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A final idea that was discussed was of establishing an acceptable ratio of <br /> bare and nearly bare ground area to total pasture area. John Etter suggested <br /> an upper limit in the range of 10 =15% would be acceptable. When the ratio of <br /> bare ground exceeded this amount of the total pasture area, temporary closure <br /> for between 4 to 6 weeks would be necessary to allow for rejuvenation and <br /> possible overseeding. Closures would be accomplished by signs and limited to <br /> use of the existing fence. Placement of temporary fencing was not considered <br /> to be a viable option. It was a clear goal of this alternative to minimize <br /> any work to be performed by City crews. Getting the Off -Leash Association <br /> involved in rejuvenation and reseeding efforts was also discussed as a <br /> possibility worth exploring. <br /> Recommendations <br /> Recognize that the complaints received have been from an extremely small and <br /> vocally repetivie minority. Recognize that this minority has repeatedly <br /> failed in their attempts to solicit individual City Councilor's support for <br /> their position. These 2 facts indicate Council and public support for the <br /> off -leash areas in general and at Morse Ranch in particular. <br /> Promote management criteria for these areas that will allow maximum off -leash <br /> use while at the same time prevent irreparable damage to the facility or <br /> - damage that would necessitate extensive staff time to repair and /or restore. <br /> Establish a limit of 15% nearly bare ground as a benchmark for requiring <br /> temporary winter closure of an off -leash area. Closure to last until <br /> reseeding can take effect (length of time will vary with the wait for proper <br /> planting weather and allowance of 4 -6 weeks for new seed to take hold). <br /> Encourage the Off -Leash Association to become involvedin volunteer efforts to <br /> reseed worn, bare, and trodden areas as frequently as proves necessary. <br /> Encourage the Off -Leash Association to spread City provided wood chips along <br /> the paths within the Morse Ranch east pasture that have developed as a result <br /> of off -leash usage. <br /> Encourage the Off -Leash Association to continue their self - monitoring efforts <br /> so as to minimize further impact to nearly bare ground areas. <br /> In the case that successful wood chip trails are not developed within the <br /> Morse Ranch east pasture, close the Morse Ranch off -leash area between <br /> December 1st and February 28th. <br />