LINCOLN COUNTY CULVERT STREAM CROSSINGS PROJECT: PHASE ONE REVEALS SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

A project focused on the assessment of culvert stream crossings on public roadways was initiated by the Lincoln County Land Services Department earlier this year. The project’s object is evaluating the current condition of culverts and what the impact is to the environment. Information gathered will help with prioritization of crossing replacement. Findings from the projected are communicated to the municipalities responsible for maintaining and replacing the structures, allowing road managers to develop a plan for culvert replacement. Plans also include determining correct size and placement, and developing a financial aid strategy.

Three project phases will be needed to assess all the culvert crossings across the County. Using the WDNR’s Surface Water Data Viewer (SWDV), 573 crossings have been identified for assessment. A Surface Water Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) was given to the Lincoln County Land Services Department to complete Phase 1, where over 200 crossings were assessed in the Townships of Birch, Harrison, King, Merrill, Pine River, Russell, Schley, and Skanawan.

Through the use of the Great Lakes Stream Crossing Inventory protocols, crossings are assessed and prioritized considering factors such as stream constriction, erosion, fish passability, and the condition of the culverts. Phase 1 results show that significant stream crossing improvements could be made throughout the county’s road system.