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Last updated on Monday, April 16, 2012
(SALEM) - The City of Salem is giving serious consideration to draining and dredging Lake Salinda and bringing the lake back on line as a water source for the city.
Marcia Walker, of the Salem Leader, reports Salem Mayor David Bower discussed the possibility with both the board of works and Salem City Council. Bower says the lake may have to be drained and then dredged.
He mentioned that Lake Salinda amounts to having a $500 saddle on a $20 horse since a new dam has been installed and improvements made to the treatment building, but the water isn't usable.
Bower said the city is considering initiating a planning study as part of the process of applying for a grant to cover costs. That study would not be aimed only at Lake Salinda, but would include all potential water sources for the city.
Bower said another option for covering costs is a 2 percent loan from the United States Department of Agriculture.
Bower said dredging the lake would increase its life by as much as 50 years. At one time, Bower said, the lake covered 128 acres and is now down to 68 acres. The project would include installation of basins to help curtail sediment from washing into the lake.
Bower asked for two members of the city council to serve on a committee; Wally Terkhorn and Justin Green volunteered.
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