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City, watershed district to partner on channel restoration

City News October 30, 2026

At its Oct. 26 meeting, the Albert Lea City Council approved a joint powers agreement with the Shell Rock River Watershed District to restore the channel between Fountain and Albert Lea lakes.

The watershed district has secured more than $5.5 million in state funding for the project and aims to:

  • Improve stream health
  • Enhance wildlife habitat
  • Support fish and other aquatic life
  • Expand recreational access for fishing, canoeing and kayaking

As part of the project, planned for 2027, the watershed district and city are evaluating replacement of the dam on Fountain Lake, which was installed in 1911.

The agreement outlines each party’s responsibilities, including the city funding replacement of its sanitary sewer in the project area.

To learn more: