Rock Quarry Redevelopment by Jordan Young

Rock Quarry Redevelopment:

Revitalizing a Highly Disturbed Habitat into a Highly Utilized Environment Jordan Young

Acknowledgements

I would like to give thanks to my committee for their continued support, feedback, and encouragement throughout the duration of this project- Kay Williams and Les Linscott, my committee chair. I sincerely appreciate all of the learning opportunities that you have provided me. Continued progress on and enhancement of this project was due to a healthy competitiveness between me and a fellow classmate and dear friend, Kevin Velinsky. You helped me to stay on track and pushed me to better my work. You made studio sessions fun while remaining productive. Finally, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to give thanks to my beatiful wife Brooklyn. Countless times have you kept me motivated and pushed me to do my best. Without you it is fair to say that I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be where I am today.

Weigh Station located on the south eastern portion of the site.

Table of Contents About the Client.................................................................................................................................... 7 Part One: Site Analysis History........................................................................................................................................... 10 Contextual Analysis......................................................................................................................... 11 Site Inventory................................................................................................................................. 16 Comprehensive Plan........................................................................................................................ 21 Historical Preservation..................................................................................................................... 29 User Analysis.................................................................................................................................. 30 Goals & Objectives........................................................................................................................... 34 So What?........................................................................................................................................ 37 Program Matrix................................................................................................................................ 38 Part Two: Case Studies Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park, Portland, CT..................................................................... 42 Three Oaks Recreational Area, Crystal Lake, IL.................................................................................... 44 Cottonmill Lake Rehabilitation Project, North-Central Nebraska............................................................... 46 Part Three: Design Concept.......................................................................................................................................... 50 Master Plan..................................................................................................................................... 52 Phasing.......................................................................................................................................... 53 Phase One:Bass Estuary.................................................................................................................... 54 Phase Two: Conservation.................................................................................................................. 58 Phase Three: Remaining Primary Infrastructure & Related Amenity......................................................... 62 Phase Four: Remaining Secondary Infrastructure & Related Amenity....................................................... 64 Experience............................................................................................................................................ 68 References............................................................................................................................................ 70

About the Client For the purpose of this project the hypothetical client, Recreational Outdoorsman, has asked for a proposal of a recreational park with an emphasis on Trophy Bass fishing. They want to create a home for multiple recreational uses, emphasizing on fishing tournaments and the people they bring. Other amenities include, but are not limited to: Horseback Riding, Walking/ Jogging Trails, Open Space, Mountain Bike Riding, Conservation/Learning Areas, Ziplining and Camping/Lodging. The client wants to bring all of the program elements into one park to provide users with an outdoor experience while paying tribute to the history of the site.

Part One: Site Analysis

Site History Dating back to the late nineteenth century, commercial mining has taken place in the Northeastern area of Newberry, Florida. Originally, phosphate was being extracted from accumulated sediments in large sinkholes and channels that had been eroded in limestone. After some time, these phosphate deposits began to lose value; therefore, these deposits were no longer profitable or worth excavating. In the mid 1900â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, limestone became the material of choice to mine. Several quarries in the area were being excavated and collectively became known as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Haile Quarriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; because of their proximity to the town of Haile. Most recently around 2005, 2-million-year-old fossils have been discovered beneath the dirt of an ancient sinkhole. Today, these fossils are being unearthed by the Division of Vertebrate Palaeontology at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

Contextual Analysis: State

Contextual Analysis: County

13 Contextual Analysis: City

Contextual Analysis: Parcel Boundary 14

Contextual Analysis: Amenities Fish Camps Howard’s Fishing Excursions Kate’s Fish Camp McIntosh Fish Camp Twin Lakes Fishing & Camping South Shore Fish Camp

Distance 40 min. (28.2 mi.) 42 min. (26.8 mi.) 42 min. (23.6 mi.) 45 min. (34.6 mi.) 46 min. (37.5 mi.)

Equestrian Centers Canterbury Florida’s Equestrian Show Place Hawkfield’s Farm Full Partner’s Equestrian Center Twin Oaks Stables

06 min. 11 min. 09 min. 15 min.

Trails Cofrin Nature Park San Felasco Hammock Preserve

16 min. (08.2 mi.) 29 min. (20.8 mi.)

Campgrounds Blue Springs Park Ginnie Springs Breezy Acres Campground Otter Springs Park & Campground

32 min. 34 min. 40 min. 51 min.

(02.5 mi.) (05.5 mi.) (04.6 mi.) (10.6 mi.)

(24.8 mi.) (27.3 mi.) (30.3 mi.) (35.6 mi.)

Site Inventory: Soils Alfisols Soil - Arable soils with water content adequate for at least three consecutive months of the growing season. Prior to cultivation, they are covered with natural broad-leaved deciduous forest vegetation, sometimes interspersed with needle-leaved evergreen forest or with grass. Below the surface horizon lies a region with significant accumulation of translocated (migrated) layer silicate clay. Ultisols Soil - Reddish, clay-rich, acidic soils that support a mixed forest vegetation prior to cultivation. They are naturally suitable for forestry, can be made agriculturally productive with the application of lime and fertilizers, and are stable materials for construction projects.

Ultisols differ from Alfisols by their few mineral nutrients and high content of aluminum.

Site Inventory: Vegetation Existing vegetation consists mostly of Oak Hammocks, Pine Scrubs, and a variety of grasses. Due to the soils on site consisting mostly of clay, most vegetation consists of a natural, broad-leaved deciduous forest. Scattered throughout are needled-leaved evergreens with splotches of grass meandering about the site.

Given the soil survey, the actual vegetation on site reflects the properties of the two dominant soils exactly. Due to the enormous amount of site disturbances, a large presence of limestone has made its way to the surface, which may hinder the success of future vegetation. Soil remediation and land moving will be a necessity in future planting design.

Site Inventory: Wildlife Mammals Virginia Opossum Nine-banded Armadillo Northern Yellow Bat Big brown Bat Evening Bat Mexican free-tailed Bat Raccoon Coyote Gray Fox Red Fox Florida Black Bear Spotted Skunk Otter Striped Skunk Mink Bobcat Florida Panther Wild Pig White-tailed Deer Golden Mouse Florida Mouse Eastern Woodrat Cotton Rat Pocket Gopher

Fox Squirrel Gray Squirrel Flying Squirrel Cottontail Rabbit Marsh Rabbit Snakes Eastern Hognose Snake Rat Snakes Eastern Indigo Snake Black Racer Rough Green Snake Garter Snake Mud Snake Banded Water Snake Brown Water Snake Pine Snake Salt Marsh Snake Florida Scarlet Snake Striped Crayfish Snake Swamp Snake Pine Woods Snake Ringneck Snake Brown Snake Scarlet Kingsnake Crowned Snake

Birds Mississippi Kite Bald Eagle Sandhill Crane Burrowing Owl Red-cockaded Woodpecker Florida Scrub-Jay Brown-headed Nuthatch Wood Thrush Bachmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sparrow Turtles Gopher Tortoise Box Turtle Alligator Snapping Turtle Common Snapping Turtle Striped Mud Turtle Florida Softshell Turtle Spiny Softshell Turtle Florida Cooter River Cooter Florida Red-bellied Turtle Yellow-bellied Slider Stinkpot Diamondback Terrapin Mangrove Terrapin

White-tailed Deer

Wild Pig

Sand Hill Crane

Opossum

19 Eastern Hognose Snake

Gopher Tortoise

Raccoon

Site Inventory: Disturbances Due the history of this site, a lot of negative attributes have been established. Quarrying limestone results in a lot of negative effects on the environment. Such disturbances include:

Poor Air Quality/Fumes

Increased Runoff and Sediment Yields

Water Pollution

Erosion

Loss of Wildlife

Previous Noise Pollution

Dust and Related Diseases

Excessive Waste

Land Transformation

Comprehensive Plan According to the Recreation Element in the Alachua Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2030 Comprehensive Plan:

GOAL 1

TO PROVIDE AN INTEGRATED RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE SYSTEM FOR ALACHUA COUNTY. OBJECTIVE 1.1 Develop and maintain an enhanced system of activity-based and resource-based recreational facilities that consist of a broad range of developed and protected sites and programmed recreation that is integrated by service area throughout the County from the neighborhood to the regional scale and accessible to all residents of Alachua County. OBJECTIVE 1.2 The County shall utilize recreation sites and funding mechanisms provided by the County, municipalities, State and Federal Governments, School Board of Alachua County, volunteer organizations and private groups to expand the recreational opportunities of Alachua County citizens. OBJECTIVE 1.3 Continue to provide public access to all County-owned improved recreation sites so that recreation facilities are adequately available for public use. OBJECTIVE 1.4 Expand the availability of recreational opportunities for Alachua County citizens by continuing to develop existing recreation sites and acquire new sites and by continuing to encourage provision of recreation sites by the private sector.

Comprehensive Plan continued... OBJECTIVE 1.5 Utilize current funding sources and identify new funding sources for operations and maintenance of County-owned recreation facilities and for recreation programming for County residents. OBJECTIVE 1.6 Continue to provide for public participation in the planning and development of new public recreation sites. OBJECTIVE 1.7 Alachua County shall design, develop, and manage its resource-based parks and recreational facilities for the purposes of natural systems restoration, conservation, and education. Under the Conservation Element:

GOAL

TO CONSERVE, MANAGE, AND RESTORE OR ENHANCE THE NATURAL AND HUMAN-RELATED RESOURCES OF ALACHUA COUNTY TO ENSURE LONG-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY FOR THE FUTURE. 1.0 CONSERVATION OVERVIEW OBJECTIVE 1.1 - CONSERVATION STRATEGIES Embrace multiple, diverse strategies for the conservation of natural systems in Alachua County.

OBJECTIVE 1.2 - CONSERVATION AS PRIORITY Establish environmental conservation as a priority in all decision-making for Alachua County. 2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE 2.1 - INFORMATION SYSTEM Establish an information system for the natural resources and human-related resources associated with the natural environment, and be proactive in providing public access to this information. Use the information system to measure environmental quality necessary to protect and maintain natural resources that provide a safe and healthy environment for all living things in Alachua County. OBJECTIVE 2.2 - EDUCATION AND OUTREACH Increase public understanding of natural resources issues and provide access to the most current and reliable information so that the public may make informed decisions regarding their health, welfare, and safety. OBJECTIVE 2.3 - RESOURCE AREAS PLANNING Manage natural resources at a scale appropriate to their protection, and facilitate consensusbuilding in the public participation process. 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL LAND USE CATEGORIES OBJECTIVE 3.1 - CONSERVATION LAND USE CATEGORIES A conservation land use category shall be established to recognize and protect natural resources within privately owned lands in Alachua County utilizing appropriate regulatory, acquisition, and incentive mechanisms.

Comprehensive Plan continued... OBJECTIVE 3.2 - PRESERVATION LAND USE CATEGORY A preservation land use category shall be established to recognize and protect natural resources within publicly owned lands in Alachua County. OBJECTIVE 3.3 - FUTURE LAND USE MAP Identify conservation and preservation areas on the Future Land Use Map. OBJECTIVE 3.4 - DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS Protect natural resources during the land use planning and development review process from activities that would significantly damage the ecological integrity of these areas. The applicability of the policies and standards in this section shall be determined for all development at each stage of the land use planning, zoning, and development review and permitting process. OBJECTIVE 3.5 - DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS Adoption of new or revisions to existing land development regulations based on policies in this Element shall begin immediately following the adoption of this Element by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners and shall be completed in accordance with a rigorous adoption schedule. OBJECTIVE 3.6 - RESOURCE PROTECTION STANDARDS Protect natural resources by requiring that all development activities be conducted in accordance with at least minimum resource protection standards.

4.0 NATURAL RESOURCES OBJECTIVE 4.1 - AIR RESOURCES Alachua County shall take appropriate steps to maintain or improve ambient air quality to ensure the protection of public health and the environment and to exceed compliance with state and national ambient air quality standards. OBJECTIVE 4.2 - SOILS AND SLOPES Reduce the rate of soil erosion and sedimentation from development activities and encourage the utilization of the soil consistent with the ability of the physical properties of the soil to support appropriate land uses. OBJECTIVE 4.3 - MINERAL RESOURCES Regulate extraction activities so that they do not adversely affect the quality of air, groundwater, surface water, land, and wildlife. OBJECTIVE 4.4 - GEOLOGICAL RESOURCES Protect and maintain significant natural geologic features such as special karst features -springs, caves and sinkholes in their natural condition. OBJECTIVE 4.5 - GROUNDWATER AND SPRINGS Protect and conserve the quality and quantity of groundwater and springs resources to ensure long-term public health and safety, potable water supplies from surficial, intermediate, and Floridan aquifers, adequate flow to springs, and the ecological integrity of natural resources. OBJECTIVE 4.6 - SURFACE WATER SYSTEMS Ensure the protection and improvement of the water quality, biological health, and natural functions of surface water systems in Alachua County.

Comprehensive Plan continued... OBJECTIVE 4.7 - WETLAND ECOSYSTEMS Wetland acreage and function shall be protected. OBJECTIVE 4.8 - FLOOD PLAINS AND FLOODWAYS Protect and maintain the natural functions of floodplains, floodways, and all other natural areas having hydrological characteristics of the one hundred (100)-year flood elevation. Natural functions include water purification, flood hazard mitigation, water supply, and wildlife habitat and connectivity. OBJECTIVE 4.9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BIODIVERSITY Maintain and enhance plant and animal species diversity and distribution within Alachua County by protecting significant plant and wildlife habitats, providing for habitat corridors, and preventing habitat fragmentation. OBJECTIVE 4.10 - STRATEGIC ECOSYSTEMS Protect, conserve, enhance, and manage the ecological integrity of strategic ecosystems in Alachua County. 5.0 HUMAN-RELATED RESOURCES OBJECTIVE 5.1 - ENERGY DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION Provide for energy efficiency in human activities, land uses, and development patterns in order to reduce overall energy requirements for the County and its residents. OBJECTIVE 5.2 - OPEN SPACE Preserve open space within developments to ensure public health, safety, and welfare; protect and enhance natural resources; provide public gathering spaces; promote pedestrian and bicycle connectivity; and enhance recreational opportunities.

OBJECTIVE 5.3 - SCENIC QUALITY Protect the natural resources and scenic quality of the community to preserve and cultivate a unique sense of place while maintaining economic well-being. OBJECTIVE 5.4 - VEGETATION MANAGEMENT Require and encourage public and private land clearing and landscaping practices that conserve, appropriately use, and protect native vegetation, including forests. OBJECTIVE 5.5 - AGRICULTURAL AND SILVICULTURAL PRACTICES The County shall encourage the retention of agricultural and silvicultural operations that are conducted in accordance with best management practices. OBJECTIVE 5.6 - WILDFIRE MITIGATION Protect life, property, and the economy by eliminating or minimizing the present and future vulnerability to wildfire hazards. OBJECTIVE 5.7 - HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Act to reduce the risks associated with hazardous materials and encourage the reduction of hazardous waste generation. Protect and enhance the quality and safety of the environment by requiring that disposal methods for hazardous waste and handling and storage methods for hazardous materials are properly designed, operated, and monitored. 6.0 LAND CONSERVATION PROGRAM OBJECTIVE 6.1 - PROGRAM OVERVIEW Establish and maintain a land conservation program for the purchase, preservation, and management of natural areas and open space to complement the regulatory approaches identified in other sections of this element.

Comprehensive Plan continued... OBJECTIVE 6.2 - ALACHUA COUNTY FOREVER Implement the Alachua County Forever program. OBJECTIVE 6.3 - LINKED OPEN SPACE NETWORK Develop a linked open space network, or greenways system, that can be managed to support the protection, enhancement and restoration of functional and connected natural systems while providing unique opportunities for recreation, multi-modal transportation, and economic development. OBJECTIVE 6.4 - OTHER ACQUISITION PROGRAMS Coordinate with other programs for the acquisition and management of natural areas and open space for recreational, open space and conservation purposes. OBJECTIVE 6.5 - ACQUISITION TOOLBOX Encourage the use of multiple, diverse land acquisition strategies. OBJECTIVE 6.6 – MANAGEMENT Improve the environmental stewardship of all preservation, conservation and recreation areas within Alachua County.

-EXCERPT FROM ‘ALACHUA COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2011-2030’

Historical Preservation While visiting the site, it is apparent that the remaining equipment has not been used in a very long time. To preserve the history of the site and provide users with an experience that pays tribute to this history, the reuse of this equipment will retain the character this site has maintained for so many years.

Some of the historical feature this site has to offer are old cranes buried underneath years of vegetation, rusted out machinery that can provide a very rustic and cracker style look, and an old weigh station that could potentially serve as an entrance to the site due to its location and significance to the site.

User Analysis Recreational Fisherman The recreational fisherman is one who comes during any day of the week, just to put a line in the water. When they pull onto the site they can have a separate entrance suitable for trucks and trailers, while maintaining site character. They will need enough space to park their vehicles and a sufficient area to load and dock their boats in the water. They will also need access to fueling stations. Professional Fisherman Fishing tournaments will attract a large crowd of fisherman and spectators alike. The actual tournament participant is there for one reason and one reason only: to win the tournament. To enhance their experience, it would be appropriate to provide adequate parking for both trucks and trailers, a boat ramp to place their boats in the water, a fueling station, and a large enough dock to tie the boat up, along with other contestants. Another feature that would benefit these users would be a meeting area, both for tournament meetings and award ceremonies. Avid Mountain Biker Around Alachua County there are several different Mountain Biking Associations. A lot of the time, they all gather at one course to ride as a group. Fortunately, this site offers terrain otherwise not readily available in this part of the country. When these avid riders come to visit the site, they will want a â&#x20AC;&#x153;mountainâ&#x20AC;? environment. They will want rugger trails to test their skills. A parking area large enough to hold roughly 20 vehicles should give plenty of space to park and unload riding equipment. The trails themselves need to be created to be as natural as possible. There is already a location on site that provides sufficient grade change which will be advantageous.

Recreational Mountain Biker The recreational Mountain Biker differs from the avid mountain biker greatly. The recreational Mountain Biker is one who goes out every once in a while. They are not necessarily as passionate about biking as the avid mountain bikers are. The trails needed for these kinds of users should consist of a variety of difficulties. This will assure that every rider has an appropriately safe and enjoyable setting. Horseback Rider The horseback rider will want to ride all around the site. They would enjoy both an enclosed, learning environment and an open trail through the woods. With a barn on site, the user can select which horse, based on experience, they would like to ride. All horses will be trained accordingly, with a few that are designated for use by riders with disabilities to acommodate their needs while ensuring access to all. Jogger/Walker/Bicyclist Some people who visit the site are there for the sole purpose of exercising or leisurely strolling through nature. At the same time, they want to be a part of everything the site has to offer. Instead of being segregated from the rest of the site, these users want to be integrated into every aspect. An appropriate design would incorporate a trail/track that is a part of every other amenity. If someone comes to walk a mile or run for 5 miles, it would be convenient for the track to loop, with multiple access points, for easy entrance and exit. Safety will also play a big role. Design a course that does not allow many hiding points for anyone to conceal themselves. This course should also be able to house any road bikes to enjoy the entire site. 5k Runner/Racers Similar to the Jogger/Walker, a 5k runner is here for a race. The runner will want access to an open portion of the track for the finish line and all the spectators. Parking will also need to be provided as some of these events will attract a large number of people, especially charity runs. In addition to runners, bicyclist and swimmers may also want to hold events here. It 31 would be wise to include sections of this course to house multiple aspects of a race.

User Analysis continued... Water Sportsman A water sportsman is one who wants to ride jets skies or go wakeboarding. With multiple bodies of water, this user can do all of these things while maintaining a safe distance from a stocked lake. This will provide a safe environment for the fish in one lake and allow water sportsmen to have fun, worry free. Camper A camper will want to be able to go camping any night of the week. They will want their own designated area that provides privacy and minimal noise. They will want a safe, open area to park trailers, rvs, tents, and other camping equipment. Electricity hookups will need to be provided along with waste disposal. Access to food and necessities is important, even if it is only a small convenience store. Weekend Visitor A weekend visitor is a user who comes just to spend the afternoon watching others enjoy amenities, browsing the scenic areas, and relaxing lakeside. They want to have seating areas to eat lunch with friends and family, designated areas to lay out near the water, and adjacent parking to carry any supplies they wish to bring. Student A typical student visiting the site may be there for a number of different reasons. One may be to just utilize the available amenities. Maybe a student ID gets them in for free as it does at Lake Wauberg. Perhaps a student is there to study conservation and observe disturbed habitats and their rehabilitation. A student that is there to learn would benefit from educational signs posted around the site that explains its native history, previous history, and existing state.

Elderly/Handicapped People with disabilities and the elderly are no different than any other user. The one thing that sets them apart is accessibility. They require all paths, roads, parking lots, structures, etc. to be easily accessible and accommodations should be made.

Goals & Objectives Programmatic Goals in addition to goals stated in Comprehensive Plan listed on pages 21 - 28. Goal 1: Create a successful bass estuary, both for the fishermen and the fish. OBJECTIVE 1.1: Design a habitat in which the fish will thrive by providing adequate protection and resources to allow a healthy environment. Also only allow catch and release. OBJECTIVE 1.2: Design hot spots, or feeding holes, that will provide consistent amounts of fish to be caught. Goal 2: Create multiple mountain bike trails for several different levels of experience. OBJECTIVE 2.1: Using the many different slopes provided by the existing topography, create beginner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; expert level courses.

SUB-OBJECTIVE 2.1.1: From flatter terrain, design beginner courses. SUB-OBJECTIVE 2.1.2: From steeper terrain, design more advanced courses by sup plying drop offs, jumps, and downhill trails.

Goal 3: Create equestrian trails, provide stables, and design learning areas for new riders.

OBJECTIVE 3.1: Design a trail that meanders throughout the entire site.

OBJECTIVE 3.2: Design a barn with an attached learning area for inexperienced riders.

OBJECTIVE 3.3: Provide open open space for horses to graze.

Goal 4: Create a walking/running trail that meanders throughout a majority of the site. OBJECTIVE 4.1: Within each division of the site, allow an adequate amount of space to allow a path to be laid without infringing on any primary program elements. OBJECTIVE 4.2: Provide distance markers to allow a multiple amount of different events to take place on this trail. (i.e. 5k races, road bicycle races, March of Dimesâ&#x20AC;Ś) Goal 5: Create a comfortable and functional environment for the users of the site. OBJECTIVE 5.1: Design functional connectivity throughout the site for ease of access to each amenity. OBJECTIVE 5.2: Provide an adequate amount of parking for any and all amenities. SUB-OBJECTIVE 5.2.1: Design designated parking for normal use. SUB-OBJECTIVE 5.2.2: Design overflow parking for fishing tournaments, races, or any other function that may take place on site. OBJECTIVE 5.3: Provide sufficient amount of resting areas including picnic areas, restrooms, water and food venues. Goal 6: Create open space for both recreational use and special events. OBJECTIVE 6.1: Allow adequate space for events such as concerts, food trucks, festivalsâ&#x20AC;Ś OBJECTIVE 6.2: Allow adequate space for multi-purpose recreational use when special events are not taking place.

Goals & Objectives continued... Goal 7: Create conservation space.

OBJECTIVE 7.1: Design a designated area that will remain a conservation area. OBJECTIVE 7.2: Create a scenic outlook location that is strictly aesthetics. OBJECTIVE 7.3: Restore ecological ecosystems. OBJECTIVE 7.4: Send all impervious surface runoff to this location to filtrate pollutants.

So What? Given the existing site conditions, a program has been crafted to suite the needs of multiple users. Taken into consideration are the existing, adjacent amenities, making sure not to provide a service that is already provided elsewhere in close proximity. Keeping these thoughts in mind, the program list is as follows: Potential Amenities Bass Estuary Truck and Trailer Entrance Fishing Parking Boat Ramp Docks Fueling Station Overflow Parking Staging Area Bike Trials (Multi-Leveled) Rider Parking Trail Seating Areas Equestrian Center

Equestrian Trails Running/Walking Track Race Parking Sports Lake Picnic Areas Camp Grounds Restrooms Welcome Center Food Vendor Open Space for Misc. Events Learning Centers Conservation Area

Program Matrix

Bass Estuary Truck and Trailer Entrance Fishing Parking Boat Ramp Docks Fueling Station Overflow Parking Staging Area Bike Trials (Multi-Leveled) Rider Parking Trail Seating Areas Equestrian Center Equestrian Trails Running/Walking Track Race Parking Sports Lake Picnic Areas Camp Grounds Restrooms Welcome Center Food Vendor Open Space for Misc. Events Learning Centers Conservation Area

uc k

tu ar y an d Fis Tr hi ail ng er En Bo Par k tra at in g nc Ra e m Do p ck s Fu el in g Ov Sta ti er flo on w St Pa ag rk in g A ing Bi ke rea Tr ai l Ri de s (M rP ul ti ar Tr kin -Le ve ai g lS le ea d) t in Eq g ue A st ria rea s Eq n Ce ue nt st r er Ru ian Tr nn ai in ls g/ Ra W al ce kin Pa gT rk Sp ra or ing ck ts La Pi cn ke ic Ar ea Ca s m p Gr ou Re nd st ro om s W s el co m e Fo od Cen te Ve nd r Op or en Sp ac Le e ar fo ni rM ng Co i sc Ce ns .E nt er er ve va nt tio s n Ar ea

Certain aspects would benefit from being adjacent to specific features. Functionally similar elements prove to perform better near each other while others may not. For example, a barn full of horses may be better off secluded in a quiet part of the site, distant from a boat ramp where boats may lay into their throttle, rushing to their â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hot spot.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Below is a Program Matrix used as an amenity study to help determine feature locations.

Program to Program Relationship Matrix

Good Bad Nuetral

Part Two: Case Studies

Cottonmill Lake, Nebraska

Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park, Portland, Connecticut What used to be quarry, this extreme adventure park was leased from the Town of Portland. With a partnership with the Town, Portland receives a portion of all admission fees. Portland also has been relieved of most of the maintenance and policing duties and is now almost fully operated by the current owners. Some of the amenities include: Swimming Snorkeling Zip Lines Cliff Jumping Rope Swings Rock Climbing Wakeboarding Kayaking Diving Hiking Biking

Three Oaks Recreational Area, Crystal Lake , Illinois

After twenty years of sculpting a vision of these once mined quarries, the City of Crystal Lake reclaimed this disturbed land and turned it in to a fresh, new, and exciting recreational area. Equipped with pristine waters, natural habitats, and prime fishing, users can come out and enjoy the water or simply have a picnic. Open since late 2010, these trails, playgrounds, and open space, have been greatly appreciated by the residents of Crystal Lake, Illinois. Some of the amenities include: Boat Rentals Classes & Courses Culverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant Fishing Hiking Sledding Swimming Picnicking Playground Splash Park Walking Paddleboarding Diving

Cottonmill Lake Rehabilitation Project North-Central Nebraska Cottonmill Lake is a 43 acre impoundment located just west of Kearney, Nebraska. Do to the large abundance of rough and poor sportfish, this body of water has been performing very low. It contains large deposits of sedimentation, creating a poor aquatic environment. The average depth of Cottonmill Lake was reduced from 11.8 ft. to just under 2 ft. Dating back to 1997, the city of Kearney, Nebraska teamed up with the Game and Parks Commission to begin a lake rehabilitation project. During the project, they removed 300,000 cubic feet of sediment. They renovated the existing fish population, created breakwater jetties, islands, and several underwater structures such as rock piles, wooden cribs, and cedar trees.

Part Three: Design

Concept Conceptually, this site plan is segregated based on amentity relationships. Program elements are sub-divided into 6 major areas and listed in order of importance: Conservation, Fishing, Mountain Biking, Equestrian, Camping, and Open Space. Conservation The area designated for conservation plays the most important role in redevelopment. This is because the site has been so heavily disturbed and cuts through a major wildlife corridor, splitting it in two. The site as a whole is in need of an ecological face-lift. Fishing A new and revitalized fishing habitat is the clients foremost desire, as this will be the primary source of continued funding. This enhanced ecosystem goes hand-in-hand with the overall big picture of conservation. Mountain Biking Mountain Bike trails are almost a given due to the contorted topography. These sudden and drastic elevation changes demaned trails to be utilized on these unfamiliar Florida curvatures.

Equestrian An equestrian center was the only proposed amenity with a similar feature only minutes down the road. Instead of a fullblown equestrian center, this particular one only functions as a barn with grazing land and a practice area for both riding and barrel racing. There are designated paths throughout the site for users to ride horseback and enjoy other amenities. Camping Fishermen, Bikers, Horse Riders, or any other guest has the option to stay the night in one of several on site cabins or tent area. Located on the edge of the fully restore conservation area/fishing habitat, guests can enjoy a healthy and vibrant natural community. Open Space Open space serves many different functions. It can range from overflow parking to community festivals. It can be a place to lay in the sun or through a frisbee.

Zip Line

Parking Fishing Lake

Conservation Area Fishing Lake

Fishing Lake Open Space

Welcome Center

Campgrounds

Fishing Lake

Campgrounds

Mountain Biking

Equestrian Area

Scale 1”=100’ 0’

400’ 800’

1600’

Master Plan

Scale 1”=100’ 0’

400’ 800’

1600’

Phasing Phase One: Bass Estuary Construct Bass Estuaries by connecting existing bodies of water and excavating connection points. Pave parking lot for truck and trailer parking; install ramps, docks, and fueling station; and begin northern vehicular access. Phase Two: Conservation Begin to restore and rehabilitate designated conservation area. Funds from fishing amenity will cover remission costs. Phase Three: Remaining Primary Infrastructure Build remaining infrastructure suitable for vehicular traffic, Welcome Center, hook-ups for campgrounds and immediate parking. Phase Four: Remaining Secondary Infrastructure Designate and clear paths for mountain biking and equestrian use, pave walkway for joggers/ walkers, construct barn, and clear open space.

Phase One: Bass Estuary Many bodies of water lack the structural features needed to provide adequate infrastructure for fish to thrive. These existing limestone quarries are currently not in a healthy condition to provide a sustainable environment for any aquatic creatures. There are few existing shorelines that are not hard edges. These hard edges provide little to no fish coverage or spawning habitats. Proposed is to broaden the shorelines and their edges. Fortunately, the quarry depths vary greatly. Of the approximate 230 acres, it is very infrequent that the depth exceeds 40’. The majority of the underwater portion of the site is under 20’. By expanding the shelf just off the shoreline, a much more sustainable and efficient ecosystem can be created. With the addition of both natural and artificial structures, fish can thrive.

Depth Legend 0’ - 10’ 10’ - 20’ 20’ - 30’ 30’ - 40’

Sections showing artificial shelf

Natural Structures for Fish Cover In general, an ideal largemouth bass habitat is one with slow to non-flowing water, water temperature from 80째 to 90째F, an abundance of aquatic vegetation, which provides a place for food and cover if necessary, and water that is clear. Bass are found in rivers, lakes and ponds, though lakes provide the preferred habitat. They gravitate to areas less than 20 feet deep. In colder areas they also need water deep enough to allow them to over winter. They seek areas filled with submergent vegetation, submerged logs and brush, as well as rocks. These types of cover and structure are sought by largemouth bass from birth as they offer places to hide when young and places from which to ambush prey when mature. (Bass Fishing & Catching)

Artificial Structures for Fish Cover There are several varieties of artificial structures that can supply fish, in this particular case, Bass, a place to hide. These structural features are extremely important, not only for the fish, but for all aquatic ecosystems. The introduction of drop offs, rock reefs, docks, or even logs will help maintain a diverse and healthy ecosystem while providing an environment for both game and non-gamefish alike. These artificial structures will provide hiding spaces from predators, shade on hot days, and an area for food organisms to grow.

“From an angler’s perspective, structure attracts fish, both the smaller fish seeking cover and the larger, predatory fish, searching for prey. This spells good fishing for anglers who know where structural features are located.” (Illinois EPA)

Examples: Brush Piles Evergreen Trees Oak Pallets Rock/Rubble Piles Log Cribs Pipes Stake Beds Plastic

Phase Two: Conservation

Before

After

Conservation Benefits There are several benefits to the remission of a disturbed landscape and returning it to its previous, natural habitat. Many of the common benefits are restored ecosystems, enhanced wildlife habitats, cleaner aquifer, less pollution, and so much more. After researching these remission benefits, some other ones also have proven this high capital investment to be worthwhile. Resources for biodiversity conservation can be limited, but with appropriate investment strategies and understanding the benefits and costs of rehabilitating this specific ecosystem, this habitat restoration can be a success. The average capital cost of remission for a conservation area is approximately $933.66/ acre. Obviously slope, soils, and existing deterioration play large roles in determining actual costs, but for the sake of capital investment projections, this number will be used. At an approximate 200 acres of conservation land, the estimated cost of rehabilitation would be $186,732.00. Potential Benefits Cleaner Air Cleaner Water Enhanced Wildlife Increased Biodiversity Higher Amounts of Stored Carbon Reduced Runoff Connectivity to Existing Corridors Increased Aesthetic Value Learning Opportunities Study Plots

Existing Corridor East of CR235, there is an existing corridor that has been disected by limetone quarries. With the proposed conservation plan, the teal color will be converted back to conservation land and mend the two portions of the corridor together once again.

Existing Corridor

Proposed Conservation

Non Conservation Land Existing Corridor

Phase Three: Remaining Primary Infrastructure & Related Amenity Welcome Center

The welcome center is the central gathering place for the entire site. Here, visitors can be briefed on all the amenities Recreational Outdoorsman has to offer. Inside of the welcome center there is a small gift shop, including a convenient center for overnight guests. On the second floor of the welcome center are 5 hotel rooms. These rooms overlook the ledge facing the mountain bike trails and the large mound located in the center. Campgrounds If the user does not want to be in a hotel style atmosphere, they can opt to rent a cabin or a plot to pitch a tent. All of the cabins are located on waterfront property, deep into the woods. The tent plots are immediately across the street and are also heavily vegetated. Each parcel has water/electrical hookups. Each parcel is segregated enough to ensure privacy from the rest of the amenities. The overnight guests will really be able to enjoy the outdoor experience.

Circulation

There are two main access points to the site, shown with a yellow polygon, . They are connected by a two lane road that serves as the primary circulation of the site. This road has been divided into a main entrance and a boat & trailer entrance. Users can access both, but the delineation between the two makes movement throughout the site more convenient.

Parking There are a number of different spaces to park throughout the site, P. There are 4 locations that are strictly designated for parking at any time. The restricted areas are the truck & trailer parking (furthest north) and the overflow parking located on the lawn, or green space. This overflow parking is to only be used during tournaments and festivals. During festivals, parking is to be used by vendors. Parking for the mountain bike trails is located northeast of the trails. A much smaller area for parking is located near the barn. Users wishing to go horseback riding can park on the outside of the fence, along side the road.

P P

Phase Four: Remaining Secondary Infrastructure & Related Amenity Trials

Zip Lines

Open Space Mountain Biking

Trials

Equestrian Center

Equestrian Center The south-eastern portion of the site is dedicated to a home for horses. Structurally, there is a 14 stall barn to house the resident horses. There is a variety of difficulties for a variety of rider skillsets. Immediately outside of the barn is a practice area for user to get acclimated to their new horse. To the south there is another practice area for the more advanced riders. Here users can practice and hone in on their barrel racing skills. All of the acreage to the west of the barn is grazing land for the horses to stretch their legs and relax. Trail System Throughout the entire site there are multiple trails for different users to experience. Looking at the master plan to the left, the grey trails are paved paths suitable for runners, walkers, or cyclists. The brown paths that intertwine through the grey trails, are meant for horseback riders. This separate path allows them to travel at their own pace without the worry of other guests spooking the horses. Zip Line As seen on the master plan, the zip lines have 4 landing towers. Starting at the western most point of the open space, guests can zip to a multi-tiered landing pad. Once they have landed they can climb to the next level and zip to the next station. Landing Stations

Mountain Bike Trails Due to the sites extreme and vast elevation changes, it is already set up for some organic mountain bike trails. What was once the beginning of a new quarry, will now become a multi-difficulty trail system. From beginners to novice riders, there will be a trail for everyone.

Depth Legend 90’+ 80’ -89’ 70’ - 79’ 60’ - 69’ Relief Map

Existing Proposed

Experience Upon arrival to the site, the user will feel as if they are pulling into the same environment that existed a hundred years ago, when these quarries were in their prime. To pay homage to this historical value, architectural features will sport cracker style design. Scattered throughout the site will be outdated and rustic pieces of equipment that were onced used to mine limestone. This will again pay respect to the history of the site. It is obvious that each user will leave experiencing something different. Whether they visited the site to go fishing or horseback riding, they will have experienced, at some point, the same emotions. With this cracker style environment in this now densley vegetated habitat, the user will know what life may have been like in the early 1900s. All of the amenities provided on site will definitely attract users from immediate area and surrounding context. Whether a student from the University or a family from down the road, there is something for everyone.

References http://en.nfhsf.com/miche/pollution-and-disturbance-of-limestone-quarrying.html http://www.epa.state.il.us/water/conservation/lake-notes/fish-cover.pdf http://www.bassfishingandcatching.com/largemouth-bass-habitat.html http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/10/Florida_Gopher_Tortoise.jpg http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/opossum-family-nathaniel-kidd.jpg http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fe/Procyon_lotor_(Common_raccoon).jpg http://storage.wildobs.com/rangergirl141/mediums/Deer_top_buck.jpg http://www.southern-colorado-guide.com/images/cranedance.jpg http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9b/Wild_Pig_KSC02pd0873.jpg http://www.aloha-hawaii.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/kauai-horseback.jpg https://scout-story-images.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wired2fish/migrated-assets/2012/07/big-swimbait-bass-fishing.jpg Whitetail Deer - http://www.huntinginflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/hunting-in-florida-whitetaildeer-hunting-0191.jpg http://www.myharriman.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/camping_at_night.jpg http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/95/Mountain-bike-racing.jpg https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6140/5942259592_c3cb15cd40_z.jpg http://www.crystallake.org/Home/ShowImage?id=2009&t=635477387157800000 http://www.sdstate.edu/nrm/organizations/gpnss/tpn/upload/40-3-4_Spirk_et_al.pdf http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/02/56/49/c9/atl-sky-tower.jpg http://en.nfhsf.com/miche/pollution-and-disturbance-of-limestone-quarrying.html http://www.epa.state.il.us/water/conservation/lake-notes/fish-cover.pdf http://www.bassfishingandcatching.com/largemouth-bass-habitat.html http://www.southeastdiscovery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Brights-Creek-Equestrian-Center.jpg http://www.bassmaster.com/tips/bass-pits http://masonryworx.com/home/historic-quarry-gets-stunning-re-development/ http://www.lcfpd.org/preserves/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view&object_id=194 http://www.rayscottbassretreat.com/lakes/