The Orchard Lake Conservation Area, an estimated 33 acres includes areas of three wetlands and passive recreation space. The property was deeded to the City in 1995 by Sienna Corporation with the Rock Island Townhomes (PDF) development. The City's Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan at the time, did not identify the need for a park space with the development of this area. The majority of the developer's required park dedication contribution was paid via cash. The developer was also responsible for installing a series of trail segments that would connect to Klamath Trail and surrounding neighborhoods.
What Are Wetlands?
Wetlands are an important part of our ecosystem; they provide natural habitats for thousands of aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. They also play an important role in water quality improvement by filtering out pollutants from surface water and they provide flood protection. You can learn more about wetlands by visiting our Environmental Resources webpage.
What Are Park Dedication Funds?
The Park Dedication Fund is sustained through required Park Dedication Fees that developers must contribute at the completion of a new development. The required fees can be satisfied through a cash contribution, land dedication or a combination of both in some for instances. If a park space is not planned for a new development, the fees are collected in cash that can be utilized for new park construction and/or limited improvements. This and more information can be found in Lakeville's City Code.