Monday, March 17, 2014

DNR fisheries seeks comments on Aitkin area lake management plans

DNR fisheries seeks comments on Aitkin area lake management plans

(Released March 17, 2014)

Citizens interested in learning about or commenting on Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ strategies for managing Aitkin area lakes and streams have until March 28 to ask questions or submit comments.

“Management plans lay out past management efforts, describe the current status of the fish community, and set goals for what we would like to see,” said Rick Bruesewitz, Aitkin area fisheries manager. “Reviewing plans gives the public the opportunity to provide comment on fisheries management activities planned for that lake over the next five to 20 years.”

Every year DNR fisheries staff prepares or revises individual lake and stream management plans for several waters in each management area. In the Aitkin area, plans for the following lakes will be reviewed:

• Diamond (01-0171).

• Hammal (01-0161).

• Hanging Kettle (01-0170).

• Minnewawa (01-0033).

• Portage (01-0069).

People can review the current plan for these lakes as well as recent fish population assessment information at the DNR’s Aitkin area fisheries office, 1200 Minnesota Ave. S, in Aitkin. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals also may call 218-927-3751, ext. 224 or email aitkin.fisheries@state.mn.us for copies of the draft plans.

Comments may be submitted via mail or email.

Suggestions for management of any of the other lakes and streams in the Aitkin area are welcome at any time and will be considered when those plans are due for review.

The DNR’s lake and stream management activities are largely funded through the sale of fishing licenses and the Federal Sport Fish Restoration Act.

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