Posted on January 23, 2024
As part of an Interlocal Agreement between Davidson and Rowan Counties for High Rock Lake Dredging Feasibility Study County Commissioners approved a resolution in support of a feasibility study for dredging of High Rock Lake in early January.
According to the National Ocean Service and Atmospheric Service, “dredging “ “is the removal of sediments and debris from the bottom of lakes, rivers, harbors, and other water bodies. It is a routine necessity…” Geosyntec Consultants will complete the study.
Officials say dredging is also performed to “reduce the exposure of fish, wildlife, and people to contaminants and to prevent the spread of contaminants to other areas of the water body. “ This environmental dredging is often necessary because sediments in and around cities and industrial areas are frequently contaminated with a variety of pollutants. These pollutants are introduced to waterways from point sources such as sewer overflows, municipal and industrial discharges, and spills; or may be introduced from nonpoint sources such as surface runoff and atmospheric deposition.”
The disposal of dredged material is managed and carried out by federal, state, and local governments, as well as by private entities such as port authorities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issues permits for the disposal of dredged material; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides oversight and authorization for the disposal of dredged materials.
In the agreement, the County’s contribution to a potential study is capped at $150,000. Funds have already been appropriated to cover expenses related to the study, so no additional appropriation is required. The overall cost of the study is estimated at $299,921.
Past requirements for the study have included:
To be considered for selection, the Consultant shall be qualified and capable of providing the following services: 1. Perform a survey of the lake bottom to quantify existing sediment. 2. The collection and analysis of lake bottom sediment samples to identify sediment characteristics with regards to handling and reuse/disposal requirements. 3. Identification of sediment reuse/disposal options and associated costs. 4. Identify the permitting requirements and environment impacts of dredging. 5. Engineer analysis of the costs and benefits of dredging options. 6. Assist with any possible grant or funding opportunities throughout the course of the project. 7. Collaborate with the County to create a Request for Proposal (RFP) and respond to respondent inquiries. 8. Provide Project Management, oversight, and coordination services throughout the entire process.
