Environment and Natural Resources
For Immediate Release:  Friday, January 9, 2004
For More Information:  David Ryan, 773-4216

DENR Board Approves $100,000 Loan for Willow Lake Wastewater Improvements

PIERRE – The state Board of Water and Natural Resources approved a $100,000 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to Willow Lake for wastewater system improvements.

Governor Mike Rounds recommended the funding, which was approved when the board met Thursday and Friday.

“Willow Lake has experienced problems with its sewer collection system in recent years and is proposing to take the steps necessary to improve it,” said Rounds.  “These funds will help the city complete this needed project.”

The original sanitary sewer system in Willow Lake was constructed with four-foot lengths of clay pipe in 1941.  In 1998, portions of the collection system were replaced with PVC sewer pipe.   However, those remaining portions of clay pipe are allowing large amounts of infiltration and inflow into the sewer system during periods of heavy rainfall and high ground water.  

To solve the problem, Willow Lake is proposing to rehabilitate portions of the community’s wastewater collection system by installing a cured-in-place pipe lining system. The project includes cleaning and televising approximately 9,000 feet of 8-inch sewer main, installation of about 2,750 feet of lining, and rehabilitation of eight manholes.

The total estimated project cost is $210,000.  The loan is at 3½ percent for 20 years and is in addition to a $95,000 Consolidated grant awarded to the community by the board in September 2003.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund program provides low interest loans for wastewater and storm sewer projects.

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