE AVE HAMPDEN AVE ARLINGTON ST E ADOLPHUS AVE E GUSTAVUS AVE E ST CHARLES AVE NORTHWOOD MABELLE AVE LUNDY'S LN LN RIVERSIDE AVE PECK ST VALLEY DR E VASA AVE E ALCOTT AVE PEBBLE LAKE RD LILAC AVE FIR AVE FOOTHILL CT SO MERSET R D ANN ST MT FAITH AVE E WA SHINGTO N DEER AVE E DOUGLAS AVE VALLEY RD BUCK RIDGE DR LAKEVI E W EST E STATE HWY 20 WATER P L ANT RD NINETEENTH ST CONNELL DR 242ND ST BRENVEI DR GODEL DR LAKEVIEW DR STATE HWY Miles CO HWY 29 MIN NE HUTA DR Legend MAIN ST BROKEN DOWN DAM RD LAKEWOOD DR 226TH ST CO HWY ND ST 229TH AVE 224TH ST 229TH AVE 230TH AVE Preferred GET Route HIGHLAND DR OAKVIEW HEIGHTS DR RUS DIC CIR SOPHUS ANDERSON RD BIRCH WOOD ESTATES RD 230TH ST Preferred GET Spur Connection Mills Crossing Option Falls Crossing Option 250th St Option 244th St Option Woodland Option Existing Snowmobile Trails Planned Bike Paths Planned Bikeways Existing Bike Paths Existing Bikeways North Country Trail State Trails State Water Trails Municipal Boundary Water Wetlands s / Open Space Parcels Figure 2-2. Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Network Chapter 2: Existing Conditions 7

8 Current Trail and Recreation Plans Several existing trail and recreation plans support the development of the Glacial Edge Trail. These plans were reviewed and considered during the Glacial Edge Trail planning process. Figure 2-3. Central s Trail Map (2005) Central s Trail The Central s Trail is a 55-mile state trail that runs through the heart of west-central Minnesota from Osakis to Fergus Falls. The trail is built on an abandoned railroad corridor purchased by the State in 992. The paved, multi-use trail passes through the communities of Dalton, Ashby, Melby, Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, and Nelson, as well as through woodlands, grasslands, lakes, wetlands, and farm country. Otter Tail County and Douglas County worked with the MnDOT and the MnDNR to finance construction of the trail. Other partners involved in the project include: The National Rails to Trails Conservancy The Bikes Belong Coalition Chambers of Commerce and Service Clubs Private Foundations Businesses City and township governments Figure 2-4. Pedal Fergus Falls Network Vision Map (207) Pedal Fergus Falls Pedal Fergus Falls, a chapter of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, is a bicycle and pedestrian education and advocacy group for Fergus Falls. The group is dedicated to making biking and walking the safe, easy and fun choice in Fergus Falls. Pedal Fergus Falls serves as a resource to individuals, organizations and businesses who want to incorporate biking and walking into the daily life of residents and visitors to the area. Pedal Fergus Falls has an interactive network vision map depicting existing primary and secondary bikeways. Some of these routes contain specific bicycle or pedestrian-related facilites such as bike lanes or sharrows, while other segments have been identified due to lower vehicle traffic, slower speeds, quality views or biking experience. Many segments of the preferred Glacial Edge Trail route overlap the Pedal Fergus Falls primary or secondary bikeways, supporting future bicycle and pedestrian use of these routes. Figure 2-5. North Country Trail Route Map (206) North Country Trail The North Country Trail (NCT) is a 4600-mile trail stretching across seven states from New York to North Dakota. The trail is intended for longdistance hiking, and is used for also winter camping, showshoeing, long-distance trail running, and to view and enjoy nature. The trail is administered through the National Service and is completed in sections through local volunteers. In Minnesota, the NCT passes through the Superior National Forest to the Chippewa National Forest, looping through Detroit s, Fergus Falls, and west to the James River in North Dakota. The Glacial Edge Section of the NCT passes through Fergus Falls, crossing the preferred Glacial Edge Trail twice. In the future, the NCT will further connect the Glacial Edge Trail northeast of Fergus Falls to Maplewood. 8 Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan

9 Riv er Pe lic an Leave East Lost. Hwy # second crossing Hwy #45 Bridge R Phelps Mill and Dam, carry-in. Portage right 00 yds. to below old mill. Restrooms in county park. 7. L Breckenridge Boat Access Hwy #35 Bridge. 7. L Breckenridge Dam/rapids and pedestrian bridge. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should exit on left side adjacent to culvert 50 yards south of dam and portage. 6.8 Hwy #0 Bridge L Rice Boat Access. Bridges and culverts may have bolts, nails, concrete, or metal projections that can be dangerous to water trail users and their vessels. Stay alert! 36.2 Leave Rice. Bridges may have control structures (dams) located under them. Do not enter a culvert or go under a bridge unless you are aware of what you may encounter. This route description has identified where those features are located. If in doubt, stop, get out, and look! 34.2 Black Diamond Road culverts. Often blocked by floating bogs This route description was accurate at time of printing. However, conditions can change suddenly due to weather, water releases at dams, trees falling across the river, or by recent construction changes to bridges and dams. Stay alert! Hwy #0 second crossing. Two long culverts immediately followed by three culverts under the railroad. Do not portage across the four-lane highway. Do not paddle without scouting first. Use caution rd Avenue Bridge. RIVER MILE 86.0 Start of the Otter Tail River on the SE side of Elbow. Except for some lakes, paddling on the majority of the next 28.8 miles is not allowed Small private bridge. Impassable due to low clearance. Portage on private property is necessary (either side) Hwy #29 Culvert. Second crossing. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should portage on either side. Watch for steep banks and traffic when portaging. 54. Wannigan Road Bridge Boat Access. Easy to pass under during most flow conditions. Difficult portage due to barbed wire fence connected to bridge on all four corners. Close gate behind you, and respect private property! Hwy #4 Bridge. May encounter swimmers. Make yourself known if people are on the bridge. 2.9 Hwy #6/th Street Bridge. 2.8 R Floodwater diversion channel. Stay left. Enter Red River. Hwy #3 Bridge. May encounter swimmers. Make yourself known if people are on the bridge. 2.0 L Lions Boat Access with picnic shelters and parking R West Red River Boat Access with parking. 2.0 Highway # 75/5th Street Bridge R Leave Red River. Friberg/Taplin Gorge Dam. Portage right 200 yds. Do not enter concrete-lined channel which leads to hydro power plant. Private property, but access allowed between 8 a.m. and 0 p.m. ing allowed. Long carry to river from the parking lot..2 L.0 Hwy # 5 Bridge/Main Street Hwy #0. Culverts. Can be paddled during most flow conditions. A USGS stream gauge is also located here. 0.3 R During high flows, water overflows banks into Red River. Concrete riprap may damage watercraft. Stay left. BECKER CO. Confluence with Bois de Sioux River and start of Red River of the North. End of Otter Tail River Water Trail. Welles Memorial. Boat Access on the Red River with parking, fishing dock, and interpretive kiosks Enter Big Pine. Big Pine Carry-in Access. Multiple boat accesses on Big Pine. 9.9 R Dam. Portage right 50 yds. Otter Tail River leaves Big Pine. Land access to this site is through private property by permission and payment of fee at Big Pine Lodge. 6.3 Railroad Bridge. Hwy # Hwy #0 third Crossing. Culvert. Do not portage across the four-lane highway. Do not paddle without scouting first. Use caution.. 390th Street culverts. 09. Hwy #4/380th Avenue culverts Enter Rush R Leave Rush. Boat Access with parking and portable toilet. Dam upstream of Hwy #78. Portage 50 yds Railroad bridge. Private covered bridge. 0. Hwy #. First crossing of three. Old bridge remnants. Watch for concrete and rebar Enter Otter Tail Ridgewood Circle Bridge. Hwy #20 Carry-in Access with parking. Long 30 5 Page Dam. This dam is usually covered with water. During low flow conditions, must portage. No identified portage. Broken Down Dam. Class I rapids. Depending upon flow conditions, only experienced paddlers should pass through. Located in Fergus Falls City. Long walk to dam from parking site. Popular photography site. 5.4 Hoot Power Plant Bridge #. 5.2 Hoot Power Plant Bridge #2. Pine Little McDonald 4 Perham Municipal Airport 34 North Paul Miller Hoot Power Plant Railroad Bridge. Hoot Dam and Power Plant. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should portage on the left 200 yds. (difficult portage) Local swimming area. Potential hazard may encounter rope strung across river at water level. 50. L Mt. Faith Avenue/Main Street Bridge. Boat Access with parking portage right 50 yds. culvert 5 08 Dent Star culverts Richville State Hwy #87 Bridge/North Street. Entering Frazee L Otter Tail Sportsman s and Pelican Bay Boat Accesses Orwell Dam. Five man-made rock weirs. They constrict and speed up the flow R Riviera Boat Access R Shore fishing, parking, picnic grounds, interpretive signs, and outdoor bathrooms. Boat Access by playground R Amor Rest Area L Riverside Boat Access/rest area L Leave Otter Tail. Hwy # 72 with dam below. Portage left 75 yds. Watch for heavy traffic. Riverside Boat Access with parking and portable toilet. Hwy #5 Bridge. Lots of rocks in this next reach, especially during low flow. 4 Round Head Mud 54 portage right 50 yds. Legend 3 Diversion Dam Red Riv 0 Railroad Campground 0 0 Walker Interstate Highway 20 U.S. Highway Hoot Dam difficult portage left 200 yds. 2 Miles 2 Kilometers Sophus Anderson Road Wright er the Otter of No Mount Faith Avenue 50 r th culvert 55 Broken Down Dam Class I rapids 5 WILKIN CO. Kennedy 20 Breckenridge Dam Diversion Dam portage right 75 yds. Pisgah Dam 45 Fergus Falls Municipal Airport 60 Page Dam Caution! er Ott Ta il e 0 Miles Interstate Engineering, Inc. Leaf 55 Figure 3 Existing and Planned Bicycle Facilities s Gourd 5 Blanche W.M.A. 90 East Lost Blanche Glendalough 78 State Hennin 6 North Turtle SEE INSET MAP ABOVE LEFT West Battle Headquarters Bois de Sioux River Figure 2-7. Otter Tail River Water Trail Master Plan (2009) Figure 2-6. Fergus Falls SRTS Plan (202) no portage caution rip rap 9 Foxhome portage left 50 yds. Class I Rapids 0 4 NORTH DAKOTA MINNESOTA Safe Routes to School Otter S RF# While the Glacial Edge Trail is not specifically designed for local use, the completion of the trail route will connect existing and proposed pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure within Fergus Falls, making biking or walking to school a viable choice for students. 25 Broken Down Dam Wall Underwood 20 East Battle 35 South Turtle 20 Class I rapids Clitherall Vining Clitherall 82 Swan Dayton Hollow Dam & Otter Tail River Water Trail Master Plan Orwell W.M.A. Page 38 Battle Orwell Reservoir Tail Doran Class I rapids The MnDOT Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program provides communities with the opportunity to improve conditions August 202 for children to walk and bike to school through education and encouragement, construction of new trails and sidewalks. Access and circulation modifications are analyzed to improve safety near schools, including the addition of crosswalks and traffic control improvements. The 2008 Safe Routes to School Plan, identifies gaps and barriers to children walking or biking to school to any of the five public or three private schools in Fergus Falls. 4 Gauging Station River 58 Orwell Reservior Dam 55 Central Dam Hannah Dayton Hollow Reservoir Breckenridge Figure 2-8. Fergus Falls Existing and Programmed Bikeways and Multi-Use Path Map (202) Fergus Falls Transportation Plan Update 08 Deer Mt. Faith Hazards 95 Lak portage left 75 yds. 85 Anna Pleasant Fergus Falls 80 Gauging Station Breckenridge Welles Memorial OTTER TAIL CO. 9 diversion channel stay left West Lost 65 5 Lions 75 Phelps Mill Dam and portage right 00 yds. Railroad Streets existing multi-use path planned multi-use path existing bikeways planned bikeways CIP Proj - Ex Multi-Use Path CIP Project - Planned Bikeways.5.5 Ottertail 08 Sportsmans and Pelican Bay Accesses 45 Fish Amor 43 Red River Taplin Gorge Dam portage right 200 yds. Elizabeth Buchanan Long 35 Hoot County Road or Street Diversion Drive State Highway r City or Town Power Line Rive Public Land Tail Non-Canoeable Segments 78 Riviera portage right 75 yds. 245th St. 94 Dam Wayside Fishing Pier Dead Boat Access Otto W.M.A. Rush Kent River Mile Map layers 4 4. Carry-in Access Existing & Programmed Bikeways & Multi-Use Paths Marion State Perham 20 Maplewood Paddling is not recommended from River Miles 50.0 to 36.3 because of dangerous obstructions, extremely busy roads, and lack of public access along this reach of river. BP6 Big Pine McDonald s L portage right 50 yds. 25 Lida 50.7 BP4 8 Little Devils Mud BP 4 60 culverts L Vergas Lizzie 55. L OTTER TAIL CO. Murphy Rose 59 River Hwy # Carry-in Access with parking. Sophus Anderson Road Bridge. Nebraska Avenue Bridge. The next reach contains a series of rapids and remnants of old dams, requiring a higher degree of paddling skills L R 20 Silver Rice 0 Walking Bridge access to Welles Memorial, camping Frazee - use caution in city Wimer Hwy # third Crossing. Dam. Portage 50 yds. Otter Tail River leaves Little Pine. Highway #8/455th Avenue Bridge. Boat Access and portable toilet. BP 45 Pelican 245th Street Bridge. Diversion Dam. Portage right 75 yds. on Diversion Drive to dirt path downstream of dam. 6.8 Paul Miller Access and rest area. er Riv 87 Water Plant Dam. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should portage left. No identified portage trail R 3 50 Town 63.2 R 24.0 R Wannigan Rd. Lion s portage right 00 yds. Hwy #60 Bridge. Enter Mud. culvert 55 il Ta er Ott Melissa th Avenue Bridge. Hwy #5 Bridge. Leave Mud. Enter Little Pine. 94 Chilton Howe Detroit Sallie P3 B 20 Tail 55.7 Hwy #7/270th Avenue Bridge. (Everdale Bridge). 9.9 low private bridge Detroit s Otter 335th Avenue Bridge. Possible one foot drop on downstream side. During low flow, passage is difficult. State Hwy #34 Bridge. Can be paddled during most flow conditions. No parking on highway right of way is strictly enforced. Congested area during tubing season. Water Street Road Bridge. Leave West Lost. Hwy #43 Bridge. Enter Rice. Flow increases through former bridge/rock dam location Enter West Lost. Boat Access Toad 56 Detroit s Municipal Airport 6 The Otter Tail River Water Trail starts here. County Hwy #29 culvert. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should start downstream of the culvert. From this point to River Mile 54.4, State Hwy #34, there are several commercial tubing vendors using the river. Paddling will be extremely difficult on popular weekends. Man made rock riffles, class I. Can be paddled in most flow conditions. Hwy #69/290th Avenue Bridge. In the next reach, look for remnants of old dams. BP L Hwy #0 culvert. First of three crossings. Do not portage across the four-lane highway. Do not paddle without scouting first. Possible one foot drop at end of culvert. Use caution River The Otter Tail River varies from a serene placid river with slow current to a river that flows over some dangerous dams and rapids and through culverts. Even experienced paddlers should get out and walk ahead to survey obstructions before making a decision to paddle over them. Deer Boat Access. Leave Deer. Enter East Lost. W.M.A. BP Dam. Portage right 00 yds under a wooden stairway in Lions. Fifteen foot drop with four rows of boulders. Bathrooms, picnic shelter, playground, statue of a turkey L Hubbel Pond Hubbel Pond 34 Tail Two foot diameter utility pipe across river. If river is low, possible to pass under by ducking. Otherwise, 30 yd. portage. Height of Land 29 Pickerel culvert Hwy #9 Bridge. (Old Crossing Bridge) A plaque on right side commemorates a local historical ox cart crossing. A USGS stream gauge is also located here. Three bridge crossings consisting of two roads and one railroad bridge passing over the roads. No passage underneath first bridge. Portage on right along road. Watch for traffic! Paddling on lakes during very windy conditions can be dangerous. Use caution. The Otter Tail River Water Trail begins at River Mile 57.2 in Rochert. Paddling, tubing, or boating is not allowed from River Miles 86.0 to Water access sites in Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and Hubble Pond Wildlife Management Area are for access to the lakes only. In order to preserve wildlife habitat, no travel on the river is allowed. Check with Tamarac and Hubble Pond for more information L At River Miles 42.0, 34.0, and 6.0, the river passes through culverts under State Hwy # 0. Paddling through these culverts is not recommended except by experienced paddlers. Be sure to scout them first for hazards such as high and/or fast water, drop offs, floating bogs, and other obstructions. DO NOT portage over Hwy #0. Poison ivy is abundant. Watch for it at rest stops, access sites, boat ramps, and portages. Please see the other side for more information. Carry-in Access on Otter Tail. Hwy #83 Bridge. Enter Deer R 42.5 R The Otter Tail River flows through several lakes, which may have features such as boat ramps, fishing piers, public docks, parks, and resorts. Those facilities, because they are not directly on the river, can t be identified with a river mile. Refer to this map and state, county, and private maps for their location. 9.9 L 90.0 BP2 East Main Avenue Bridge. Depending upon flow conditions, experienced paddlers can make it through. Others should portage on either side. BP3 25 Floyd Rochert 43.5 r Fal l s Tamarac N.W.R. Cotton Audubon 0 WATER TRAIL DESCRIPTION River Miles are the system used to determine distances and locations on rivers. River Miles follow the center line of the river as it meanders and should be considered approximate due to changing river conditions. Right (R) and left (L) refer to the right and left bank respectively when facing downstream. River Miles start at the mouth of the Otter Tail where it joins with the Bois de Sioux in Breckenridge, Minnesota to form the Red River of the North. Otter Tail River Miles end at river mile 86 where the Otter Tail River begins flowing out of Elbow in Becker County, Minnesota. Text in red indicates warning statements. Otte Fe r g u s 59 A STATE WATER TRAIL GUIDE TO THE OTTER TAIL RIVER 35 Stalker The Otter Tail River Water Trail Master Plan was developed by the Minnesota DNR in 2009 with the goals of creating a safe, attractive water trail that provides recreational opportunities, while creating partnerships for local economic development. The Otter Tail River Water Trail is a 86-mile canoe and boating route; the Fergus Falls Reach within the Otter Tail Water Trail is 34 miles and crosses the Glacial Edge Trail route twice. Glacial Edge Trail trailheads along the Otter Tail River were located with the intent of integrating with the Otter Tail River Water Trail, which aligns with the water trail s Strategic Goal #6: Where appropriate, establish connections with other trails crossing or near the Otter Tail River to encourage joint, mutually beneficially promotion. 65 Fergus Falls Transportation Plan The City of Fergus Falls Transportation Plan (adopted in 202) serves as the documentation of the existing transportation system evaluation, deficiencies analysis and alternative improvements, providing a general guide for the expansion and improvement of the existing transportation system in Fergus Falls. Non-motorized transportation deficiencies were identified within this, most of which relate to the Glacial Edge Trail, and include the following: Connections across the Otter Tail River west of downtown Bikeway connections from outlying areas to downtown Recreational multi-use paths in scenic nonmotorized corridors including along the Otter Tail River Chapter 2: Existing Conditions 9

10 City of Fergus Falls Comprehensive s, Recreation and Forestry System Plan The and Recreation and Forestry System Plan serves as the park and recreation component of the Citywide Comprehensive Plan. It provides a broad vision and an overall framework for Fergus Falls parks, trails, and natural resource areas. The plan is intended for use by the Board, City staff, and elected officials to assist them with a variety of tasks including land acquisition, facility development and redevelopment, and maintenance of City parks, trails, and natural resource areas. The system plan recognizes a growing interest in exercise activities such as hiking, biking and walking; interest in nature and nature-oriented education and recreation activities. The following System Plan Recommendations support the development of the Glacial Edge Trail: Establish a railroad crossing at Barefoot to provide vehicular and pedestrian access to the park Provide a public easement and construct road and trail access on the old dairy property Extend walking/biking paths along the river from Barefoot to Broken Down Dam Expand programs and activities for a growing elderly population, including accessible hiking paths, and plowed paths for winter hiking Enhance the Otter Tail River corridor including adding more river access for fishing and boating Establish portage routes around river obstacles hapter Four Trail System Plan ty of Fergus Falls s, Recreation and Forestry System Plan Fall 2008 Figure 2-9. Comprehensive s, Recreation and Forestry Trail System Plan (2008) Construct trails to allow users to experience natural areas, while being respectful of sensitive natural areas (wetlands, steep slopes, wildlife habitat, etc.) Explore potential to use drainage and utility easements, abandoned rail lines and road rights of ways for trail development 20 Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan

11 E Randolph Ave OLD MILL LOOP E Mount Faith Ave N Wh RIVERWALK LOOP E Mount Faith Ave Sheridan Ave OLD DAIRY LOOP r d St GLACIAL EDGE TRAIL LAKE ALICE i tf o KEY N Union Ave NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL ROUTE Downtown Riverfront Loop Trails VETERANS PARK LOOP W Summit Ave W Summit Ave ur A E Ca vour A ve ve N Concord St E Ca vo RIVERWALK LOOP 0.88 MILE ROUTE W Lincoln Ave OTTER TAIL RIVER E Lincoln Ave S Buse St RIVER ACCESS TRAILHEADS N Vine St W Cavour Ave Av e EXISTING BIKEWAY OLD MILL LOOP 0.5 MILE ROUTE VIEWS OF THE RIVER NEW CROSSING AT RIVERSIDE PARK E Summit Ave E Summit Ave e rg EXISTING BIKEWAY OTHER TRAILS RIVERSIDE LOOP.3 MILE ROUTE Fri b N Broadway Ave N 2nd Ave RIVERSIDE PARK LOOP W Stanton Ave W Stanton Ave E Riverside Ave S Sherman St E Junius Ave OLD DAIRY LOOP.54 MILE ROUTE S Peck St E Hampden Ave S Burlington St R VETERANS PARK LOOP 0.4 MILE ROUTE E Junius Ave Sheridan Ave TE W Junius Ave R S Union Ave OT IL TA E RIV E Washington Ave Mill St W Washington Ave S Court St " ) GLACIAL EDGE TRAIL: DRAFT ROUTE NEW CROSSING AT THE MILL SITE W Vernon Ave NEW CROSSING AT THE FALLS E Vernon Ave 25 " ) b Pe b Figure 2-0. Downtown Loop Trails (in-progress concept plan), Downtown Riverfront and Master Plan (207) le L ak e To compliment the Glacial Edge Trail, the Downtown Fergus Falls Downtown and Concurrent with the Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan, the City of Fergus Falls is developing and Riverfronta Downtown Master Plan proposes a series of &Riverfront Riverfront Master Plan.Master This plan will identify future development opportunities along the riverfront Plan short, accessible Loop Trails throughout downtown, throughout Downtown Fergus Falls, with a focus on bringing people to the waterfront and to downtown. Concurrent with the Glacial Edge Trial Master Plan, connecting people to local destinations, such as the To compliment the Glacial Edge Trail, there are many opportunities to create short, accessible Loop the City of Fergus Falls is developing a Downtown Central-Wright Dam and Veterans Memorial. Trails throughout downtown to connect people to views of the river and local destinations, such as the and Riverfront Master Plan. This plan will identify The intent to createthe short loops that will promote Falls Central Dam and Veteran s, as well as enhancing the downtown Fergus Fallsisexperience. Loop Trails will be geared opportunities towards pedestrians, withthe the intention of creating circuits approximately /2 future development along riverfront leisure walking in downtown Fergus Falls. mile long throughout the Downtown. throughout downtown Fergus Falls, with a focus on The Loop Trail routes will be designed to compliment In a numberpeople of places, Loop Trails overlap thetoglacial Edge Trail. The Mills Crossing Concept was bringing tothe the waterfront and downtown. the preferred Glacial Edge Trail route, with some developed as part of the Glacial Edge Trail, while the Falls Crossing Concept was developed as part of the Downtown Riverfront & Master Plan. Both would book-end pedestrian circulation at the river and provide views and further access to the water Rd 0 sections overlapping the Glacial Edge Trail. The Downtown and Riverfront Master Plan is expected to be completed during the fall/winter of 207. Chapter 2: Existing Conditions MILLS CROSSING CONCEPT 2 F

12 Otter Tail County-Wide Trail Master Plan The Otter Tail County-Wide Trail Master Plan provides a long-term vision for the establishment of various trail types within Otter Tail County. This plan serves as a high-level planning tool to inform and guide county staff, elected officials, and county residents to make logical and efficient use of county resources. The trail master plan identifies general, broad corridors that link County destinations. The proposed bicycle and pedestrian trail system adopted in this plan identifies Fergus Falls as a High Bike Network Destination within Otter Tail County; according to this assessment, Fergus Falls provides an important destination and link for the regional bicycle network. A proposed paved trail connecting Alexandria to Fergus Falls, as well as connecting Fergus Falls to Maplewood State to the northeast will play an important future role in the development of the Glacial Edge Trail, as the Glacial Edge Trail route will compliment the proposed regional trail by looping trail users around and through Fergus Falls, meeting the future regional trail route at two points. Existing Paved Trails (Spines) High Priority Paved Trails (Spines) High Priority Shoulder Trails (Spurs Medium Priority Paved Trails (Spines) Medium Priority Shoulder Trail (Spurs) Low Priority Shoulder Trail (Spurs) Figure 22 Implementation Priority Plan Figure 2-. Implementation Priority Plan - Otter Tail County-Wide Trail Master Plan (207) 22 Fergus Falls Glacial Edge Trail Master Plan

13 Minnesota Statewide Bicycle System Plan The Minnesota Statewide Bicycle System Plan was developed to identify Minnesota Department of Transportation s (MnDOT) goals and vision for bicycle transportation, implementation strategies and performance measures to evaluate progress for supporting the state trunk highway network and surrounding communities. The goals of the plan include supporting regional and local bicycling needs and developing a connected network of state bicycle routes in partnership with national, state, regional and local partners. Within District 4, which includes Fergus Falls and the surrounding area, the corridor connection between Alexandria and Fergus Falls, and then to Pelican Rapids and Detroit s was identified as a State Priority Corridor. The Glacial Edge Trail, with connection to the Central s Trail in south Fergus Falls, and connecting in north Fergus Falls to the future regional trail connection to Maplewood State and Pelican Rapids aligns with the priorities set forth in the Minnesota Statewide Bicycle System Plan. DISTRICT 4 REGIONAL PRIORITY CORRIDORS Figure 2-2. Statewide Bicycle System Plan: District 4 Regional Priority Corridors (206) Chapter 2: Existing Conditions 23