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Supervisors identify trees blocking DD‑1 outlet; ask staff to pursue contractor and permitting options
Summary
Board members discussed drainage district DD‑1, described trees and debris blocking the outlet to the river, and directed staff to line up contractors and check permitting needs with Corps/DNR.
Winnebago County supervisors reviewed a drainage concern affecting drainage district DD‑1, reporting trees and debris at the ditch outlet that are restricting flow toward the river.
Officials described the obstruction as trees down at the end of the ditch where it meets the river; members said the trees are not in the river channel but are blocking the outlet and raising adjacent ditch water levels. Supervisors and staff discussed options to remove the trees, including contracting an excavator or tracked equipment to pull and remove them.
Board members raised permitting questions. Staff and supervisors discussed contacting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources because work at the outlet can trigger federal or state permitting requirements if the river channel or wetlands are affected. Several supervisors said that, because the trees are at the ditch outlet and not in the river, removal by contractor is likely feasible but that they would confirm permitting needs before work begins.
Timing and access were also discussed: some members noted the ground is currently frozen, which could affect contractor access; others said winter conditions may make it easier to stabilize equipment access in some locations. Supervisors asked staff to seek contractors, check equipment availability and permissibility, and follow up with the board.
