A major flood event occurred in 2014 leading to the highest recorded water elevation, 906 feet, on Prior Lake since the outlet system was first installed. During the 2014 flood the outlet channel functioned properly, while continuously receiving water from the elevated Prior Lake. Water rushed through the channel at a rate and volume never experienced before. This extreme water velocity coupled with the duration of rainfall events caused significant damage throughout the channel. Trees fell, sediment was distributed, and over 20,000 feet of bank erosion occurred.
The Prior Lake-Spring Lake Watershed District worked with the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and was approved for federally-financed repairs. Repair projects along the outlet channel included:
- Tree and woody debris removal
- Streambank stabilization
- Culvert replacements
- Sediment removal
Bank Erosion Work Completed
Bank erosion repair work has been completed along the channel. Maintenance for vegetation reestablishment will continue in 2021.
One of three culverts which was replaced.
Other Completed Repairs
Tree and woody debris removals, culvert replacements and the sediment delta removal have been completed.
Damage to outlet channel before tree removals.