Preparations underway for Spring Harbor dredging

The City of Madison, WI, is currently working on preliminary plans, cost estimate, grant applications, permits, etc. for the upcoming Spring Harbor Dredge Project.

Spring Harbor is due for maintenance dredging because users of the public boat launch and adjacent residents are having trouble launching boats.

The hydrographic survey from May 2020 shows the average depth of the harbor is 2.5 feet.  

City Engineering is working with the City Parks Department on a dredge plan to remove sediment/ debris to clear out 8 feet below summer minimum lake level of Lake Mendota (849.6 feet NGVD29 Datum).

Dredging limits  are to be determined by funding.

Project limits include entire length of Spring Harbor channel from Lake Mendota Drive to Lake Mendota. Width will be a minimum of 25’ on either side of the channel centerline. A wider width will also be determined by funding.

Tentative schedule is September to December 2021.

“We are looking to avoid closing the harbor during boating season, but will need to dredge before the harbor freezes,” the city said.

“There are a number of points of contact during this project where the public is encouraged to give feedback as part of public information meetings and public hearings.”