Attendees:
Katie DiCristina
Alan Tonne
Steve Sparrow
Known Trail/Route Conflicts
·
There are several N-S short cuts through the
Gardens. Perimeter fence, two strands of
barbed wire, is often cut where pathways are desired. There is a narrow entry in fence near Lookout
point, but not very visible. There is a
fee collection area at the main entry to the Gardens, short cuts through the
site discourage people from paying the fee. Short cuts are also encouraging vandalism
and erosion.
·
The pavilion (originally put up for shade for
cattle) is often used by students informally, with access from lookout point.
·
Parking area for Gardens at main entry is small
·
There is not enough parking for popular events
like Music in the Garden (once a week in summer)
·
There is a problem with informal, pull-off
parking to take photos of reindeer along Sheep Creek or cranes in fields along
Geist.
·
Off-leash dogs in research fields are a problem,
leashed dogs are not.
·
Lots of dog walkers between Tanana Loop and
Railroad, not so many in winter. More
dog walkers means some will let them off leash.
·
Sightlines along Sheep Creek road are not enough
for safe bike/vehicle travel, especially in winter
Opportunities
·
Major attraction for tourists. Create co-charge or dual pass with Museum
(summer only)
·
Suggested that Lookout Point serve as Visitor Center
(See previous Master Plan)
·
A planned pavilion may be going in at Butrovich
·
Outdoor amphitheater at Lookout Point would serve as
nice entry to Gardens and provide area for events like Music in the Gardens
·
Corner, triangular lot (east of Gardens) has unknown
proposed use
·
Control crossing at AK Railroad on farm (existing
Maintenance Road)
·
A tunnel under the Railroad would address use issues
Side Notes
·
Summer and winter use for Gardens/Farm vary greatly
·
Reindeer pens at parking area, will be impacted by
planned FMATS trail along Sheep Creek
·
A safety concern with FMATS trail along Sheep Creek,
will this encourage more short-term parking along reindeer pens?
·
There is no visitor center at the Gardens, currently
·
In general, students get to Gardens via shuttle in
winter (mostly) and walk in summer
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