Improving water flow and the aesthetics of the English coulee will come at a cost. The Grand Forks City Council received an update on an ongoing study last night (Monday) that looks at ways to eliminate smells and poor water quality of the coulee as it meanders through the city.
Testing of the coulee to date shows that it has high levels of phosphorous likely from ag and urban runoff. The analysis suggests there is 2 to 3 feet of sediment that has been deposited throughout the coulee – the equivalent of 110,000 cubic yards.
The study says the best way to remove the sediment is through hydraulic dredging which could cost $18 million dollars if done all at once.
The next phase of the study will include exploring outside funding sources and how dredging would impact water levels. A final report on the coulee should be ready in 2024.
— — —
As expected the Grand Forks council gave preliminary approval to another six month extension on a Letter of Intent with Northern Plains Nitrogen.
The proposed plant is looking to tap water from the city’s sewage lagoons to make nitrogen fertilizer. Securing investor support for the $3 billion dollar project has been a work in progress since 2013.
NPN’s Larry Mackie told council members that he hopes this is the last extension he will have to ask for. Mackie says he’s currently in talks with three potential investors. The extension runs through the end of the year.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
