Ramsey County Commission Approves Temporary Drain at Fox Lake to Protect County Road

The Ramsey County Commission voted to install a temporary drain at Fox Lake to relieve high water and protect a county road, the chair said during the meeting.

County staff reviewed photos and permitting language from U.S. Fish and Wildlife and said the permit allowed temporary measures to “get the water under control” to install a culvert. Officials described current conditions as leaving essentially zero freeboard on windy days and said the temporary drain would give immediate relief while a longer-term solution is explored.

Costs discussed ranged from about $30,000 for a temporary ditch to roughly $52,000–$70,000 for a more permanent drain or drain tile through wetlands. Commissioners noted the permanent option would require additional approvals, easements from private landowners (including lifetime-maintenance requests) and likely US Fish and Wildlife involvement; staff said those approvals could be difficult and delay relief.

The chair framed the choice as saving the road now versus pursuing a permanent fix that may not be attainable quickly. ‘‘My opinion, I think you move on with the temporary to save the road so that we don't lose the road,’’ the chair said. The commission moved, seconded and approved proceeding with the temporary drain permit and work. Staff said construction could begin shortly, weather and contractor availability permitting.