Board reviews dewatering issues; approves limited permit for park project

The St. Joseph County Drainage Board discussed an unauthorized dewatering effort at a ranch project and approved a limited dewatering discharge for a county park pond construction project with monitoring and technical conditions.

A board member reported the ranch project began dewatering without a permit and that sand entered the ditch where the contractor's structure was not properly set. The member said the contractor stopped pumping shortly after the issue was discovered and staff and the contractor will meet to address cleanup and compliance.

Separately, staff described a county park dewatering application to construct two mission ponds on the county park’s east side. Technical parameters discussed included three pumps at about 300 gallons per minute each, an estimated need for an 8-by-8 or 10-by-10 filter bag to collect solids during discharge, and use of oxygenation measures when dewatering to protect aquatic life. Staff proposed and the board approved a limited discharge permit not to exceed five days (and subject to submitting a complete application, review by the surveyor/John, and monitoring by staff). The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Members asked staff to monitor the work closely, ensure required filtration and oxygenation measures are used, and report back if additional action is necessary.