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The North Branch Parks Commission has a “homework” assignment over the next several weeks, which is to envision a preferred layout and uses of a large tract of land a longtime resident is leaving the city upon his passing.  

Max Malmquist spoke with the parks commissioners last week about the process of finalizing this gift, which is in the process of being coordinated through the Minnesota Land Trust.

The 41 acres, listed under the county property tax data at approximately $500,000,   includes hundreds of feet of frontage on the east side of Mud Lake.  An existing house and driveway will be detached creating a separate parcel.  (See aerial graphic.)

Malmquist wants to keep this space undeveloped. He explained to the parks group his main driver behind this is to protect the lake and the surrounding habitat.  He asked that there be no pavement used and a parking area be gravel.  Future park activity should be limited to archery range, paths, a lake overlook and a dock for launching kayaks or canoes.  He described some of his favorite amenities (a beaver dam for example) and vegetation and trees that deserve preservation.

Parks Commission Chair Charley Klopp said the group is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Malmquist on, “...conceptually, what you’d like to see.” 

Klopp told members their  “homework” assignment is to think about the future layout for additional discussion.  The parks group will take this up again when it meets in January. 

Meanwhile, Malmquist explained the Land Trust is in the surveying phase and also will work with North Branch on writing up plans for plantings or other environmental maintenance tasks.

  Sondrol told the parks commissioners the housing developments in this general area have wildlife corridors and open space designations that have been conceptually situated to be complementary to this parcel.

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