The Prior Lake-Spring Lake Watershed District and dedicated residents from across the watershed were determined to find funding to extend the life of Prior Lake’s greatest line of defense against flooding. The impassioned presentations, letters, and lobbying efforts to State Representatives and Senators and the countless meetings and hours spent applying for grant funding appeared to be for naught after months of rejection. Finally, in late August we received good news. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has awarded the District with over $850,000 in grant funding for the Prior Lake Outlet Channel.

The Prior Lake Outlet Channel was built in 1983 as a “relief valve” for Prior Lake. This remains a critical piece of infrastructure, as Prior Lake is the lowest point in a land locked chain of lakes, with water coming in from the surrounding 30 square miles. The channel begins in a southwest bay of Lower Prior Lake with a 0.4-mile-long pipe. This pipe is built to carry water at rates of 65 cubic feet per second, but time and overuse has caused damage within the pipe that slows this rate. More alarmingly, the cracks and leaks threaten the integrity of the pipe, which is nearing the end of its lifespan.

The awarded grant funding will allow us to line the outlet pipe through “Cured-in-Place-Pipe Lining.” This method creates a “pipe within the pipe” and will double its lifespan and restore its full capacity. The method also avoids the need for disruptive excavation, as the work can be done through existing manholes. Construction is expected to begin within the next two years, marking a significant step forward in preserving this essential infrastructure.