H.J. DeBaker Eagles Nest Park & Boat Launch
2026 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: JSD Professional Services Inc.
Client: Brown County
After sitting unused since 2011, Brown County was looking at ways to productively utilize the former Eagles Nest Supper Club site. Buoyed by grant funding and public enthusiasm, the County needed a firm that could bring their visions to life.
Engineers restored lake access and created accessible recreational opportunities.
JSD’s team led the planning and design efforts, beginning with a regional drainage project to mitigate site flooding. Through an extensive planning process with key stakeholders, the team helped define community priorities, including improved lake access for motorized and non-motorized watercraft and added amenities for anglers, bird watchers, bicyclists, and outdoor users. The final design features a reconstructed breakwater/jetty system engineered for safe harbor during storms, four boat-launch lanes within a protected basin, accessible walkways, gathering spaces, and ample parking to support recreation.
A significant challenge emerged when a cofferdam failed due to instability from zebra mussels. JSD’s engineers rapidly redesigned the structure in coordination with state agencies, ensuring stability and keeping construction on track. Engineers restored long-lost shoreline protection by replacing the underlying soils and adding new natural rock support.
Today, the site fills a critical gap in Lake Michigan access, blending recreation, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood compatibility through strong engineering leadership.