Lake George Dam and Rum River Erosion

Both of these projects were priorities for the State, County and local cities and both projects were able to be conducted with the State of MN Department of Natural Resources and the Anoka Conservation District as partners.
These partnerships provided valuable input on the design and engineering of these projects. The Lake George Dam project was a success as the failing dam was replaced and lake levels stabilized. The scope of the project included removing the old failing dam and reconstructing a new sheet pile dam with boulders and rocks. These rocks and boulders were used to create short tiered pools on the downstream side of the dam to allow for fish passage. Work was conducted during the winter to reduce impacts. The project is a success without any notable issues. The lake level is stable, fish can now pass over the dam and 495 acres of lake habitat and 156 acres of wetland habitat are preserved. 

The Rum River erosion project required excavation for a more favorable slope, placement of root wads and trees into the bank and restoration. The root wads and trees are collecting sediment from the river and are rebuilding the eroded banks. The project was conducted during the winter to reduce impacts, but high spring flows and velocity caused some damage that had to be repaired. Once the water receded and the river slowed, repairs were made and restoration occurred. There was some plant mortality due to the deer in the area, but plants were replaced and the rest of the vegetation is established. This project is successful because the banking is rebuilding itself and is no longer contributing up to 285 tons of sediment per year in sediment loading and improves the
stream and fish habitat in the river. The project also helps to improve spawning habitat, water clarity, water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels. The projects received excellent pricing during bidding and were able to be completed under budget.