MITCHELL, S.D.(KMIT)- The Mitchell City Council discussed the Lake Mitchell Project at a budget work session on Monday night.  Dangerous algae levels have forced the closure of the lake for parts of the past several summers.  The city is hoping to tackle the problem by dredging the lake and improving the watershed.  Mitchell Public Works Director Joe Schroeder (shray-der) updated the council on the project.

The drawdown would cost $3.5 million and would be funded through an SRF, or State Revolving Fund, loan.  Barr Engineering of Minneapolis is currently working on the dredging design, which is expected to be completed in March.  Along with the drawdown, there has been an emphasis on improving the wetland along Firesteel Creek upstream from the lake.  Council member Susan Tjarks (charks) says she supports both.

The entire project is expected to cost between $15 and 20 million.