Tobacco-Free Recreation Facilities Policy

On July 12, 2005, the Anoka County Board of Commissioners adopted resolution #2005-0105 establishing a tobacco-free recreation facilities policy for the Anoka County Park System.

Following are salient points of the resolution. A full copy of the resolution can be viewed by clicking here.

1. The Anoka County Board of Commissioners is committed to the quality of life for all residents.
2. The county park and recreation system is provided as a place for people to engage in outdoor recreation in healthful settings offering clean air and clean water.
3. The county board has concluded that:

• Tobacco product use in the proximity of children, youth, and adults engaging in recreational activities is unhealthy.
• Recreational experiences of park users, particularly children, are negatively impacted by the presence of second-hand smoke or other tobacco by-products.
• Tobacco products consumed in public places are often discarded on the ground, resulting in litter, increased maintenance costs, and a general nuisance to parks visitors.
• Recreation leaders, staff, parents, and other adults in park settings are thought of as role models and should demonstrate positive lifestyle choices in the presence of children.

4. Therefore, in a effort to reduce the presence of tobacco products in recreational areas, particularly those frequented by children, the Anoka County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the following policy that no person shall use tobacco products in the following areas of the county park system:

• In beaches or picnic areas.
• In and around playgrounds.
• In areas where recreational or interpretive programs are held.
• At the Bunker Beach Water Park, archery center, and riding stables.
• At Camp Salie in Martin-Island-Linwood Lakes Regional Park.
• Within 50 feet of any public entrance to a park building.

5. Also, that the emphasis of the tobacco-free park policy is through voluntary compliance. This shall be encouraged through the following methods:

• Signs shall be posted at all designated tobacco-free facilities.
• County staff will make periodic observations of recreation facilities to monitor compliance.
• A public education campaign will be implemented to assist in visitor understanding and compliance with this policy.
• Organizations, contractors, concessionaires, and registered users of the Anoka County park system will be asked to assist in compliance efforts during all scheduled activities and uses.