Current Issues in Journalism

LAWRENCE, Kan.- Behind the Mutt Run Off Leash Dog Park located at 1330 East 902 Road, an erosion control concrete shoulder is falling into the Wakarusa River below the Clinton Lake Dam. The Clinton Lake Dam, controlled by the Corps. Of Engineers, releases water causing the land beneath the concrete shoulder to erode. Many people walk around this area and on top of the slab. The concrete slab poses a threat and serious danger to these people because part of it has already fallen into the Wakarusa River, while the other half slants towards the river. According to Kerry Golden (785) 832-7959, District One Supervisor of the Parks and Recreation District of the City of Lawrence said that the soil was easily eroded. The constant rush of water from the Clinton Lake dam causes the land to erode and the concrete shoulder lacks enough to support to keep it stable.

The Corps. Of Engineers is responsible for this problem. However, when asked if they had plans to fix it, Lew Roana (785) 843-7665 from the Corps. of Engineers said, “Not at all. The budget’s not very strong.” In order to repair the concrete slab, Lew Roana has to apply for a 404 permit. He has to get a 404 permit because they would be altering the stream flow and this requires time and a large funding that is currently unavailable. Without proper support, the concrete shoulder lacks support and makes it a potential threat to people who walk near it.