Information related to the 2024 dredging project on lakes Wildwood and Tanglewood.
Jump to Final Update
We have started the dredging project on Wildwood. The vendor began in area 7, aiming to remove 1,166 cubic yards of material. However, after just 75 yards, it was found that the equipment was too large for the narrow cove.
The dredging crew had a busy week, focusing on areas 2 and 3. They removed nearly 4,000 cubic yards of material. A big thank you to everyone who helped move boats and floating docks to improve access. There's about half a day's work left in area 2, with around 450 cubic yards remaining.
To boost production, the vendor has added another tug and a double hopper. Today, the smaller barge and equipment were placed on the water in preparation for work in the tighter cove entrances that still need attention. Starting Monday afternoon (9/23), the vendor will move to area 5 to remove an additional 1,111 cubic yards of material.
As the project winds down, the crew will be focusing on smaller coves. The areas scheduled for work next week also include area 7 (1,166 cubic yards) and area 9 (435 cubic yards). We appreciate all the feedback and patience during this process. Significant progress has been made in restoring the lake and its coves to their former glory. Stay tuned for more updates and potential changes as the project continues for another 10-14 days.
Area 1
Area 6
Area 9
The dredging on Lake Tanglewood is now complete! We successfully removed a total of 10,500 cubic yards of material from the A-Basin (Boat Launch) and B-Basin areas of the lake. This project has restored water depth to six feet in areas that were previously less than two feet deep. While the results vary across different sections, the main channels at each end have seen significant improvement.
The boat launch that was damaged during the first phase of the project will soon be replaced. We’ve selected a vendor and approved the quote for the replacement. We expect this work to be completed by the beginning of October. (update: project complete)
What is dredging?
Dredging is the process of removing built-up soil, sediment, and debris from the bottom of a lake or waterway. Over time, natural processes like erosion and runoff can cause sediment to accumulate, especially in coves and shallow areas. This buildup can impact the health and usability of a lake, reducing water depth, affecting fish habitats, and even leading to poor water quality.
Why are we dredging the coves?
Coves are more prone to sediment accumulation because they're often sheltered, leading to slower-moving water where soil and debris settle more easily. By dredging, we're clearing out years of built-up sediment to restore the natural depth and improve water flow. This helps to maintain a cleaner, healthier lake for both wildlife and recreational use.
How does dredging work?
Imagine a giant underwater vacuum cleaner! Specialized equipment is used to carefully remove the sediment from the lakebed. The material is then either pumped to a disposal site or collected for safe removal. Dredging is done methodically to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.
What are the benefits of dredging?
• Improved Water Quality: Removing excess sediment helps reduce pollutants and prevents the water from becoming murky.
• Restoring Depth: Sediment buildup reduces the depth of the lake, making some areas unusable for boating or swimming. Dredging restores these areas for recreational fun.
• Better Fish Habitats: Many fish species rely on deeper, cleaner water to thrive. By clearing out sediment, we’re creating a healthier environment for fish populations.
• Preventing Future Problems: Excess sediment can lead to flooding or other water management issues. Dredging helps maintain proper water flow and reduces the risk of these problems.
Did You Know?
Some lakes can see up to 2-5 inches of sediment build up per year! Over time, this adds up and can significantly alter the landscape of the lake.
In short, dredging is like giving our lake a little TLC—keeping it clean, healthy, and enjoyable for everyone! Whether you love fishing, boating, or just relaxing by the water, dredging ensures our lake remains a beautiful, vibrant resource for years to come.
