HEI worked closely with the Minnesota DNR on concept design to improve fish passage along Whisky Creek that feeds into Blue Eagle Lake.
Blue Eagle Lake Spillway Retrofit
Background
A series of spillways precluded fish migration along Whisky Creek. The spillway near Blue Eagle Lake allows Whisky Creek to feed the lake, which is located within the City of Barnesville’s Blue Eagle Nature Center/City Park. The City was looking for ways to enhance Whisky Creek and the park.
The Project
HEI worked closely with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on concept design to improve fish passage along Whisky Creek. The solution was a modification of two spillways:
- The removal of the Otter Tail Valley Railroad spillway
- The installation of a rock fishway spillway at Blue Eagle Park
Construction was completed in 2016, and fish migration through the structures has been observed and documented. Today, the fish swim freely through constructed rock rapids and residents enjoy the sights and sounds of water flowing over the rocks.
- Improved fish migration and fishing opportunities along Whisky Creek.
- Low cost to client—local funds used with majority of funding coming from the following sources: (1) DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant and (2) DNR Project B Grant Funds
Project Details
Client: City of Barnesville
Location: Barnesville, MN
Project Highlights
- Improved fish migration and fishing opportunities along Whisky Creek.
- Low cost to client—local funds used with majority of funding coming from the following sources: (1) DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant and (2) DNR Project B Grant Funds
Services
explore our
