|
 Natural Resources
The Community Development and Natural Resources Department focuses largely on the planning and use of land throughout the City. The department evaluates and regulates development within the City as guided by the City Zoning Ordinance and the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. Our services include administration of the Zoning Ordinance, implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, development agreements and the evaluation of the development plans. The department also serves as staff to the Planning Commission.
YARD WASTE COMPOST SITE
The City of Prior Lake Compost Site is moving to the SMSC facility for 2013 and has new hours of operation. The site is 1.4 miles north of the County Rd. 83 and 42 intersection at 1905 Canterbury Rd in Shakopee. Look for the white “Organic Recycling Facility” sign with red lettering. During the months of April/ May and Sept./Oct. residents of Prior Lake and Savage can drop off material for free on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plant waste is accepted including leaves, grass clippings, sod, brush, branches, and logs less than 10 feet in length. The SMSC facility will accept waste for a disposal fee every Saturday throughout the summer. For more information call (952) 403-7005.
ENERGY AUDITS
There are many ways to improve the energy efficiency, durability and comfort of your home. Home energy audits are a great place to start. For more information, click on your energy provider's link below:
Our Energy Saving Tips also provide you with more ways you can decrease your energy usage and associated costs. Visit the U.S. Department of Energy for more information on energy conservation.
REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE 
Keeping the City's lakes, parks, roads and other areas clean is key to preserving our quality of life. To learn more about the Annual Clean-Up Day and other ways to dispose of household goods or waste, click here.
RECYCLE PROGRAM
The City of Prior Lake wants your old rechargeable batteries, cell phones, and used crayons. These items can be dropped off at the City Hall in the Community Development and Natural Resources Department.
ZEBRA MUSSEL INFORMATION The DNR recently discovered zebra mussels in Prior Lake in 2009. Zebra mussels pose serious ecological and economic threats to Minnesota Lakes. Heavy infestations can kill native mussels, may impact fish populations, can interfere with recreation, and can increase costs for industry, including power and water supply facilities. Click here to see the extra precautions boaters and anglers should take to prevent further infestation. For more information, visit the DNR's website on zebra mussels. If you find Zebra Mussels on your dock, lift and boat, note their density, take pictures and email DNR microbioligist Gary Montz.
Watch this video on current conditions and DNR recommendations.
PRIOR LAKE'S LEAST WANTED INVASIVE SPECIES
HELP REMOVE BUCKTHORN
Buckthorn is one of the most invasive species in Minnesota. Buckthorn is a tall shrub that was brought to Minnesota from Europe in the 1800s and was mainly used as hedging material. Buckthorn in an invasive species that out-competes native plants for nutrients, light, and moisture. It degrades wildlife habitat and threatens the future of forests, wetlands, prairies, and other natural habitats. Buckthorn contributes to erosion by shading out other plants that grow on the forest floor. It serves as host to other pests, such as crown rust fungus and soybean aphid. The plant forms an impenetrable layer of vegetation and lacks "natural controls" like insects or disease that would curb its growth.
The City of Prior Lake is working with its residents to reduce the existence of buckthorn within the City. Watch our helpful Buckthorn Removal video, read our Guide to Identifying Buckthorn for removal tips, a weed wrench rental form, and a list of useful chemicals.
TREE DISEASE CONCERNS
Oak Wilt is a fatal tree disease that threatens many trees in Prior Lake. It is a fungus that invades the tree’s water conducting vessels. The most efficient and cost effective means of controlling Oak Wilt is prevention. Avoid tree wounds during the infection period, which means abstaining from pruning oak trees during April, May, and June. Also, trim trees during the winter months instead of during the summer, when insects will not be attracted to the trees. To learn more about Oak Wilt, download this flier. If you spot a tree with disease symptoms, promptly call (952) 447-9854. A certified tree inspector will be sent to check the tree.
COMPOST SITE
The City offers the compost site as an option for free disposal from April to November. See details under "Yard Waste Compost Site" above for location and times. |
