University Lakes Flood Reduction Project

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The University Lakes Flood Risk Reduction Construction project involves the implementation of Louisiana State University’s (LSU) Master Plan for revitalization of the University Lakes System, which provides both flood risk reduction and habitat improvements within the entire University Lakes System. The lake system is comprised of six urban lakes in and around the LSU campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Of the six lakes that make up the University Lakes System, four are owned by LSU (University Lake, Lake Crest, Campus Lake, and College Lake) and two are owned by the City of Baton Rouge-Parish of East Baton Rouge (City Park Lake and Lake Erie).

 Scope of work as the prime contractor includes the mechanical and hydraulic dredging of sediment from the Lake System and dewatering using Geotubes^®. The project goals are to improve water quality, reduce flood risk potential, increase natural habitat, and provide expanded and safer recreational opportunities within the Lake System. Sevenson has completed a Pilot Study, which included hydraulic dredging and processing of water through four Geotubes^®; mechanical dredging of sediment; and site restoration. For the full-scale project Sevenson is currently performing raking and debris removal from 150 acres of lake bottom and has completed the removal of >9,000 tons of wood debris to date; mechanical dredging of >220,000 CY of lake sediment; hydraulic dredging of >350,000 CY of sediment; dewatering of sediment using both 60-foot and 30-foot Geotubes^®; and placement of backfill along shorelines. Upon project completion, Sevenson will have created an additional 50+ acres of new land as a result of dredging a total of over 500,000 CY of sediment. Extensive habitat restoration performed by others will include the revegetation of the bird sanctuary extension to create additional habitat for native and migratory birds; installation of pedestrian pathways; and landscaping along the shorelines with low-growing native plants that will support wildlife habitats and help filter runoff.