Update on Sand Creek
Habitat “Makeover” Continues near Olive Street
Phase 2 construction is underway along Sand Creek from Olive Street downstream to the railroad tracks. Expect up to 4 more weeks of construction, depending on weather. This phase was started on December 7 and went very well and ahead of schedule before a 2-week Holiday break occurred.
Trucks are hauling material to lower the floodplain area along the new, curvy creek channel that was started last winter and to fill in parts of the old channel. The curves help 1) create better habitat in the creek, and 2) slow the speed of water flowing down the creek. The lowered floodplain area is for floodwaters during large rainstorms or snowmelt.
This project also includes stabilizing erosion along several creek banks and the planting of native plants in spring and summer 2021 to increase wildlife habitat variety. There will be ongoing maintenance and invasive species control for a couple of years.
The goals of the project are improved habitat in and along this part of Sand Creek and cleaner water flowing downstream. Funding is from state & federal grants received by the Coon Creek Watershed District in partnership with the City of Coon Rapids. The MN Department of Natural Resources gave technical assistance and oversight.
For more information, visit the Coon Creek Watershed District website, call the Coon Creek Watershed District at 763-755-0975, or email Jon Janke, Operations & Maintenance Coordinator.
