Bair Island Restoration Update - 1/13/2012The light at the end of the tunnel can finally be seen for the Bair Island restoration. One million cubic yards of dirt is required to raise the level of Inner Bair to create a more natural tidal wetland, and to prevent flooding of Highway 101. Due to the downturn of the economy over the past several years, there were fewer construction projects where we can obtain the necessary clean import fill, causing some delays to the project. The refuge is happy to report that construction has continued and we have now filled well over half of the site. We have also obligated enough fill material to finish this portion by Fall 2012. Up to 200 truckloads of dirt per day are entering the site; large earthmovers, graders, and compactors are active. Bair Island and the trail will continue to be closed until further notice to ensure the public's safety. Violators are subject to prosecution and citation – 50 CFR 26.21 (a) (b), Penal Code 602. Last December, we began breaching levees inside Middle Bair in order to reconnect historic channels, add ditch blocks in the borrow pits, and to prepare middle Bair to be fully breached. However, Middle Bair cannot be breached until the two flow constrictors in Corkscrew and Smith Sloughs are built to enhance scour, provide better navigation, and protect the local marinas from increased tidal prism. Starting in June 2012, our contractors will be back on site to begin the construction of the two flow constrictors. There will be some temporary closures of the sloughs in order to safely install the flow constrictors. This process may take up to three months to complete. Once the flow constrictors are in place, the final breaches of Outer Bair and Middle Bair can be completed. In Spring of 2012, a new pedestrian bridge will be installed at the southern levee of Inner Bair and span across the slough connecting to Bair Island Rd. This will be the new public access point to enter Inner Bair Trail. An improved graveled trail and two viewing platforms will follow the bridge installation. By fall of 2012, the raising of Inner Bair's elevation should be complete and we then can make the final breaches into Inner Bair which will reconnect the historic Smith slough channel. Please do your part to help the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to efficiently and safely carry out this important project, which is for your benefit and that of all who enjoy and appreciate Bair Island. This closure of Bair Island is NECESSARY FOR THE PUBLIC SAFETY DURING the restoration work. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service & the City of Redwood City thank you for your cooperation and patience as Inner Bair Island is restored to tidal wetland, providing superior wildlife habitat, and enhanced public enjoyment of this natural treasure. More project information is available by visiting this website, or by calling the USFWS manager (510) 792-0222.
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Last updated:
January 15, 2012
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