Public hearing planned for Tuesday, Aug. 22 in Green Isle
A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 22, to discuss management options, gather public input and review a plan for habitat enhancement on Silver Lake in Sibley County.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources fish and wildlife managers earlier this year replaced a failing water control structure at the outlet of Silver Lake. The new water control structure will provide opportunities for periodic, temporary water level management.
Managed drawdowns help mimic natural drought cycles that reset lake ecosystems by removing bottom-feeding fish species and consolidating sediments, which helps improve habitat conditions for fish and wildlife by increasing water clarity and promoting aquatic plant growth. The proposal also includes the stocking of game fish such as walleye or northern pike after a drawdown and subsequent winterkill. Stocking these desirable species will help establish angling opportunities and provide predators to suppress populations of bottom-feeding fish species such as common carp and bullheads.
The Aug. 22 hearing is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the proposed plan, ask questions, and formally provide comments on the proposed plan and management actions.
The public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22 at the Green Isle Sportsman’s Club, 21023 391st Ave., Green Isle. The public is also invited to informally visit with Minnesota DNR staff and ask questions prior to the public hearing, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Interested parties can contact Tim Koppelman, assistant area wildlife manager, 507-386-3923, [email protected] or 501 9th St., Nicollet, MN 56074.
Questions can also be directed to Steve Kittelson, Minnesota DNR shallow lakes specialist, 507-578-8891 or [email protected].