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The Ropes Challenge Course site is just southwest of the current parking lot, in an <br /> area of the park that is not used by park users looking for a route or path to the <br /> top of the butte. In addition, it is highly doubtful that park users looking for quiet <br /> and solitude will be adversely affected by Ropes Course users. <br /> 4. Fire Danger. In case of park closure for fire season, courses would be <br /> rescheduled for a later date. <br /> 5. Accountability. As with all Outdoor Program activities, the success and <br /> continuation of the Ropes Challenge Course at Spencer Butte will be evaluated <br /> based on the experiences of the participants, environmental impact, and the <br /> ongoing relationships with others (users and non -users alike) who are affected by <br /> the course operation. <br /> 6. Impact on Existing Trees. No trees will be removed on the site; however, <br /> dead limbs creating hazards will be removed, chipped, and reused within the park <br /> for trail construction. The high portion of the course has been tentatively designed <br /> and it appears that only one pole will have to be added. The high ropes element <br /> construction involves the use of lag bolts through trees, but this does not impact <br /> the long term health of the tree. <br /> STAFF RECOMMENDATION <br /> As a result of discussion and feedback from interested parties, City staff <br /> recommend going forward with the project. Work on the course is scheduled to <br /> begin in April and May 1994, with the clearing of dead debris and trail <br /> construction. Volunteers will be clearing brush and transplanting native orchids <br /> and ferns that grow in areas where walkways or course elements will be located. <br /> Construction will begin in June and hopefully be completed by the end of July. <br /> The estimated cost for the Ropes Course construction is $12 - 15,000. We have <br /> assembled a large group of volunteers willing to assist with course construction. <br /> We anticipate that a number of local businesses will donate materials. Volunteers <br /> and donations will reduce overall costs. The Eugene Parks Foundation has <br /> committed to a donation of approximately $8,000. The Recreation Trust Fund will <br /> provide the balance of fund$ for the project. <br /> A public notice will be mailed to Spencer Butte area residents prior to construction. <br /> Please contact Pam Berrian by April 27th if you would like to discuss this topic at <br /> your Apernth council officers meeting. <br /> Further questions can be addressed to the River House Outdoor Program at 687- <br /> 5329. <br />