Highlighted Projects

Trout Unlimited - Pickwick Creek

Winona County, MN

MBESI and MBI are currently retained as the engineers and permitting agents for five miles of trout stream restoration in SE Minnesota funded by the new Lessard Sam’s Outdoor Heritage Commission.  Because Designated Trout Streams are Protected Waters under Minnesota Statutes and are considered Special Waters under the NPDES; Stormwater rules require detailed assessment and compliance with special permit conditions.  The goal of the habitat improvement projects are to restore aquatic habitat for trout and cold water species through bank restoration, reconnecting floodplains to deeply incised channels, in-stream work including weirs, plunges, diversions and habitat structures and stream bank and construction site erosion control. As shown below, Pickwick Creek was one of the segments of streams designated for restoration due to erosion and sedimentation issues.

MBESI has been engaged in Trout Stream bank restoration in SE Minnesota for the last twenty years and is recognized by the MNDNR for its' experience and involvement in developing the design standards for cold water stream restoration and has participated in nearly every type of stream restoration project ranging from bio-engineering revetments, willow stakes and root wads to in-stream diversions, weirs and drop structures to rip-rap, bridges and culverts.  The MBESI and MBI staff have expanded on this vast experience and are providing the assessments, design and permitting for the current Trout Unlimited grants.