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KCI finds Duck statue likely beyond simple repair; lion statue salvageable with foundation work
Summary
KCI's early assessment suggests the fiberglass duck statue's internal cement has crumbled and replication may be the best path; the lion statue likely can be salvaged but needs foundation repairs. A tiered recommendation and cost estimate will be presented Aug. 19.
A consultant from KCI inspected two prominent public statues in Blackduck and delivered preliminary findings: the historic duck statue may be too degraded for straightforward restoration, while the lion statue appears salvageable but requires work on its base.
The KCI representative told council that the duck’s fiberglass facade is separating and that the cement interior has crumbled; water intrudes into the piece and previous repairs appear to have been a partial “band-aid.” Because of the internal damage, KCI said replication of the duck may be the most practical long-term solution depending on costs. The lion statue’s primary concern is the foundation and moisture beneath the base; KCI reported six inches of water under the lion in the facade area but was confident the lion could be salvaged with repair to the base.
KCI will provide a tiered recommendation and cost estimates for both statues at the Aug. 19 work session. Council members asked staff to prepare funding options and noted that restoration timing will need to match other capital and grant priorities.
The findings will inform whether the city pursues full restoration, a partial conservation approach or replication for the duck statue.
