Dubuque Water Trail Grant ApplicationTHE CITY OF Dubuque
DUB E "~~'~'~~~
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Masterpiece on the Mississippi
2007
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Dubuque Water Trail Grant Application
DATE: September 29, 2009
Planning Services Manager Laura Carstens recommends City Council approval of an
Iowa Water Trails grant application for the Dubuque Water Trail. The Dubuque Water
Trail will stretch from Lock and Dam No. 11 south to Massey Marina Park along the
Mississippi River. The project will use existing boat ramps on the Mississippi River at
McDonald Park and Schmitt Island and at Massey Marina Park in Dubuque County, and
the Catfish Creek canoe access in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Water
trails are primarily for canoeists and kayakers.
The total project cost is estimated at $8,000. The grant request is for $6,000. The
$2,000 local match will be provided by the City of Dubuque ($1,000), the Dubuque
County Conservation Board ($500), and the Friends of the Mines of Spain ($500).
This application was submitted earlier this year but was not funded. The IDNR is
soliciting more applications for the October 31, 2009 grant round.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Michael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
THE CITY OF Dubuque
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DUB E "'~
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Masterpiece on the Mississippi
2007
TO: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager `~~
SUBJECT: Dubuque Water Trail Grant Application
DATE: September 25, 2009
Introduction
This memorandum transmits a grant application to the Iowa Department of Natural
Resources (IDNR) for the Dubuque Water Trail project for review and approval by the
City Council. This application is a joint request supported by the City of Dubuque's
Leisure Services and Planning Services Departments, the Dubuque County
Conservation Board, and the Friends of the Mines of Spain. Letters of support from both
organizations are enclosed. A resolution approving the application is enclosed as well.
Background
The IDNR has $50,000 annually available to local governments and service
organizations to create water trails on rivers, lakes, sloughs and other waterways in
Iowa. A water trail is defined as an on-water point-to-point travel system with multiple
access points, and a recommended route connecting the points. Water trails enhance
recreational experiences for all water recreation enthusiasts, including but certainly not
limited to canoeists and kayakers.
Discussion
The Dubuque Water Trail will stretch from Lock and Dam No. 11 in the city of Dubuque
south to Massey Marina Park along the Mississippi River in rural Dubuque County.
Massey Marina Park is located five miles south of Dubuque off Highway 52. The project
will use existing boat ramps on the Mississippi River at McDonald Park and Schmitt
Island in the city of Dubuque and at Massey Marina Park in Dubuque County, and the
Catfish Creek canoe access in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area just south of
the Dubuque city limits.
The 11.5 mile water trail will follow the Iowa shoreline of the Mississippi River for 9
miles. The Catfish Creek access will provide a 5-mile loop (2.5 miles, one-way) off the
river. A map of the Dubuque Water Trail project is enclosed.
The Dubuque Water Trail will have way-finding signage, including signs along nearby
Highways 61, 151, and 52 (Great River Road) directing users to access points, signs
Dubuque Water Trail Grant Application
Page 2
along the shoreline indicating distance to next access to direct trail users, and water trail
signs at each access. Informational kiosk signs with maps at the access points will
provide information to residents and visitors on what to expect while they are touring the
Mississippi River and Catfish Creek, as well as information on: fishing opportunities,
river safety, wildlife in the area, recreational facilities, and local historical, archeological
and cultural resources.
There are wing dams along this stretch of the Mississippi River. Low water levels can
make wing dams extremely dangerous to the unknowing boater. The project includes
signs to warn boaters of the hazard of wing dams, as well as to steer clear of Lock and
Dam No. 11.
Presently, non-motorized small water craft tour the Mississippi River and Catfish Creek
around Dubuque without the benefit of readily-available information about river safety,
wildlife, fishing, recreational facilities, or historical and cultural attractions. The Dubuque
Water Trail project will add to the enjoyment of those already touring the Mississippi
River and Catfish Creek in the Dubuque area, as well as encourage more people to
explore the river and creek via non-motorized small water craft. The Dubuque Water
Trail will be located in the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
Budget Impact
The total project cost is estimated at $8,000. The grant request is for $6,000. The
remaining $2,000 in local match will be provided by the City of Dubuque ($1,000), the
Dubuque County Conservation Board ($500), and the Friends of the Mines of Spain
($500). The City's portion will be provided from savings from the McAleece Park BMX
Bike Track CIP project #102-1871 in the Leisure Services Department. This $30,000
project is not proceeding.
This application was submitted earlier this year, but was not funded. The IDNR is
soliciting more applications for their October 31, 2009 grant round. Gil Spence, Leisure
Services Manager, has recommended that we re-submit the application.
Recommendation
I recommend that the City Council approve the grant application to the Iowa Department
of Natural Resources for $6,000 in Iowa Water Trail funding for the Dubuque Water Trail
project.
Enclosures
cc: Gil Spence, Leisure Services Manager
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Prepared by: Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589-4210
Return to: Jeanne Schneider, City Clerk Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589-4210
RESOLUTION NO. 383 -09
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION FOR IOWA
WATER TRAIL FUNDING TO THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
FOR THE DUBUQUE WATER TRAIL.
Whereas, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources has announced the availability of
Iowa water trail funding; and
Whereas, the City has adopted a Comprehensive Plan that includes a Recreation Goal
to optimize the recreational amenities offered by the city's riverfront.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The Planning Services Manager is authorized to submit this application to the
Iowa Department of Natural Resources for Iowa water trail funding for the Dubuque Water Trail.
Section 2. That in the event said application is approved, the City Council agrees to
abide by all local, state and federal requirements applicable to the proposed budget.
Passed, approved and adopted this 5thday of octo'~ber 2009.
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Roy D.,t~uol, Mayor
Attest:
~~.~
Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk
IOWA WATER TRAILS PROGRAM
GRANT APPLICATION
PROJECT NAME Dubuque Water Trail
APPLICANT NAME City of Dubuque
CONTACT PERSON Laura Carstens
ADDRESS (street address required) 50 W. 13~' Street
CITY Dubuque STATE IA ZIP CODE 52001
PHONE (day) 563/589-4210 PHONE (evening) 563/564-5036
E-MAIL lcarsten@cityofdubuque.org
TOTAL IOWA DNR WATER TRAILS & SAFETY
GRANT AMOUNT REQUESTED $ 6,000
FUNDS SECURED FROM OTHER SOURCES $ 2,000
FUNDS NEEDED FROM OTHER SOURCES $ 0
TOTAL COST OF PROJECT $ 8,000
TOTAL NUMBER OF TRAIL MILES TO BE CONSTRUCTED OR AFFECTED 11.5 miles
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APPLICATION RANKING CRITERIA
Applications will be reviewed on a 100-point scoring system. Point values have been assigned to the
various questions in the application as indicated below. Beyond the points system below, scoring
committee members will take into account overall benefit to the state's water trails system,
qualifications of applicant, soundness of plan, and perceived likelihood of success described in the
narrative. Applicants will receive notification of acceptance or deferral by mail in March of each
calendar year. Please be concise; limit responses to a maximum of 250 words per question.
1. Will this trail use the statewide water trail signage system? (Yes or no. If no, please describe
an alternative system and reasons for using it.) (5 points)
Yes, the Dubuque Water Trail will use the statewide water trail signage system.
2. How will this project enhance water safety on the trail's waterway? (10 points)
Presently, non-motorized small water craft tour the Mississippi River around Dubuque
without the benefit of readily-available information about river safety. Along the project
route, the Mississippi River is actively used by commercial barges, pleasure cruises by
historic and replica paddle boats, and a variety of motorized watercraft. The Dubuque Water
Trail will enhance water safety on this section of the waterway through the informational
kiosks to be located at existing accesses. These signs will include information on river safety.
Users of the trail as well as other boaters will be made aware of water safety via the
informational kiosks. The brochure for the Dubuque Water Trail also will provide
information on river safety.
3. Describe your water resource and how your water trail will be attractive to people seeking
recreation experiences on it. (10 points)
The Dubuque Water Trail will be in the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish
Refuge. The refuge is open to fishing as well as deer and waterfowl hunting, and lies within
the Mississippi Flyway.
The project will use existing boat ramps at the City, County, and State parks noted above.
There are interpretive, educational, and recreational opportunities in these parks. The water
trail will connect to the existing bike/hike trail system.
McDonald Parr located south of Lock and Dam No. 11, offers: fishing piers, boat ramp,
play structure, walking/biking path, picnicking, restrooms, and river overlook. McAleece
Recreation Complex, located on Schmitt Island, features: boat ramp; softball, baseball, and
soccer field; concession stand, playground equipment, picnicking, and skate park. Miller
Riverview Park, also on Schmitt Island, has: RV and tent camping, picnicking, playground,
walking/biking path, wetlands, prairie, woodlands, fishing pier/wildlife overlool~ and open
air pavilions. Private businesses provide lodging, marine fuel dock, transient slips, RV
parking, and restaurants on Schmitt Island.
The Mines of Spain is a National Historic Landmark and a state preserve just south of
Dubuque. The park's visitor center has displays on historical farming sites, prairies, lead
mining, Native Americans and wildlife. Trails connect visitors to a farm site, forests,
prairies, archeological sites, and wetlands.
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Massey Marina Park is located five miles south of Dubuque off Highway 52. The marina
offers: boat ramp, seasonal and daily slip rentals, marine fuel docl~ short-term courtesy
dock, concession building, restroom/shower facilities, laundry, bait, picnic grounds,
campsites, and accessible playground units.
4. How does your water trail project correspond with conservation efforts, including but not
limited to watershed improvement, conservation improvements, trash clean-ups, greenbelt
enhancement, scenic view protection, and water quality monitoring? (10 points)
The Dubuque Water Trail is consistent with the following City of Dubuque's Comprehensive
Plan goals:
• To promote the protection, preservation and enhancement of the biodiversity of the
city's bluffs and prairies, wetlands, waterways, and all natural areas, and encourage
partnerships.
• To promote community clean-up and beautification efforts through public and private
partnerships.
• To balance open space and environmental preservation with the community's
development needs.
Although not currently on Iowa's impaired waters list, Upper Catfish Creek, located in
Dubuque County, is taking preventative measures to keep it off the list and maintain high
quality water. Landowners and the Upper Catfish Creek Watershed Project are working
together to reduce sediment reaching the creek by 30 percent and to protect the Coldwater
characteristics of the creek. The Dubuque Water Trail will be an opportunity to highlight this
watershed protection project.
IOWATER water sampling and analysis is conducted on Catfish Creek by the University of
Dubuque students. Students collect and present Catfish Creek Water and Soils data. Most of
this data is placed on IOWATER Snapshots. The Dubuque Water Trail will be an opportunity
to highlight this volunteer water monitoring program.
5. Detail why funds from this program are needed, and how funds from this grant program
might be used to leverage local, federal, and any other funds. Projects with other funds
secured receive priority. (10 points)
The partnership agencies for the Dubuque Water Trail project are the City of Dubuque,
Dubuque County Conservation Board, and the Friends of the Mines of Spain. None of the
partnership agencies has sufficient capital funds to cover the entire project cost. All three
agencies have committed to provide matching funds for the Iowa Water Trail Program grant
request. The local match totals $2, 000. This is 25% of the total project cost of $8, 000. None
of the partnership agencies has suff cient capital funds to cover the entire project cost. The
Iowa Water Trail Program grant of $6, 000 will make this project possible.
6. In what ways will you involve volunteers in this project? (5 points)
Volunteers from the Friends of the Mines of Spain and Tri-State Trail Vision have been
involved in planning this water trail project. Students in the Cultural Heritage Program at
Loras College will assist with research of content and design of the kiosk map signs and the
trail brochure. Volunteers will assist after completion of the project with trail maintenance
under the direction of the partnership agencies.
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7. How will environmental impacts be taken into account in design and construction of
accesses? How will size of the waterway be considered relative to size of the access? (10
points)
The Dubuque Water Trail will use existing accesses to minimize the environmental impact.
Boat ramps on the Mississippi River at McDonald Park and Schmitt Island in the city of
Dubuque and at Massey Marina Park in Dubuque County, and the Catfish Creek canoe
access in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area will be the access points for the water
trail. Environmental impacts will be limited to the installation of kiosk map signs at the
access points and way-finding signs along the Mississippi River shoreline to direct trail
users.
8. Describe the planning efforts and how public input been sought and demonstrated (i.e.,
public meetings, media coverage, local supporting group endorsements, etc.)? Have outside
governmental (i.e., DNR, National Park Service, RC&D) staff or private planners assisted a
water trail planning effort, and how was the public engaged? What were the results (i.e.,
"wilderness water trail" designation for a portion of the trail, types of amenities desired, etc.)
(15 points)
Project planning involved the Friends of the Mines of Spain, IDNR staff from Des Moines
and the Mines of Spain, City of Dubuque staff from the Leisure Services Department and the
Planning Services Department, Dubuque County Conservation Board, and Tri-State Trail
Vision. The Friends of the Mines of Spain is a local non profit organization that assists the
IDNR Park Staff in the administering of the Mines of Spain and park's Interpretive Center.
Tri-State Trail Vision is a local nonprofit corporation that advocates for creation of an
integrated bike/hike trail system throughout the Tri-State (Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois)
Metropolitan Area to encourage: recreation, wellness, alternative transportation, energy
conservation, heritage tourism, environmental education, and air quality.
Public meetings on the Dubuque Water Trail were held by the City of Dubuque's Park and
Recreation Commission and the Dubuque County Conservation Board. This application is a
result of input received during these planning sessions and public meetings.
9. How do you expect this water trail project will benefit your community -economically,
environmentally, and otherwise? (10 points)
The target market will be those interested in nature, outdoor activities, historical and
cultural offerings within a 250 mile radius of Dubuque. The target market will be divided
into residents (those living within a 50 mile radius) and out of town travelers (outside a 50
mile radius) with these interests.
The project will enhance heritage tourism and eco-tourism in the community and increase in
visitation for the area. It will enable people of all ages to enjoy and explore the Mississippi
River's prehistoric, historic, cultural and natural features. It will provide opportunities to
share information on nationally significant historic, cultural and natural features which
abound at the Mines of Spain and in the U.S. Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The project will
enhance a regional destination where people can reconnect with nature by experiencing the
natural, cultural and ecological aspects of the environment through interactive learning
while traveling the water trail or linking to the bike/hike trail system.
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The project will inform and educate the public on nature, ecology, conservation, greenbelt
concept, natural history, archeology, and other environmental attributes of the area. It will
access a variety of recreational facilities.
Burgeoning interest in the rich history of the tri-state area and growing awareness of the
significance of the Mississippi River and its watershed has created greater demands for
facilities and educational programming. The water trail can help meet this demand for more
programs and services. Continued success and growth fn visitation, interpretation and
education will be fostered by this project.
10. Describe a maintenance plan and list authority(ies) to be responsible for water trail
maintenance and operation. Projects with a planned approach to maintenance over the
coming decades will receive higher priority. (10 points)
The IDNR Mines of Spain, City of Dubuque, and the Dubuque County Conservation Board
all have operating and maintenance budgets for the accesses within their jurisdictions. These
agencies will be responsible for the kiosk map signs and way-finding signs at their access
points, which will be added to these existing operating and maintenance budgets.
11. Does your project area have other types of existing trails (i.e., biking or hiking)? Describe
planned connections (linkages) between different types of trail systems. (5 points)
This project will provide connections to regional, state and national bike/hike trail systems
as well as links to the existing bike/hike trails in Dubuque and Dubuque County. It also will
connect to the trail systems in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. The Dubuque
County Heritage Trail and the City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System are part
of the backbone system of the State Recreational Trail Plan. The Dubuque County Heritage
Trail and the trail system in the Mines of Spain are National Recreation Trails. Portions of
the County and City Heritage Trail systems and the Mines of Spain trail system are part of
the designated route for the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) through Iowa. The MRT is a
2, 000-mile bike trail system being developed through the river cities and river landscapes in
the 10 states along the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico.
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Application for DNR Water Trail Designation
Complete this application and send to:
Nate Hoogeveen, Iowa DNR Water Trails Coordinator, Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. 9`~ St., Des Moines, IA 50319-0034
The following are guidelines that are consistent with the Iowa Department of Natural Resource's
vision of a "DNR Water Trail":
^ The trail is signed according to guidelines in the Water Trails Sign Manual
(http://www.iowadnr.com/watertrails/toolkit.html#si;?n), or conforms to a parallel signage
system developed locally.
^ The trail possesses adequate portage around obstructions and dams, or the obstructions and
dams are modified for safety, or the water trail begins and ends a safe distance upstream and
downstream from hazards.
^ The trail has adequate accesses, while recognizing that in some cases a long stretch of river
with no accesses is an ideal experience for wilderness.
^ Periodic kiosks exist and conform to the Water Trail Guidelines
(http://www.iowadnr.com/watertrails/toolkit.html#kiosk).
^ The trail has access to camping/lodging locations unless it is designated as a day-trip only
water trail.
^ The trail is promoted through maps, brochures, and/or web sites.
^ All promotional materials contain listings of as much of the following as possible: restrooms,
campsites, access points, difficulty of access points, surface type of access, obstructions,
distances between accesses, nearby cities, and ADA information.
Designated Iowa DNR Water Trails receive the following benefits:
^ Statewide recognition and support
^ Reference on the Iowa DNR Water Trails web site
^ An Iowa DNR-created "Water Trail Map" on www.iowadnr.gov
Contact Information:
Name: Laura Carstens
Title: Planning Services Mana;;er
Organization: JCity of Dubuque
Phone: (563) J589 - 4210
E-Mail: lcarsten(a,ci ofdubuque.or~
Street: 50 W. 13~' Street
City: Dubuque
State: IA Zip: 52001
Trail Information:
Location: Mississippi River & Catfish Creek
Miles of river: 11.5 miles
Name of Water Trail: Dubuque Water Trail
Counties spanned: Dubuque County
Please describe the planning and execution that have been undertaken to meet the vision of
an Iowa DNR Water Trail (use attached sheet if necessary).
Project planning involved the Friends of the Mines of Spain, IDNR staff, City of Dubuque staff
from the Leisure Services Department and the Planning Services Department, Dubuque County
Conservation Board, and Tri-State Trail Vision. All IDNR guidelines for a Water Trail listed
above will be met with this project.
Wilderness Water Trail Information:
Locally identified "Wilderness Water Trails" can make up a segment of a water trail, or
encompass a water trail in its entirety. The designation is intended to develop an expectation
among users that wildness is a key attribute, accesses will be intentionally interspersed at longer
intervals than on other water trails, that amenities and signage will be kept to a minimum, and
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conservation efforts and river management will be a priority. At least one public meeting to
determine landowner and community support is strongly encouraged prior to such a designation.
Please list the following:
Beginning access point for Wilderness Water Trail designation: McDonald Park or Schmitt
Island
Ending access point for Wilderness Water Trail designation: Massey Marina Park
Describe public input received prior to request for Wilderness Water Trail designation: Project
planning involved the Friends of the Mines of Spain, IDNR staff, City of Dubuque staff from the
Leisure Services Department and the Planning Services Department, Dubuque County
Conservation Board, and Tri-State Trail Vision. The Friends of the Mines of Spain assists the
IDNR Park Staff in the administering of the Mines of Spain and park's Interpretive Center. Tri-
State Trail Vision is a local non profit corporation that advocates for creation of an integrated
bike/hike trail system throughout the Tri-State Metropolitan Area around Dubuque.
Public meetings on the Dubuque Water Trail were held by the City of Dubuque's Park and
Recreation Commission and the Dubuque County Conservation Board. This application is a
result of input received during these planning sessions and public meetings.
Describe the natural resource value of this river segment, and why it is important for this
segment to receive a Wilderness Water Trail designation: The Dubuque Water Trail is located in
the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Acres of wooded islands,
marshes, and backwaters comprise the Upper Miss Refuge. The refuge provides migratory
habitat for a large percentage of the migratory birds in the Mississippi Flyway. Tundra swans
and canvasback ducks use the refuge as a resting and feeding area in the spring and fall. Winter
is an opportune time to view bald eagles. Spring offers a glimpse of colorful images as the
neotropical migrants move to their nesting areas. Target species for fishing include: walleye,
sauger, bass, crappie, and sunfish. Fishing for catfish on the Mississippi River is a popular sport
as well. Bank fishing and ice fishing round out the fishing opportunities on the refuge. Deer and
waterfowl are very common on the refuge. Interpretive signs along the Great River Road tell the
story of the refuge and the region. Observation decks, kiosks, and trails offer visitors
opportunities for a more intimate look at the refuge.
The Dubuque Water Trail will use the Catfish Creek canoe access in the Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area, 1,380 acres of beautiful wooded and prairie land just south of Dubuque. The
area has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and includes Julien Dubuque's
Monument at a point just above where Catfish Creek meets the Mississippi. One of Iowa's
"Watchable Wildlife Areas, " it features the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center which serves as the
visitor center and the park office. The park offers the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail, the 1 S-
acre wetland, creeks, forest, prairies, cropland, meadows and the Mississippi River from a bald
eagle's view. Visitors can picnic, go for a hike or cross country ski on one of the many trails and
maybe capture a glimpse of a song bird, bobcat, red-shouldered hawl~ flying squirrel, white-
tailed deer, wild turkey or various butterflies along the Mississippi River bluffland.
The Dubuque Water Trail will use the existing boat access on Schmitt Island. The Heron Pond
Wetlands is located on the island along a paved bike/hike trail in a prairie restoration area.
Numerous bird species have been identified including the great blue heron, mallard and wood
ducks, Canada geese and many songbirds. The area is also home to beavers, muskrats,
woodchucks and red fox. More than twenty species of fish have been documented using this
pond. A "Watchable Wildlife Areas, "the Heron Pond Wetlands has an accessible fishing pier/
wildlife overlook.
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C. NARRATIVE: Dubuque Water Trail
Existing Conditions
The Dubuque Water Trail will be located in the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and
Fish Refuge, along the Iowa shoreline of the Mississippi River for 9 miles and along 2.5 miles of
Catfish Creek. Acres of wooded islands, marshes, and backwaters comprise the refuge. The
water trail corridor includes urbanized areas in the city of Dubuque, natural areas within the
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, and sparsely developed rural areas in Dubuque County. A
railroad line follows the shoreline along the water trail route. Along the project route, the
Mississippi River is actively used by commercial barges, pleasure cruises by historic and replica
paddle boats, and a variety of motorized watercraft. There are wing dams along this stretch of the
Mississippi River.
In the city of Dubuque, the riverfront along the proposed water trail includes several major park
areas with access to the Mississippi River -McDonald Park, Miller Riverview Park, and
McAleece Recreation Complex. McDonald Park and McAleece Recreation Complex both have
boat ramps operated and maintained by the City of Dubuque that will serve as the northern
access points for the Dubuque Water Trail. In the city of Dubuque, the riverfront along the water
trail route also includes river-dependent industrial areas and the America's River project at the
Port of Dubuque. America's River is one of Iowa's premier tourist destinations, including the
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
The Dubuque Water Trail will use the Catfish Creek canoe access in the 1,380-acre Mines of
Spain State Recreation Area, located just south of Dubuque. This state park has 3 miles of
Mississippi River shoreline, 20 miles of hiking trails, 5 miles of cross country ski trails, 4
interpretive trails, 252 archaeological sites, historical monuments and a variety of wildlife. It also
boasts some of the most diverse ecological habitats ranging from blufflands that overlook the
river to 320+ acres of tall grass prairies, 959+ acres of forested woodlands and 18 acres of
wetland. It is home to 468 plant species, 37 animal species, and 213 bird species.
The Dubuque Water Trail will use the existing boat ramp at Massey Marina Park, which is
located five miles south of Dubuque off Highway 52, as the southern access point.
Project Concept
The Dubuque Water Trail will stretch from Lock and Dam No. 11 in the city of Dubuque south
to Massey Marina Park along the Mississippi River in rural Dubuque County. Massey Marina
Park is located five miles south of Dubuque off Highway 52 (Great River Road). The project
will use existing boat ramps on the Mississippi River at McDonald Park and Schmitt Island in
the city of Dubuque and at Massey Marina Park in Dubuque County, and the Catfish Creek
canoe access in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area just south of the Dubuque city limits.
The 11.5 mile water trail will follow the Iowa shoreline of the Mississippi River for 9 miles. The
Catfish Creek access will provide a 5-mile loop (2.5 miles, one-way) off the river.
The Dubuque Water Trail will have way-finding signage, including signs along nearby
Highways 61, 151, and 52 (Great River Road) directing users to access points, signs along the
shoreline indicating distance to next access to direct trail users, and water trail signs at each
access. Informational kiosk signs with maps at the access points will provide information to
C. NARRATIVE: Dubuque Water Trail
residents and visitors on what to expect while they are touring the Mississippi River and Catfish
Creek, as well as information on: fishing opportunities, river safety, wildlife in the area,
recreational facilities, and local historical, archeological and cultural resources.
There are wing dams along this stretch of the Mississippi River. Low water levels can make
wing dams extremely dangerous to the unknowing boater. The project includes signs to warn
boaters of the hazard of wing dams, as well as to steer clear of Lock and Dam No. 11.
Project Justification
Presently, non-motorized small water craft tour the Mississippi River and Catfish Creek around
Dubuque without the benefit ofreadily-available information about river safety, wildlife, fishing,
recreational facilities, or historical and cultural attractions. The Dubuque Water Trail project will
rectify this situation.
This project will increase expanding local citizen awareness of the resources and importance of
the Mississippi River. The project will encourage exploration and interpretation of the
Mississippi River and Catfish Creek in the Dubuque area via non-motorized small water craft.
The Dubuque Water Trail will provide new travel experiences, helping to increase heritage
tourism and eco-tourism in the area. The project will inform and educate the public on nature,
ecology, conservation, greenbelt concept, natural history, archeology, and other environmental
attributes of the area. It will access a variety of recreational facilities.
Consistency with Area-wide, Local, Regional, or Statewide Plans
The Dubuque Water Trail is consistent with the following City of Dubuque's Comprehensive
Plan goal: To promote the protection, preservation and enhancement of the biodiversity of the
city's bluffs and prairies, wetlands, waterways, and all natural areas, and encourage partnerships.
The City's objectives to accomplish this goal include:
^ Encourage environmentally appropriate public use of, and access to, the community's bluffs,
wetlands and waterways.
^ Encourage protection and restoration of these sensitive areas as development and
redevelopment occurs, including along the riverfront bluffs.
The project also is consistent with the following City of Dubuque's Comprehensive Plan goal:
To promote community clean-up and beautification efforts through public and private
partnerships. The City's objectives to accomplish this goal include:
^ .Educate the public on litter prevention and illegal dumping and enforce existing laws.
^ Encourage clean-up, beautification, and landscaping for the public, private and business
sectors, i.e. parkland, roadway, and shoreline adoption programs.
In addition, the project is consistent with the following City of Dubuque's Comprehensive Plan
goal: To balance open space and environmental preservation with the community's development
needs. The City's objectives to accomplish this goal include:
^ Encourage parks, green space, trails and similar park/open space uses easily accessible to
residents at neighborhood level.
^ Support management of development along bluff lines and protect scenic vistas.
^ Support protection of undeveloped and underdeveloped remaining land along bluff-lines.
C. NARRATIVE: Dubuque Water Trail
^ Support protection and enhancement of riverfront and related wetlands, waterway corridors
and other sensitive land areas.
The Dubuque Water Trail supports these goals of the IDNR's Mines of Spain Master Plan:
^ Develop and promote facilities and programs that interpret the significance of the site's
resources and increase visitor understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural
heritage represented there.
^ Maximize multiple-use recreation facilities and opportunities consistent with the area's
resources.
The Dubuque Water Trail supports these goals of the IDNR's State Conservation and Outdoor
Recreation Plan:
^ Tie recreational opportunities with other attractions and facilities and promote these
cooperatively to attract visitors, both in state and out of state.
^ Develop partnerships between various agencies, special interest groups and government
organizations, state and federal, to best preserve and promote outdoor recreational
opportunities.
^ Educate all ages, with an emphasis on the young, in outdoor skills and stewardship ethics, to
increase the awareness and the appreciation of our natural resources.
^ Recreational developments should be appropriate uses of the particular land area and should
incorporate the needs of protecting sensitive natural areas.
^ Future recreational opportunities should focus on attracting people of all ages to Iowa and
promote improving the health and wellness of Iowa.
Overall Benefit to State's Water Trail System
The map of IDNR designated water trails and water trails that are being developed posted on the
IDNR website does not include any water trails in Dubuque County. The Dubuque Water Trail
will be the first water trail to be developed in Dubuque County.
The of IDNR designated water trails and water trails that are being developed posted on the
IDNR website shows a single water trail along the Mississippi River. The Dubuque Water Trail
can be a segment of a future Upper Mississippi River Trail that eventually can link Iowa counties
and cities up and down the river -similar to the Iowa segment of the MRT (Mississippi River
Trail) for bicyclists.
4ualifications of Applicant
The City of Dubuque and the Dubuque County Conservation Board are experienced in the
operation and maintenance of their existing trails and boat ramps along the Mississippi River.
IDNR staff at the Mines of Spain is experienced in the operation and maintenance of existing
trails and canoe access at the State Recreation Area. All three agencies also are experienced in
the use of volunteers. These agencies are well qualified to complete this project.
Soundness of Plan
The Dubuque Water Trail will use existing boat ramps on the Mississippi River at McDonald
Park and Schmitt Island in the city of Dubuque and at Massey Marina Park in Dubuque County,
and the Catfish Creek canoe access in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area just south of the
C. NARRATIVE: Dubuque Water Trail
Dubuque city limits. Presently, non-motorized small water craft tour the Mississippi River and ,
Catfish Creek around Dubuque without the benefit of readily-available information about river
safety, wildlife, fishing, recreational facilities, or historical and cultural attractions. The Dubuque
Water Trail project will add to the enjoyment of those already touring the Mississippi River and
Catfish Creek in the Dubuque area, as well as encourage more people to explore the river and
creek via non-motorized small water craft.
Likelihood of Success
The Dubuque Water Trail will use existing boat ramps on the Mississippi River in the city of
Dubuque and in Dubuque County, as well as an existing canoe access in the Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area. The use of existing access points will help make people aware of the Dubuque
Water Trail because these ramps are already actively utilized by residents and visitors.
The City of Dubuque, the Dubuque County Conservation Board, and the Friends of the Mines of
Spain are all active participants in the marketing efforts of the Convention & Visitors Bureau of
the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce. The inclusion of the Dubuque Water Trail in these
established marketing efforts will help ensure the project's success.
In addition, the City of Dubuque, the Dubuque County Conservation Board, and the Friends of
the Mines of Spain all have websites that provide information on recreational facilities within
their jurisdictions. Adding information about the Dubuque Water Trail on these websites also
will help ensure the project's success.
G. ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN of the total project costs and, if applicable, the portion this grant
is expected to fund.
Item Unit Cost Unit Quantity Total Cost IDNR Share Local Share
Kiosk Signs $1,500 each 4 $6,000 $6,000
Directional/
Hazard Signs $50 each 8 $400 $400
Wayfinding
Signs $100 each 6 $600 $600
Brochures $1,000 lump sum TBD $1,000 $1 000
PROJECT TOTAL $8,000 $6,000 $2,000
Minority Impact Statement
Pursuant to 2008 Iowa Acts, HF 2393, Iowa Code Section 8.11, all grant applications submitted to the State of
Iowa which are due beginning January 1, 2009 shall include a Minority Impact Statement. This is the state's
mechanism to require grant applicants to consider the potential impact of the grant project's proposed programs
or policies on minority groups.
Please choose the statement(s) that pertains to this grant application. Complete all the
information requested for the chosen statement(s).
^ The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique positive impact on
minority persons.
Describe the positive impact expected from this project
Indicate which group is impacted:
_ Women
Persons with a Disability
Blacks
Latinos
Asians
_ Pacific Islanders
_ American Indians
_ Alaskan Native Americans
Other
^ The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique negative impact
on minority persons.
Describe the negative impact expected from this project
Present the rationale for the existence of the proposed program or policy.
Provide evidence of consultation of representatives of the minority groups impacted.
Indicate which group is impacted:
Women
Persons with a Disability
Blacks
_ Latinos
Asians
Pacific Islanders
American Indians
_ Alaskan Native Americans
Other
The proposed grant project programs or policies are not expected to have a disproportionate or unique
impact on minority persons.
Present the rationale for determining no impact.
The Dubuque Water Trail will be open free of charge to all users and will comply with applicable ADA codes.
I hereby certify that the information on this form is complete and accurate, to the best of my knowledge:
Name: Laura Carstens
Title: Planning Services Manager, City of Dubuque
FRIENDS o~f~le,N11_(~iES o~SPAiN
8991 Bellevue Hfs.
Dubuque, [A 52003-92'(4
(563) 556-Ob20
www. m i nesoFsp~ ih.org
December 23, 2008
To: .Iowa Department of Natural Resources .
Water Trail Coordinator
From: Douglas G. Olk, M.D./President
Friends of the Mines of Spain
Re: Dubuque Water Trail
The Friends of the Mines of Spain is an active group that supports the Mines of Spain
Recreation Area at Dubuque. The purpose of the organization is to inform and educate
the public on nature, ecology, and conservation, attract and administer support fiom the
public for natural history, archaeology, nature, ecology, and current events at the E. B.
Lyons Interpretive Center and the Mines of Spain Recreation Area.
As a support group to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area we fully encourage the
creation of a water trail from the City of Dubuque to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area
and to the Massey Station County Park just south of the Mines of Spain. We further
pledge om• support in providing matching funds of $500 and to help provide.assistance in
maintaining the canoe launch and route within the park. .
Sincere ,
Douglas G. OIk .D.
President, Friends of the Mines of Spain
printed on recycled paper
DUBUQUE COUNTY CONSERVATION BOARD
13606 Swiss Valley Rd.
Peosta, IA 52068
563-556-6745
563-589-7813 fax
~oit tvs~ www.dubuquecoun , .com
Brian Preston, Director
Board Members:
Dr. Thomas White
Nita Wiederaenders
Roger La Barge
Pat Rea
Yvonne Nauman
December 26, 2008
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
City of Dubuque
50 West 13~' Street
Dubuque, IA 52001-4864
RE: Iowa Water Trails Grant Application
Dear Laura,
On behalf of the Dubuque County Conservation Board, I am pleased to provide this letter
of support for the Iowa Water Trails Program Grant Application for the Dubuque Water
Trail. This project will create 11.5 miles of water trail in Dubuque County.
The proposed water trail on the Mississippi River in Dubuque County is extremely
picturesque, with scenic views of woodlands, farmland, historic landmarks and limestone
bluffs. The Dubuque Water Trail will add to the recreation and tourism potential of the tri-
state area.
The Dubuque Water Trail offers a unique opportunity for the City of Dubuque, the Iowa
DNR and the Dubuque county Conservation Board to work together to link existing
facilities and amenities along the Mississippi River. The Dubuque Water Trail will
promote environmentally friendly recreation and assist in developing a greater appreciation
in our natural resources.
Sincerely,
~-~
Brian Preston, Director
Dubuque County Conservation Board