Press Releases
Buck’s Mill Press Release Sept 23, 2024
About Buck’s Mill Dam and the Project
Buck’s Mill Dam, originally constructed in 1871, is a historic structure located on the Pelican River between Mill Pond and Buck Lake, near Lake Melissa. As a key feature in the region’s water system, it has served the area for over 150 years. To ensure continued environmental health and safety, the dam will soon undergo essential modifications.
Project Scope
The MN DNR has partnered with the Pelican River Watershed District (PRWD) to be a local project sponsor. Funding has initiated a project to modify Buck’s Mill Dam. The dam will soon be modified to include a natural-looking spillway to allow fish passage while maintaining current water levels. The downstream township culvert will also be replaced. These changes will enhance the river’s ecology, and improve fish migration along the Pelican River. Moore Engineering Inc. will lead the project.
Benefits
The Buck’s Mill Dam modification project will:
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- Restore the local ecosystem and improve biodiversity
- Provide enhanced fish passage to support native species including Lake Sturgeon
- Improve safety by removing potential hazards
These enhancements will ensure the Pelican River continues to thrive for future generations while preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Tentative Timeline
- Grant Agreement (MN DNR and PRWD) – executed August 22, 2024
- Engineering Services Scope of Work Task Order – Approved September 11, 2024
- Buck’s Mill Information Meeting Presentation Sept 25, 2024
- Field Work (Geotechnical Investigation, Topometric (ground) and Bathymetric (water) surveys, Aerial (drone) survey – Fall 2024
- Engineer’s Report – Hydraulic Study, Preliminary Design (Dam, Township Culvert and Road, Partner review meetings), ROW Considerations, Cost Estimate, Funding Summary – Fall 2024 – Spring 2025
- Environmental Review (EAW and Permitting Plan) – Fall 2024 – Spring 2025
- Project Public Hearing (March 2025) – public comments
- Establish Project
- Project Execution – Final Design, Permitting, Contracting, Construction – Spring – Fall 2025
Funding
The project is expected to cost between $2-3 million and funded through a combination of state and federal grants.
Current funding partners include:
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We encourage you to get involved in the Buck’s Mill Dam project! Join us at upcoming events to learn more and share your input.
Learn More
Learn more about the Buck’s Mill Dam project and partners.
