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Lake County Water Authority adopts Barge conceptual plan for NERF site, seeks phased funding
Summary
The board unanimously approved the Barge Design conceptual master plan for the 220‑acre NERF site, endorsing a phased approach that pairs wetlands-based treatment with public access and education features to pursue grant funding and reduce reliance on chemical treatment.
The Lake County Water Authority Board of Trustees voted unanimously Oct. 22 to adopt a conceptual master plan for the 220‑acre nutrient recovery facility (NERF) site that emphasizes a mix of natural treatment wetlands, ecological restoration and public access.
Scott Shannon of Woodard & Curran introduced a phased concept showing options to (1) add treatment and storage while maintaining current NERF operations, (2) add an additional intake from the AB Canal, and (3) ultimately convert the site to natural treatment wetlands and educational amenities. "The product of that is what you see in front of you," Shannon said, describing the concept as a tool to inform a future detailed master plan and engineering evaluations.
Carl Salafrio of Barge Design presented an alternate design stressing a three‑legged approach—water quality, ecological restoration and community access—that pairs wetland treatment, habitat improvements and observation/education facilities. "The wetlands and the plants can only do a certain level and then they're done," Salafrio said, noting wetlands would provide part of the solution but additional engineered elements would be required to meet water‑quality goals.
Trustee (speaker 5) moved to accept the Barge conceptual design; Trustee (speaker 11) seconded. After discussion about phasing, grading and potential funding, the board voted in favor. Chair (speaker 2) summarized the result: "Unanimous, going with the Barge conceptual." The board asked staff to use the adopted concept to prepare a master plan, evaluate geotechnical and hydrologic constraints, and pursue regional grant funding.
The decision preserves a phased pathway that could allow the NERF to continue operating while exploring alternatives such as filter marshes, updated dewatering ponds and interpretive facilities. Staff emphasized the next steps will include detailed engineering, cost estimates, and grant and legislative outreach to secure funding for implementation.
The board's action was procedural and conceptual; no final design or construction funding was approved at the meeting. The trustees asked staff to return with a phased implementation plan and cost estimates before any final commitment.
