Since 2015, MCWD has worked with communities in the watershed’s headwaters to develop and implement a collaborative vision to improve water and natural resources, while integrating local development goals in the Six Mile Creek – Halsted Bay (SMCHB) Subwatershed.
East Auburn Wetland Restoration Reaches Substantial Completion
MCWD, in partnership with the City of Victoria, recently completed construction of the East Auburn Wetland Restoration project, one of several projects the District is advancing as it works upstream to downstream within the SMCHB Subwatershed. The project included the installation of a sheet-pile weir to restore the hydrologic function of 11 acres of wetland and reduce nutrient loading by an estimated 45 pounds per year, improving water quality downstream in impaired East Auburn Lake. By establishing a more permanent pool of water, the restoration will also improve habitat for native wildlife.
During construction, invasive species such as common buckthorn were removed to support the establishment of native vegetation. Crews also completed minor site regrading and planted more than 40 plants across five native species to stabilize streambanks and strengthen ecological function.
In addition to the wetland restoration, MCWD and the City replaced the degraded pedestrian boardwalk that crosses the wetland and connects to the City’s system of over 53 miles of trails and sidewalks. While the new boardwalk is constructed, it will remain closed until the City completes a handrail installation to enhance user safety. For updates on trail access and closures, please visit the City’s website.
Also in this update
- Wassermann Lake Preserve Receives Design Award
- Connecting With the Carver County Board of Commissioners