The Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP) is a long-term program of ecosystem restoration and navigation improvements for the Upper Mississippi River System. NESP will improve system capacity and reduce commercial traffic delays through construction of seven new 1,200-foot locks, the addition of mooring cells, and implementation of switchboats.

Johnson Island is located near Trempealeau, Wisconsin, in Pool 6 of the Mississippi River. The study area spans the full island and nearby historical structural revetments and wing dams, located on the left descending side of the main channel, from approximate river miles 617-619.

Island erosion, island dissection, and sedimentation have greatly reduced the quality and quantity of terrestrial and aquatic habitat in the project area. Project objectives are directed at improving conditions for fish, aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, maintaining emergent vegetation, maintaining submersed vegetation and island stabilization and nourishment to restore connectivity, and promotion of floodplain forest regeneration.

Description

This is a NESP study partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The study will consider alternatives including island building and enhancement, forest enhancement and creation, backwater restoration and dredging, island and shoreline protection, and the beneficial use of dredged material.

Status

Project kickoff occurred in March 2024. The Tentatively Selected Plan has been approved. The Project Implementation Report will be completed in September 2025. Plans and specifications development is planned for 2026, with a construction contract award expected in 2027.