Resolution 14-113 Support for the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies Recreational Trail Program Grant Application

CITY OF HOMER
HOMER, ALASKA

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RESOLUTION 14-113

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF HOMER, ALASKA, SUPPORTING THE CENTER FOR ALASKAN COASTAL STUDIES RECREATIONAL TRAIL PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION ADMINISTERED BY THE ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF PARKS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION.

WHEREAS, The Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies (CACS) mission is to foster responsible interaction with our natural surroundings and to generate knowledge of the unique marine and coastal ecosystems of Kachemak Bay through science-based environmental education and stewardship; and

WHEREAS, The CACS has been a valuable part of the greater Homer community since 1982, and offers many opportunities for people of all ages to connect with the outdoors through guided walks, tours, educational programs, overnights, school programs and more; and

WHEREAS, Both the Wynn Nature Center and the Petersen Bay Field Station contain miles of interpretive nature trails. CACS delivers educational programs and guided tours to over 12,000 students and visitors every year; and

WHEREAS, The CACS is pursuing a grant through the Recreational Trails Program, which is administered by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation; and

WHEREAS, The CACS intends to repair two sections of trails at their Petersen Bay Field Station, which are treacherous to walk in rainy conditions due to the slope of the original trail and degradation over the years; and

WHEREAS, The CACS improved the tread at the Wynn Nature Center and added boardwalk to improve accessibility and remove barriers to walking and would like to add interpretive signage to education the public about bear and moose interactions on local trails, with the same signs put on the Peterson Bay Trail system.

WHEREAS, These improvements will enhance the value of these trail systems, be designed for maximum sustainability, and will allow greater access to and appreciation of the natural environment in Kachemak Bay; and

WHEREAS, Local trail networks that attract visitors to our community, and the educational programs offered by CACS, are beneficial to the citizens of Homer.

NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of Homer, Alaska, fully supports their project goals and supports their efforts in fundraising through the Recreational Trails Program.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of Homer, Alaska, this 27th day of October, 2014.

                                                                                          CITY OF HOMER

                                                                                          _____________________

                                                                                          MARY E. WYTHE, MAYOR

ATTEST:

 __________________________    
JO JOHNSON, MMC, CITY CLERK

Fiscal note:  NA