Crews are prepping for a $40 million dollar sediment remediation project at the Thomson Reservoir.

Activated carbon amendment in the form of pellets will be spread across 69 acres of the reservoir, where contaminant levels are likely to impact the organisms.

“The goal is to remove the exposure of the contaminants to the food chain,” shared LaRae Lehto, the Contaminated Sediment Program Coordinator.

The EPA and MPCA are working on this together, along with private industry. It’s the final of eight projects in the St. Louis River Area of Concern.

The parking lot at the UMD Kayak Center has been expanded, to make room for construction activity and paddlers.

“We are committed to keeping this open for the local rafting company and paddlers,” Lehto added.

Full scale, on-water activities will begin in September. You are asked to steer clear of the barges and equipment. And be aware of more trucks hauling on Highway 210.

The plan is to be fully done by November, 2025.