The City’s lakes and numerous natural areas enrich the lives of its residents and attract visitors from around the area. These valued and unique natural amenities are key to preserving the quality of life in Prior Lake.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL: Implement plans to monitor and improve surface water quality (i.e. lakes, ponds, wetlands, streams, storm water runoff and non-point runoff) in accordance with the Local Surface Water Management Plan.

TWO-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
n Amend the Local Surface Water Management Plan as appropriate.

n Complete construction of additional water quality facilities (rain gardens, infiltration ponds, etc.).

n Develop regional ponds as appropriate.

n Sustain water quality monitoring programs.

n Assist in the completion of the Prior Lake outlet improvements.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL: Adopt and implement the Wellhead Protection Plan and Water Supply Plan emphasizing production, conservation, education, communication and landscape maintenance, and continue to partner with neighboring communities to protect regional groundwater resources.

TWO-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
n Interconnect the water system with Shakopee as we have with Savage and SMSC.

n Jointly plan and implement water conservation techniques and educational efforts with neighboring communities.

n Expand conservation and communication efforts emphasizing efficient use of water to meet the goals of the Water Supply Plan and promote best management practices; including providing account consumption information to customers using the Internet.

n Reduce the number of private wells and septic systems within the wellhead protection area by extending municipal sewer and water.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL: Protect unique natural areas in the City and annexation areas by promoting environmentally sensitive development.

TWO-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
n Develop a lake park on Campbell Lake as part of subdivision.

n Develop walking path and trails to Deerfield Island Park.

n Continue to implement reforestation management program at Lakefront Park.

n Identify and protect prime natural areas for preservation (e.g. unique water, forest or typography such as Pike Lake area, Creekside area property).

n Encourage green belts between developments and major roadways to preserve the natural look of Prior Lake.

n Propose “green” standards for residential and commercial building design and construction including a financial incentive to encourage this type of development.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL: Assure that the City’s park and recreation facilities meet both the passive and active needs of our growing community.

TWO-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
n Develop Master Park Plan (MPP) to incorporate Park, Athletic and Recreation Task Force recommendations.

n Work with community groups and organizations to support an effort to finance the construction of such facilities.

n Oversee ongoing construction of such facilities.

n Pursue community park near Pike Lake.

n Work with partners to develop Jeffers interpretative center.

FIVE-YEAR GOAL: Develop and maintain City property, parks, playfields and natural areas in an environmentally responsible and aesthetically pleasing manner.

TWO-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
n Utilize only environmentally-friendly herbicides and fertilizers.

n Conserve landscape water usage while maximizing field usability during heavy use seasons and drought cycles.