Scanlon Reservoir

Site History

Scanlon Reservoir is located downstream of Cloquet, Minnesota and east of Scanlon, Minnesota. Approximately 40 acres in size, the site contains low-energy pools of water, a variety of habitat zones, and the Scanlon hydroelectric dam. Investigations have found elevated concentrations of dioxins and furans widely distributed throughout the reservoir sediments. The sediment remediation project includes a 13.5-acre remedial footprint and will address 55,000 cubic yards of contaminated sediment.

Location

The Scanlon Reservoir project site is located east of Scanlon, MN and downstream of Cloquet, MN. It is within the St. Louis River Area of Concern.

Schedule

The sediment remediation project is being performed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency through a Great Lakes Legacy Act voluntary partnership. The project will involve new remediation technologies, which include applying a thin layer of activated carbon over contaminated sediments. The activated carbon will bind the contaminants and reduce contaminant uptake by bottom-dwelling organisms, which form the base of the food chain. A 4-6 inch thin-layer of pelletized activated carbon amended with sand will be placed over contaminated sediments in deeper waters of the remedial footprint. A broadcast pelletized activated carbon amendment will be applied in shallower waters. It is anticipated for construction to begin Spring 2022.

Remediation Process

Sediment to be remediated: 13.5 acres (55,000 cubic yards)
Contaminants: Dioxins/Furans
Method: Enhanced Monitored Natural Recovery with Thin-Layer Amended Cover and Broadcast Amendment
When: 2022
Partners: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Cost: $10.5 million

This map describes the 13.5-acre Scanlon Reservoir remedial footprint. (Source: Scanlon Reservoir Focused Feasibility Study)

Short-term Disruptions

Due to project construction, Scanlon River Park and the St. Louis River Recreational Trail, parking area, and road will be closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic through 2022.