Freeborn Light project area in Pool 2.
Purpose
The purpose of the Pool 2 Freeborn Light Dredge Project is to restore the navigation channel to authorized dimensions, suitable bend widths, and sufficient waiting areas to accommodate 15-barge tows. The navigation industry has identified Freeborn Light as a priority area for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to address.
Location
The Pool 2 Freeborn Light Dredge Project is in Pool 2 of the Mississippi River near Cottage Grove, Minnesota, at river mile 819.
Description
The USACE operates and maintains the Upper Mississippi River 9-Foot Channel Navigation Project, and one method USACE uses to keep the channel the authorized width and depth is dredging river substrate or “material.”
This project proposes to dredge approximately 225,000 cubic yards of material from multiple established dredge cuts within the project area to maintain the federally authorized navigation channel. Dredging will focus on areas where shoaling impedes navigation efficiency and reduces channel reliability.
The final placement area will be identified through a Contractor-Selected Placement Site process, allowing the contractor to propose a suitable site that meets engineering, environmental and real estate requirements. The selected site will be subject to review and approval to ensure compliance with applicable federal regulations and project specifications.
The Pool 2 Dredged Material Management Plan, completed in 2020, identified a long-term placement site for dredged material with sufficient capacity for at least 20 years. However, USACE has not been able to acquire the property. While this project addresses immediate dredging needs, the long-term placement of dredged material will remain an issue until the identified site is secured. Securing this site would also address the dredging backlog in the greater Pool 2 area.
Status
USACE is currently advancing preconstruction coordination efforts for the Pool 2 Freeborn Light Dredge Project. Ongoing actions include drafting the plans and specifications scope of work, preparing a biological assessment, and scheduling spring sediment quality testing to support environmental compliance and permitting requirements. These efforts are intended to ensure the project proceeds in accordance with applicable federal regulations and environmental standards.
Authority
Operations and maintenance of the 9-Foot Navigation Channel Project was authorized by the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1930.
Funding
Estimated Project Cost $6,075,000