HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-21-08 Parks Packet CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS FILE COPY
PARKS COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
• Monday, April 21, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
1. Call to Order
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approve Parks Commission Minutes — March 10, 2008 (1)
IV. Department / Commission Liaison Reports
A. Arborist
B. Public Works Director (2)
C. Other / Commission Liaison Report
V. Visitors /Public Comment
This is an opportunity for the public to address the Commission with questions or
concerns not on the agenda. Please limit comments to three minutes.
VI. Public Hearings
• None
VI1. New Business
A. Disc Golf Course Proposal — Initial Consideration (3)
VIII. Old Business
A. Updates on Park and Trail Projects (no enclosure)
IX. Informational
A. Park Walkthrough: Saturday, April 26, 2008, 8:30 a.m. - Cover Park
B. Spring Clean -Up: Saturday, May 10, 2008, 7:30 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.,
Andersen Corporation Parking Lot (former St. Croix Mall)
C. Next Meeting: Monday, May 19, 2008, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall
D. Council Representatives: Tuesday, April 22, 2008 — Commissioner Nelson
Tuesday, May 27, 2008 — Commissioner Wagner
X. Adjourn
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• CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PARKS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Monday, March 10, 2008
L Call to Order:
Chair Zeuli called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Present: Comn-iissioners Dougherty,
Nelson and Wagner; (,ity./\dmiiiist Public Works Director Ozzello, Arborist
Widin and Commission 1,iaison 1\4 cC omber. Absent: Commissioner 13stes.
11. Approval of Agenda: Commissioner Dougherty, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, moved
to approve the Agenda as presented. Carried 4-0.
111. Adiourn to Annual Mectitipy of the Parks Commission:
Agenda for Annual Meeting:
I. Revisions to BA71 Commission Nelson noted that section C. on page 2 should be
amended that the Parks Col -nmissioners would provide notification only if they are
vacating the position, not if they are choosing to continue their position on the
commission. Nelson also stated that the terms should possibly end in January to make it
easier to determine when each commissioner's term expires. Commission Liaison
McCombcr stated that it could be added that each member will be notified by the City
Administrator at least three months prior to his or her term expiration.
• Chair Zeuli, seconded by Commissioner Dougherty, moved to forward the draft bylaws
to council. Carried 4-0.
2. Commissioner Appointments: Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner
Wager, moved to nominate Commissioner Dougherty as chair. Carried 4-0.
Chair Zeuli, seconded by Commissioner Dougherty, moved t nominate Commissioner
Nelson as vice-chair. Carried 4-0.
IV. Adjourn Annual Meeting and Reconvene Regular Meeting; Chair Zeuli, seconded by
Commissioner Dougherty, moved to adjourn the annual meeting. Carried 4-0.
V. Approve Parks Commission Minutes — February 25, 2008; Commissioner Dougherty,
seconded by Commissioner Nelson, moved to approve the Minutes as presented. Carried 4-
0.
VI. Department /Commission Liaison Reports
1. Arborist: Arborist Widin reported that the tree pruning is well underway. She stated that
St. Croix Tree Service reported that they are about half done. Widin reported that the
prairie management proposal has been approved and that residents will be notified either
by postcard or through the City newsletter. Widin reported that the tree inventory at
Osgood Avenue was put on hold due to the cold weather but that she will continue the
• inventory. Widin stated that she will host a joint seminar at the Family Means Center on
Page 3 of 34
Parks Commission Minutes
March 10, 2008
Page 2 of 2 •
Tuesday, May 6 for Stillwater and Oak Park Heights residents. Commissioner Nelson,
seconded by Chair Zeuli, moved to accept the Arbonst's report. Carried 4 -0.
I
2. Public Works Director: Public Works Director Ozzello reported that the ice rinks were
closed on Monday, March 10. He stated that he will compile some statistics for the next
Parks Commission meeting. Ozzello reported that contractors have done testing at
Swager and Brekke Parks for future construction projects and that Xcel Energy is doing
some trimming around their lines at Valley View Park. Ozzello reported that lie will put
together a walkthrough list for the spring walkthrough. Commissioner Nelson,
seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve the Public Works Director's
report. Carried 5 -0.
3. Other / Commission Liaison Reports: Commission Liaison McComber announced that
the Spring Clean -up event, will be on Saturday, May 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the
Andersen Corporation parking lot.
VII. Visitors /Public Comment: None
VIII. Public Hearings: None
IX. New Business: None
X. Old Business: •
1. Confirm Spring Walkthrout?h Date — Tentatively Scheduled for 4/26/08: Commissioner
Dougherty, seconded by Chair Zeuli moved to schedule the spring walkthrough for
April 26 beginning at Cover Park at 8:30 a.m. Carried 4 -0.
XI. Informational:
1. Upcoming Meetinvs: Regular Meeting: Monday, April 21, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. @ City Hall
2. Council Representative: February 26 — Commissioner Dougherty
March 25 — Commissioner Estes
XI. Adjournment:
Chair Zeuli, seconded by Commissioner Estes, moved to adjourn at 6:30 p.m. Carried 4 -0.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Thoen
Administrative Secretary /Deputy Clerk
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`
Park Updates for April 2008
Public Works Director: Tom Ozzel}o ^
Advertisements have been placed and we are accepting applications for summer park attendants
and helpers. The two park attendants from last year have reapplied. VVe are looking otbudgets
before outlining the work hours and total attendants. The rink attendants drew down the part time
and seasonal budget more than usual with our successful winter extended rink season. Andy will
begin his late hour and weekend work schedule in conjunction with the park buildings opening.
Park buildings are tentatively planned for opening for the weekend of May 17' , one week before
Memorial Day weekend.
CovmxPark — VVorkhasbogunonpmepahngfortheopringuoe. VVo will bo pulling all items out
the building in preparation of complete scrub out. VVe have obtained quotes for top off ofthe
playground chips and also looked mt costs for mulching the perennial planting on the hill.
Bnokke Park — Work has begun to prepare 8rekke for summer use. Plumbing io being restored
(upstairs) and the lower level will have a complete cleanout done once we can pull the matting
out into the sun. There have been several reviews done to help develop the plans for trail and
future use. We have been in contact with Minnesota DNR on some drainage issues both at
Bnakke and at the Q m addition pond. The late spring has delayed ball field preparations. We will
drag and prepare surfaces, and apply herbicides if needed, as soon as we can access the area
without damaging the grounds.
Autumn Hills Park — We purchased weed and feed to supplement the areas planted last
summer. This should help address the weeds that started last year and also give a boost to the
new sod westarted. VVe did get a quote ho refill the playground area with ADA compliant fill.
Plumbing is scheduled for restoration and turn on in the next few weeks.
SvvmciwerPork —VVehovanequeoiedthat the trail crossing at0dfie|d have truncated domes
installed. There is severe deterioration at the pedestrian ramps that require repairs this year no
matter what. It appeared to be an opportunity to add these in to another larger trail contract to
minimize the cost. Lots of time also spent un plans and reviews for this park. The area west of
the existing tennis court was scheduled for root removal and leveling this spring after the brush
was removed in2U07. VVo are holding right now pending decisions on other park plans.
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Grubbing and plantings in this area of the park are still planned, but final area limitations are •
needed before we proceed
Vailev View Park — We have worked with Bonestroo on trail and slope plans. The existing
playground may be slightly modified. We did obtain a quote for ADA chip fill if deemed
appropriate. We are having some issues with how to deal with road deterioration. Restoration of
plumbing and shelter opening is scheduled.
Trails — Are being reviewed and evaluated for needed repairs. A complete report is being
drafted. There are some significant areas that are in need of repairs that required us to do a
more thorough evaluation. As the preliminary step, five truncated domes are suggested for
bidding in this years trail improvement plans. We do not have current trail transition pedestrian
ramps (truncated domes) at the trail crossings at Oldfield (both sides), the east trail to Swagger
from Oakgreen or the two sides of Oakgreen at 58"' where the trail crosses to City Hall. Other
trail crossings, built to the standards of the time, have exposed aggregate (like the Autumn Hills
building entry) for transition lines.
Other -
The building on Osgood is being checked regularly and a detailed inspection is done each Friday. •
Bids are due on moving, or, in the alternative demolition of the building.
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• Park Walk through — SPRING 2008 -- draft list
THIS IS A DRAFT LIST OF PARK ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AND TO GET
MEMBERS THINKING ABOUT SOME OF THE ISSUES WE HAVE. PLEASE
SUBMIT ANY OTHER IDEAS. I WILL UPDATE THIS JUST BEFORE THE PARK
WALKTHROUGH AND LEAVE ADDITONAL ROOM FOR NOTES. Tom O
Swager Park
• Rehab tennis Court? —
• New ped ramps at Oldfield crossing needed on trail.
• Grub roots and level area west of tennis court and plant.
• Repair / replace failing fence sections and boards. This is a long term capital
intense proposal. Staff will continue to replace individual boards as calls come
in.
• Replace Playground Equipment w/ new non - conductive materials. This is a
• capital project that must be planned and proposed by the commission.
• Additional trimming of brush, rooting, removal of debris and leveling to plant
south of trail to Oldfield.
• buckthorn /brush removal on existing trail to city hall and Oakgreen -- long term
issue and work load issue. Will continue to address brush issues on various
trails as time is available. Have cut back crowded areas along trail and trimmed
some dense area to help open up the trail and provide better visibility.
Valley View Park
• Continue buckthorn removal and trail shoulder work. Some trimming has been
done along trail and along tree lines in park. Verify no damage from Xcel
easement work.
• repair /replace failing fence sections and boards as needed. Long term plan not
yet made
• repair and place new facia.
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• Rake, till and replenish playground base (currently sand). Evaluate changes •
from new slopes from shelter and trails. Consider ADA chips for playground.
• Retaining wall and stair replacement with ramp to playground.
• Annuals planted and planters cleaned.
• new entry road — badly needed. No direct money allocated.
Cover Park
• level rink area and replace any failed boards .
• Repaint boards for hockey rink and recoat bench.
• Water fountain.
• Research options for restroom availability — trench, retaining wall, pavers, new
door. Have preliminary plan. Will require accessible ramp to tie to road
• clean mulch and perennial plantings materials addition?
• update or replace bench.
•
Brekke Park
• Evaluate stair replacement -- Should hold for now. Some concrete work was
completed last year. Re- routing of drains and drain tile have eliminates some of
the concern. New trail may grant indirect ADA access.
• level rink areas (cubic yards, materials, in draft bid ?) and board restoration
• Paint Hockey boards — replace where needed.
• re -edge ball fields and drag. Herbicides if and where needed for weeds and
edges of park
• Add new exterior circuit (upper level) and attempt (again) to repair rusted conduit
and failed lower level plug ins on north and west walls.
• ceiling in park shelter cleaned, re- attached and painted
• new parking lot -- time has run out!
• back flow valve on sewer line
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•
Autumn Hills Park
• add ADA chips to playground
• weed and feed new grass areas
Trails and Access points
• Cut Buckthorn on all trails — Dream we have help.
• Truncated dome pedestrian crossings needed several locations
• Doggy bags at key points
• Additional trails — planning and possible bids specs done
. Other things
• Volunteer groups
• Improvements through donations
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`"°°^�' if
«����_, of Oak ��~.�. Heights
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14168 - okrarkB|"d. N° Box 2VO7* Oak Park Heights, MN55VV2° Phone (65|)439-w]9° Pax (65|)439~05?4
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Parks Commission
FROM: Eric Eaton, City Intern
DATE: April 18.20O8
SUBJECT: Chmc Golf Course Proposal — Initial Consideration
Summary and Project 'ect Scope:
Ad this time, | have ta ken an opportunity to investigate possible options to install limited
disc golf course $tone of the city parks. It is estimated that The City of Oak Park
Heights could benefit from the installation of a Disc Golf Course to be located in one of
its many parks. The City of Oak Park Heights as well as the Stillwater area and school
district will benefit from the addition ofa disc golf course. Involvement from the
�
community will be a main factor in maintaining and utilizing the course, plans for
community involvement include the organization of a local club and sponsorship. For
this are the p � ' mf the course ismpprOxinmmb$d8d over 2OD users per vxeek.
/�E�TTAC�H [} O[�C:UK8ENT.The Personal and ��ommunitvBens� Golf ' R ural America (and Beyond)' Sinieoa|chi\ Disc Golf is a very popular sport that is �
affordable and easy Uo learn and thus provides reoreetimnmndaxenciaeforpoop|ecf all
mQaa. This p j���proxid�aa�nmnhyg�ototh�o|tvthnn��hihy� �
. �
' Low cost
- No added liability
- Low maintenance (moxvng tree trimming, trash removal)
- Aesthetic enhancement ofthe park
- <�� deterrent � VV|U�9urinv�|vamn�n�|ntheapod�orninmidomndmmd�idetheoVnnnnun�x
� ' .
� ' Schools could introduce the course in their curricula
� ' A club mr league could be started that would increase involvement.
The course will maintain the same hours, as the park it is located in, if the park is closed
the course will not be open.
Estimated Costs:
The initial start-up cost of the course is the bulk of the expense to the city. These initial
costs include; targets, tee boxes (gravel), benches, waste baskets (which will need to be
emptied), signage and minor landscaping. The foreseeable future costs to the city are
Page 11 of 34
very low, almost non - existent, and may include emptying of trash receptacles, and •
replacement of signs or baskets due to vandalism.
One option for alternate funding would be through the application of a grant either from a
sponsor or a federal or state grant promoting public health or recreation. The city will
also explore possible sponsorship and volunteerism to cover a portion of the costs, the
course package in the estimation includes room for sponsorship on signage. It also
includes upgraded equipment, which provides added protection against the elements
and vandalism.
SEE ATTACHED SPREADSHEET FOR COST ANALYSIS
Other Considerations:
The metro area is home to 29 of the 121 courses in Minnesota and this number
continues to grow. These courses range from a short nine -hole variety to eighteen -hole
championship courses they also range in size, quality and length of season.
Washington County only has one active course located in Cottage Grove located 25
miles from Oak Park Heights (Oakwood Park, 18 Hole). The next nearest course is
located 8 miles away at the Willow River State Park in Hudson, WI (12 Hole). White
Bear Lake, approximately 10 miles away, also has an 18 -hole course (Lakewood Hills
Park). After assessing the area, the reality is that the adjacent community of over
20,000 would benefit from the option of disc golf recreation closer to home.
Also included in this assessment is, expert testimony from the area, examples include;
Ken Hoxmeier, Maintenance Supervisor for the City of Roseville. Described the course
located in Acorn Park has been around since the early 80's and is well maintained for •
the most part by volunteers and Fairway Flyers. Boy Scouts have also volunteered to
fight erosion problems and provide benches. The course consists of bituminous tee
boxes, wooden signage and Mach III targets. Ken stated that there has been minor
vandalism over the years mostly subsiding as play grew, a few baskets have needed
replacing.
Mike Polehna, Washington County Assistant Parks Director and Stillwater
Councilmember. Indicated that the course that used to be in Stillwater at Brown's Creek
Park was removed because of its poor location, as the park mostly consists of prairie.
Because the prairie grass grew so high that the course was hard to maintain and the
prairie needed to be burned every three years which caused problems with the course.
He did express concern about a course located in Plymouth at which heavy traffic has
been detrimental. (The real problem with the course is that there is not enough grass in
the wooded areas, which adds enormously to the erosion and wear of the park)
Tim Thompson, City of Stillwater Public Works Superintendent. "Would work well in a
park that gets a lot of use." In discussion of the Brown's Creek Course he also cited the
bad location as the main reason for the vandalism which occurred in the first year.
Nearly all the baskets were vandalized and the city was forced to weld the targets.
(welding of targets is normal) The plan was to have volunteers put in the signs for the
course, but this never happened due to vandalism, Tim stated, "the project never got off
the ground"
Brad Fortin, Parks Lead for the City of White Bear Lake. "An overall positive experience,
though I was weary about the idea." The disc golf course at Lakewood Hills is in its third
•
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• year. The targets were bought and installed by a local Disc Golf Association and the
City installed the cement tee pads and takes care of maintenance. The Park is very
popular with multi -uses including trails, softball and soccer fields, play equipment and
the disc golf course. The parks department asserted that the softball players create
much more of a problem than the disc golfer's and that they are glad to have more users
in the park. There is more wear, mostly in the wooded areas and some erosion, which is
to be expected.
Zack Dockter, Parks & Recreation Manager for the City of Cottage Grove. Their disc
golf course is located at Lakewood Hills Park and was built in 1997. He stated that the
course has added light clean -up, tree damage and some erosion that would otherwise
not exist. Yet he also expressed delight about the recreational advantages and high
volume use from teens, adults and kids. He stated that, "a very small number are
unrespectful ". Their department runs a recreational disc golf league, there are no clubs
or sponsorship.
Mike Snelson, Fairway Flyers, Course Designer / Disc Shop Owner. Mike has been a
big proponent of disc golf in the area for over 20 years and has helped design a few of
the courses in the metro area. He highly recommends having a course designer, and is
available to provide his services.
Recommendation:
At this time and based on the above information I would recommend further investigation
• for a nine -hole course for the final location to be determined based on public access,
safety, security and finally ability to make the course challenging. This size course
would provide the prestige that would attract disc golfers from surrounding areas, but is
also small enough to maintain and control.
•
Page 13 of 34
•
M
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS o
Disc Golf Proposal - Projected Cost Analysis
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EQUIPMENT NEEDED COST PER UNIT AMOUNT NEEDED TOTAL ESTIMATE
Baskets $300 10 $ 3,000.00 $3,000 $3,000
Signs $125 10 $ 1,250.00 $1,250 $1,250
Benches $100 4 $ 400.00 $400 $400
Waste Baskets $100 4 $ 400.00 $400 $400
Equipment Total $ 5,050.00 $5,050
Labor Total (bid estimate) $ 5,000.00
TOTAL $ 10,050.00
** *Price does not include maintenance, such as...
Annual Maintenance Costs Per Year Are:
ITEM COST PER HOUR AMOUNT NEEDED TOTAL ESTIMATE
Mowing $75 30 $ 2,250.00
Trash Removal $10 30 $ 300.00
Seeding N/A N/A $ 200.00
Tree Trimming $55 25 $ 1,375.00
Maintenance Total $ 4,125.00
Disc Golf Tee Signs Page I of 4
•
COL(! ASSOCIAYAON
J APrice List I Histary 1 -1 , Lessons Got Game i
Disc Golf Tee Signs
Why'l Signs?
Sign Pole
Assembly
Disc Golf Sponsorship Signs
11" x 17"
Steel construction with two sign panels. One pane
tee information and one panel for sponsor informi
Includes Lexan, Decal Kit and par and ft. number!
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• x 11"
Steel construction with one panel for tee informat
Includes Lexan, Decal Kit and par and ft. number!
$60.1
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Disc Golf Rules Signs
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Steel construction with one panel for tee informat
Includes Lexan, Decal Kit.
$60.1
1;271
Disc Golf Course Signs
Page 15 of 34
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The Personal and Community Benefits of Disc Golf to Rural America (and Beyond)
Jason M. Siniscalchi
West Virginia University
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Page 18 of 34
•
Rural America is changing. Over the past decade there has been all increase in
population to nonmetropolitan (rural) areas in the United States which has changed the character
of rural communities (Johnson & Beale, 2002). Comprised of small, amenity based communities
with a higher duality of life than its metropolitan counter parts (USDA, 2002), these locations are
popular to tourists seeking both natural and cultural based resources. Parks and recreation
specialists are charged with the task of providing; quality recreational opportunities to attract
visitors while protecting these valuable resources. They aim to preserve and promote the unique
local community character, but they do this with challenges — rural areas tend to be economically
deprived. I -low can recreational specialists continue to provide quality recreational experiences?
One means is seen in another growing recreational trend in rural America: disc golf
Referred to as `Frisbee golf, disc golf is played similar to its ball brother but is played
• with specially designed flying discs thrown at metal 'pole holes' or elevated baskets which serve
as targets. Disc golf can be played by one or more players of any age or gender, taking several
hours to complete an 18 -hole course. Courses are designed to take into account the natural lay of
the land to challenge the player commonly including a variety of obstacles, such as ponds, dog
legs, and trees—each planned to alter a throw. Due to their relatively simple design, disc golf
courses can be found anywhere, from open fields, to beaches and forests across America — and
they are growing, especially in rural America.
The Gf ou of Disc Golf
Since the inception first formal pole -hole course was established in Oak Grove Park,
California in 1975, courses have continued to grow at an average of 17% (approximately 50
•
Page 19 of 34
courses) between the years 1980 and 1999. 'Throughout the 1990's, disc golf was considered one
of the fastest growing sports in America (Rothstein, 1996) and this trend continues today. Since
Figure 1. World Growth in Disc Golf
160 ■' -oral Course, (1326)
y
140 - M United Slate. Courses (1136)
M 120 0 6tlenruional Courses (190)
a
100
80
60
a 40
20
1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000
Notc. Data oil couracs wall known veal Course Established
establishment datc 1975 to 2003
the late 1998, the number courses has doubled. As of July 2004, there were 1,572 courses in the
world including all major continents except the Middle last, Africa, and Antarctica. 'Though •
most of these courses are in the in the United States (84 %) there has been a recent trend in the
establishment of international courses. Since 1995, seven new countries created a course
including Peru, Mexico, Belgium, Iceland, France, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
As would be expected with the increase in courses, the number of disc golf players,
associations, and professional tournaments has also grown. T'he Professional Disc Golf
Association (PDGA), established in 1976, held 500 tournaments in 2003 with a total pro purse of
over one million dollars. Since the inception of the PDGA, there have been 24,100 members
with an annual growth rate of 10 %. Overall, the PDGA estimates 7 to 10 million people have
played disc golf at least once with around 5 million regular players (PDGA, 2004a). As one
PDGA member and disc golf professional stated in July 2004, "(Disc golfI really is taking off,
Page 20 of 34
i
It's getting so there are a lot more players who can go on tour and make a living now. You used
to be able to count those players on one hand." (Benson, 2004).
As seen in figure 1, the growth of disc golf is strongest within the United States.
Geographically, 54% of American courses in are in non -urban areas (based on 2000 U.S. Census
Metropolitan Statistical Areas which have at least one urbanized area of 50,000 or more
inhabitants). Prior to 1998, there were slightly more urban area courses, with four urban courses
to every three non -urban course. Since then, non -urban courses have been growing at nearly 1.5
times the rate of their urban counterpart and currently over half of all courses are in non -urban
areas. In fact, since the first trimester of courses were created in the between 1975 and 1 984
courses have been steadily moving away from city boundaries and into the country, with the
largest increase in course located over 50 miles form cities (see figures 2 and 3). The result is
•
Figures 2 and 3. Relationship of Disc Golf Courses to Metropolitan Centel-s
it
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t
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, kn
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, I IMI 1741 I.IhI
t.(Ii;t
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90
74 ® 1975 -1984
80 - ■ 1985 -1994
121 E) 1995.2004
70 - Number above bars
i Wkates the nurrber of
60 - courses
d
w
�0 50 - 948
i 40 gn
30
Om
20 :W 149 127 141
UnK
``v'yti3�'oa sc�.%z�'`
° 9 6 18 11 #:
10 - O
Less than 10 miles 10 to 25 miles 25 to 50 miles Greater than 50 Holes
disc golf is being introduced into, and embraced by, rural communities.
The Course Condition •
To help understand the current surge in disc golf, particularly in rural America, we asked
a sample of 225 disc golf stewards /contacts around the United States, randomly selected from the
ADGA database, to complete an on line disc golf survey. Stewards were asked to rate their
perception of course use, community improvement, and personal reasons for playing disc golf.
Course stewards were selected as they are the first line of contact for a new disc golf player and
often can provide highly detailed information about their course(s).
Courses across the country ranged between 3 and 5,000 users per week, with an average
of over 250. Courses within ten miles of a city with over 25,000 people had over four times
higher use numbers (approximately 450 to 100) than more rural courses further away, which is
expected from the higher population base urban areas provide. Use seems consistent even when
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an area supports several proximal courses. Our data sampled seven courses in the Dayton -
Cincinnati region of Ohio, an area approximately 50 miles across, that averages over 200 people
per course per week. 'Three of these courses have over 1,000 visitors and one over 5,000.
Similarly, Houston, Texas reported having four courses all of which have a range of use between
500 to 700 visitors.
When there aren't as many local course options, the disc golf player is willing to travel.
Even keeping in mind that course stewards may be a more specialized group of disc golf players
willing to travel slightly further than the ordinary weekend player, over half reported they were
willing to travel over 50 miles on a given weekend to play on a favorite course. Eighty percent
are willing; to travel 26 or more miles. The bottom line is if there is a course, people will play. if
there isn't a local course, people are willing to drive to find one. This is good for rural
• communities which are geographically dispersed: If you build a Course, players will come.
JVho is the Dise Golfer?
Unlike many sports, a first time golf player doesn't have to young, though many start
playing in high school or college. 'There appears to be a second wave of disc golfers leading the
current growth of the sport with half of those responding to our survey playing for less than 10
years. Of these, there was approximately the same number of players (40 %) less than 30 as
between 30 and 50, suggesting disc golf call be played by anyone at any stage of life. Perhaps
the best testament to the popularity of the sport comes from the three respondents reporting
playing disc golf for less than a year. Despite being new to the sport, each immediately
embraced the sport and helped create a local course — and these players were aged between 40
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and 701 In our sample, nearly all stewards were male (96 %) and Caucasian (95 %) which is
similar to the published PDGA demographics (PDGA, 2004a).
Why the Recent Growth and Polnilarity?
We know more people are playing disc golf today than ever before. We know they are
willing to travel and even pay to play. But the question remains, "Why is disc golf so popular ?"
The small body of literature on disc golf suggests disc golf provides much more than meets the
eye. It provides players with tangible and intangible benefits. Recreational benefits come from
the work of (Driver, Brown, & Peterson, 1991) and suggest that an activity at a given setting
creates psychological outcomes or experiences which serve as the motives for to participation.
Table 1. Community Benefits of Disc Golf
Economic •
Low cost of construction maintenance, and play
• Attracts players to the local community
Communitv Health.
• Provides a low impact and safe means of exercise for all age groups and genders
• Mental strategy is involved in negotiating obstacles
• Reduction of mental fatigue
Environmental
• Aesthetic enhancement of park
• Low resource impacts
Safety
Safe
• Crime deterrent as the park is utilized by more people
Education
• Schools may introduce the course into their curricula for physics, physical fitness,
ecology, planning, and others.
Community Involvement
• Formal and informal games and tournaments bring community members together
• Families and friends can share time together
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•
File result of this participation leads to a changed condition. In other words, the act of playing
disc golf at a given course may provide personal, economic, health, social, and environmental
benefits. When taken in a broader context, the presence of a disc golf course may lead to
additional community -based benefits (see Table 1).
Arguably, the number one factor, from a management perceptive, to developing a disc
golf course is cost. Flere disc golf excels over other sports. Courses are easily constructed,
costing a local conmmunity approximately $500 - $1,000 per hole. Out survey indicated the cost to
develop a course averaged under $8,000, with some courses costing nothing to create. These
courses are object- oriented, when players use trees, light poles, fire hydrants, and other objects as
holes. By one estimate, a full course, with pole - holes, hardened tees, and multiple hole
placements still costs a mere fraction of the cost involved in the creation and maintenance of a
• lighted tennis court (Tutlen & Conkell, 1999). liven the play of disc golf is extremely
affordable, with only an $8 disc needed for basic play (Altymer, 1996) and the most expensive
disc golf gear costs well under the cost for a set of beginner set golf clubs. From the upkeep
side, disc golf is even easier. It involves little maintenance other than routine park maintenance,
such as trash removal and cutting grass (Wilmington Disc Golf Proposal, 2000). 'File director of
the Kershaw County Parks Department, which maintains a course in Camden, South Carolina,
comments the cotuse "is not a big maintenance problem, it really takes care of itself' (American
City & Country, 2003).
On the economic plus side, disc golf courses can create revenue for communities. This
can be a particular benefit to rural communities and in time courses can pay for themselves. In
Georgia, members of the Augusta Disc Golf Association have created a course at Wildwood
Park which will soon be the ]ionic to the world headquarters of the PDGA disc golf
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championships. Tile draw of this event brings with it an estimated economic Impact of $1.8
million in the community (Staff reporters, 2004). The typical disc golf course will not come near
that figure, but there is still room f'o' a positive economic impact. It can come in two ways:
events or user fees. A typical tournament can draw anywhere between 30 and 100 participants
into a community for a day or a weekend. User fees can be added to courses, though this is
generally done on private courses. Some communities have instituted a nominal fee, such as $1,
for out of county users. Our survey indicates many people are even willing to pay a nominal fee
to play at their favorite course. 62% felt $1 -5 was reasonable, with no more than assuming all
proceeds go for upkeep and maintenance Ten percent was willing to pay over $11 and 12%
would not pay to play. There were no differences in willingness to pay by urban proximity of
course or length of time playing disc golf.
In many cases, communities note that the presence of a disc golf course has been related
to environmental improvement. The PDGA reports in the creation of the De Laveaga Disc golf •
Course in Santa Cruz, CA, a site was chosen that was used as an illegal dump and haven for
ATV use. 'Thousands of tons of trash were removed fi•on the site, and the course continues to
sustain itself as trash free and limited ATV use (PDGA, 2004b). The PDGA even maintains an
IlZnvirolnlental Committee to educate players in the impact of courses and provide consultation
in the design and course maintenance. Schmidt (1995) suggests that it is common for a disc golf
course to revitalize an underused park with deteriorating facilities. This can have the positive
effect of reducing crime and vandalism. A salient example can be found in a city park in
Richmond, Virginia. Prior to the course development, a local park was a hangout for drug deals
— an unsafe area for locals to play. After the course was established crime decreased and the
park was transformed (Tutee & Conkell, 1999). Another new course was developed in
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Northeastern Illinois, built on a little used park in hopes to deter vandalism by "bring(ing] traffic
in the park (which) will push out the bad traffic" (Jader, 2004).
Like ball golf, disc golf has social benefits. "Though it can be played alone, disc golf is a
group activity. Families can play together as part of a local park trip, family outing, or picnic.
Many local disc clubs emerge and hold weekly contests and mini - tournaments. These weekly
leagues provide a means for new and old members alike to share experiences. Additionally,
these clubs not only serve as a surrogate steward for the course, helping in routine maintenance
and organizing events, but players form social bonds through the love of the sport. In Tusla,
Oklahoma. the success of their disc golf courses can be attributed to their local disc golf club, a
state - accredited, nonprofit organization. The club is comprised of "a lot of players that cared
about (the sport) and kept with it regularly" (Wylie, 2004). Two thirds of all courses we sampled
• had an associated local disc golf club, and they averaged 44 members with a maximum of 650.
Similarly, as is the case with ball golf, disc golf provides a means of low impact activity.
Disc golf can be played by anyone of any age or gender. ]'layers can match their pace to their
capabilities making the sport a lifetime activity. Along with the physical aspects ofthe game —
walking a course (no carts here) and throwing the disc -- many courses are in park settings. The
ability to recreate in a highly aesthetic setting has its own associated psychological and physical
benefits (Ulrich, 1983). Finally, the simple act of `being away', especially from one's work
environment, can help reduce the stress of every day life and alleviate mental fatigue (Kaplan,
Kaplan, & Ryan, 1998). 'this is especially poignant at disc golf courses in rural settings that have
abundant natural resources.
In West Virginia, a new disc golf course was been established near West Virginia
University. This course provides an example of how a community has come together during the
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construction of a course. The creation of the course involved collaboration among multiple
partners including the town of Fairmont which provided the land, Marion County Park and
Recreation Committee, a nonprofit organization which handled paperwork, donations, and
oversaw the course creation, the Seth Burton Memorial Fund, the major funding body, and the
Marion County Disc Golf Group, a local group dedicated to tine promotion and understanding of
disc sports. In addition, other local schools and community organizations (such as the Boy
Scouts) have helped put on local tournaments, used the course in physical education classes and
for summer camp activities (Stahlaker, 2003). Through these types of partnerships opportunities
community relationships can be strengthened. ']'his is just one of many examples where
communities have come together around disc golf (fUtefn & Conkell, 1999).
Benefils of Rise Golf
Tllough the literature suggests these benefits, the recreation manager is left unsure if a •
disc golf player is realizing these benefits and how important these benefits are relative to each
other. As seen in Table 2, our survey suggests on a personal level, people play disc golf for four
primary reasons: to be in nature, get exercise, be with other people, and challenge. These are
similar to the expected benefits of ball golf, but at a fraction of the cost in course development
and equipment.
Additionally, what sets disc golf apart from ball golf is its intimacy with nature. Many
courses are a part of the landscape and designed with the terrain and natural obstacles. Ball golf
courses, on the other hand, are designed and terraformed. In many cases if it were not for the
pole holes a passer -by wouldn't even realize they were in a disc golf course. ']'his is why many
course stewards are willing to show a new disc golfer the ins and outs of a course. This not only
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helps orient the new golfer to the course, but increases the social interaction between golf
members while promoting the Sport. Both of these factor's, social cohesion and maintenance of
Table 2. Community and Personal Benefits of Dise Golf
Persona! Benefits (n =225) Mean ±SD Community Benefits* (n =225) Mean±SD
Enjoy nature 5.3 k 0.9 The course provides a good means of low impact activity 47-10.7
1SCI'CISC - physical 1i0hess 5.2 :1: 1.1 The Course is an improvement to the ;lea 4.5:t 0,8
Be with other people 5.01 1.1 The community is better because of th is course 4.5 i 0.8
Achievement 5.0:t 1.1 This Course is of tow Cost to [ntlilltilill 4.4:1: 1.0
Escape daily routine 4.8 a 1.2 ]'his course was 1 low cost to create 4.2 a: 1.1
Meet /observe other people 4.8 s I . I The course enhances the aesthetics ol'the area 4.2 t 1.0
Seek stimulation 4,8,1- 1.2 This course brings families together 4.1 :1: 0.9
Teaching - sharing skills 4.7 :1: 1.3 The Coann till ity IS 11701 aCtiVC lVCMISC ofthis course 3.93: 1.0
I'randuiiity - privacy 4,6 a 1.3 ]'here are low resource impacts related with this course 3.8:t 1.2
Slow down mentally 4.61 1.3 This course brings the community together 3.6 t 1.1
Escape physical pressures 4.5:t 1 A ']'his course brings matey into the local economy 15.1 1.2
Physical rest 4.1 :t 1.4 Crime has been reduced because of this course" 3.3+. I. t
!;scale role overloads 4.1 =1: 1.5 ]'his course plays a role in area school curricula 3,0-+ 1.4
Learning - discovery 411 1.5
Family togetherness 4.01. 1.6
Independence - autonomy 4,0:t 1.6
Introspection 3.91 1.5
Nostalgia 3.6 :1: 1.6
Agrecable temperatures' 3.6 d: 1.6
Security 3.3:1: 1.5
t Scale 1 -6: 1 (Not important to me) to 6 (Gctremely important to me)
Significant difference between groups, p <0.05 (Non -MSA= 3.8± vs. MSA= 3.4:: +.:1.7)
SCille: I (Co111p1Clely Dls19ree) to 5 (Completely Agree)
°' Significant difference between groups, 1)<0.05 (Non -MSA= 3.2 ±1.1 vs. MSA = 3.5_+.1.2)
landscape character, help explain why rural con]nuu'ities are quickly establishing courses.
Through social interaction disc golf players learn not only about the course itself but about the
locale and can extend the word-of-mouth marketing of the course and charter community. In
interacting with the natural landscape of the course a community can exhibit and sustain its
natural character. Together, disc golf can help foster a sense of place and community.
In almost every case, the course steward felt the disc golf course did, in fact, improve the
greater community while increasing community activity with relatively low resource impacts.
They verified that courses, in general, are of low cost to create and maintain. however, the
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suggestions that a disc golf course can improve safety, bring in money, and play a role in school
Curricula are not universally supported. Though all polled somewhat agreed with these
community benefits, the large variation in responses suggests these factors need to be taken in
context to the greater community. That is, if there is little crime in an area, a course will not
have much effect in reducing what isn't there. if there is poor marketing of events or a course
has no associated no tournaments it will not generate as much economic stimulus to tine
community. Lastly, the sample of disc golf courses in this study may not have included many in
or near schools to be an active part of curricula.
Many of the community benefits are related to other use variables. The more weekly
players using a course, the greater chance for environmental impact and increased community
activity. Similarly, a user fee decreases weekly use and family togetherness. The more local
disc club members, the larger the decrease in crime. Several benefits are more likely in
metropolitan courses. Newly established courses in metropolitan areas are more likely to •
improve the aesthetics and overall condition of the locale. This is not the case in rural areas
where presumably the pre - course aesthetics and landscape character is perceived at a higher
quality than metropolitan areas.
,5ug reslionsfi)7 Communities
If a recreation manager is considering creating a disc golf course, we make the following
suggestions (`fable 3): The PDGA website (http: / /www.ndga,com) contains a consortium of
information on design, principals of ethics, and contacts to nearby professionals to aid you in the
process of course creation. PDGA professionals can provide invaluable information on design,
costs, and barriers to implementation. Colleges seeking to create a course may be interested in
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the PDGA's Matching Baskets Program where funds are provided on a per pole -hole basis, up to
dine holes.
Despite °the low of: disc golf, there are stiil.;soi re costs'including pole holes; tees, aiid
sigi�s.for;cptarse layout and orientation: Tlies� can be offset by applying; for;gratits; sue: °as the
Iiaaovstoii Gi a�it i?rp grai`or ;federal: or state.grants proiiioiijig public fiealih or 3 eeieaioit: lri
applying:,foi;g'antsJ,6tters.o anageijaent;
slid l ii inc I dirtjjhO PDGA,
Jair+,ova) Discs. {liti�3:J /w�r�va ii3noa�adisos;conij, aiad p // w t13SC11fC.cUlnY: �vhleh. ,
: cpiita9at:sai�pleproposAls estiiiatedcosts.,.
Establish a local disc golf club and seek out organizations that are willing to spend their
time, talents, and even money to
Table 3. Suggestions When Creating a New Cour
I . Involve a PDGA. professional improve the quality of the course
2. Apply for fiutding
3. Include the community while maintaining its local character.
4. Keep it local
5. Remember benefits Locals can include interested disc
6. Have fun!
golf players, businesses, non- profit
organizations, and schools, among others. Involve them early in the planning process and
include their knowledge and ideas in the planning process. Local partners can help make the
course a success for years to come by organizing events and promotions.
Consider the benefits people seek while playing disc golf. They play to be in nature, with
friends and family, as a source of exercise and challenge. ']'his means adopting a sustainable
management plan to maintain the naturalness of the park while promoting its local character.
Try to involve interesting park features, such as waterways and scenic vistas that make your
course stand out from the rest.
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Lastly, remember to have fern. The first rule of disc golf is to encourage good spirit and
fellowship among all who play disc golf while sustaining the environment. Disc golf is a fern,
challenging and affordable sport that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels while
fostering a sense place and community. Many communities are experiencing its growth and
benefits, maybe yours will to.
Notes:
The author would like to thank the help of the Professional Disc Golf Association for support
and access to their database in the creation of figures in this manuscript.
About the author:
Jason M. Siniscalchi is a doctoral candidate in Parks, Recreation, and 'Tourism at West Virginia
University. lie aside from disc golf, his research interested includes GIS modeling human •
factors of the rural -urban interface.
References
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Benson, D. (2004). Disc fever; new course gives golfers options. Milri�azrkee Jozrrnal Sentinel.
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Driver, B. L., Brown, P. J., & Peterson, G. L. (1991). Benefits of Leisure. State College, PA:
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Jader, G. (2004). W ildwood Park District debuts disc golf course. Chicago Daily Herald Lake
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