The Powell Creek Restoration Dredging Project began as an effort to restore the health of this urban creek system.  The construction of the Powell Creek Bypass Channel in 1986 resulted in diminished flow through the natural creek system. The slower flow has allowed sediments to settle out into the natural creek, further restricting the flow, and providing a foothold for aggressive invasive vegetation to infest the creek.

An initial baseline/feasibility study begun in 2005 identified areas of the creek that needed maintenance dredging.  The necessary state and federal permits to perform the removal of sediment from the natural creek were acquired in 2009. 

In 2011, funding became available to conduct the actual sediment removal. The project was bid out and, on January 10, 2012, the Board of County Commissioners approved contracting Gator Dredging to conduct the dredging project. The Notice to Proceed is projected to be issued for January 30th and associated work will commence soon thereafter. actual dredging is scheduled to begin around February 14th.

In conjunction with the dredging project, Natural Resources is also preparing to permit and construct an addition to an existing weir structure in the Bypass Channel.  The addition will raise the elevation of the structure and allow for additional water into the natural creek. 

PROPOSED DREDGE FOOTPRINT, HAULING ROUTES & DISPOSAL SITE  

Bid Construction Plans:
Powell Creek Bid Plans (Information only)

  
Wanda Wooten, Public Works Project Manager
Ph. 239-533-8138
e-mail address:  wootenws@leegov.com