DNR signs $20,000 JPA with Otter Tail County to design Dead River fish‑passage fixes

Representatives of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources described a partnership with Otter Tail County on Jan. 13 that targets two fish‑passage and ditch integrity problems on the Dead River: the failing Stone Arch Bridge and the Lehi Head Dam outlet.

DNR staff said the joint powers agreement in place allocates $20,000 to Otter Tail County to fund an initial survey, design and a plan set with an opinion of probable probable cost. The county would act as local fiscal agent and project sponsor. DNR staff explained the objective is to restore connectivity for migratory fish such as walleye and sturgeon while stabilizing ditch erosion and the failing bridge.

County and DNR staff explained a broader funding strategy: after design is complete the partners will apply in the fall to the Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) program, a state funding source that typically provides a 90/10 state‑to‑local match for this type of restoration. DNR noted some small adjacent acres will need perpetual conservation easements (or fee title) to unlock legacy funds; East Otter Tail SWCD is working with landowners and will handle the easement enrollment.

The county asked staff to prepare a partnering resolution for the fall CPL grant submission and indicated general support for moving forward with design work under the executed JPA.