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purchased using federal Land and Water Conservation Funds, the site must be managed in perpetuity for the - <br /> wetland and habitat values for which the funds were used. Since the City purchased the site in 2000, our <br /> work has focused on controlling the spread of a few invasive weeds and planting some native wildflowers, <br /> shrubs, and trees. We have not done anything to modify how water flows on the site, and we have not <br /> created or adjusted any of the ponds. <br /> Given the regulatory framework that applies to these wetlands, there is little that the City has the authority to <br /> do in terms of ditching or constructing berms within the wetlands. However as you and I discussed, there is <br /> a potential solution that could be explored along the southerly edge of your property. I committed that if the <br /> Lea Wood Homeowners' Association was interested in pursuing this I would participate in the cost. You <br /> indicated that this idea might have merit and would take it to the Association Board. I look forward to <br /> hearing back from you about this. <br /> In regards to the ruts made by city equipment, you are correct that it was inappropriate for heavy equipment <br /> to be within this area during those wet soils conditions. This unfortunate instance highlighted for me a <br /> communication and education lapse between our various city crews. <br /> The sidewalk repair staff had entered the wetlands area in order to repair sidewalks which had been identified <br /> as being hazardous. While there are times when maintenance staff is required to enter natural areas to <br /> perform maintenance, our goal is to take the proper measures to minimize or completely avoid adverse <br /> impacts. Unfortunately, in this case the equipment operator didn't determine how soft the ground was before <br /> deciding to enter this area and that resulted in the rutting. We will be working with the various crews on how <br /> they should plan and execute their work within natural areas to avoid similar future incidents. With regards <br /> to the damage caused here, when weather and soil conditions permit we will renovate the rutted area. <br /> I very much enjoyed our conversations and look forward to hearing from you. If you have any additional <br /> questions, please feel free to contact me at 682 -4800. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> �� <br /> l/Johnny Medlin, Director <br /> Parks and Open Space Division <br /> cc: Elna Stafford, Lea Wood Homeowners' Association <br /> Bonnie Bettman, City Councilor <br />