Frequently Asked Questions

Show All Answers

1. Why is this project necessary?

The main goals of the Lake Arbor Shore Stabilization Project are to 1) repair the eroded shorelines to improve public safety near the trails and 2) remove large sediment deposits within the western pond.

In addition, algae and unpleasant odors have been a consistent problem around the lake, especially during the hot, summer months. In order to mitigate these issues, the project will install features to improve water quality. These include:

• A stable rock and vegetated shoreline to reduce erosion along the lake's edge
• Wetland plants and grasses around the lake perimeter
• More aerators that help elevate oxygen levels to break down algae in the lake

2. What causes odor issues at the lake?

The odor has a variety of possible causes including contaminants from stormwater run-off in the surrounding neighborhoods, goose and other animal feces, and the shallow nature of the water which allows algae to grow more easily. 

3. Why did the project take so long to begin?

The City is legally required to determine any existing water rights that may impact the project. This was a lengthy process that has concluded and allowed the project to move forward.

4. Why isn’t dredging the main goal of the project anymore?

• Dredging is a very disruptive and costly process. This would have required a full drain and refill of the lake extending the length and cost of the project with no guarantee that dredging would solve the odor problem.
• The City could not guarantee the ability to refill the lake completely after draining. This could result in the lake remaining dry for a long period of time.
• Shoreline stabilization can be completed without dredging and is a higher priority due to the safety considerations near the trails.
• The process being used will effectively stabilize the shores and help return Lake Arbor to the original state in which it was created.
• Further dredging of the lake will still be considered in a future phase after monitoring the shoreline improvements. This would be completed in a manner that is less disruptive and would not require draining the lake.

5. Will the fish and other creatures in the lake being impacted by construction?

The City is working with Colorado State Parks and Wildlife to assess the aquatic species in the lake and assist with salvage and relocating so they are not impacted by construction activities.

6. What trees or vegetation will be added at the end of the construction?

Most of the project areas will be restored with good-quality topsoil, and should be solid candidates for new tree plantings in the future. Soil quality will be tested after construction to determine when and where we can put new trees. Other areas in the park will likely need more time for soil remediation.

New wetland plants will also be added along the north shoreline next year once the water level has returned to normal. Topsoil test will be used to determine the plant species that will work best.

7. What can residents do to help maintain the lake quality and reduce odor issues?

Fertilizers

• Use natural, slow-release nitrogen or low phosphorus fertilizers to help keep drainage ways clean.
• If you need to use fertilizers or pesticides, follow the instructions on the label.
• Do not apply fertilizers or pesticides before it rains. This will not allow the fertilizers or pesticides to fully penetrate through the soil.

Clean up pet waste

Ensure that you always pick up after your pet and dispose of waste appropriately.

Landscaping

• Use "barrier" and drought-tolerant plants on your property that can help retain run-off water, improve nutrient uptake, and reduce the amount of contaminants going downstream to the lake.
• Shrubs and trees that perform well in the semi-arid state of Colorado include:
  • Western or northern catalpa
  • Gambel oak
  • Silver fountain butterfly bush
  • Arnold red honeysuckle
  • Yellow flowering or golden currant

Car Washing

• Limit the amount of water entering street gutters and storm drains.
• Using a bucket and water to reduce the amount of water used.
• Consider using a local car wash facility, as they are often required to have systems to better handle runoff and, in some cases, recycle and reuse water.