Project objective:  This project has two objectives that are both of  importance in restoring the health of the natural creek system.  Powell Creek has been impeded with silt deposits that appear to be the result of the combination of  poor erosion control along the creek as well as diminished flows through the natural creek as a result of the construction of the Powell Creek Bypass.  The baseline study including an existing conditions survey (page 1, page 2, page 3, page 4, and page 5) was conducted to determine the extent of the silt buildup in the natural creek.  This study was used to develop the documents needed to submit as part of the dredging permit process.  The extent of dredging allowed will be dictated by the permitting agencies.  Permit documents were submitted to Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection on January 16, 2008.

The second objective is to determine the feasibility of permanently raising the level of the weir that diverts flows into the natural creek to allow for better flushing of the system. The feasibility study being conducted to determine the possibility of permanently raising the diversion weir has been completed and concludes that it may be possible to raise the diversion weir by two feet without detrimental impacts if maintenance of the downstream Powell Creek By-Pass is continued.

Expected completion date: 2008

Contact information:  Wanda Wooten, Project Mgr.; Ph: 239-533-8138;

e-mail: wootenws@leegov.com