Rice Lake Wetland Restoration Project Construction- Phase 2

Project funding is requested to complete the second phase of an on-the-ground implementation project to restore function to the partially drained Rice Lake wetland, which will reduce the largest phosphorous tributary loading source to downstream Detroit Lake, a high value recreational lake. This wetland restoration nutrient reduction project was broken up into two (2) construction phases due to cost constraints, with the Phase 1- Upper Pool Restoration Area completed in November 2021 using a Clean Water Fund Grant (C21-4482). The project funding request is for construction of the Phase 2-Lower Pool Restoration Area consisting of a water control structure/rock fishway with draw-down capabilities (approximately 50-ft width X 200-ft length X 3-ft thickness); a 15 ft. wide low-water crossing; and an embankment/access road. By restoring the wetland's hydrology (Phase 1 & 2), the pre-project annual phosphorous export load (2,600-6,000 lbs/yr) from this wetland is estimated to be reduced by an average of 50%, The Phase 2- Lower Pool Restoration Area is estimated to reduce phosphorus loads between 600 - 1,500 lbs/year depending upon summertime weather conditions. Secondary project benefits include, but are not limited to, increased wildlife habitat (pollinators, migratory waterfowl, etc.), improved aesthetics, reduced water level fluctuation, increased groundwater recharge, increased carbon sequestration, and enhanced recreational opportunities.