CARTER LAKE WATER LEVEL

STABLILIZATION PROPOSAL

Problem Statement 

·    Flood control and channelization along the Missouri River has isolated this oxbow lake, eliminating any natural water recharge from the river directly into the lake.  The flood control efforts in the area have left Carter Lake relying solely on rainfall and storm water run off for recharge. 

·    Previous studies recommend the optimal level of the lake to be 970.3 +/- .5 feet MSL (mean sea level). In December 2006 the lake level is 3.0 feet below optimal level.  (See Lake Levels web page.)   Lake level fluctuations are detrimental to the recreational value, surrounding ecosystem and increase shoreline erosion.  In addition, the current low water level is increasing toxic algae and driving more people away from the area.

·    The potential of Carter Lake as a recreational destination is underutilized.  For example, Lake Manawa has 1.5 million visitors each year.  Approximately 80% of these visitors are from Nebraska. 

Proposed Solution 

·    Construct an angled well on the Missouri River bank and connect it to the current flood control pump station located in Levi Carter Park.  Ensure the water quality entering the lake is of high quality and volume to ensure the water level is supported and water quality improves.

·    Create a local authority to maintain and operate the proposed lake stabilization system.

·    Include future plans to use a renewable energy source to help offset annual operational costs of the pumping systems.

Required funding

Estimated construction and design costs are approximately $2 million.  These costs include: 

·    Design, construction and installation of the angled well

·    Pumps and piping to connect to the existing infrastructure from the new well to the Lake.

·    Operating costs to initially fill the lake to full pool of 970.3 MSL.

Operation and maintenance costs are estimated at $15,000 to $30,000 annually.  These costs depend upon precipitation, evaporation and seepage rates.  A renewable energy source will reduce these costs.

Outcomes and Benefits

·    Increase of approximately 1.5 million users to the lake and surrounding parks.  55% of the lake shore is public access.

·    Increase in sporting events.  The unique horseshoe shape of the lake provides an advantage for water sport competitions. Tournaments such as Creighton University Crew Team, Cornhusker State Games Skiing Tournaments, and other regional and national power boat and skiing competitions will be attracted to the lake.

·    Expand the Lake’s connection to Downtown Omaha.  The Omaha Riverfront Trail along the east side of Carter Lake will be completed in 2007 attracting more visitors and local users.

·    Showcase the lake as a natural land mark in the Back to the River efforts and Eppley Airfield modifications.  Carter Lake is the beginning of the entrance to downtown Omaha along Abbott Drive. 

·    Increase in the tax base.  In the past 10 years, the residential property base in Carter Lake has increased $50 million.  Stabilization of the lake and subsequent additional development around the area will further increase this tax base.

·    Support the North Omaha Development Project Kicked off in November 2006.