Study at Capitol Lake starts next week
Work will support Deschutes Estuary Restoration Project design.
The Department of Ecology project team will collect soil samples near Capitol Lake during the week of April 27, as part of the Deschutes Estuary Restoration Project. The work will help Ecology complete the final phase of the project’s design process by mid-2027.
Additional geotechnical information will support ongoing design efforts for the shoreline of Heritage Park, to reduce flooding and increase coastal resiliency.
The work is expected to last a few days, depending on conditions. Work will take place during business hours. The project team will drill holes to collect soil samples and evaluate their makeup and the underground conditions.
A small area of the park will be closed. Signs will alert cyclists and pedestrians near the sample collection location. The public can expect to see a drilling machine, construction materials, and field staff.
Ecology and DES are collaborating on this project to restore Capitol Lake to an estuary, one of the largest projects of its kind in the nation. Restoring the estuary is the path forward for:
- Improving water quality
- Enhancing animal and plant habitat
- Increasing climate and flood resilience
- Expanding recreational access
- Supporting regional transportation
Construction could begin as early as mid-2027, pending construction funding and environmental permits.
Ecology and DES are partnering with Floyd|Snider of Seattle on this project.
More information
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