Copper River Watershed Project seeks state easement to replace failing weir

The Copper River Watershed Project has applied for a state easement to replace a deteriorating weir at Eyak Lake near Cordova. The state Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through June 10.

The nonprofit is requesting an indefinite easement covering 1.25 acres of state-owned submerged lands. The new structure would maintain lake water levels, improve upstream fish passage, and address community concerns. The existing weir was built in 1972 after the 1964 earthquake.

The Copper River Watershed Project, led by Executive Director Lisa Docken, has worked on salmon habitat restoration throughout the watershed. The organization previously received funding from the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council in 2020 for barrier replacements to improve fish passage at multiple sites along the Copper River Highway, part of a broader effort to restore hydrologic function in the watershed.

The proposed easement spans 320 feet by 220 feet in sections 30 and 31 of Township 15 South, Range 2 West, Copper River Meridian. Construction would replace the failing weir with a sheet pile structure stiffened with reinforced concrete. Work is scheduled for January through April 2027. The project, identified as ADL 234634, is being processed under AS 38.05.850, and DNR Dam Safety has determined the structure is not considered a dam.

Written comments must reach the Division of Mining, Land and Water at 550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 900C, Anchorage, AK 99501, by June 10. Questions can be directed to Savannah Lilyhorn at 907-269-7480 or [email protected]. The state will review the application and may issue an authorization with conditions.