March Meeting 7pm Tuesday 3/16; Updates on Beach Clean Up by USACE

If you would like to join the meeting tonight, email the club president, parkpointcc@gmail.com before 6pm.

• Clean Water Act 401 Water Quality Certifications

DNT Article by Peter Passi on Shredded Cans on Beach

Club Recommendations for 2021 and beyond, revised 3.15.21

The Park Point Community Club supports these recommendations as stated below:

Because the erosion situation on Park Point, especially in the area between 9th and 13th streets, poses an emergency level of risk of storm damage, we strongly encourage the City of Duluth and USACE to complete the beach nourishment project in 2021. The following recommendations aim to mitigate issues experienced this year:

1. The USACE deposits up to 100,000 cubic yards of MPCA-approved dredge materials on the beach from 9th to 13th streets in 2021.

2. Prior to the beach nourishment application in 2021, the USACE will study and report back to the City of Duluth, Park Point Community Club and the PPCC EHWC their findings on the cause of the crushed aluminum and what will be done to avoid a repeat of that problem. 

3. Prior to the beach nourishment application in 2021 a concerted education effort will be undertaken by the USACE, the City of Duluth, and the Park Point Community Club on the nature of the beach nourishment project, what is to be expected, and what residents can do to mitigate temporary effects during the application of new beach materials.

4. Dredged materials considered for continued beach nourishment will undergo detailed analysis for suitability before they are placed on the beach. The USACE’s sediment sampling plan must demonstrate state water quality standards for Lake Superior will not be exceeded. During the application of new beach materials in 2021, the City of Duluth and PPCC will request MPCA require constant monitoring of the lake and discharged materials for the presence of any harmful components. If harmful components are found in the discharge, the USACE will take steps to remove or treat them.

5. If there are remaining dredge materials, they are placed on the south end of Minnesota Point (Lake Superior side) to protect the old growth pine forest including the scientific and natural areas. 

3/16 Meeting Agenda:

a. Call to Order

b. Presentation and action on the minutes of the previous meeting

c. Presentation and action on the treasurer’s report

d. Reading of all communications received

e. Report of the Committees of the Club: Youth, Art Fair, Breeze, Hospitality, Executive, Program, Sunshine, Environmental,
Watch:

• Report from MP50 (long range strategic planning for MN Point), Paul Treuer, chairperson

• Report from PP Erosion and High Water Committee, Hamilton Smith, chairperson- Cans and shards on beach – clean up effort & process- how you can help

f. Discussion and action on unfinished business

• Pat Sterner and Rory Strange on Neighborhood Watch and Traffic and Safety Initiatives
• Lafayette user fee, including club activities

g. Discussion and action on new business

• Resolution to support the purchase of a replacement surf rescue board,  Bob Pokorney of the Park Point Volunteer Surf Rescue at the S-Curve

h. Adjournment

More info: Park Point Volunteer Surf Rescue on facebook

From Bob. P: Since we started lifeguarding at 12th street in 2013, our volunteers have spent more than 100 full days on the sand. We make beach observations every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and by communicating with the National Weather Service (who in turn informs the Fire Department) have corrected the flag color and safety level more than 25 times. Our lifeguards have had hundreds of conversations about Lake Superior Safety with beachgoers, provided first aid to visitors, and made three water rescues to swimmers in distress. We have had no fatalities at the S-Curve since our group was formed. In addition, we pick up trash, encourage visitors to use garbage cans, and remind people of the alcohol regulations in the park. As you may recall, we operate as a volunteer program of the Duluth Family YMCA, and collaborate with the Twin Ports Rip Current Work Group.