Windom council proceeds with dam plans

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WINDOM — After almost four years of weighing its options and working with various parties, Windom’s city council decided at its Tuesday meeting to resume plans for the Des Moines River dam.

In 2007, water from the river began flowing around the dam which eventually led to a breach in the structure.

A feasibility study was conducted for the city to begin looking at its options. Discussions started with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as well as local residents.

“It was just a difficult time for us,” said Steve Nasby, Windom’s city administrator.

He said a decision was made at the start of this year to move forward with the dam project. The plan is to remove the structure and replace it with series of rock riffles.

Preliminary plans of the project will begin with an environmental assessment worksheet. By early August, the assessment is expected to be completed. Following the completion is a 30-day window for comments. Nasby is hopeful for bidding to commence in mid-September.

Through a state bonding bill, Windom received $190,000 from MnDNR’s dam safety grant. Nasby said the city is looking for a minimum of $100,000 from the MnDNR’s ecological services.

Also in the application process is a $100,000 grant from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“We’re looking pretty good there, but until we get an award letter, it’s not definite,” Nasby added.

The city is hopeful for the removal of the dam and construction to begin this fall.

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