Lake Problem

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johnnie crain outdoors
Posts: 1504
Joined: Sat Apr 06, 2002 5:00 pm

Lake Problem

Post by johnnie crain outdoors »

We have a 6000, acre lake near my home that the dnr refuses to maintain a constant water level. It basically is being used as a duck hunting lake. The lake is only five feet deep in most places and each summer-june-july and august the lake is lowered to 2.5 feet. This of course, leaves all the new born fry of all species with no where to go. The DNR plants mullet for duck feed but has left a once good fishing lake depleted of all diseable species-especially bass. We are petitioning to keep the lake at a constant five feet level. I would love to have as many Bassin Members as possible e mail me in support of our efforts to save the bass and other game fish.Brendan, a letterhead from Bassin with support would be terrific. I am hand carrying all e mails-pro and con to out state Congressmen who I am getting to know very well. Thanks for your help. Johnnie [email protected]
Johnnie Crain
brendanc
Posts: 2720
Joined: Thu May 03, 2001 4:00 pm

Lake Problem

Post by brendanc »

That sounds like something that goes against the whole purpose of the DNR??? I'd be happy to write a letter. Can you email me the specifics (name of lake, location, situation, etc.)
Brendan C.
johnnie crain outdoors
Posts: 1504
Joined: Sat Apr 06, 2002 5:00 pm

Lake Problem

Post by johnnie crain outdoors »

Thanks Brendan,
Lake Odessa near Muscatine is an 8,000 acre shallow lake which in the 1970's was considered one of the top bass lakes in the nation. Now, it is fishless due to the DNR drawing down the lake every summer (June, July, August) to plant mullet for ducks. The lake during the hot months has a depth of 2.5 feet, we are seeking to have the DNR to keep the main lake a constant 5.4 feet so it is usuable by all sportsmen. This lake has been under the control of waterfowl hunters for several years with no regard to anglers, boaters, picnicers or cabin owners. Cabin owners can't even use the lake. The boat ramps end fifteen feet from the water in summer. We are an organized group called " Lake Odessa For The People" We have sent petitions with over 1000 signatures to the DNR and held countless meetings to no avail. We are now working on our Congressmen to attack the problem. That's where letters of support would be used. Something as simple as I* ( ) support the efforts of Lake Odessa For The People would be fine. I will forward to Congressmen, Dave Loebsack and Nate Reichert, which I'm starting to know pretty well from meetings. An e mail to me would do just fine and I can print it off. Thanks again, Johnnie
Johnnie Crain
johnnie crain outdoors
Posts: 1504
Joined: Sat Apr 06, 2002 5:00 pm

Lake Problem

Post by johnnie crain outdoors »

P.S. Odessa is the only maximum horepower lake within 60 miles of Muscatine and surrounding towns. Johnnie
Johnnie Crain
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