[Press Release] : Parks and Recreation deals with storm damage

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Tammy Miller, Parks and Recreation - (573) 874-7465

Parks and Recreation deals with storm damage

COLUMBIA, MO (July 22, 2008) - Staff from the Columbia Parks &
Recreation Department was busy as storms moved through the area early
this morning.

Starting first thing this morning, park staff responded to reports of
trees down across the MKT Trail and several sections of trails that were
flooded. As the flood waters recede, the department anticipates that
several sections of the MKT, Hinkson and Bear Creek trails will have
damage to the gravel surface. 

Due to the popularity of the trails, the department is not closing the
trails, but is asking all trail users to be cautious. Potential problems
include debris washed upon the trail; surface rock removed exposing the
large 4-6 inch base rock; and wash-out areas that may cause trip or
spill hazards. Once the flood waters have receded and the rain stops,
certain sections of the trail may be closed during park repair
activities. The department's priority is to concentrate on cleaning out
the tunnels or underpasses and then proceed with repairs to the trail
surface. 

The department is also busy with lightning strikes that may have caused
damage to the electrical systems in the parks. This may impact the use
of athletic field lights, scoreboards, security lights and power to
facilities such as shelters, spraygrounds, restrooms and pools. Park
staff is in the process of checking all of these facilities.

An indirect impact from the heavy rains is the problems associated with
construction projects and operational issues such as delays to the
department's mowing schedule and further cancellation of adult and youth
sports leagues. A heavy rain such as what was experienced today may
cause 2-3 days of delays to construction projects, especially those
requiring earthwork (Atkins baseball, Nifong Park lake, Bethel Tennis
Courts, Bethel Shelter, Cosmo restrooms, etc). The department strives to
keep all projects on schedule, but some delays will occur during
inclement weather. 

On a positive note, storm water control measures such as rain gardens
that have been installed at Stephens Lake, Longview and Louisville parks
handled all of the water and prevented erosion in the parks. These rain
gardens are great examples of alternate methods used to control storm
water. 

If park users observe downed trees or other storm-related damage or
issues in the parks, they should call the Parks and Recreation
Department at 874-7460. 

- 30 -
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