Clear Lake drawdown

The lack of submergent vegetation caused largely by an overpopulation of carp has reduced the water quality/clarity of Clear Lake. A lack of vegetation has also increased shoreline erosion. The drawdown, along with a good winter kill, hopes to bring the carp levels to a manageable level, returning submergent vegetation along with cattails and other vegetation to reduce erosion along the shoreline. When completed, the DNR plans to stock the lake with several types of fish. SWCD is also partnering to install a fish barrier into Mudd Lake. This is the carp’s main spawning grounds. On May 20, the first of the 6-inch planks was removed from the dam to start lowering the lake. Due to high precipitation, little progress was made until mid-June. In July and August, planks three-seven were removed. Excavation began from the dam to the lake to create a channel to help aid the drawdown on August 15. As of September 3, Clear Lake is 39 inches lower than the dam high elevation with roughly one foot remaining to drain. The goal is to reach the low level by September 30 to allow reptiles and amphibians time to relocated before winter. In the spring, the DNR will determine what kind of winter kill was obtained and habitat/plant establishment will also be considered. If the criteria is sufficient, the lake level can be returned to normal. If not, the DNR has the option to leave Clear Lake at a lowered level for a second season. If left lowered and regardless of the second year’s outcome, the lake must be allowed to return to its normal level. Restocking of fish will occur after the lake is restored. Photos by Doug Hanson