FW: Tree and Riprap
Patrick Wilson
John Sullivan is looking for info on how much of an obstruction for paddlers this tree is upstream from the trail bridge over the La Crosse River in La Crosse. If you’ve paddled this area recently and have an opinion, let John know.
Thanks,
Pat Wilson
From: John Sullivan <irishv...@aol.com>
Sent: Tuesday, August 2, 2022 12:08 PM
To: Pat Wilson <pbwi...@centurytel.net>
Subject: Fwd: Tree and Riprap
Hi Pat,
I’ve had communications with you on this topic via Facebook messenger. I wanted to share this email from Leah Miller about the downed tree and potential new riprap upstream of the Grand Crossing Trail bridge over the La Crosse River. I suggested the board or City get more input from the paddling community before taking action. Do you feel this tree presents a serious obstruction for paddlers descending the river (see attached photo)? Do you have any thoughts on the need for more riprap on the north bank upstream of the bridge?
If possible, please forward this email to Joe and Marty Reigel or other prominent members of the paddling community who are familiar with this section of the La Crosse River.
Thanks,
John
Sent from my iPad
Begin forwarded message:
From: Chuck Lee <friendso...@gmail.com>
Date: August 2, 2022 at 10:45:49 AM CDT
To: Karen Acker <kac...@centurytel.net>, Carolyn Mahlum-Jenkins <cgj...@earthlink.net>, Ralph&Nancy Knudson <nancyandra...@gmail.com>, Chuck&Linda Lee <chuck...@gmail.com>, John Sullivan <irishv...@aol.com>
Subject: Tree and Riprap
I asked Leah for rationale regarding removing the silver maple and the riprap — see her reply below.
Begin forwarded message:
From: "Miller, Leah" <mill...@cityoflacrosse.org>
Subject: RE: a couple questions
Date: August 1, 2022 at 1:35:59 PM CDT
To: 'Chuck Lee' <friendso...@gmail.com>
Good Afternoon Chuck,
My thoughts regarding the tree removal include the following.
1. As river levels fluctuate the down tree in the river may become a collection point for down debris floating down the river. The more debris collected around the top may contribute to the sediment collecting and island formation. Should this island become more prominent I'm concerned more water will become focused around the tree and contribute to further erosion issues of the adjacent banks.
2. Hazard for kayakers/canoers on the river. Hazard for marsh/river explorers who may walk out onto the tree from the shore.
3. Poses challenges to place and maintain riprap around as the tree deteriorates over time.
Lastly, to address the need for additional rip rap - It is evident that the shoreline continues to erode beyond where the project left off last winter.
I'm open to leaving the tree in place as long as we can justify that there are positives that outweigh the removal.
Cheers,
Leah Miller,
Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Specialist
City of La Crosse Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department
E: Mill...@cityoflacrosse.org | P: 608.789.8672 | F: 608.789.7501
