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Post by Mark Wyatt on Jan 26, 2005 18:01:22 GMT -5
For Issues in Northwest Iowa including Storm Lake, Sioux City, Spencer, & Okoboji.
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Post by Mark Wyatt on Jan 28, 2005 18:11:11 GMT -5
Van Zees donate land to Rock Valley By Marge Harmelink, Journal correspondent
ROCK VALLEY, Iowa -- The city of Rock Valley has received a gift of 97 acres of land which will be used to expand recreational activities in the community. The land is located adjacent to the community to the northwest.
The land was donated by Mike Van Zee and Chad Van Zee of Van Zee Enterprises of Rock Valley.
"We are extremely appreciative of the Van Zees' continued support of our community," says Tom Van Maanen, city administrator. Wheels For You
The parcel of land is located between the Rock River on the south and 300th Street on the north. It contains three gravel pits and will tie into developed walking trails on Rock Valley's west side near the old railroad bridge.
"Property adjacent to a river has gone up in price, even if it is used primarily just for hunting purposes," Van Maanen says. "If we would have had to purchase this land, it would not be feasible to put up what we plan for the area -- a campground, fishing, a beach and walking trails. But since it has been donated by Van Zees, it makes the whole project affordable. We see it as a really neat area to develop for the entire community."
Plans for the area include planting a minimum of 1,000 trees, constructing a bath house for campers and swimmers and developing a beach and 40 to 50 camping sites.
"This year we will be planting trees and preparing the trail bed; the next year we will pave the trail," Van Maanen says. "In two or three years we hope to have some camping spaces available, and in six to seven years we should be real happy with the way things look."
The property will be accessible by motor vehicle from 300th Street. A walking/biking trail will be constructed from the new area to connect with the existing trails on the west side of the city.
The city has contracted with Howard R. Green, an engineering firm, to develop a master plan for the use of the 97 acres. "They will come in to assist us. Right now, much of that area looks like farmland," Van Maanen says. "However, this firm has the expertise to see the recreational potential. They will make suggestions as to the best use of the ground."
The engineering firm will also help the city begin the process of applying for grants.
"As time goes on, we will want to hear from people in the community who will use this area. Many like to camp, and have been to a lot of camp sites. They know what they like or don't like. We want their input. We want to use their knowledge to make this a great facility," Van Maanen says.
Two years ago the Van Zees, who are cousins, donated 24 acres in the same general vicinity, but adjacent to the Kiwanis Trail. The city developed a half-mile walking/biking trail through that wooded property. That trail was named 'Henry's Trail' in honor of the Van Zees' grandfather, Henry Van Zee.
"You wonder when you start developing walking trails if the public will use them. It's great to know the public is using and enjoying our present trails. On Henry's Trail the chances of seeing wildlife are extremely high," Van Maanen says.
At present the 97 acres are not in the city limits, but will be by this summer, Van Maanen says. Since it will be in the city limits, no hunting will be available.
The area is subject to flooding, but will be designed with that in mind. On the average, that area will flood every eight years.
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