SAN ANGELO, Texas -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is currently conducting dredging operations at O.C. Fisher Lake.
Dredging equipment is currently operating from a floating barge positioned in front of the outlet works tower. Silt removed during the operation is pumped to a placement area and collected into specially engineered filtration containers to ensure environmental compliance prior to final removal and disposal. Filtration containers may remain in place for up to six months after completion of dredging. The project to remove silt from the approach channel is expected to be complete by the end of May 2021.
Project officials want to remind the public that all permanent restricted zones at the dam remain in effect. The public is prohibited from entering the rip-rap rock embankment of the dam, as well as a 300-foot restricted zone around the outlet works tower. Boaters are also prohibited within 300 feet of the intake structure. Buoy markers in front of the intake structure designate the restricted zone for boaters.
During the ongoing dredging operations, an additional restricted area has been established and extends into the Lakeview Day Use Area of San Angelo State Park near the dam. This zone is in place to provide safety for equipment operations around the filtration containers and placement site. Visitors to the day use will see barricades as they approach this area. The boat ramp is not affected and will continue to be managed by the State Park. The hike and bike trail on the O.C. Fisher dam also remains open for visitors to enjoy. This dredging project is a crucial step in the project’s flood control mission and facilitates regular maintenance and inspection.
The Corps of Engineers appreciates continued public support in ensuring safety and security during this project. For additional information please contact the lake office at 325-625-2322
Visit the Fort Worth District Web site at: www.swf.usace.army.mil and social media at: https://about.me/usacefortworth
Release no. 21-023