Resolving navigation issues at Olbrich Park

The City of Madison, WI, is continuing to work with regional and state partners to resolve the boat launch navigation issues at Olbrich Park.

“As in previous years, we are advising boaters to use caution navigating the narrowed channel where the Starkweather Creek meets Lake Monona due to low lake levels and creek sediment,” the city said.

“Since 2019, we have worked to secure the necessary permitting and funding to dredge the launch area.”

The permit process requires a sediment sample, which is tested for contaminants.

In addition to contamination typical of urban lake sediment, the Olbrich Park launch site also contained low-level detections of PFAS.

While the contamination level was quite low, the lack of clear disposal standards and processes for PFAS has led to additional delays in establishing how and where to dispose of the dredging sediments. 

According to the city, channel markers are installed by Dane County Land & Water Resources to assist boaters.