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Braemar MGMT Plan Final 10.31.16
BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN PREPARED FOR THE CITY OF EDINA 2 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA2 ABOUT WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS Wetland Habitat Restorations (WHR) was founded in 1999 and offers ecological design, installation, and land manage- ment services, specializing in ecological restoration and a range of other landscape services. For over fifteen years we have worked across a number of scales, from urban residential sites to large-scale, natural areas. Our work includes experience with a diversity of plant communities from oak savannas and prairies to wetlands, creeks, and everything in between. Our mission is to restore and protect resilient landscape and communities, to educate the public about ecological restoration, and to work with existing natural resources and conditions. To this end, we have the experience and ambition to work with the local community to create valuable and engaging relationships that foster stewardship of our natural resources. WHR is a locally-owned and operated small, Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) and is certified through the Min- nesota Uniform Certification Program (MnUCP) and by the Central Certification Program as a DBE- Small and Women Business Enterprise (S/WBE) in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties. Proof of certification is available on request. Wetland Habitat Restorations 2521 27th Ave S. Minneapolis, MN 55418 Office: 612-600-3604 www.whr.mn 3BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN ABOUT THE AUTHORS Tory Christensen – Owner/Senior Ecologist Tory has over 17 years of ecological restoration experience and has worked for many of the largest and most experienced ecological restoration and de- sign firms in the industry before becoming an owner and Senior Landscape Ecologist at Wetland Habitat Restorations. His experience includes design, project management, installation and land management experience. He brings a sophisticated background to the table and leads the WHR team with sensitive design solutions and a keen respect for deploying the least invasive methods that yield the best results for the site, wildlife, and community that inhabit these ecological design and restoration project areas. Carrie Christensen – Owner/Designer With a Masters of Landscape Architecture from the University of Minnesota and a B.A. in Urban Studies from Stanford University, Carrie’s work involves a range of projects and experiences in design, research, education, and community engagement that fall at the intersection of equity and the environment. She has a background in cultural landscape planning, management and design including work with the National Park Service as well as extensive experience in qualitative research methods and oral history collection. Jodi Refsland – Landscape Ecologist Jodi earned her Masters of Landscape Architecture with Conservation Biology and Ecological Restoration graduate minors at the University of Minne- sota. She brings a combined 8 years of experience in project management, design, and ecological restoration. Her background in the architecture field equips her with a keen knowledge of the construction process that has translated to effective and attentive project management. She provides careful attention to detail that is critical for design development, project documentation and decision making on sites of all scales. As an innovative designer, she has a passion for creating landscapes that support native ecosystems, interpret ecology, and invite human engagement in an effort to foster envi- ronmental stewardship. Elissa Thompson – Restoration Ecologist Elissa leads the WHR project management team as Field Supervisor and Landscape Ecologist. She has a passion for connecting people to their natu- ral world and working in landscapes that foster engaging and educational opportunities for the public. She brings a thoughtful and context-sensitive approach to restoration which has helped her facilitate and develop environmental education and outreach for multiple organizations with groups of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. She brings 7 years of planting installation and management and has traveled all over Minnesota restoring diverse plant communities for government agencies, city parks, corporate landscapes and private residences. Elissa’s unique combination of experiences has provided her with vast knowledge of plant communities, project management, and public engagement. 4 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINAExecutive Summary TABLE OF CONTENTS 5BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.............................................. Vision and Goals 9 Orientation 11 Regional Context 13 NATURAL HISTORY................................................... Geology 19 Pre-settlement Vegetation 21 Natural Disturbance 27 CULTURAL HISTORY................................................. Post-european Settlement 31 Braemar Today 33 Executive Course 35 CURRENT ECOLOGICAL CONDITIONS............................ Vegetation 39 Topography 41 Hydrology 43 Soils 47 Wildlife Habitat 49 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS............................ Cultural Considerations 55 Prairie Areas 61 Wetland Areas 69 Savanna Areas 79 Woodland Areas 89 APPENDIX.............................................................. Annual Cost Estimate 97 List of Appendices 99 6 Left: Executive Course Wood- lands; Winter of 2015-2016. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary8 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Golf courses have traditionally been viewed as non-en- vironmentally friendly landscapes. In recent years, golf courses around the world have tried to change this perspective. The Braemar Golf Course in Edina, MN has already begun to take steps towards becoming a more environmentally friendly course and has been recognized as a ‘Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanc- tuary’. Out of 581 golf courses in Minnesota Braemar is one of only 20 courses to hold Audubon certifica- tion. Braemar Park is the largest open space park in Edina and includes the Braemar Arena, Braemar Fields, Braemar Golf Course and more. This 500 acre land- scape provides many opportunities to meet the com- munity needs and park goals outlined in the 2015 City of Edina Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. The community needs outlined in the strategic plan were determined through group focus meetings, com- munity workshops and community surveys. The highest priority needs are; • Additional walking and biking trails • Increased natural areas within parks • Control of invasive species • Promotion of biodiversity • Further passive recreation opportunities • Improved park signage and wayfinding methods In recent years, reconstruction of the executive course has re-introduced native landscapes to the golf course terrain and transformed the once single-use land- scape into a space of high ecological integrity that has the potential to host an array of activities and serve as vital community asset. Based on the needs of the strategic plan and requirements of the Audubon certification, the following visions and goals have been determined within the scope of this plan to guide future management and programming of the executive course.VISION AND GOALS 9BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 99BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 9 Vision Statement For Braemar Golf course to be viewed as an industry leader in environmental sustainability and maintain a high degree of environmental integrity that: • Adds natural beauty to the golf course • Retains “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctu- ary” status • Provide a model of for native habitat restoration that can be replicated in other spaces • Benefits patrons, area residents, and wildlife • Preserves ecosystem functions that contribute to cleaner air and water Goals In order to fulfill the vision, the following goals have been identified for the Executive Course: • Manage wildlife habitat to support biodiversity in plant and animal communities Left: Audubon International seal of certification • Invasive species management • Reduce herbicide use and promote safe applica- tion • Conserve water and manage vegetation to support improved water quality • Provide environmental education and public out- reach • Meet the community needs outlined in the City of Edina Parks and Recreation Strategic plan by in- corporating programming and management strate- gies that support a diversity of outdoor activity. Maintaining native landscapes and incorporating mul- ti-faceted programming is critical to the success of the newly reconstructed course areas. The following pages will document the historic and current condi- tions of the Braemar Executive course and highlight opportunities and management recommendations for the City of Edina to fulfill this vision and reach these goals at the Braemar Executive Course. 10 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Location Braemar Golf Course is located in the city of Edina, MN in Hennepin County. Only 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, the course attracts visitors from all around the metro area and beyond. Background Planning for the reconstruction of the Executive Course began in April 2014 the City of Edina hired Herfort Norby Golf Course Architects to design and develop plans documents for Executive Course reno- vation. The new course design expanded the driving range and reconstructed the 9-hole course complete with low-maintenance natural areas including prairie, savanna, and wetland buffers. Short Elliott Hen- drickson Inc. (SEH) completed wetland delineations and provided suggestions for wetland mitigation for this project. Nine Mile Creek Watershed District and Barr Engineering verified the delineation report. The finalized design plans were released for bidding and Landscapes Unlimited was awarded the project in February 2015 with Wetland Habitat Restorations as a subcontractor for the natural areas restoration. Construction began in July 2015 and was completed in Spring 2016. Stakeholders & Partners • City of Edina • Braemar Golf Course • Herfort Norby Golf Course Architects • SEH • Barr Engineering • Army Corps of Engineers • Nine Mile Creek Watershed District • Audubon International • Edina community & residents • Course patrons ORIENTATION 11BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 11 494 94 55 12 100 169 35W Braemar Arena Main Clubhouse Upgraded Clubhouse Driving Range Braemar Blvd Golf Dome 169 494 Gleason Rd Parking Lot N Executive Course Course Boundary Executive Course Roads Notable Structures Legend 0 500 1,000 2,000 Feet Executive Summary12 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Natural Resource Corridors Braemar is near many areas identified by Hennepin County as ecologically significant areas including nearby parks, lakes, and streams and could easily connect to the current surrounding natural resource corridors. (See map). Hennepin County Environmen- tal Services identifies Natural Resource Corridors based on the following guiding elements; • Natural vegetative community quality, unique and/ or ecologically-significant areas • Existing natural/semi-natural corridors (e.g. lakes, streams, wetland complexes, drainage ways, flood- plains, steep slopes) • Connectivity to surrounding communities with natural resources/open space corridors and trail systems • Large publicly and privately owned protected open spaces • Semi-natural areas that occur immediately adja- cent to natural areas • Connectivity of areas that would serve as logical links between natural areas • Those that have potential for restoration to native vegetation Recently Restored Adjacent Lands In June of 1992, the Army Corps of Engineers issued a wetland fill permit to the City of Edina allowing the city to fill a portion of wetland area on the Braemar site to expand the golf course. To help mitigate the loss of wetland habitat the city in return was required to restore 23 acres of oak savanna on the western edge of Braemar Park. The City contracted with Barr Engineering and the University of Minnesota to develop management goals and a management plan for the savanna areas to be restored. Two parcels of degraded savanna habitat on undeveloped hillsides were to be restored, each about 12.5 acres. Both parcels were located on glacial ka- mes with steep slopes with sandy gravel well drained soils. The parcel of restoration began near the Brian Wip- perman Memorial Gun Range and extended north to the golf course maintenance shed. The vegetation recorded in 1993 consisted of areas of semi open grasslands, woodlands and a transition zone. The open grasslands included bur oaks (Quercus macro-REGIONAL CONTEXT 13BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 13 494 494 100 169 169 212 62 2 mile radius1 mile radiusEden Prairie Center Southdale Center Bredesen Park Hyland Hills Ski Area Mt. Normandale Lake Park Anderson Lakes Park Reserve Nord Myr Park Marsh Lake Park Bryant Lake Regional Park Edina High School Valley View Middle School Creek ValleyElementary School Lewis Park Hyland Lake Park Reserve 9-Mile Creek Regional Trail LakeParkStreamBraemar Golf CourseExecutive CourseRecreational TrailPrevious RestorationNatural Resource Corridor Legend 0 .25 .50 1 Mile N 14 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA carpa) and black cherry (Prunus serotina) with dense patches of big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), pur- ple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea), wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), prairie sage (Artemisia ludovi- ciana), and some small pockets (on the western and northern slopes) of the threatened species kittentails (Besseya bullii). In addition to the native species listed; exotic species leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) and smooth brome (Bromus inermis) covered most of the area. The woodland understory was dominated by the non-native invasive species European buck- thorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and the native aggressive prickly ash (Zanthoxylum americanum). In the transi- tion zone there was a large stand of Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina). The second parcel of restoration was located on the western side of Braemar Avenue by the golf dome, ex- tending from the ice arena to the softball fields. This parcel was heavily wooded with elm (Ulmus amer- icana), basswood (Tilia americana), and white oak (Quercus alba) and an understory of European buck- thorn. The only evidence of prairie or savanna in this parcel was the large bur oaks, native sedge species (Carex sp.) and bedstraw species (Gallium sp.). A complete list of species recorded on these parcels can be found in the appendix. The management goals of these parcels was to restore a fully functional ecosystem through prescribed burn- ing, invasive species management and re-introduction of native species. The current status of this restoration is unknown but Hennepin County GIS lists these areas in 2008 as poor quality oak woodlands/brushlands large popula- tions of European buckthorn, glossy buckthorn (Rham- nus frangula), honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) and garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). It’s likely this area is no longer being maintained as remnant savanna but some of the formerly recorded native vegetation may still be present. This area, as well as the many other nearby significant areas, are increasingly important to the restoration of Braemar Golf Course’s natural areas 15BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 15 because they provide opportunities to strengthen and develop natural resource corridors. Natural resource corridors are important for wildlife migration, seed dispersal, and human recreation. Looking to nearby potential restoration sites not only builds connectivity through urbanized areas but it also allows one to ad- just restoration techniques based on outcomes of pre- vious restoration activities, and identify what species may already have a seed bank on site, and improve the success of new restoration project outcomes. 16 Left: Prescribed bun in the sa- vanna remnant of the Executive Couse. Fall of 2015 NATURAL HISTORY 18 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA18 Glacial History The current landscape of Minnesota was defined by the last glaciation, known as the Wisconsin Glacial Period that ended 10,000 years ago. Braemar Golf Course is located in the region formed by the Des Moines lobe which carved calcium rich deposits into the area from the northwest. The glacial deposits in the region brought gravels and sands from glacial meltwater as the glaciers retreated. This material was often deposited in mounds and hills known as glacial kames. At the same time, shallow depressions collecting meltwater formed prairie potholes and blocks of glacial ice created kettle lakes. Climate Once the glaciers retreated, the Minnesota landscape was dominated by spruce trees and later by pine forests. As the climate of the region continued to warm the spruce and pine populations began to decline and the prairie from the west expanded its range along with elm and oak woods. The prairie, oak woodland and oak savanna landscape covered the eastern Minnesota landscape until about 4,000 years ago when the climate in Minnesota then began to cool and moisten again, making the east part of the state more wooded in ravines and north facing slopes. About 300 years ago the climate became especially cool and moist reducing the occurrence and intensity of fire activity increasing the amount and range of the forest. Western Minnesota remained dominated by prairie. A transitional area of oak savanna remained between the prairie and forest. Braemar golf course is located in this transitional area. Soils Due to the Des Moines lobe, Braemar golf course naturally consisted mainly of sandy gravel soils. These soils support dry prairie and savanna species that are drought tolerant and thrive in well drained conditions. These plant communities were found before the land was altered and have been determined to be the pre- European settlement vegetation of this region.GEOLOGY 19BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Above Top: Glacial Kames formation diagram (http://www.landforms.eu/ cairngorms/kame.htm) Above Bottom: Kettle formation diagram (http://www.landforms.eu/cairngorms/ kettle%20hole.htm) Left: Glacial activity of MN 20 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA20 Pre-European settlement vegetation is determined using Marschner’s Map of the original vegetation of Minnesota. Francis J. Marschner created the map in 1929 and 1930 while working for the USDA in Washington, D.C. Marschner never did visit Minnesota but based the map off of field notes and plats prepared by surveyors for the General Land Office between 1848 and 1907. Marschner’s map gives us a picture of what the landscape in Minnesota looked like before it was altered by European settlement. According to Marschner’s Map the pre-settlement vegetation of Braemar Golf Course is made up of mostly oak woodland and brushland (savanna) with some smaller areas of maple-basswood forest (big woods) and tallgrass prairie Historically, the boundaries of the prairie, savanna, and woodland communities would shift with the intensity and frequency of fire, among other natural disturbances.PRE-SETTLEMENT VEGETATION 21BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 0 20 40 Miles Hennepin County Left: Original Vegetation of Minnesota Map with Hennipen County highlighted. 22 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA City of Dayton Natural Resource Inventory June 2005 4 0 2 4 8 Miles Legend Hennepin County City of Edina Aspen-Oak Land Maple-Basswood Forest Conifer Bogs and Swamps Lakes and Open Water Oak Woodland and Brushland Prairie Prairie Wetland Braemar Golf Course City of Dayton Natural Resource Inventory June 2005 4 0 2 4 8 Miles Legend Hennepin County City of Edina Aspen-Oak Land Maple-Basswood Forest Conifer Bogs and Swamps Lakes and Open Water Oak Woodland and Brushland Prairie Prairie Wetland Braemar Golf Course Right: Enlarged Pre- European settlement vegetation map of Hennepin County with Braemar Golf Course highlighted. 23BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Tallgrass Prairie The tallgrass prairie region was once the dominant plant community of western and central Minnesota. Varying patterns of grasses, sedges and forbs spread across glacial landforms from morrainal cliffs and ridges to prairie potholes and wet lowlands. Topography and soil moisture changed the presence of big and little bluestem and side oats grama in dry regions, to prairie cordgrass and bluejoint grass in low areas, and sedge and rushes in wetlands. These systems mixed frequently across the kame and kettle landscape. The prairie landscape likely covered a majority of the southern area of the historic Braemar Golf Course landscape. Fires would sweep through the area followed by heavy grazing from bison and elk on the newly emerging prairie vegetation. Fire and grazing conditions favored the deep rooted prairie plants and kept the woody species from establishing in this area. Oak Woodland and Brushland The oak woodland and brushland biome, referred to as savanna, was most commonly positioned between Prairie and deciduous forest. The vegetation found in the savanna biome is determined by frequency of fire. In the midwest, increases in fire activity create the more traditional savanna landscape with predom- inantly large oaks and prairie openings containing grasses and forbs. Bur oaks are especially adapted to these conditions with thick bark and large root sys- tems to withstand hot and frequent fires. Decreasing fire activity allows for brushland to flourish and create shrub thickets. Oak savanna areas likely occurred on south facing slopes and kames in the historic Braemar landscape. Hot and dry slopes were prime for regular fire activity while the kames received more sporadic and less intense fire, allowing for woody material to establish. Due to its 24 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA fire dependent nature and the current fire suppression practices the savanna ecosystem is now one of the rarest ecosystems in the world. It is also home to many specialized species that rely on the unique conditions it provides. Kittentails (Besseya bullii) is a highly specialized oak savanna plant that is only found in the oak savannas of the Upper Midwest. Kittentails were found on the Braemar site as recently as 1993. Maple-Basswood Forest At the time of the public land survey the largest con- tinuous maple-basswood forests biome covered 3,000 square miles in the south central part of the state with additional smaller sections. The maple-basswood biome consists of elm, basswood, sugar maple, and red oak. These trees are highly fire-sensitive and were only able to withstand fire events from the adjacent prairies to the west due to the natural fire breaks of rivers, lakes and rough topography. The natural fire breaks allowed the trees to mature and early settlers referred to this region as the “Big Woods”. Fire events controlled the boundaries of the Big Woods and prevented their encroachment into the prairie land- scapes. The northern slopes of Braemar remained shady, moist and protected from fire. This allowed for many oak seedlings to reach maturity providing and with- stand what little fire would go through the area. Lack of fire then became oak woodlands with a shade toler- ant herbaceous layer. The steepest slopes were cool and rarely saw fire at all. Over time, fire- intolerant species such as maples, basswoods and elms created pockets of maple-basswood forest also known as the big woods. 25BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 1. Bur oakQuercus macrocarpa2. Little bluestemSchizachyrium scoparium3. BergamotMonarda didyma4. Staghorn summockRhus typhina 1. BasswoodTilia americana2. Sugar mapleAcer saccharum3. Ostrich fernMatteuccia struthiopteris4. Pagoda dogwoodCornus alternifolia 1. Big bluestemAndropogon gerardii2. Purple coneflowerEchinacea purpurea3. Butterfly milkweedAsclepias tuberosa4. Prairie dropseedSporobolus heterolepis 1. Bluejoint grassCalamagrostis canadensis2. Prairie cordgrassSpartina pectinata3. Tusock sedgeCarex stricta4. Blue flag irisIris virginica shrevei SAVANNA MAPLE-BASSWOOD FOREST TALLGRASS PRAIRIE WET MEADOW 1 2 3 4 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 26 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA26 Pre-European settlement plant communities were maintained by natural disturbances such as frequent fires, grazing herbivores and extreme climatic conditions that shaped the native grasslands over time. Each landscape created slightly different conditions and responded to disturbance events to develop diverse and resilient communities. Fire In the tallgrass prairie region, fires burned an area of land on average once every three to four years. These fires were often started by lightning strikes, and occurred when the prairies were dormant (or dry) in the late fall and early spring. Fires burned hot and fast in the dry material covering a lot of ground. Native Americans are historically responsible for starting fires. They used fires during warfare, hunting and land management. Fires were purposely set during war to destroy enemy property, reduce areas to hide in, notify others of enemy whereabouts, and to escape with out being followed. While hunting, Native Americans used fire to herd big game into ravines, rivers and lakes where they were more easily killed. Large grazers like Bison were attracted to freshly burned areas because they provided a fresh and easy food source, Native Americans took advantage of this behavior and would burn areas to attract the bison. Fires were set in riparian areas to clear brush near waterways which made hunting for beaver, muskrats, moose and waterfowl easier on the Native Americans. Fire was also used as a land management tool. Fires were utilized to build trails, reduce fuels when wildfires were approaching, create food plots, increase produce yields, reduce pests, prevent encroaching brush and to kill trees for building materials. Regardless of how it was started, fire played a critical role in shaping the prairie and savanna landscape. It kept trees and shrubs at bay, maintaining diversity and large extents of the grassy landscape. It also reduced the amount of thatch layer that remained after the prairie plants die back in the fall. A thick thatch NATURAL DISTURBANCES 27BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN layer prevents the sun from warming the soil in the spring, shading out the smaller more delicate plants and making it more challenging for the larger plants to grow. Burning of the thatch layer provides sunlight and returns nutrients to the soil for both established plants and new seedlings to grow. Some plant seeds require heat from fire to germinate and become more prevalent after a fire. Grazing When not burned, grazers greatly reduced the thatch layer mimicking the effect of fire. The prairie landscape having evolved with herbivores, both big and small provided a food source for deer, elk, pronghorn, prairie dogs, rabbits, voles, mice and insects. Insects although small could reduce the amount of plant material as quickly as a herd of bison. Bison were the most common grazers found on the prairie landscape. Bison, unlike cattle who eat both grass and forbs, eat almost exclusively grasses. The intense grazing of grasses following a fire provided space for new forb seedlings to flourish maintain high diversity prairie landscapes. Climate Grassland landscapes have been able to survive many major climate shifts including periods of severe drought. Deciduous forests require consistent precipitation throughout the year whereas the grasses and forbs of the prairie landscape have evolved to withstand harsh drought conditions with deep root systems and fire resiliency. The boundaries between grasslands and woodlands have shifted throughout the years depending upon climatic factors. In periods of warm and dry weather the prairie tends to cover more area and in periods of cool and moist forests creep into the prairie landscape. Above: Prairie Fire Painting, Deborah Phelps-Gane Below: Bison Grazing 28 Left: Prairie seeding of Execu- tive Course. Fall of 2015 CULTURAL HISTORY 30 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary30 Since European settlement in the late 1800’s, the land of Braemar golf course has been owned by many and utilized in a variety of ways. The low-lying open savanna landscape was deemed unsuitable for logging and building and therefore remained largely unde- veloped. Unlike much of the surrounding area, this protected it from becoming densely homesteaded or becoming a subdivision over time. Before the area was known as Braemar Golf Course the area was home- steaded with a ranch and a few families who used the land in a variety of ways including raising sheep and cattle that grazed the land. Ownership history is shown on the following page. Land use post-European settlement had resulted in ecological impacts including fire suppression, farming and livestock grazing. Fires have been suppressed to protect inhabitants and structures, allowing the grass- lands to become overrun with trees and shrubs includ- ing invasive and ecologically destructive species such as Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). Livestock grazing, mowing and farming that took place in the early 1900’s on the Braemar property helped to maintain an open savanna like structure in pastures, cropland and recreational areas and slowed the suc- cession of woodlands. However, these activities also contributed to large loss of species diversity from over grazing and soil compaction from heavy herd traffic and farm equipment. Glacial history, pre-European settlement vegetation, natural disturbances, and land use history have all worked together to shape the land of Braemar Golf Course into what it is today.POST-EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT 31BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Photo: Edna and Roy Nelson, relatives of rancher Dewey Hills, pose at Intervale Ranch (circa 1933)- the land that would become Braemar Golf Course. (Edina Mag- azine) 1894 1908 1957 Carl Marth Among the first homesteaders in Edina, the Marth family settles on one of the largest properties at 1,300 acres George Leach Property owner believed to have named the area “Intervale Ranch”. Leach went on to be an Ameri-can Hero in World War I and a four term mayor of Minneapolis Hayes Family The decision is made to build the first municipal golf course in the the metro area, the family of Dairy farmers sell 444 acres from the original 1,300 acres to the city of Edina City of Edina City of Edina buys the land from the Hayes Family and begins the process of opening the metro areas first public golf course which is completed in 1964 Dewey Hill Allegedly maintained a shed on the property thought to be one of the first nudist colonies in the area – Hill was a character well known by law enforcement who began referring to the road that went to the farm as Dewey Hill Road, the name remains today 32 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary32 Current Use Today, the Braemar Golf Course is a hub of golfing and recreation activity. Ranked among the top 75 public golf courses in the nation (Golf Digest), it attracts golfers from around the country. Braemar has also been named as one of its top 100 Women Friendly Courses by Golf For Women magazine. In the past, the course has been home to tournaments such as the Minnesota Senior Open, Minnesota Public Links Championship, and the Minnesota Women’s Amateur Public Link. Braemar received national attention when it hosted the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship in 1997. The Course hosted the Minnesota Classic PGA event in 1969, one of only four PGA events hosted on a public golf course that year. In addition to the recent reconstruction of the Exec- utive Course, the 27-hole regulation course is also planning significant reconstruction in the near future. Much like the Executive Course, this plan will expand natural areas and continue to support the multi-fac- eted nature of the Braemar Golf Course. Savanna areas, wetland buffers, and no-mow fescue seed mixes will create a network of natural areas around 18 golfing holes. BRAEMAR TODAY 33BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Braemar Golf Course will soon reconstruct the 27-hole regulation course into an 18-hole course with natural areas similar to those of the Executive Course. Opposite page: Fam- ily Golfing (http://www. bathurstglengolf.ca/) 34 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Course Restoration Restoration of the Executive Course’s natural areas began in 2015 with the reconstruction of the nine- hole course. Designed by Herfort Norby Golf Course Architects, work in 2015 included the expansion of the driving range and reconstructing the 9-hole course complete with low-maintenance natural ar- eas including prairie, savanna, and wetland buffers. Reconstruction work was completed by Landscapes Unlimited, with native restoration work by Wetland Habitat Restorations in Spring 2016. The scope of restoration included: • 6.2 acres Buckthorn removal & forestry mowing in wooded areas (winter 2015) • 7.5 acres Prairie seeding • 1.1 acres Wetland buffer seeding • 6.2 acres Savanna seeding • Installation of 14,800 native forb plugs in restora- tion areas Restoration Challenges Challenges of the native restoration included limited soil preparation and management of existing invasive vegetation. Seed mixes were customized based on site conditions and a desirable low vegetation height. Currently, restored areas are in their first year of vege- tation management but additional efforts are needed to maintain, enhance, and expand restoration areas in a manner that aligns with the City of Edina goals and requirements of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf. The natural areas of the Executive Course at Brae- mar Golf Course have been subdivided based on their current vegetation conditions and potential for further restoration efforts. Four primary plant communities cover the site and include prairie, wetland, savanna, and forest vegetation types. Recommendations on the following pages describe these communities in more detail and offer recommendations for their continued restoration, enhancement, and management to sup- port both ecological and cultural function. EXECUTIVE COURSE 35BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 35 Bra e m a r B l v d PrairieSavannaWetlandForest Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 Left: Restoration zones and parcels subdivided for management recommen- dations 36 Left:Joe Pye Weed (Eupatorium maculatum) CURRENT ECOLOGICAL CONDITIONS 38 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary38 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Exotic and Invasive Vegetation Even with recent restoration efforts, the land use history at Braemar has contributed to degraded site conditions, making it difficult for native vegetation to compete with exotic species that thrive in these conditions. Exotic species in Minnesota are defined as not hav- ing existed in the area prior to the public land survey or pre-European settlement. Exotic species tend to be but are not always considered invasive. Invasive species are species that take over and dominate landscapes pushing out the natives by consuming all the needed resources such as soil, nutrients and sun. Most exotic species were brought to America as food sources, for medicinal purposes, and as landscape plants that escaped their garden settings and infil- trated natural areas. Exotic species found at Braemar Golf Course Include: (Full descriptions can be found in the appendix) • Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) • Burdock (Arctium minus) • Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) • Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) • Crown vetch (Coronilla varia) • Tartarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) • Sweet clovers (Melilotus spp.) • Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) • Common reed (Phragmites) • Common buckthorn (Rhamnus Cathartica) • Glossy buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) • Narrow-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia) Many of these invasive species require manual and chemical removal. Recommended control methods and detailed analysis of the recently restored vegeta- tion can be found in the management recommenda- tions chapter. VEGETATION 39BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Top Left: Herbaceous weeds and dense crab grass cover slopes near the Braemar Blvd Bridge. Top Right: Garlic mustard invades savanna and forest ground cover. Bottom: Invasive cattail dominate wetland areas 40 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary40 Topography The topography of Braemar has been altered over time to accommodate different land uses. Throughout its alterations the land has remained relatively flat. This low-lying landscape known historically as “Intervale Ranch” was used as pasture and farmland before be- ing used golf course. Both land uses have maintained the landscapes naturally gently rolling to flat topogra- phy. In its current state, the land is mostly flat with some remaining glacial kames. Most of the area has a 0-2% slope gradient with some areas that have a slope gradient of 6-12% and 18-35%. The Executive Course topography is a bit more variable with eleva- tion changes throughout most of the course. TOPOGRAPHY 41BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Design contours of the reconstructed Execu- tive Course Opposite page: Rolling hills of the Braemar Exec- utive Course Grading & Drainage Plan (East of Braemar Blvd.) Braemar Golf Course6364 John Harris DriveEdina, Minnesota 55439(952) 903-5750 © This plan and the concepts represented herein are the property of Herfort Norby Golf Course Architects. Use of this plan shall require prior written approval by Herfort Norby Golf Course Architects. Chaska, MN 55318(952) 361-0644 100 East Second Street, Suite 200 Golf Course Architect: email: knorby@HerfortNorbyGolf.comweb: herfortnorby.com Revisions:HERFORT NORBY G O L F C O U R S EA R C H I T E C T SCity of EdinaParks & Recreation Department4801 W. 50th StreetEdina, Minnesota 55424 January 13, 2015Date:Designed by:Drawn by:KN & JSJSI hereby specify that this plan, specification, or report was prepared by me or under my direct supervisionand that I am a duly registered Landscape Architectunder the laws of the State of Minnesota. ________________________________________ Date: ___________ Registration #: ___________1/13/15 20144 5 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa SaSaSaSaSaSaSa Sa Sa Sa Sa Sa EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE36" RCP 24" CMP MHSA1000854.91 MHSA1002846.90 MHSA1003 855.66 CMP241004835.92 CMP481005836.19 CMP481006836.06 MHSA1007851.34 CBFL1009858.44 MHST1010850.28CMP361011834.98 MHSA1012 847.29 CMP241013835.26 GLEASON RDDRSCHEY 84 0 84 0 84 0 840 840 840840 840 840 840840 840 840 850 850 850 850 850 850 850 860 86 0 860 860 860870870 870 870 870 87 0 88088 0 880 890890 890 890 90 0 900 860 890 900 898.2 842.9 848.5 842.4 855.6 891.3 890.6 876.4 862.1 864.8 842.4 836.7 838.8 836.4 W W 837.6 840.7 839.3 854.7 842.4 843.0 839.1 844.2843.0 846.4 848.8 856.2 842.6 842.5 838.7 841 .8 839.4 837.8 840.3 842.6 840.8 841.0 835.6W 842.2 839.5 837.8 841.0 841.5 842.2 841.7 84 3 .0 838.3 840.4 844.3 839.7 839.1 882.6 867.2 843.3 844.6 841.2 848.9 861.9 863.6 860.6 842.9 838.9 859.4 887.5891.0 890.6 893.1 900.6886.3 890.5 873.5 862.5 86 7 .7 874.6 W 852.3 870.5 845.0 843.9 848.7 840.54 Bra e m a r Blv d . 100 yr.Flood Inundation 100 yr.FloodInundation 10 0 yr . Fl o o d Inu n d a t i o n 40 38 42 44 40 36 42 39 40 40 39 38 38 39 41 39 38 40 42 44 40 40 39 41 61 59 78 80 893.0 46 44 48 5052 55 42 46 40 36 70 62 839.5 48 49 39 40 39 40 40 52 4846 44 40 43 40 38 39 40 39 840.8 36 3939 91 80 86 48 36 54 56 58 42 848.5 43 44 41 844.5 41 74 841.5 42 43 845.5 845.5 40 44 42 41 39 41 40 40 36 848.5 842.3 30 30 50 38 40 42 4344 4241 40 848.5 50 50 39 46 48 854.5 854.5 34 7470 6968 76 67 44 46 626463 61 6059 64 864.5 60 864.5 44 42 40 44 38 3634 38 42 40 38 34 41.2 41.6 40.6 40.2 40.2 40.6 42.1 42.8 44.6 44.2 61.4 61.15 59.5 59.15 57.55 57.8 95.294.75 97.8 97.55 91.75 91.4 89.35 89.1 85.9 80.4 80.7 76.7 76.4 86.2 55.5 55.2 50.8 50.2 46.6 46.15 49.5 49.2 48.7 48.2 47.6 47.2 45 41.6 41.1 40.9 40.3 40.4 40.1 42.1 42.45 41.1 41.640.340.6 47 40 WE: 838.3BE: 832.0 57 55 66 70 74 82 84 870.5 32 32 860.5 860.5 60 42 44 98 888.0 887.5 92 97 901.0 76 96 97 98 42 46 849.0849.5 848.0 44 42 48 88 861.0 852.5 850.0 40.1 40.8 842.0 842.5 40 848.3 s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s CF CF CF CF CF W2 W4 W6 W12 W13 W14 W14a CB R-4Rim: 838.0Inv: 836.0 CB R-5Rim: 837.75Inv: 835.75 CB R-9Rim: 839.0Inv: 837.0 CB R-10Rim: 837.75Inv: 835.75 CB R-13Rim: 839.0Inv: 837.0 CB R-11Rim: 837.5Inv: 835.5 Inv: 834.0 CB 9-ARim: 838.0 Inv: 836.0 CB 1-BRim: 839.0Inv: 837.0 CB 6-ARim: 838.5 Inv: 836.5 Inv: 834.0Inv: 834.0 Inv: 832.0 Inv: 832.0 CB 1-ARim: 840.5Inv: 838.5 CB 1-CRim: 838.5Inv: 836.5 CB 7-CRim: 839.0Inv: 837.0 CB 8-ARim: 848.5Inv: 846.5 CB R-6Rim: 837.5Inv: 835.5 CB 4-BRim: 857.0Inv: 854.5 Inv: 834.0 CB 4-ARim: 857.0Inv: 855.0 24" 8" 6" 6" 4" 4" 6" 6" 6" 6" 4" 4" 4" 4" 6" 6" Assumed Ex. Inv: 838.3 Inv: 886.3 Inv: 886.0 18" 6" Inv: 834.0 CB 7-BRim: 839.0Inv: 837.0 4" CB 7-ARim: 840.5Inv: 838.5 4" 6" Inv: 841.6 Inv: 841.4 4" Water Quality Improvement:Remove and Replace storm FES Water Quality Improvement:Remove and replace 24" pipe with FES (inverts set in field) ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA ADA Wetland Mitigation Area.22 Acres WCA Required Buffer25' average Buffer NMCWD Required Buffer60' Average Buffer Adjust ring and casting for Sanitary MH. Bury casting and cover with a minimum 8" of topsoil. GRADING & DRAINAGELEGEND Project LimitsPro Contour Lines Pro Catch BasinsPro 4" Perf. Drain tile Pro 4" Solid Drain TilePro 6" Solid Drain Tile Pro 24" HDPE Pipe Pro 8" Solid Drain Tile Pro Spot Elevation SYMBOL DESCRIPTION Bubbler Cleanout 46 848.5 Pro 18" HDPE Pipe Flared End Section (match pipe size) Pro 12" HDPE Pipe Small pipe end w/ rodent guard 6" 8"12" 18"24" ADA Access Zone ADA 4" s Silt FenceRock LogHydromulch CF Construction Fence 0 60 120 180 FT GRADING NOTES:1. All areas shown to be graded shall have the topsoil stripped and stockpiled prior to grading.2. All areas within the limits of construction not shown to be graded shall have the turf roto-tilled and leveled smooth for positive grading and reseeded. Topsoil shall not be stripped and replaced. EXISTING FEATURESLEGEND Existing contourExisting woods Existing building Ex. regulated wetland (delineated)Ex. incidental wetland (delineated) Exsiting sanitary sewer (approx.) Existing storm sewer (approx.) Existing cart path SYMBOL DESCRIPTION Ex. drainage & C. B. (approx.) Existing trees Existing open water Existing 100 yr. floodplain SaSa Sa Existing chain link fence Ex. buried electrical line (approx.)e Ex. buried geotextile fabric (approx.) AsphaltConcrete LAYOUT / HARDSCAPELEGEND SYMBOL DESCRIPTION Concrete path w/ curb(7' wide unless otherwise noted) Concrete cart path(7' wide unless otherwise noted) Gravel cart path(7' wide unless otherwise noted) Concrete tee line Test pit locations - refer specs Secondary gravel cart path(7' wide unless otherwise noted) DISCLAIMER: The City of Edina makes no representation or warranties, express or implied, with respect to the reuse of the electronic data provided herewith, regardless of its format or the means of its transmission. There is no guarantee or representation to the user as to the accuracy, currency, suitability, or reliability of this data for any purpose. The user accepts the data "as is", and assumes all risks associated with its use. By acceptance of this data, the user agrees not to transmit this data or provide access to it or any part of it to another party unless the user shall include with the data a copy of this disclaimer. The City of Edina assumes no responsibility for actual or consequential damage incurred as a result of any user's reliance on this data. CONSTRUCTION SET 42 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary42 Watershed The Braemar Golf Course is part of the Nine Mile Creek Watershed District. Nine Mile Creek watershed covers approximately 50 square miles and was the first urban watershed district in Minnesota. Nine Mile Creek itself is made of two main forks, the south and north forks that flow southward to where it meets the Minnesota River near Bloomington, MN. The south fork of Nine Mile Creek flows near the southern edge of Braemar Park. As an urban watershed, the creek and it’s many other water bodies receive high levels of stormwater runoff that can cause significant spikes in water volume and flow rates as well as deposit sediments and pollutants into critical aquatic habitats. Chloride, a component of road salts, is especially high in Nine Mile Creek. Maintaining buffers and native vegetation can help reduce nutrient loading, slow stormwater runoff, and protect wildlife habitat.HYDROLOGY9-Mile Creek Watershed Twin Cities Metro Area 43BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 43BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Nine Mile Creek Watershed District WatershedWater Bodies MunicipalitiesRoads Legend 0 1,200 2,400 4,800 FeetN Edina Minneapolis HopkinsMinnetonka Eden Prairie Bloomington Richfield Braemar Golf Course Minnesota River 9–Mile Creek 169 100 35W 494 62 62 212 44 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Wetlands & Water bodies The unique glacial topography provides a network of interconnected hydrology throughout the region. It is common for seasonal wetlands to appear throughout the area as snow melt and rain collects in low lying areas. Braemar Golf Course is no exception with poor soils that limit drainage. Through time, the changing landscape of the Braemar Golf Course has altered wa- ter flow to accommodate farming, urban development, and today’s golfing activity. The course is still home to streams, waterways and many probable and poten- tial wetlands that have been identified by the National Wetland Inventory and Hennepin County Wetland Inventory. On the south end of Braemar, a DNR managed wet- land complex drains the golf course and highway into Nine Mile Creek, which eventually flows into the Minnesota River. The Executive Course has one infiltration basin that collects water and run-off from a majority of the Exec- utive Course. This long central basin was expanded from a more narrow creek-like feature in the recent reconstruction and consist of a unmowed turf buf- fer. It likely drains through subsurface channels and culverts under Braemar Blvd and through other water bodies before reaching the DNR managed wetland. Many of the other water bodies within the Executive Course are shallow water features with unmowed turf buffers or recently seed wetland edges. Invasive species presence is high and eutrophication is visible in the high algae presence. A full description of the water bodies can be found in the Wetland portions of the Management Recommendations sections. 45BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Wetland N 0 125 250 500Feet *Wetland locations derived from the National Wetland Inventory and the Hennepin County Wetland InventoryExecutive Course Left: Water Bodies of Executive Course proior to course reconstruction. Im- age Date; September 7th, 2014. (Data reproduced from Hennepin County GIS). 46 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary46 Soils Due to development, the soils in Hennepin County are predominantly urban soils, with highly variable char- acteristics of texture and drainage. The non-urban na- tive soils of the western portion of Hennepin County, where Braemar Golf Course is located, tend to be finer textured loams and clays unlike the eastern portion that tend towards coarse particle soils of loamy sands and sandy loams. Hennepin County soils tend to support drier communities such as oak savanna and prairie in the uplands due to their more highly drained qualities, and wet prairie in the lowlands. A custom soils report from the USDA and NRCS can be found in the appendix. Much of the low lying areas of Braemar Golf course contain hydric soils. Hydric soil is soil that formed under natural or artificial conditions of saturation, flooding or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic (non-oxygenated) condi- tions. These hydric soils occur in the low lying areas at Braemar that consist of poorly drained soil and col- lect the water in the region. Historically, this created challenges for golfers with soggy tees and fairways. The upland areas consist of the loamy sand and sandy loam soils that are well drained. Although, the area topography consists of mostly 0-2% slope gradient; the sandy well drained upland soils are prone to erosion when left exposed. Vegetation or temporary erosion control measures during restoration will keep the soil in place. The soils found on the Executive course are as fol- lows: Koronis-Kingsley- Malardi Complex (L62C2 and L62E). This soil is eroded and well, drained. It is in hydrologic soil group meaning it has low runoff poten- tial, water is transmitted freely though out the soil, it is composed of less than 10% clay and 90% percent sand or gravel. SOILS 47BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Date: 7/25/2016Hennepin County Natural Resources Map LegendSoils Comments:¯No results 1 inch = 800 feet This data (i) is furnished 'AS IS' with no representation as to completeness or accuracy; (ii) is furnished with no warranty of any kind; and (iii) is notsuitable for legal, engineering or surveying purposes. Hennepin County shall not be liable for any damage, injury or loss resulting from this data.COPYRIGHT © HENNEPIN COUNTY 2016 L62C2 L62C2 L62C2 L59A L59A L59A U2A Legend NFeet0 125 250 500 Executive CourseForestycity-Lundlake, depressional complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes Udorthents, wet substratum, 0 to 2 percent slopes Koronis-Kingsley-Malardi complex,6 to 12 percent slopes, eroded L62C2 L59A U2A Soil Boundaries Soil Types Right: Soils of Braemar Golf Course. Image Date; September 7th, 2014 (Data reproduced from NRCS soils maps). Udorthents, wet substratum (U2A). This soil is well drained and maintains udic properties meaning the stored moisture plus rainfall is approximately equal to, or exceeds, the amount of evapotranspiration that occurs in the soil allowing the soil to hold moisture year round. Forestcity-Lundlake (L59A). This soil is poorly drained and belong to hydrologic soil groups. Where the soils of this area are able to drain it has moderately low run-off potential and water transmission through the soil is unimpeded. It is a mix of 10-20% clay and 50-90% sandy loam. Where the soils of this area are unable to drain they have high runoff potential and water movement though the soil is restricted. It is composed if greater than 40% clay and less than 50% sand. 48 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary48 Species in Greatest Conservation Need Braemar Golf Course is home to wildlife commonly found in an open urban park setting. The upland areas are home to cottontail rabbits, grey squirrels, pocket gophers, ground squirrels and deer. The wooded areas and open fields provide habitat for bird species; bluebirds, goldfinch, red-tailed hawk and pheasant. The wetland buffer areas provide nesting and feeding grounds for wetland birds species such as egrets and herons and the wetland themselves are important habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Oak savanna is one of Minnesota’s rarest ecosystems due to years of fire suppression and increasing agri- cultural production. Because it is such a rare ecosys- tem it is home to many Species in Greatest Conserva- tion Need. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; species in greatest conservation need are species whose populations are identified as being rare, declining, or vulnerable in Minnesota. Species become of greatest conservation need due to: • Habitat loss and degradation is the primary cause of species decline. Loss of diversity, fragmenta- tion, disruption of natural disturbance and pollu- tion all contribute to habitat degradation in Minne- sota. • Invasive species compete with native species for resources and alter/degrade habitat. • Pollution continues to play a large roll in species decline. Contaminants such as pesticides, herbi- cides, heavy metals, emissions can directly affect species and reduce/contaminate food sources. • Persecution and exploitation due to indiscriminate killing based on perceived threats or undesirable qualities and overharvesting for physical qualities such as skin, fur or medicinal qualities in plants. • Vulnerable characteristics such as large space re- quirements, low dispersal ability, low reproductive rates, localized distribution and dependent rela- tionships on other species contribute to declining populations. WILDLIFE HABITAT 49BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN • Climate change is altering habitat. Some relict populations, species that have survived in small isolated habitats that mimic conditions needed for their survival, continue to exist but may not for longer as the climate continues to change. • Disease, both introduced and native diseases outside their natural range contribute to the de- cline in native species through increase in species vulnerability and mortality. In the zones designated for restoration, several spe- cies in greatest conservation need, along with other valued species, will benefit from the newly enhanced Braemar golf Course habitat. Species are described below in accordance to the restoration zones they would inhabit. PRAIRIE Monarch Butterfly–Danaus plexippus Purple Martin–Progne subis This large, broad chested swallow does its feeding midair, hunting large insects. They forage over cities, parks, open fields, streams, meadows, ponds, and other open areas. Since humans began sup- plying nest boxes for them, mar- tins in the midwest have become The monarch butterfly is a com- mon insect that lives throughout Minnesota during the summer. It’s seen in backyards, parks, and in rural areas. Its large size, wide range, and bright orange and black wings make it one of Minnesota’s most well-known insects. Monarchs live in fields and parks where milkweed and native plants are common. All of the forb enhance- ments on the Braemar site will create habitat for this iconic insect. urbanites. A colonial species, dozens nest in the same spot. It is said that putting up a martin house is like installing a whole neighborhood. The Braemar Golf Course pro- vides good habitat for the species and the installation of bird houses will encourage there vibrant presence on the site. Eastern Bluebird–Sialia sialis This blue and rustic songbird is a Minnesota favorite. Not as common as robins or red-winged blackbirds, their song and beauti- ful colors leave a lasting impres- sion. They tend to live in open woodlands, roadsides, farmlands, orchards and suburbs and parks. During the mid-twentieth century, the bluebird popu- lation was in serious decline. Efforts by the Bluebird Recovery Program and DNR restablished the species and made it one of the most successful bluebird recovery projects in the nation. Nesting in birdhouses and former woodpecker holes, Braemar provides habi- tat for this beautiful species. 50 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA SAVANNA Karner Blue Butterfly–Lycaeides melissa samuelis A federally endangered species, the Karner blue is only found in one location in Minnesota. This small, beautiful butterfly inhabits oak savanna and requires lupine plants on which to lay its eggs. This specific conditions makes the Karner Blue an uncommon sight while oak savanna plant communities are one of the rarest in Minnesota. At Braemar, the establishment of oak savanna will provide much needed habitat for the Karner Blue. Lu- pine plants will also be recommended to provide the species the opportunity to lay eggs and thrive in this environment. Male (Top)Female (Bottom) Phlox Moth–Schinia Indiana The phlox moth is considered to be rare throughout its lim- ited range, which extends from Minnesota through Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan This moth is limited to prairies, savannas, and sandy open woodlands where its larval food plant grows. Less than 1% of Minnesota’s original prairie remains, and this continues to diminish. The prairie restoration on the Braemar Golf Course lends itself to the reestab- lishment of the species and will attract the species to this habitat adding to the communities diversity. Red-Shouldered Hawk–Buteo lineatus The red-shouldered hawk was designated as a species of spe- cial concern in Minnesota in 1984 due to habitat loss and alteration, and pesticide contam- ination. The raptor prefers large tracts of mature forest that include wetland openings and a fairly open understory. The Red-Shouldered Hawk has a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and occasionally large insects. The woodland and Savanna areas of Braemar Golf Course serve as habitat for this species, a majestic and deadly predator. Wetland Blanchard’s Cricket Frog–Acris blanchardi This small member of the tree- frog family is only 2.0-3.5 cm. The species likes to inhabit shal- low wetlands, lakes, streams, or rivers. They typically occupy areas along the water’s edge, and prefer open areas with muddy shorelines and abundant emergent vegetation. Having a habitat that is extremely vulnerable to hu- man disturbance, this frog has seen population de- cline throughout the northern portion of its range. Changes in water quality from pollution and chemi- cal buildup, and alteration in habitat hydrology may quickly eliminate populations. Establishing strong 51BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN buffers around the wetlands on the Braemar site will enhance the quality of the water and make it a habitat more suitable for this delicate species. Sedge Wren–Cistothorus platensis One of the most nomadic territo- rial birds in North America, in a given area it may be present one year, and be completely absent vironment will give this species with special concern opportunities to feed. Northern Long Eared Bat–Myotis septentrionalis The northern long-eared bat is federally listed as a threatened species. Dark brown in color and the next. This species likes to nest among dense/tall sedges and grasses within wet meadows. Because of the Sedge Wren is dependent on vulnera- ble and restricted habitats, some management con- cerns have recently arisen. Appropriately managing the wetlands on the Braemar site and establishing strong buffer zones along them will give this species needed habitat. Woodland Big Brown Bat–Eptesicus fus- cus Reaching speeds of up to 40 mph, this species is one of the Red-headed woodpecker– Melanerpes erythrocephalus A striking and unmistakable bird known for its harsh calls and active behavior in semi-open country. The omnivorous forager thrives in groves, farm country, orchards, and areas containing large-scattered trees. Once a very common bird in North America, the Red- headed Woodpecker is becoming a more uncommon sighting. Nesting in dead trees, our management rec- ommendation to leave deadfall in the Savanna, Prairie and Woodland restoration zones will provide the spe- cies with nesting and feeding condition. fastest bats. With brown to copper colored fur and a wingspan of around 12 inches this species survives in a variety of conditions that most others bats can’t. Found in almost every habitat, they range from the northern parts of Canada all the way down to Mexico. During the summer the prefer wooded areas where they feeding on moths, flies, wasps, and flying ants. The woodland parcel of the Braemar Golf Course en- medium in size, the species is faced with decline due to disease and loss of habitat. The Braemar woodlands area provides the species with summer habitat, where they fly through the un- derstory feeding on moths, flies, leafhoppers, cad- disflies, and beetles, which they catch while in flight using echolocation. 52 Left: Streambank restoration at Oak Geln Golf Course in Stillwater, MN MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Executive Summary54 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA The continued restoration of the Braemar Golf Course and management of the Executive Course positions this once single-use landscape to become a new model for a multi-faceted golf course and community asset. Golfers, neighborhood residents, children, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the cultural assets offered by this course. Not only does the landscape serve as a key ecological component, it can be host to an array of other learning and recreation activities. Golfing The new executive course offers nine par 3 holes with yardages ranging from 72 yards to 191 yards. To make the course more enjoyable for kids and the entry-level golfers, the course has been reconfigured to minimize sand hazards and forced carries over wetlands. All of the greens, tees and bunkers have been reconstructed and the fairways re-grassed to improve turf quality and to provide a more consistent experience for golfers. To maintain and enhance the golfing experience into the long term, the following management consider- ations can be applied: • Manage water features buffers to avoid tall vege- tation that may block sight lines and force higher than necessary shots to be played over them. In most instances, this has been alleviated with wider fairways. • Prune low-hanging branches from adjacent trees and shrubs. Tree encroachment makes the fair- ways narrower and create more challenging sight lines. • It is common for balls and golfers to end up in the rough near fairways and greens. Seed these nat- ural vegetation areas with simplified, grass-domi- nant native seed mixes that can withstand human disturbance to provide a more uniform and resil- ient rough area. • The native restored vegetation can create a taller, thicker rough for golfers. Mowing the restored natural vegetation on the edges near the green and fairway to a height of 8-12” for a depth of 2-3’. • Provide visual enhancements in a way that aes- thetically enhances the golfing experience. Di- verse plantings behind the tee boxes provide visual CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS 55BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Management consid- erations for a typical hole TEE BOXES FAIRWAY GREEN FRINGE ROUGH Native Buffer Mowed, less diverse mixNative Restoration Visual Enhancements Limited Species Opportunity for Interpretive Signage Visual Enhancements Manage invasive vegetation and buffers at water bodies to maintain sightlines Keep overhanging branches from obstructing fairway visibility C A R T P A T H C A R T P A T H interest and ecological benefits. Simplified en- hancements that are limited in texture and bloom diversity create beautiful yet functional backdrops beyond the green and give golfers an added target to judge distance. Environmental Education The diverse ecological systems across the Executive Course serve as an outdoor classroom for residents and nearby schools alike. The prairie, savanna, and wetland areas create opportunities for interpretive signage and ecological monitoring. Education objec- tives can include: • Importance of pollinators in the landscape • Native plant id and the threat posed by invasive species (consider adding a plant-id checklist) • Stormwater management strategies such as rain gardens, and wetland buffers • Water quality monitoring • Wildlife observation and natural habitat features Interpreting this information throughout the site creates a network of learning and engagement oppor- tunities that will both enhance the golf course and the community around it. Signage elements can be installed both along the cart route for golfers to view during their play as well as along other trail systems for the general community to enjoy. 56 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA placeholderAesthetic Forb Enhancement Mowed Native Seed MixEducational Signage Wildlife Structures and Observation PointsCourse Path (1.3 Miles) Car and Bike RouteSidewalkView Point Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 Brae m a r B l v d Gleason RdTo Valley View R d and neighbor h o o d running loop (1.9 Miles) to neighborhood running loop (1.9 Miles) Educational Signage Content Pollinator InformationExisting Site BackgroundPrairie HabitatPollinator InformationStormwater and WetlandOverall RestorationSavanna HabitatRemnant VegetationWoodland Habitat 1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 123456789 Alternative Snow Shoeing and CC Skiing Path Sledding Opportunity Ice Skating Opportunity Above: Newly installed interpretive signage at Braemar Golf Course Right: Management considerations for cultural activities and multifaceted uses. 57BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Seed Harvesting Introduce native seed collection activities in restored area when vegetation is mature. Collection could become a community education event to gather seed for interseeding and enhancement on site, nearby restoration efforts, and educational activities. Seed harvesting activities occur as species ripen throughout the year. Consult with native vegetation specialists on harvesting techniques, timing, and seed storage for each species. Walking/ Running/ Biking Braemar Golf Course is host to approximately 9 miles of trail networks through cart paths and surrounding trails. The Executive Course cart path covers 1.3 miles of scenic landscape that can be accessed by residents after course hours. 1.5 miles of sidewalks and roadside trails along Braemar Blvd lead to sur- rounding areas and provide a network of community connectivity that can be enjoyed by walkers, runners, bikers and more. This healthy activity not only serves as a recreational asset but a designated trail system also offers the opportunity for educational engage- ment and interpretive signage, scenic enjoyment, and wildlife observation. Passive and scenic enjoyment Access to the outdoors and scenic views of nature are proven to provide health benefits. Creating opportu- nities for enjoyment of key viewsheds throughout the Executive Course is easily accomplished by installing seating elements at specific locations along trails and the cart path. Seating elements create opportunities for sponsorship as well as creative engagement in artistic seating installations and aesthetic enhance- ment. Far Left: Native seed collection Left: Joggers on multi-use trails. 58 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Birdwatching Birdwatching is a popular pastime for people of all ages in both urban and natural environments. The natural areas of the Executive Course can create prime habitat for rare species otherwise not found in urban environments. Wildlife observation becomes both a recreational and educational opportunity to teach course patrons and visitors about the impor- tance of wildlife habitat and even strategies that can be employed in their own yards. Birdwatching can be supported through the installation of habitat structures, interpretive signage, and a recommended birdwatching trail with a record of commonly observed species. Winter Activities Braemar already hosts cross country skiing and snow- shoeing trails through its 27-hole regulation course trails and planning is underway for expanded winter activities in this area. The Executive Course has the potential to enhance these plans by also offering areas for winter recreation. In addition to Snowshoeing and cross country skiing through the cart trails, the slopes of the course pres- ent great sledding and tubing activities. Controlled light winter use in the natural areas when vegetation is fully dormant and the ground is frozen will have limited impact on native vegetation beyond reducing season aesthetic interest. Shallow water bodies present prime areas for ice-skat- ing and ice hockey. For safety concerns, it is recom- mended that this activity be controlled access and opened when ice thickness has reached adequate level to support human activities. In this instance, designated access areas are important to maintaining wetland buffers. 59BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Golf course turned sledding hill at Chandler Park Golf in Michigan. Photo by Mark Wolge- muth, Flickr 60 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary60 General Description Much of the regraded areas within the newly recon- structed executive course were converted to prairie vegetation. The open prairie grasslands encompass approximately 7.5 acres in some of the most highly visible areas of the executive course, lining Braemar Blvd and the clubhouse entrance route along John Harris Drive. The prairie areas were seeded in Fall 2015 and enhanced with 7,500 strategically placed forb plugs. Goals Specific goals for the prairie areas of the Executive Course reconstruction align with the larger goals and vision of the Braemar Golf Course along with the City of Edina’s Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. Goals include: 1. Manage and support wildlife habitat a. Manage vegetation to support biodiversity and develop a resilient landscape b. Enhance Pollinator habitat c. Support habitat for grassland birds, insects, and small mammals 2. Create an aesthetically pleasing landscape a. Manage vegetation for key viewsheds and seasonal interest b. Develop a management regime using alter native weed control methods to reduce depen dency on chemical control methods. 3. Support opportunities for public outreach and environmental education a. Identify locations for interpretive signage and engagement activities 4. Support multifaceted recreational opportunities a. Locate passive recreation points such as seating elements b. Support active recreation with enhanced trail opportunities c. Manage vegetation in a manner suitable to golfing activity 5. Manage for water quality a. Reduce irrigation needs b. Minimize and capture stormwater runoff PRAIRIE AREAS 61BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 61BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Year 1 prairie vege- tation blooming (August, 2016) 62 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Prairie Original EnhancementPlanting EnhancementsInvasive Species Mgt.Mowed EdgeMesic SoilsBird HousesCompacted Soil Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 P6 P3 P2 P1 P4 P5 Erosion and soil compactions– off trail cart path to be prohibited Compacted and exposed soils– limit vehicular traffic Dense crabgrass and turf invasion Heavily invaded slopes below bridges Manage sumac edge Dense crabgrass and turf invasion Repair eroding slopes along path Conifer and Crab Apple trees prohibit controlled burning– consider remove and replace with fire tolerant species Mound features risk ‘scalping’ during management mows– hand mow recommended 63BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Parcel Descriptions (approximate areas) P1: (56,000sf) P1 is a narrow, linear parcel with high-profile visibility along Braemar Blvd and John Harris Drive. A 6’ wide paved path lines Braemar Blvd along this parcel. The area has varying topogra- phy with gentle slopes to three adjacent water bodies and a steep incline to the bridge over Braemar Blvd. Year 1 vegetation cover showed heavy annual and perennial weed presence competing with early estab- lishing native vegetation. Seeded grasses show strong germination and planted Forb clusters are emerging well against competing weeds. P2: (13000sf) Surrounded by cart paths on all sides, P2 is a small, relatively flat parcel of 1/4 acre. This area has also received forb enhancements along the paths. A single tree and electrical box located in the center. This parcel is dominated by crabgrass cover. P3: (70000sf) P3 occupies the northwest most por- tion of the executive course and is accessible from Braemar Blvd. It surrounds two wetland areas and often has areas of moist to saturated soils through the growing season limiting equipment access. Prairie vegetation is sparse in these wetter regions and year 1 vegetation cover showed heavy annual and peren- nial weed presence competing with early establishing native vegetation. Forb clusters are emerging on the drier slope to the bridge over Braemar Blvd however off-trail golf carts are compacting soil and causing erosion along the slopes. P4: (7000sf) P4 is a narrow sliver of land on the North side of Braemar Blvd that wraps a wetland between holes 7 & 8. This relatively flat area receives surface flow stormwater runoff from the roadway and surrounding holes and has establishing cover of reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) among other undesirable annual and perennial weeds. The moist soils and competing weeds are a challenge for re- cently seeded and planted prairie vegetation. P5: 7000sf P5 is a long, linear parcel between Brae- mar Blvd and Hole 7. Much like P4, this area re- ceives surface flow stormwater runoff from the road- way and adjacent hole and has establishing cover of cattail (Typha spp.) among other undesirable annual and perennial weeds. The moist soils and competing weeds are a challenge for recently seeded and planted prairie vegetation. This area should be managed as wetland system into the future. P6: 138000sf P6 is the largest prairie parcel and stretches north-south the eastern edge of the Exec- utive Course. It is highly visible from the residential areas, golf course, and marks the intersection of Braemar Blvd and Gleason Rd. The corner nearest the intersection is dotted with mounded topography and clusters of forb planting to both buffer incoming golf balls and create aesthetic interest. This parcel stretches the entire eastern length of the Executive Course and offers the largest portion of connected prairie habitat. Drier soils and mild slopes cover much of the 3+ acre parcel. A steep north-facing slope in the northeastern corner of the course abuts a sumac patch and woodland edge. Year 1 vegetation cover showed heavy annual and perennial weed pres- ence competing with early establishing native vege- tation. Presence of smartweed and crabgrass is very high. Seeded grasses show strong germination and planted Forb clusters are emerging well against com- peting weeds. 64 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Recommended Cultural Opportunities • Manage vegetation around golfing holes in a manner that supports golfing activity. Avoid tall, drooping vegetation in areas of foot traffic or areas where visibility is key. • Prairie restoration offer great habitat for pollina- tors, birds, and small mammals. Install habitat structures such as bird and bat houses, hibernac- ula, and bee houses. • Install Interpretive signage and seating elements at areas with key vistas along pathways. • Create a pollinator series interpretive signage to teach visitors the importance of pollinators, di- versity of pollinator species in MN, and the native plant species that support their habitat. • Bird watching can provide a supplementary golfing experience as well as attract visitors from sur- rounding areas. • Perform seed harvesting activities to support ex- panded restoration efforts and create education & outreach opportunities with the public. • When snow depth is significant, designate areas for cross country skiing and sledding activities. Management Challenges: • All of the prairie parcels exhibit signs of heavy an- nual and perennial weed cover. Managing compet- ing invasive species will be a priority to establish- ing a strong matrix of native grass and forb cover to both enhance aesthetic and habitat quality of the landscape. • Many of the adjacent water bodies do not have a designated wetland buffer and have prairie seed close to the water’s edge. Soil moisture in these zones will prove challenging to prairie vegetation establishment. As water levels fluctuate, vegeta- tion in this region will be better suited to species tolerant of these shoreline conditions. • Many of the prairie areas occupy highly visible roadsides and path edges. Maintaining a high aesthetic quality of “tidy” vegetation with contin- ued blooms will require detail-oriented vegetation management. • Large equipment access throughout the site is limited by slope, space, and soil moisture. Left: Pine trees in prairie areas create challenges for prescribed burning management regimes Far Left: Limited acces due to slope and heavy weeed cover. 65BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN PRAIRIE SEED MIX - FALL 2015 Latin Name Common Name % Mix GrassesBouteloua curtipendula Sideoats Grama 22.91% Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama 16.36% Koeleria cristata June Grass 9.82% Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem 7.85% Sporobolus heterolepis Prairie Dropseed 8.51%Wild FlowersAsclepias tuberosa 0.55% Asclepias verticillata 0.09% Aster azureus 0.09% Aster laevis 0.18% Ratibida columnifera 0.45% Dalea candidum White Prairie Clover 0.82% Dalea purpurea Purple Prairie Clover 1.36% Heliopsis helianthoides 0.55% Lespedeza capitata Round-headed Bush Clover 0.27% Liatris aspera Button Blazingstar 0.18% Liatris pycnostachya Prairie Blazingstar 0.18% Wild Bergamot 0.27% Monarda punctata Spotted Bee Balm 0.18% 0.36% Rudbeckia hirta 0.82% Solidago nemoralis 0.09% Solidago rigida Stiff Goldenrod 0.55% Tradescantia bracteata Prairie Spiderwort 0.09% Zizia aurea 0.18%Cover CropTriticum aestivum Winter Wheat 27.27%PlugsAsclepias tuberosa 1320 Aster azureus 1000 Liatris aspera Rough Blazingstar 576 Wild Bergamot 970 Zizia aptera 488 Echinacea purpurea 1280 Liatris psycnostachya Prairie Blazingstar 696 Ratibida pinnata 1184 Target Species Prairie areas were seeded in fall 2015 with the seed mix listed above. This mix was customized from a standard MN DNR seed mix for the region in order to provide a low vegetation height and diverse forb mixture. Vegetation: Plugs & Containerized plants Masses of forbs were planted throughout prairie areas. Each mass of forbs consists of large clusters of sin- gle species composed to maximize visual impact of blooms throughout the season. Prairies are home to many insects, bird, small and large mammals, and more. The prairies at Braemar Golf Course can be host SGCN such as Purple Mar- tin, Bluebirds, Monarchs, among many others. Bird houses can be installed across the site to support habitat for birds. Bluebirds prefer strategically placed houses and require precise openings. See the appen- dix for recommendations. Monarchs are well known as prairie pollinators and depend heavily on milkweed to complete their life- cycle. While they feed on the nectar of many prairie species, planting enhancement zones with additional and diverse milkweed species can attract and support population growth of monarchs. 66 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Vegetation Management Recommendations Years 1-3 Manage establishing native vegetation • Mowing: Mow vegetation 3-4 times during the first three growing seasons when vegetation reaches 6-8 inches tall. Mowing mimics the natural pro- cess of grazing and promotes strong root growth for natives and reduces competition of undesirable species. Mowing can be performed with flail mow- ers and weed whips. Continue spot mowing as necessary beyond year 3 as part of integrated pest management (IPM). • Herbicide Treatment: Spot spray perennial weeds including sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), etc.… Con- tinue spot-herbicide application as necessary beyond year 3 in problem areas or areas inacces- sible to other management methods as part of integrated pest management (IPM). Years 4-6 • Prescribed burning: Introduce prescribed burning after the third full year of vegetation establish- ment. An experienced burn team should perform prescribed burning in either spring or fall when thatch layer is dense enough to carry the burn. Spring burning stimulates strong root growth while fall burning promotes forb production. Prescribed burning should be applied every other year to par- cels. Consider burning select parcel on opposite rotations in order to preserve refugia for wildlife habitat. In areas unsuitable to burning, continue regular mowing and spot-herbicide regime as nec- essary. • Dormant Mowing: In areas not receiving prescribed burns in select years, provide a dormant season mow to reduce thatch and mimic grazing. • Interseeding: Identify areas where establishment is insufficient and native cover has not responded to management techniques. Where establishment is low, consider interseeding with native seed mixes. Interseeding to enhance forb coverage and diver- sity is best achieved with by interseeding following a fall burn. In some cases where heavy weed cover is persistent and does not respond to burning ac- 67BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Years 7-10+ • Continue rotational burn regime, reduce to once every three years in combination with dormant mowing if cover of undesirable species is low. • Seed Harvest: Introduce seed collection activities to support interseeding and enhancement on site, nearby restoration efforts, and educational activ- ities. Seed harvesting activities occur as species ripen throughout the year. Consult with native vegetation specialists on harvesting techniques, timing, and seed storage for each species. Every Year: • Perform regular vegetation assessments to monitor restoration establishment and document existing conditions. Continue to revise restoration activi- ties as necessary to fit site conditions and ensure activities align with and support goals of the Brae- mar Golf Course and this management plan. tivities, repeated herbicide applications to remove undesirable vegetation and prepare the site for seeding. • Habitat enhancement: Additions of specific plant species to support desired habitat of target wildlife is recommended as seeded vegetation matures. In some cases, this will include the addition of containerized plants. Recommended additions of containerized species include species that are dif- ficult to establish from seed such as white indigo (Baptisia alba), leadplant (Amorpha canensis), and others. • Aesthetic enhancements: In high profile areas, enhance aesthetic quality as necessary with the addition of containerized native forbs. Large, mature forbs (#1 containers) added to high profile areas such as spaces behind tee-boxes, expanded restoration areas, or in places to support other cul- tural activities (weddings or other events) will add instant visual impact. 68 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA General Description Conditions of the wetland and shoreline areas vary across the Executive Course. Many of these shallow wetlands contain significant cover of cattail and reed canary grass. In some instances, wetland buffers surround water bodies while in other areas, mowed turf stretches the shoreline. In total, the 2015 recon- struction installed .35 acres of wetland buffer seeding followed by additional efforts in 2016 to restore a 250’ strip of shoreline. In total, the Executive Course restoration areas contain over 3.5 Acres of water bodies with over 6000 linear feet of shoreline and wetland edge. Goals Specific goals for the wetland areas of the Executive Course reconstruction align with the larger goals and vision of the Braemar Golf Course and include: 1. Manage for water quality a. Increase vegetated buffers to minimize stormwater runoff and capture pollutants 2. Manage and support wildlife habitat a. Manage vegetation to support biodiversity and develop a resilient landscape b. Enhance Pollinator habitat c. Support habitat for wetland and shore line birds, insects, and aquatic species includ ing amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates 3. Create an aesthetically pleasing landscape a. Manage vegetation for key viewsheds and seasonal interest b. Develop a management regime using alter native weed control methods to reduce depen dency on chemical control methods. Manage weeds and undesirable species with reduced chemical inputs 4. Support opportunities for public outreach and environmental education a. Identify locations for interpretive signage and engagement activities 5. Support multifaceted recreational opportunities a.Locate passive recreation points such as seating elements b. Manage vegetation in a manner suitable to golfing activityWETLAND AREAS 69BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Year 1 Wetland Conditions, Foreground Swamp Milkweed, back- ground unrestored buffer at W3 70 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Wetland Original EnhancementsPlanting EnhancementShoreline RestorationCattail ManagementInvasive Species Mgt. Creek StabilizationErosion PreventionBird House Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 Bra e m a r B l v d W10 W8 W9W6 W5 W4 W3 W2 W1 W7 Bare soils: seasonally saturated – plant with sedges Heavily invaded, with native species present Stormwater Outlet Eroded slope near culvert – drains stormwater Slope connects erosion from hole 3 – consider adding check dams or infiltration areas along slope 71BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Parcels: W1: This water body is approximately .30 Acres with 750’ of shoreline. Currently, the shoreline condi- tion is heavily dominated with jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), smartweed (Polygonum sp.), among other undesirable species. Broad-leaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia) is a native species found in this area. Adja- cent to John Harris Blvd, this parcel is highly visible and abuts a restored prairie parcel. W2: Nested within the playing zone of hole 1, W2 is a .58 ac water body with mowed turf surrounding the 865’ perimeter. W3: This .4-acre parcel (665’ shoreline) is nested between a mowed edge along hole number 2 and prai- rie vegetation along Braemar Blvd. The walking path near the road provides clear views to this water body. W4: This .10-acre area was designated as a prairie zone in the original seeding areas. Continually damp to saturated soil conditions allow it to be dominated by cattail cover. Future efforts should be redirected to a wetland vegetation restoration. (~535’ perimeter) W5: A .20 acre long and narrow parcel with 600’ of shoreline directly adjacent to prairie areas and Brae- mar Blvd. It is surrounded by trees near the road and dominated by reed canary grass (Phalaris arundina- cea) and cattails (Typha spp.) W6: This wetland area is a small water body covering .25 acres and approximately 450’ around the perim- eter. This wetland fluctuates and consists largely of saturated soils surrounding a small body of shallow open water. This area located in the middle of a prai- rie restoration area was seeded with a wetland seed mix and planted with native plugs as part of the 2015 restoration. W7: W7 is one of the larger water bodies on the Executive Course. At roughly .28 acres with a 530’ perimeter, it sits adjacent to W5 in the prairie restora- tion area. The wetland edge along Braemar Blvd and is dominated by reed canary grass (Phalaris arundi- nacea) and cattails (Typha spp.). The western edge along the prairie was seeded and planted as part of the 2015 restoration. W8: W8 sits below hole 8 between the cart path and Braemar Blvd. No shoreline restoration has been done on this .37-acre water body the north 1/3 shows strong cover of swamp milkweed interspersed in cat- tails. Prairie restoration wraps the remaining shore- line. Total shoreline is approximately 545 linear feet. W9: The 1.83 acre pond is the largest water feature on the Executive Course. This parcel has 2375’ of shoreline and is highly visible from nearly all areas of the course and surrounding roadways. In 2016, the northernmost shoreline (~300lf) was restored with a simple seed and planting mix. Much of the rest of the shoreline is turf grass to the water’s edge. Ero- sion along the shoreline is a concern in the northeast corner of this parcel near the inlet structure. W10: W10 is a depressed area in the landscape that contains a ~125’ creek bed-like area fed by culverts. The creek bed flows from one culvert to another that leads to pond W8. Much of the area around this de- pression is wooded but indicators of fluctuating water levels and erosion along the creek bed is evident. 72 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Management Challenges: • The wetland and shoreline areas are susceptible to invasion by undesirable species such as cattail (Typha spp.) and reed canary grass (Phalaris arun- dinacea). Nearby wetlands on the property serve as a continual seed source for the already-invaded water bodies. • Stormwater inputs from surface runoff and storm drains can lead to fluctuating water levels known as “bounce”. Along the shoreline, this area of vegetation can vary between complete inundation to drought conditions quickly and prove challeng- ing for establishing vegetation, especially vegeta- tion planted from seed. • Slow moving water combined with nutrient loading from stormwater runoff can create eutrophication (lacking oxygen) and results in water that can be- come laden with algae growth. • Access to these occasionally saturated zones is often limited to manual removal and use of hand equipment such as weed whips. • Shoreline zones are highly susceptible to erosion and should be monitored frequently. (stormdrain on parcel W9 &10) Recommended Cultural Opportunities • Manage vegetation around golfing holes in a man- ner that supports golfing activity. Raise mower height in turf areas around water bodies that still facilitates active play. • Install Interpretive signage and seating elements at areas with key vistas along pathways • Create a water quality interpretive signage series to teach visitors the importance of managing storm- water runoff, it’s potential for reuse, and the im- portance of native plant species in wetland buffers for habitat. • Bird watching can provide a supplementary golfing experience as well as attract visitors from sur- rounding areas. • Perform seed harvesting activities to support ex- panded restoration efforts and create education & outreach opportunities with the public. • Offer seasonal use of water bodies for winter activ- ities such as ice-skating and cross-country skiing. Right: Planting oppor- tunity in seasonally saturated zones of W6. Unvegetated bare soil is exposed during dry summer months. 73BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Target Species Wetland areas were seeded in fall 2015 with the seed mix listed above. This mix is MN DNR seed mix 34- 271 Wet Meadow South and West. Vegetation: Plugs & Containerized plants Masses of forbs were planted throughout wetland areas in clusters of single species. Each mass of forbs consists of large clusters of single species composed to maximize visual impact of blooms throughout the season while supporting pollinator habitat. Wetlands are home to a diversity of aquatic and terrestrial species. In the buffers at Braemar Golf Course, the native vegetation has the potential to support wetland bird habitat, insects, amphibians, and more. Species in Greatest Conservation Need that could inhabit these areas include species such as the sedge wren and Blanchard’s cricket frog. Wetland birds such as the sedge wren depend upon insects for diet and nest in the tall grasses and sedges of wet- lands. Braemar’s network of wetlands both on site and regional make it a good fit for this nomadic wet- land bird. Amphibians depend on clean water habitats to com- plete their life cycles. Species such as the Blan- chard’s cricket frog need will benefit from dense vege- tation in wetland buffers that limit human disturbance and nutrient loading in water bodies. Sensitivity to human disturbance makes it likely that this tree frog species would occupy only the wetlands least likely to receive human traffic. WETLAND SEED MIX - FALL 2015 Latin Name Common Name % Mix GrassesBromus ciliatus Fringed Brome 9.17% Calamagrostis canadensis Blue Joint Grass 0.42% Elymus virginicus 8.33% Glyceria grandis 1.25% Glyceria striata 0.83% Leersia oryzoides Rice Cut Grass 2.08% Poa palustris Fowl Bluegrass 2.92%Sedges & RushesCarex comosa Bottlebrush Sedge 1.75% Carex scoparia Pointed-broom Sedge 0.42% Carex stipata Fox Sedge 1.42% Carex stricta 0.25% Carex vulpinoidea Brown Fox Sedge 1.17% Juncus tenuis Path Rush 0.33% Scirpus atrovirens Green Bulrush 1.50% Scirpus cyperinus Woolgrass 0.67%Wild FlowersAsclepias incarnata 2.00% Aster puniceus 1.42% Aster simplex 0.25% Eupatorium maculatum 0.17% Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset 0.17% Helenium autumnale Sneezeweed 0.25% Helianthus grosseserratus 0.33% Lobelia siphilitica Great Blue Lobelia 0.17% Mimulus ringens 0.08% Pycnanthemum virginianum 0.50% Helianthus giganteus 0.17% Solidago graminifolia Grass-leaved Goldenrod 0.08% Thalictrum dasycarpum 0.08% Verbena hastata Blue Vervain 1.08% Vernonia fasciculata Common Ironweed 0.25% Veronicastrum virginicum Culver’s Root 0.08% Zizia aurea 2.08%Cover CropTriticum aestivum Winter Wheat 58.33%PlugsAsclepias incarnata 292 Eupatorium maculatum 200 Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset 200 Verbena hastata Blue Vervain 200 Veronicastrum virginicum Culver’s Root 208 74 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Vegetation Management Recommendations Years 1-3 Manage wetland buffers • Mowing Restored Vegetation: Mow restored veg- etation 3-4 times during the first three growing seasons when vegetation. Mowing reduces com- petition and prevents seed set from undesirable species. Mowing can be performed with weed whips and flail mowers where soil conditions allow access. Continue spot mowing as necessary be- yond year 3. • Mowing in unrestored buffers: Prevent spread of non-native species and invasive species, mow buffers 2-3 times during the growing season to prevent seed set & dispersal. • Herbicide Treatment: Spot spray perennial weeds including sweet clover (Meliotus spp.), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), and purple loos- estrife (Lythrum salicaria). Cattails may require wicking with glyphosate. Continue spot-herbicide application as necessary beyond year 3 in problem areas or areas inaccessible to other management methods. Expand native buffers • Restore remaining turf shorelines with a minimum of 4-6’ native buffers wherever possible. Restora- tion will require removing non-native vegetation, preparing soil, seeding, planting, and protecting exposed soils from erosion. Primary buffer expan- sion is recommended first in unrestored buffers followed by restoration of turf shorelines. Manage shoreline erosion • In areas of exposed soil or washout, install erosion control blanket and seed with native vegetation or cover crop as necessary. Severely washed areas may require regrading. Address source of water flow to prevent further erosion by installing up- stream check dams, infiltration basins, or retention ponds. 75BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 75 Years 4-6 Continue native buffer restoration • Prescribed burning: Conduct prescribed burning after the third full year of vegetation establish- ment. An experienced burn team should perform prescribed burning in either spring when thatch layer is dense enough to carry the burn. Prescribed burning should be applied every other year to par- cels. Consider burning select parcel on opposite rotations in order to preserve refugia for wildlife habitat. In areas unsuitable to burning, continue regular mowing and spot-herbicide regime as nec- essary. • Cattail mowing: Cattails will remain vigorous in emergent areas of water bodies even after shore- line restoration. Mowing cattails during winter at a height that will result in spring inundation for an extended period of time has been shown to deplete oxygen to rhizomes and inhibit regrowth of cattail shoots in spring. Burning of cattails has also been shown to have a similar effect. • Interseeding: Identify areas where establishment is insufficient and native cover has not responded to management techniques. Where establishment is low, consider interseeding with native seed mixes. Interseeding to enhance forb coverage and diver- sity is best achieved with by interseeding following a fall burn. In some cases where heavy weed cover is persistent and does not respond to burning ac- tivities, repeated herbicide applications to remove undesirable vegetation and prepare the site for seeding. • Habitat enhancement: Additions of specific plant species to support desired habitat of target wildlife is recommended as seeded vegetation matures. In some cases, this will include the addition of containerized plants. Recommended additions of containerized species include species that are 76 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA difficult to establish from seed such as shrubs (E.g. Cornus sericia, salix spp., Viburnum lentago, or Sambucus canadensis) and emergent vegetation (E.g. Sagittaria latifolia, Eleocharis spp., Schoeno- plectus spp.). • Aesthetic enhancements: In high profile areas, enhance aesthetic quality as necessary with the addition of forbs, shrubs, or desirable native grasses. Large, mature forbs (#1 containers) added to high profile areas such as wetland edges near tee-boxes, expanded restoration areas, or in places to support other cultural activities (weddings or other events) will add instant visual impact. Years 7-10+ • Continue rotational burn regime • Continue buffer expansions • Continue mowing & herbicide treatment as neces- sary • Introduce seed collection activities to support interseeding and enhancement on site, nearby restoration efforts, and educational activities. Seed harvesting activities occur as species ripen throughout the year. Consult with native vegeta- tion specialists on harvesting techniques, timing, and seed storage for each species. Every Year: • Perform regular vegetation assessments to monitor restoration establishment and document existing conditions. Continue to revise restoration activi- ties as necessary to fit site conditions and ensure activities align with and support goals of the Brae- mar Golf Course and this management plan. 77BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 77 Top Left: Recently Re- stored W9 slope- heavily invaded Top Right: Erosion from hole 3 to W9 Bottom: Unrestored buf- fers and eutrophied W1. Middle Left: Unmowed buffers on W9 78 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary78 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA General Description Areas designated to be savanna in the Executive Course of Braemar Golf Course vary from heavily wooded and invaded sites to remnant native vegeta- tion. Savanna areas encompass almost 6 acres of the Braemar restoration efforts. Savanna can be one of the more challenging restoration targets because of the long-term time commitment required to transition some landscapes. In 2015, savanna parcels were forestry mowed to remove understory buckthorn. Saw- yers selectively removed trees and larger buckthorn as well. Savanna areas, excluding the remnant, were seeded with a native grass mix and enhanced with wildflower plug plantings however many savanna areas require additional removals and restorations to estab- lish native vegetation. Goals Specific goals for the savanna areas of the Executive Course reconstruction align with the larger goals and vision of the Braemar Golf Course and include: 1. Manage and support wildlife habitat a. Manage vegetation to support biodiversity and develop a resilient landscape by encour- aging growth of remnant vegetation and devel- oping a local genetic seed source b. Support habitat for pollinators, savanna birds, insects, and small mammals 2. Create an aesthetically pleasing landscape a. Manage vegetation for key viewsheds and seasonal interest b. Develop a management regime using alter- native weed control methods to reduce depen- dency on chemical control methods. 3. Support opportunities for public outreach and environmental education a. Identify locations for interpretive signage and engagement activities 4. Support multifaceted recreational opportunities a. Locate passive recreation points such as seating elements and birdwatching areas b. Manage vegetation in a manner suitable to golfing activity 5. Manage for water quality a. Minimize and capture stormwater runoff SAVANNA AREAS 79BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left: Remnant savanna vegetation surrounds a large bur oak near hole 4. 79BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 80 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Bra e m a r B l v d S4 S5 S3S2S1 SavannaOriginal EnhancementsPlanting EnhancementsTree Thining Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 Begin woody removals from outside to interior along SW and Eastern edge, working North Remnant Savanna– burn back, preserve local ecotype Remnant Highly Visible Aspen and Sumac Patch 81BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Parcels: S1: This 1.8 Acre parcel is the largest of savanna parcels on the site and is currently a densely wooded area of cottonwoods, cherry, red oaks and bur oaks, among other species. Thinning efforts in 2015 re- moved some trees and buckthorn but a heavy canopy currently prevents savanna vegetation from establish- ing. Ground cover and understory vegetation is heav- ily invaded with a residual seedbank of garlic mus- tard, buckthorn, burdock, and more. This parcel has steep, highly visible north facing slopes on the north end and gradual rolling topography to the south. S2: S2 is a .5-acre combination of open areas re- graded during recent reconstruction and a central pocket of woodland made up of shade-grown oaks and cherry. Understory vegetation is limited and boulders are present throughout limiting mechanical access. Invasive species are present, although less invaded than S1. Open areas have been slow to establish na- tive vegetation due to human and goose traffic as well as erosion along the extents of the sloping topography. S3: Two shallow depressions total .1 acre to create parcel S4. Surrounded by restored prairie (P6), these “bowls” are wooded but contain large, open grown oaks. Removals of understory invasive shrubs around the edges have been performed but continued inva- sive species management and thinning is necessary to transition this parcel to savanna. S4: 1.3 Acres of remnant savanna vegetation occu- pies this northern-most savanna parcel. Selective thinning followed by winter forestry mowing on frozen ground protected the sensitive native vegetation in this area while removing undesirable buckthorn and other woody species. Native vegetation consists of open grown oaks, big bluestem, prairie dropseed, pennsylvania sedge, and more. To protect genetic biodiversity, this parcel should be carefully managed with low-impact strategies. Sumac and aspen patches exist on the southern edge and are yet to be manage. During reconstruction, a dry-stacked limestone wall was uncovered and now forms the southern boundary of this parcel. S5: .25 acres of south-facing slope consists of re- cently thinned woodland and remnant savanna vegeta- tion. This parcel is bisected by the cart path with the remnant vegetation on the east consisting of sumac, a single pin oak, and native grasses, enhanced with planted forbs. The formerly wooded areas were for- estry mowed, seeded, and planted. Some invasive vegetation is emerging from the seedbank and should managed. 82 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Management Challenges: • Many of the savanna areas have become overgrown woodlands through time because of lack of fire. Dense woodland vegetation has limited under- story growth and depleted sunlight to the ground floor and limited understory vegetation to invasive species. Additional thinning is necessary to get savanna vegetation to establish. Removal of large trees can require specialized tree experts an can become expensive. • Canopy and understory removals expose bare soils. Debris and root structures make soil preparation and subsequent erosion protection challenging. Additional investment in erosion control strategies may be necessary. • Invasive woody and herbaceous species dominate understory vegetation in woodland and savanna areas. Years of invasion has created a persistent seedbank in the soil creating long-term manage- ment challenges. • Surrounding areas are significantly invaded with buckthorn, honeysuckle, and other invasive spe- cies. These areas serve as seed sources for reinva- sion into restored areas across the entire Braemar Golf Course and present the need for ongoing vegetation management. Recommended Cultural Opportunities • Manage vegetation around golfing holes in a man- ner that supports golfing activities including prun- ing low-hanging branches. • Interpretive signage to highlight remnant vegeta- tion and ongoing restoration efforts can not only education the public about the value of savannas but also garner support for this long-term venture. • Bird watching can provide a supplementary golfing experience as well as attract visitors from sur- rounding areas. • Perform seed harvesting activities to support ex- panded restoration efforts with local ecotype and create education & outreach opportunities with the public. Right: Dense canopy in S1 limits immediate under- story restoration potential. 83BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Target Species Seeding efforts in the initial phase of Executive Course restoration focused on seeding native grasses highlighted in the seed mix table. The comprehensive seed mix is recommended for future savanna seeding efforts in all areas except the remnant areas where genetic ecotype should be preserved. Regions within sufficient sunlight withing savanna areas have been supplemented forb plantings as shown on parcels plan. Each mass of forbs consists of large clusters of single species composed to maximize visual impact of blooms throughout the season while supporting pollinator habitat. Savanna areas highly diverse systems because they represent transitional landscapes of woody and grass- land species. Insects, raptors (birds of prey), grass- land birds, mammals, and many other species inhabit oak savanna landscapes. Species such as redtail hawk depend on the open landscape for hunting ground. It is common to see hawks perched in high branches of savanna trees or circling above the land- scape as they hunt. Savanna-specific insects include many pollinators, including the federally endangered karner blue but- terfly that depends on lupine to complete its lifecycle. As oak savanna areas are established at Braemar Golf Course, additions of lupine wildflowers can be added to plant communities to support this critical habitat. PROPOSED SAVANNA SEED MIX Latin Name Common Name % Mix GrassesBouteloua curtipendula Sideoats Grama 40% Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama 25% Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem 35%Wild FlowersAgastache foeniculum 0.20% Asclepias tuberosa 0.80% Aster laevis 0.10% Coreopsis lanceolata Sand Coreopsis 0.80% Dalea candidum White Prairie Clover 1.20% Dalea purpurea Purple Prairie Clover 1.60% Heliopsis helianthoides 0.20% Liatris aspera Button Blazingstar 0.40% Lupinus perennis Wild Lupine 1.60% Wild Bergamot 0.10% Monarda punctata Spotted Bee Balm 0.40% 0.20% Rudbeckia hirta 0.20% Solidago rigida Stiff Goldenrod 0.20% Zizia aurea 0.20%Cover CropAvena sativa Oats 34.80%PlugsAgastache foeniculum 1676 Aster laevis 1530 Zizia aurea 784 Echinacea pallida 576 Wild Bergamot 700 Heliopsis helianthoides 934 Aquilegia canadensis Columbine Aster macrophyllus Aster sagittifolius 84 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Vegetation Management Recommendations Years 1-3 • Woody Invasive Species Removal, Woody Cutting: Manage invasive species in woodland and savanna areas to remove existing non-native shrub species such as buckthorn and honeysuckle. Perform re- moval of woody invasives by manual cutting (brush saws, chainsaws, forestry mower) and herbicide treatment to stumps and resprouts. Repeat appli- cations of cutting and foliar/ basal bark treatments will be necessary to deplete invasives emerging from seedbanks over multiple years. Focus heavy invasive species removal efforts in parcels S1, S2, & S4 in the early years. Selectively target seed-producing females in other parcels to control spread. • Herbaceous Invasive Species Control, Herbicide Applications: Manage populations of garlic mus- tard, burdock, and other non-desirable herbaceous species with repeat foliar and spot applications of herbicide. Cutting may be used to remove seed heads in some instances where access permits. Repeat applications will be necessary to deplete seedbank. • Thin densely wooded areas to promote savanna- like canopy structure. Opening the canopy to permit sunlight to reach the ground floor will also encourage emergence of invasive species residing in the seedbank. Use in combination with invasive species removal methods. Focus removal efforts on non-oak species working from the outer edges to the interior of each parcel. Focus early thin- ning efforts on parcel S1. Removal of aspens and sumac in S4 & S5 • Prescribed burning: remnant areas only. Use pre- scribed burning on a 1-3 year rotation to control invasive shrubs and cool season grasses as well as promote seed production and growth of native veg- etation. Avoid interseeding or planting in remnant areas to preserve local ecotype. 85BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 85 Years 4-6 • Continue invasive species management in par- cels where canopy thinning is complete in order to deplete seed banks. Expand invasive species removal beyond selective control to complete re- moval in other parcels. • Expand canopy thinning and invasive species removal into other parcels, beginning with S2, fol- lowed by S3 and any remaining removals in S5. • Native Seeding, Grasses: Begin seeding ground cover in parcel S1 where canopy thinning is com- plete and invasive species seedbank is reduced. Seed grasses only to promote succession and allow continued use of broadleaf-specific herbicide to control herbaceous invasives. For all parcels where canopy thinning and invasive species con- trol is ongoing, allow 2-4 years of management before native seeding to reduce competition of invasives remaining in seedbank. Prepare soil with tilling, harrowing, or light forestry mowing to promote seed to soil contact. Protect seed from erosion with hydromulch, weed-free straw mulch, or erosion control blanket where conditions permit. • Spot Mow and spot treat newly establishing na- tive vegetation for 2-3 growing seasons to reduce invasive species competition and promote growth of natives. Use broadleaf specific herbicides while grasses are maturing. Years 7-10+ • Continue invasive species management in parcels where canopy thinning is complete and seedbank depletion is necessary. • Continue grass seeding only with mowing & her- bicide treatments as canopy thinning and inva- sive species management proceeds through other parcels. • Interseeding, forbs: Enhance establishing sa- vanna grass vegetation with forb interseeding after 1-2 growing seasons. Interseeding while native 86 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA grasses are still young will provide easier seeding conditions and promote better seed to soil contact. • Aesthetic and habitat enhancements: install addi- tional forbs to enhance aesthetic quality and sup- port habitat features for savanna-specific species such as lupine for karner blue butterflies. • Long term management in all parcels should con- sist of spot mowing and herbicide treatments as necessary. • Prescribed burning: after newly restored vegetation has reached three full seasons of growth, pre- scribed burning may be introduced beginning with parcel S1. • Introduce seed collection activities to support interseeding and enhancement on site, nearby restoration efforts, and educational activities. Seed harvesting activities occur as species ripen throughout the year. Consult with native vegeta- tion specialists on harvesting techniques, timing, and seed storage for each species. Every Year: • Perform regular vegetation assessments to monitor restoration establishment and document existing conditions. Continue to revise restoration activi- ties as necessary to fit site conditions and ensure activities align with and support goals of the Brae- mar Golf Course and this management plan. 87BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN 87 Left: Invasive understory herbaceous vegetation in parcel S3. 88 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary88 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA General Description Woodland areas in the Executive Course of the Brae- mar Golf Course are largely representative of typical urban woodland conditions consisting of invasive species such as buckthorn and honeysuckle among canopy species such as boxelder, cherry, cottonwood, oak species, and maple species. The pockets of woodland at the executive course are better suited to management efforts rather than long- term high-quality restoration efforts. The woodlands are important for wildlife habitat and create a diaph- anous visual as well as physical screen to the houses bordering the northernmost edge. Goals Specific goals for the woodland areas of the Executive Course reconstruction align with the larger goals and vision of the Braemar Golf Course and include: 1. Manage and support wildlife habitat a. Manage vegetation to support wildlife hab itat including insects, birds, bats, and other small mammals. 2. Create an aesthetically pleasing landscape a. Manage vegetation to provide visual screen ing as necessary. b. Develop a management regime using alter native weed control methods to reduce depen dency on chemical control methods. 3. Support opportunities for public outreach and environmental education a. Identify locations for interpretive signage 4. Support multifaceted recreational opportunities a. Locate passive recreation points such as seating elements and birdwatching areas b. Manage vegetation in a manner suitable to golfing activity such as pruning low-hanging branches and managing outward shrub growth. 5. Manage for water quality a. Minimize and capture stormwater runoffWOODLAND AREAS 89BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Left; Woodland Area near hole 2. Buckthorn resprouts and herbaceous weeds will continue to emerge from the seed- bank. 90 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA F1 F2 WoodlandPlanting EnhancementsShrub EnhancementsTree Thining Bat House Legend NFeet0 75 150 300 Manage as Screen Large Cottonwoods and dense acanopy 91BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Parcels: F1: Parcel F1 is a 1-acre segment of woodlands bor- dering the northernmost property edge. This area was thinned and forestry mowed in 2015 as part of course reconstruction efforts. It currently abuts a heavily invaded segment of woodlands outside of the project scope and acts as a screen to the adjacent properties. This area should continue to be managed for inva- sives. F2: Approximately .6 acres, W2 is a woodland con- dition that has received little restoration work. Sig- nificantly sloping wooded banks surround a creekbed (W10) connecting a stormwater outlet to a culvert that drains to the long narrow water body, W9. Garlic mustard, honeysuckle, and other invasives make up the ground and shrub layer while the canopy is dom- inated by large cottonwoods, some cherry trees, and a few oaks. Varying sloping conditions, soil moisture, and large trees make this a challenging restoration condition. Management Challenges: • Connectivity of woodlands to other invaded wood- lands beyond the project scope serve a physical connection to invasive species seed sources. Pres- sure and spread will be an ongoing management challenge • Screen-like qualities of existing vegetation is primarily achieved through presence of invasive species. Gradual removal and replacement of these species with native will be challenging due to dense canopy cover. Thinning of undesirable trees may be necessary. Recommended Cultural Opportunities • Manage vegetation around golfing holes in a man- ner that supports golfing activities including prun- ing low-hanging branches. • Interpretive signage to highlight woodland birds, tree species, and bat habitat can support educa- tional efforts on site. • Bird watching can provide a supplementary golfing experience as well as attract visitors from sur- rounding areas. Left; Woodland Edge along cart path with undesirable species that may need thinning. 92 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Target Species Woodland areas have not received any native seeding efforts to date. Establishing woodland ground cover in an existing woodland is a long-term restoration process that requires successional planning and man- agement strategies. It is not recommended to un- dertake long-term restoration efforts in these parcels. Instead, woodlands are already home to many bird, insect, and small mammal species that can benefit from vegetation enhancements such as native shrub planting. Consider planting dogwood species, choke- cherries, and small understory trees such as ironwood to support development of a native shrub layer. Construction of habitat structures such as bird and bat houses can attract target species. Populations of bat species across the nation are suffering population declines due to habitat loss and disease. Bats colo- nies are important to controlling insect populations and depend on hollow trees and furrowed bark, prefer- ably in south-facing locations for habitat. The wood- lands and open areas of the Braemar golf course are prime shelter and feeding areas for bats. In addition to leaving deadfall for wildlife habitat, bat houses could be installed near woodland edges to help this declining species. Woodpeckers such as the Red-headed woodpecker not only nest in dead trees but also depend on insects living in dead in dying trees for their diet. Understory & Shrub layer enhancement species (Clock- wise from Top Left): Ironwood (Oystra Virginiana), Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia), Chokeberry (Aronia melano- carpa) 93BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Vegetation Management Recommendations Years 1-3 • Selectively target fruiting woody invasive species for removal in order to manage spread while bal- ancing restoration efforts in priority savanna areas • Perform spot mowing and spray to manage her- baceous invasive species such as garlic mustard, burdock, and others. Years 4-6 • Continue invasive species management • Woody Cutting: Thin canopy as needed to remove less-desirable woodland species and promote growth of desirable understory vegetation. • Vegetation Enhancements: install containerized shrub and small tree material such as pagoda dogwoods, chokecherry, and ironwood to improve vertical woodland structure and enhance native screening elements. Years 7-10+ • Continue invasive species management • Continue woody removals as necessary. 94 Left: Prairie plug installation by driveway enterance. Fall of 2015 APPENDIX Executive Summary96 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Cost of management, restoration, and enhancement activities for Braemar Golf Course’s Executive Course vary by vegetation type, intensity of management, and degree of vegetation, habitat, and program enhance- ment selected. The projections above reflect the summation for each vegetation type across a period of 10 years. Many of the activities and costs are se- quential in nature- meaning that if some activities are postponed, costs may increase in following years, or be shifted beyond the 10 year projection. As a baseline recommendation, control of invasive species is a general priority in maintaining both areas that have been already restored; as well as preparing for future restoration efforts across the site. Curbing populations of both existing and future persistence of undesirable species will set the stage for restoration success, the aesthetic quality, and the habitat value of the Executive Course. Ongoing and future restoration efforts will be the primary route to an enhanced ecological character of the Executive Course. By investing in expansion and enhancement of restored areas, the Executive Course can optimize is role as a leader in sustainability and environmental integrity. Restored areas will enhance water quality, improve pollinator and wildlife habitat, and build regional connectivity among other benefits. The restored areas of Braemar Golf Course improve not only the experience for the numerous course patrons but also strengthens a connection to sur- rounding community by serving as a multifaceted regional asset. Vegetation enhancements improve both the habitat quality and visual character of the landscape. Proper management within these carefully designed compositions of blooms and other vegetation can become a signature feature of the golf course for passerbys, birdwatchers, and more. Investment into interpretive signage and other outdoor programming such as seed collection, birdwatching, and site tours can encourage residents and visitors to explore Brae- mar Golf Course and even deploy similar environmen- tal improvement strategies in their own homes. ANNUAL COST ESTIMATE 97BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN The Braemar Golf Course Executive Course restoration project already expands upon it’s Audubon Certifica- tion but more can be done to properly manage and expand the impact of restoration efforts. The recom- mendations on the previous pages provide an trajec- tory for Braemar Golf Course to accomplish its goals and fulfill it’s vision as an industry leader in environ- mental sustainability and continue to maintain a high degree of environmental integrity that: • Adds natural beauty to the golf course • Retains “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctu- ary” status • Provide a model of for native habitat restoration that can be replicated in other spaces • Benefits patrons, area residents, and wildlife • Preserves ecosystem functions that contribute to cleaner air and water 98 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA Executive Summary98 WETLAND HABITAT RESTORATIONS CITY OF EDINA The following pages serve as references for ecological traits, restoration activities, and other resources for the recommendations outlined within this manage- ment plan document. • Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Minne- sota • Key Habitats of Species of Greatest Conservation Need (relevant to site) • Prairie • Shrub land/ Savanna • Deciduous Woodlands • Wetlands • Shallow Lakes • Surrogate Grasslands • Noxious Weeds of Minnesota • NABS Factsheet- Bluebird HousesLIST OF APPENDICES 99BRAEMAR EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PLAN Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) planted from plug in 2015 near wetland areas.