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

GOAL: Monitor and improve surface water quality in accordance with City water plans in partnership with stakeholders (i.e. lakes, ponds, wetlands, streams, storm water runoff and non-point runoff).

OBJECTIVES:

Work with Watershed, County and Township to establish a cooperative plan to clean up Spring Lake, Upper and Lower Prior Lake within 10 years through State and Federal funds.

Encourage construction of additional water quality facilities like rain gardens, stormwater ponds and infiltration ponds; and encourage tree planting as part of City improvement projects.

Promote water conservation and use runoff as a resource.

Preserve and restore parks and lakes from human and “natural” impacts.

Manage invasive species.

Assure erosion control/street cleaning in new development, redevelopment and existing streets.

Assist in completion of the Prior Lake Channel Project and Prior Lake outlet improvements.

GOAL: Implement a plan that supports sustainable energy resources, production and conservation.

OBJECTIVES:
Create standards and incentives for green buildings and energy efficiency.

Propose green standards for residential and commercial building design and construction including incentives to encourage this type of development.

Investigate partnership alternatives to sustain green efforts.

GOAL: Monitor and improve regional groundwater quality in accordance with City water plans in partnership with stakeholders.

OBJECTIVES:
Promote water conservation and use runoff as a resource.

Preserve and restore parks and lakes from human and “natural” impacts.

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

Expand conservation and communication efforts emphasizing efficient use of ground water and promote best management practices including providing account consumption information to customers using the Internet.

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

GOAL: Develop a financial plan and timeline for the implementation of the Master Park Plan.

OBJECTIVES:

Evaluate park replacement and content based upon future needs and demographics.

Encourage stewardship of parks.

Continue reforestation management program at City parks.

Identify and protect prime natural areas for preservation (unique water, forest, topography).

Create recreational opportunities for other lakes.

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

Preserve and restore parks and lakes from human and “natural” impacts.

Manage invasive species.

GOAL: Encourage connecting people with nature and developing an ethic of stewardship and conservation of natural resources.

OBJECTIVES:

Connect trails in parks.

 Encourage stewardship of parks.

Create recreational opportunities for additional lakes.

Increase awareness and education for natural resources and conservation.