Resolution approving submission of a Resource Enhancement and Protection Grant in the amount of $176,077 to establish a Habitat and Pollinator Corridor on land currently unimproved near and within Valley View Park.

The City of Council Bluffs has been discussing the importance of promoting habitat for pollinator species.  The City currently owns unimproved land within and near Valley View Park.  This property has been previously leased for agricultural use.  This lease is set to expire.  The City also owns property north of McPherson Ave, north of Valley View Park.  This property is unimproved.  The total size of the habitat would be approximately 9 acres.

Parks and Recreation currently maintains a much smaller section of pollinator and monarch butterfly habitat along Valley View Trail.  Unfortunately, the maintenance requirements along the trail diminishes the habitat and potential value.   Parks and Recreation is interested in establishing a habitat corridor that can be maintained properly so it can grow and develop to its fullest value and capability. We would like to submit a REAP Grant for an amount of $176,077 to establish this corridor. The cost will cover the design, permitting and construction.

Parks and Recreation has the ability to absorb the maintenance of the corridor into its current operation.  The first couple of years may require mowing 1-3 per year and long term a mowing every 3-5 years.  

The Department of Parks and Recreation is granted approval to submit a REAP Grant application for establishing a Habitat Corridor on property within and near Valley View Park.