8.1. SR 02-01-2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity. Updated: August 2020 Request for Action To Mayor and City Council Item Number 8.1 Agenda Section General Business Meeting Date February 1, 2021 Prepared by Amanda Erickson, Environmental Coordinator Item Description LORE Project Update and Fish Restocking Request Reviewed by Brandon Wisner, Engineering Project Manager Reviewed by Cal Portner, City Administrator Action Requested 1. Discuss overall LORE project update. 2. Consider/Approve by motion, adding fish restocking cost to the LORE budget. Background/Discussion The Lake Orono Restoration and Enhancement (LORE) project continues to move forward with significant dredging and hauling occurring soon with the presence of colder weather. Project Update The existing conditions lake survey was recently completed, and the results are very similar to the survey completed in 2019 by WSB, the project consultant. The data found the lake bottom elevations were almost always within 2” of the previous survey, although more elevations were found to be higher than lower. This data was used to compute an updated estimated quantity of material for excavation. WSB has estimated that an additional 5,000 cubic yards of material will need to be removed to meet desired water depths as approved for the project. The original estimation was 125,000 cubic yards. The plan specifications require a minimum depth of excavation. It is possible New Look Contracting, the project contractor, may over-excavate a few inches to ensure these depths are reached, which would further increase the quantity of material removed. Our best estimate anticipates 130,000 cubic yards at minimum of sediment removed. Due to the warm weather and schedule concerns, WSB is reluctant to recommend increased quantity of excavation to ensure completion of the project and stay within permitting requirements. The overall project budget continues to stay well under the projected amount, however additional costs and change orders may be necessary in the coming months to ensure the project is completed fully and within the timeframe restraints. At this time, staff estimates there will be an assessment to private lakeshore property owners, however the estimated amount should be significantly lower than that outlined in the May 2020 Feasibility Summary. Fish Restocking Request The Orono Lake Improvement District (OLID) Board and some lakeshore residents are concerned about the potential decline in fish populations due to the drawdown, winterkill, and possible overfishing this winter. The OLID evaluated options to resolve this concern with the help of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Manager. They considered adding an aerator to reduce overfishing, however due to cost and logistical concerns this option was not pursued. The DNR recommended restocking the lake with fish after the LORE