Thursday, April 8, 2010
2010 Lake Sturgeon Spawning
Sturgeon Spawning Update (4/08/10)
Upper Fox River
Sturgeon actually began spawning on the upper Fox River at Princeton and Eureka last weekend on Easter Sunday, April 4. The upper Fox is more of a southern watershed that warms more rapidly and sturgeon almost always begin spawning there a week or more before they begin on the Wolf. This first pulse of spawning on the upper Fox is over but will likely be followed by a second pulse in late April. The sturgeon that spawn in the upper Fox are a separate sub-population of fish that generally always spawn in the upper Fox, although we do have some males that spawn in both rivers in the same year. The number of sturgeon that spawn in the upper Fox is relatively small - probably several hundred fish. Historically the numbers were likely much greater, although the series of locks and dams constructed on the river in the late 1800s disrupted spawning runs and closed off many of the natural spawning areas. We have either removed or built fishways around most of the dams, and we still have a remnant stock that uses the river for spawning. We have also been working with Sturgeon for Tomorrow and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee WATER Institute since 2002 to collect eggs each spring and rear extended growth sturgeon fingerlings for stocking in the upper Fox River in a long-term effort to rebuild the upper Fox lake sturgeon spawning stock. SFT pays for rearing the fish at the WATER institute in Fred Binkowski's lab, and we use sturgeon spearing license funds to PIT tag all of the 500-1000 fish released annually, and to implant radio and sonic tags in a dozen or more fish each year to study the behavior and habitat-use of stocked fish. After radio or sonic tagging and tracking a over two hundred young sturgeon since 2002 we have learned a lot about the movement and habitat use of fingerling and larger juvenile surgeon in our system including the best time of year to stock young sturgeon, the seasonal downstream movement of fingerling sturgeon from the rivers into the lakes, and the vital importance of the Upriver Lakes as a nursery ground for young stock.
Wolf River
Sturgeon have been porpoising at several sites on the Wolf and Embarrass Rivers since Easter weekend, but no spawning has been observed to date. People can see porpoising fish at Bamboo Bend just west of Shiocton on Highway 54. Prior to and during the spawning period, lake sturgeon exhibit a porpoising behavior where they come to the surface adjacent to spawning sites and jump out of the water or sometimes just stick their faces out of the water. Depending on the water temperatures, this activity may go on for up to two weeks before spawning actually begins at a particular site. Given the nice snow we received last night and this morning, the water temperatures have begun to drop in the Wolf River which will delay the start of sturgeon spawning activity from earlier expectations. At this point I don't expect fish to begin spawning at the earliest until sometime next week - dependant upon on how fast things warm up after we get through this current spell of cold weather. With any luck we may see spawning commence close to the same time we open Sturgeon Camp and get our first Sturgeon Guards out on April 15 - although it could start earlier than April 15 - we'll be watching closely and will let you know when spawning on the Wolf actually starts.
Track the Wolf River temperature, stage, and discharge data (exit DNR)
Track the upper Fox River temperature, stage, and discharge data (exit DNR)
Call the sturgeon hotline number for recorded daily updates: (920) 303-5444.
•Volunteer to guard sturgeon at their spawning sites on the Wolf River and protect the fish from poaching.
Upper Fox River
Sturgeon actually began spawning on the upper Fox River at Princeton and Eureka last weekend on Easter Sunday, April 4. The upper Fox is more of a southern watershed that warms more rapidly and sturgeon almost always begin spawning there a week or more before they begin on the Wolf. This first pulse of spawning on the upper Fox is over but will likely be followed by a second pulse in late April. The sturgeon that spawn in the upper Fox are a separate sub-population of fish that generally always spawn in the upper Fox, although we do have some males that spawn in both rivers in the same year. The number of sturgeon that spawn in the upper Fox is relatively small - probably several hundred fish. Historically the numbers were likely much greater, although the series of locks and dams constructed on the river in the late 1800s disrupted spawning runs and closed off many of the natural spawning areas. We have either removed or built fishways around most of the dams, and we still have a remnant stock that uses the river for spawning. We have also been working with Sturgeon for Tomorrow and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee WATER Institute since 2002 to collect eggs each spring and rear extended growth sturgeon fingerlings for stocking in the upper Fox River in a long-term effort to rebuild the upper Fox lake sturgeon spawning stock. SFT pays for rearing the fish at the WATER institute in Fred Binkowski's lab, and we use sturgeon spearing license funds to PIT tag all of the 500-1000 fish released annually, and to implant radio and sonic tags in a dozen or more fish each year to study the behavior and habitat-use of stocked fish. After radio or sonic tagging and tracking a over two hundred young sturgeon since 2002 we have learned a lot about the movement and habitat use of fingerling and larger juvenile surgeon in our system including the best time of year to stock young sturgeon, the seasonal downstream movement of fingerling sturgeon from the rivers into the lakes, and the vital importance of the Upriver Lakes as a nursery ground for young stock.
Wolf River
Sturgeon have been porpoising at several sites on the Wolf and Embarrass Rivers since Easter weekend, but no spawning has been observed to date. People can see porpoising fish at Bamboo Bend just west of Shiocton on Highway 54. Prior to and during the spawning period, lake sturgeon exhibit a porpoising behavior where they come to the surface adjacent to spawning sites and jump out of the water or sometimes just stick their faces out of the water. Depending on the water temperatures, this activity may go on for up to two weeks before spawning actually begins at a particular site. Given the nice snow we received last night and this morning, the water temperatures have begun to drop in the Wolf River which will delay the start of sturgeon spawning activity from earlier expectations. At this point I don't expect fish to begin spawning at the earliest until sometime next week - dependant upon on how fast things warm up after we get through this current spell of cold weather. With any luck we may see spawning commence close to the same time we open Sturgeon Camp and get our first Sturgeon Guards out on April 15 - although it could start earlier than April 15 - we'll be watching closely and will let you know when spawning on the Wolf actually starts.
Track the Wolf River temperature, stage, and discharge data (exit DNR)
Track the upper Fox River temperature, stage, and discharge data (exit DNR)
Call the sturgeon hotline number for recorded daily updates: (920) 303-5444.
•Volunteer to guard sturgeon at their spawning sites on the Wolf River and protect the fish from poaching.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Lake Michigan Outdoor Fishing Report
Southern Lake Michigan Fishing Report: April 6, 2010
Kenosha Co.
In Kenosha steelhead fishing on the Pike River has been rather slow. In the harbor anglers are catching a few steelhead and browns on white tube jigs or spawn sacs.
Racine Co.
In Racine the Root River is holding good numbers of steelhead. Upstream of the Root River Steelhead Facility, most fish have been concentrated below the Horlick dam, but fair numbers can also be found in Colonial Park. Downstream of the Steelhead Facility most fish have been taken in Lincoln Park. Flies in egg patterns have been productive, as well as woolly buggers and small black stoneflies. Suckers are abundant in the river. Fish were processed at the Root River Steelhead Facility on Monday, April 5. Both Chambers Creek and Ganaraska eggs were taken, and 148 more steelhead were passed upstream, for a total of 331 this season. The next processing day will be Monday, April 12.
Milwaukee Co.
In Milwaukee anglers fishing the Milwaukee River along the wall under the Hoan bridge have been catching a few browns and rainbows, as well as perch. Spawn and small shiners have produced the most fish. In the Milwaukee River anglers have been catching fair numbers of steelhead on yarn flies at Kletzsch Park. A few steelhead are still being taken out of Oak Creek and the Menomonee River, but numbers have been diminishing. Boaters jigging in and around the gaps in the Milwaukee harbor continue to catch lake trout.
Ozaukee Co.
In Port Washington a few browns and rainbows have been taken on shiners off the pier. Shore anglers fishing near the power plant have also been catching browns and rainbows; and spawn, flies, and wax worms have all taken fish. Boaters have been catching lake trout just outside the Port Washington harbor. Fish have been 35 feet down and hitting spoons.
Sheboygan Co.
In Sheboygan, fishing on the Pigeon River has been slow, but anglers on the Sheboygan have been catching steelhead near the Kohler dam. Spawn, flies, and stickbaits have taken fish. A few rainbows and browns have also been caught off the south pier on spawn sacs and crank baits.
The Southern Lake Michigan Fishing Report is updated twice per week from March 1 to December 1 each year. This report is a copy of the fishing report we post on our fishing hotline at (414) 382-7920.
Northern Lake Michigan Fishing Report: April 6, 2010
Manitowoc Co.
East Twin River: Anglers fishing for steelhead near the Mishicot dam had some success this past weekend either fly fishing or using spinners and spawn sacs. The sucker run appears to be in full swing as most anglers landed several suckers for every steelhead hooked. West Twin River: Steelhead and sucker fishing has been excellent near the large Shoto dam. Anglers had the greatest success using spawn sacs with a few split shots for weight. Most of the landed steelhead were still spawning. A few anglers launched at the Shoto ramp in search of catfish, but the fishing was fairly slow. Water temperatures in the river have quickly risen to the mid 40s, but water level is very low. Manitowoc River: Fishing in the Manitowoc River was relatively quiet this weekend most likely due to the strong winds and the Easter holiday. A few anglers ventured out for catfish and carp. Anglers used a variety of bait from night crawlers to even spawn sacs on bottom. Very few anglers were steelhead fishing. Branch River: The Branch River over the weekend saw limited angler action. Poor weather and low water levels likely limited fishing activity this weekend. Silver Creek: The water levels in Silver Creek are very low. A few steelhead have been observed but there has been very little fishing pressure. The suckers have had no problem getting through the shallows and can be found throughout the area. A few dip netters have had no problem getting their desired amount. Two Rivers and Manitowoc Harbor/Piers: A strong SW wind made fishing difficult this weekend. A few hardy anglers were using orange spoons or spinners but they had very slow fishing. Manitowoc/Two Rivers Ramps: The boat ramps have been quiet due to the strong winds last week. When the weather has cooperated, anglers have had success catching brown trout with an occasional rainbow using crank baits and spoons of various colors. Two Rivers/Manitowoc shoreline: A few steelhead have been taken using spawn near the Little Manitowoc River mouth but fishing pressure remains relatively low due to strong winds. Dip netters also have had success taking abundant amount of suckers.
Kewaunee Co.
In Kewaunee County the weather this past week was not very cooperative with the fishermen in the area. High winds have limited the amount of boats that have been launching from both Kewaunee and Algoma ramps. A few brown trout are being caught off the Algoma Pier with spoons but have been very much hit or miss. The lack of rainfall has lead to low levels of water in the Ahnapee and Kewaunee Rivers and has hampered the efforts of fishermen seeking steelhead. The smaller streams in the area also are displaying low levels of water and are making for some difficult fishing. Some steelhead have been spotted in Stony Creek but have been very skittish due to the high fishing pressure there. On the Kewaunee River,a few steelhead have been caught behind the zoo with egg sacs. Although the trout fishing has been slow in the county, suckers have been making up for that with lots of action. There have been plenty of suckers being caught near Footbridge and near the bridge behind Bruemmer Zoo. Suckers are also very visible in Silver Creek near Brummerville and can provide plenty of action.
Door Co. (Lake and Bay sides)
Although the pounding winds limited fishing on the lake this week, the unique peninsula offered good fishing conditions on Green Bay. Many anglers were seen at the Stone Quarry north of Sturgeon Bay and the Egg Harbor launch areas. Trolling for brown trout along the flats of Sturgeon Bay, Little Harbor, and the south shore on the bay off of Potowanomi State Park yielded some nice fish. Anglers fishing off the Egg Harbor and Murphy Park piers reported many brown trout sightings and follow ups, but few takers. Fishing off of Weborg’s Point in Fish Creek and the Sister Bay marina have also produced a few browns further north. Most anglers were working Rapalas and spoons. Walleye fishing in the bay is picking up with heavy fishing off the train bridge in Sturgeon Bay, with reports of some nice fish being taken with Husky Jerks and Thundersticks. Many boats were seen working the edges of the shipping channel in the bay for northern pike with some decent success. Stream fishing was minimal and reports were of very few fish seen in Hines, Hibbards, and Whitefish Bay Creeks. Water level is very low in all streams in Door County.
Kenosha Co.
In Kenosha steelhead fishing on the Pike River has been rather slow. In the harbor anglers are catching a few steelhead and browns on white tube jigs or spawn sacs.
Racine Co.
In Racine the Root River is holding good numbers of steelhead. Upstream of the Root River Steelhead Facility, most fish have been concentrated below the Horlick dam, but fair numbers can also be found in Colonial Park. Downstream of the Steelhead Facility most fish have been taken in Lincoln Park. Flies in egg patterns have been productive, as well as woolly buggers and small black stoneflies. Suckers are abundant in the river. Fish were processed at the Root River Steelhead Facility on Monday, April 5. Both Chambers Creek and Ganaraska eggs were taken, and 148 more steelhead were passed upstream, for a total of 331 this season. The next processing day will be Monday, April 12.
Milwaukee Co.
In Milwaukee anglers fishing the Milwaukee River along the wall under the Hoan bridge have been catching a few browns and rainbows, as well as perch. Spawn and small shiners have produced the most fish. In the Milwaukee River anglers have been catching fair numbers of steelhead on yarn flies at Kletzsch Park. A few steelhead are still being taken out of Oak Creek and the Menomonee River, but numbers have been diminishing. Boaters jigging in and around the gaps in the Milwaukee harbor continue to catch lake trout.
Ozaukee Co.
In Port Washington a few browns and rainbows have been taken on shiners off the pier. Shore anglers fishing near the power plant have also been catching browns and rainbows; and spawn, flies, and wax worms have all taken fish. Boaters have been catching lake trout just outside the Port Washington harbor. Fish have been 35 feet down and hitting spoons.
Sheboygan Co.
In Sheboygan, fishing on the Pigeon River has been slow, but anglers on the Sheboygan have been catching steelhead near the Kohler dam. Spawn, flies, and stickbaits have taken fish. A few rainbows and browns have also been caught off the south pier on spawn sacs and crank baits.
The Southern Lake Michigan Fishing Report is updated twice per week from March 1 to December 1 each year. This report is a copy of the fishing report we post on our fishing hotline at (414) 382-7920.
Northern Lake Michigan Fishing Report: April 6, 2010
Manitowoc Co.
East Twin River: Anglers fishing for steelhead near the Mishicot dam had some success this past weekend either fly fishing or using spinners and spawn sacs. The sucker run appears to be in full swing as most anglers landed several suckers for every steelhead hooked. West Twin River: Steelhead and sucker fishing has been excellent near the large Shoto dam. Anglers had the greatest success using spawn sacs with a few split shots for weight. Most of the landed steelhead were still spawning. A few anglers launched at the Shoto ramp in search of catfish, but the fishing was fairly slow. Water temperatures in the river have quickly risen to the mid 40s, but water level is very low. Manitowoc River: Fishing in the Manitowoc River was relatively quiet this weekend most likely due to the strong winds and the Easter holiday. A few anglers ventured out for catfish and carp. Anglers used a variety of bait from night crawlers to even spawn sacs on bottom. Very few anglers were steelhead fishing. Branch River: The Branch River over the weekend saw limited angler action. Poor weather and low water levels likely limited fishing activity this weekend. Silver Creek: The water levels in Silver Creek are very low. A few steelhead have been observed but there has been very little fishing pressure. The suckers have had no problem getting through the shallows and can be found throughout the area. A few dip netters have had no problem getting their desired amount. Two Rivers and Manitowoc Harbor/Piers: A strong SW wind made fishing difficult this weekend. A few hardy anglers were using orange spoons or spinners but they had very slow fishing. Manitowoc/Two Rivers Ramps: The boat ramps have been quiet due to the strong winds last week. When the weather has cooperated, anglers have had success catching brown trout with an occasional rainbow using crank baits and spoons of various colors. Two Rivers/Manitowoc shoreline: A few steelhead have been taken using spawn near the Little Manitowoc River mouth but fishing pressure remains relatively low due to strong winds. Dip netters also have had success taking abundant amount of suckers.
Kewaunee Co.
In Kewaunee County the weather this past week was not very cooperative with the fishermen in the area. High winds have limited the amount of boats that have been launching from both Kewaunee and Algoma ramps. A few brown trout are being caught off the Algoma Pier with spoons but have been very much hit or miss. The lack of rainfall has lead to low levels of water in the Ahnapee and Kewaunee Rivers and has hampered the efforts of fishermen seeking steelhead. The smaller streams in the area also are displaying low levels of water and are making for some difficult fishing. Some steelhead have been spotted in Stony Creek but have been very skittish due to the high fishing pressure there. On the Kewaunee River,a few steelhead have been caught behind the zoo with egg sacs. Although the trout fishing has been slow in the county, suckers have been making up for that with lots of action. There have been plenty of suckers being caught near Footbridge and near the bridge behind Bruemmer Zoo. Suckers are also very visible in Silver Creek near Brummerville and can provide plenty of action.
Door Co. (Lake and Bay sides)
Although the pounding winds limited fishing on the lake this week, the unique peninsula offered good fishing conditions on Green Bay. Many anglers were seen at the Stone Quarry north of Sturgeon Bay and the Egg Harbor launch areas. Trolling for brown trout along the flats of Sturgeon Bay, Little Harbor, and the south shore on the bay off of Potowanomi State Park yielded some nice fish. Anglers fishing off the Egg Harbor and Murphy Park piers reported many brown trout sightings and follow ups, but few takers. Fishing off of Weborg’s Point in Fish Creek and the Sister Bay marina have also produced a few browns further north. Most anglers were working Rapalas and spoons. Walleye fishing in the bay is picking up with heavy fishing off the train bridge in Sturgeon Bay, with reports of some nice fish being taken with Husky Jerks and Thundersticks. Many boats were seen working the edges of the shipping channel in the bay for northern pike with some decent success. Stream fishing was minimal and reports were of very few fish seen in Hines, Hibbards, and Whitefish Bay Creeks. Water level is very low in all streams in Door County.
2010 Wisconsin boating regulations online and in three languages
MADISON - With the mild temperatures rapidly melting what ice cover remains on lakes and rivers, Wisconsin boaters should think now to prepare equipment and to refresh their memories about the rules and regulations of the water highways.
Department of Natural Resources Boating Law Administrator and Conservation Warden Roy Zellmer says boaters should consult the 2010 guide online to learn the new regulations and review safe boating practices.
“The 24-page booklet, which is must-reading for all water enthusiasts looking for safe fun this season, is available in English, Spanish and Hmong on the Bureau of Law Enforcement regulations page of the DNR Web site,” Zellmer said.
Among recent changes are a rule that makes it illegal for boaters to transport invasive species and to operate within 100 feet of the shore of any lake at faster than slow-no-wake speeds. Another rule change dealing with mandatory lifejackets for those 12 years old and younger was pending in the legislature at the time of publication.
“Check with local wardens for the current status on that regulation,” Zellmer said.
However, Zellmer stresses, wearing a lifejacket should be the norm for all of all ages.
“Most of Wisconsin's boating fatalities have occurred in small boats with victims who failed to wear lifejackets,” Zellmer said. “Remember, safe boating depends upon you. Start reading the new rules and regulations and have a safe and fun boating season.”
Department of Natural Resources Boating Law Administrator and Conservation Warden Roy Zellmer says boaters should consult the 2010 guide online to learn the new regulations and review safe boating practices.
“The 24-page booklet, which is must-reading for all water enthusiasts looking for safe fun this season, is available in English, Spanish and Hmong on the Bureau of Law Enforcement regulations page of the DNR Web site,” Zellmer said.
Among recent changes are a rule that makes it illegal for boaters to transport invasive species and to operate within 100 feet of the shore of any lake at faster than slow-no-wake speeds. Another rule change dealing with mandatory lifejackets for those 12 years old and younger was pending in the legislature at the time of publication.
“Check with local wardens for the current status on that regulation,” Zellmer said.
However, Zellmer stresses, wearing a lifejacket should be the norm for all of all ages.
“Most of Wisconsin's boating fatalities have occurred in small boats with victims who failed to wear lifejackets,” Zellmer said. “Remember, safe boating depends upon you. Start reading the new rules and regulations and have a safe and fun boating season.”
Best bets for fishing, getting “unlost” and finding field trips in the April issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine
MADISON - Pick up the April issue of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine to net tips for hot fishing, hints on finding your way when in the outdoors, and links to great field trips from spring through fall.
The April issue includes Wisconsin’s annual Fishing Forecast. Readers will have a full 16 pages of Department of Natural Resources fisheries crews’ best bets to cast a line for walleye, bass, muskies, trout and panfish. Read about good places to try your luck around the state where stream projects, habitat rehab, anglers and partners are improving fishing prospects.
The feature story “Getting From Lost to Found” describes what to pack and what to do to help yourself if you get lost outdoors. A little preparation and a few supplies go a long way to keep you safe and help others find you.
The April issues also includes links to the annual listing of weekend field trips offered from spring through fall through the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin at [http://www.wisconservation.org/] (exit DNR). The list includes great paddling trips, field days to see swans, eagles and raptors, and to catch prairies at peak bloom. Outdoor tours are led by expert naturalists with a passion for Wisconsin’s special places.
Another article explores how updates in protecting shorelands aim to keep Wisconsin shorelines pleasing for homeowner, boaters and other lakeside users. And check out the list of plants and animals we hope to contain through partnerships to curb invasive species.
Those features and more await readers of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.
Subscribe now. Let us deliver six colorful issues to your door all year for less than $1.50 a copy. All year long we share the hot spots at the hot times to enjoy the Wisconsin outdoors for only $8.97. Subscribe toll-free at 1-800-678-9472, online at [http://www.wnrmag.com/] or by mail. Subscription blanks and single issues are also available from our circulation office at P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707.
The April issue includes Wisconsin’s annual Fishing Forecast. Readers will have a full 16 pages of Department of Natural Resources fisheries crews’ best bets to cast a line for walleye, bass, muskies, trout and panfish. Read about good places to try your luck around the state where stream projects, habitat rehab, anglers and partners are improving fishing prospects.
The feature story “Getting From Lost to Found” describes what to pack and what to do to help yourself if you get lost outdoors. A little preparation and a few supplies go a long way to keep you safe and help others find you.
The April issues also includes links to the annual listing of weekend field trips offered from spring through fall through the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin at [http://www.wisconservation.org/] (exit DNR). The list includes great paddling trips, field days to see swans, eagles and raptors, and to catch prairies at peak bloom. Outdoor tours are led by expert naturalists with a passion for Wisconsin’s special places.
Another article explores how updates in protecting shorelands aim to keep Wisconsin shorelines pleasing for homeowner, boaters and other lakeside users. And check out the list of plants and animals we hope to contain through partnerships to curb invasive species.
Those features and more await readers of Wisconsin Natural Resources magazine.
Subscribe now. Let us deliver six colorful issues to your door all year for less than $1.50 a copy. All year long we share the hot spots at the hot times to enjoy the Wisconsin outdoors for only $8.97. Subscribe toll-free at 1-800-678-9472, online at [http://www.wnrmag.com/] or by mail. Subscription blanks and single issues are also available from our circulation office at P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707.
Proposed phosphorous standards aimed at reducing algae growth in surface waters
Public hearings to be held around state in April
MADISON – Public hearings start statewide in mid-April for proposed rules aimed at reducing levels of phosphorus, a key nutrient fueling excessive algae growth on many Wisconsin lakes and other water quality problems on rivers statewide.
The proposed rules would affect industry and municipal wastewater treatment plants that release phosphorus in their discharges to Wisconsin water bodies. The proposed rules complement changes now being finalized to rules aimed at reducing phosphorus in water runoff from farms and urban areas, as well as other measures targeting phosphorus. These include the April 1 start of a statewide ban – with a few exceptions -- on selling, displaying and using phosphorus-based fertilizer for grass.
“We recognize we have phosphorus-related water quality problems across the state – it’s evident in nuisance algae blooms on lakes, cladophora] along Lake Michigan beaches, and low levels of dissolved oxygen in streams that endanger the survival of fish and other aquatic life,” says Jim Baumann, the Department of Natural Resources water quality official who led development of the proposed rules.
“There are many ways that phosphorus reaches our waters. We’re working on the biggest sources first, through these proposals that address wastewater discharges and our parallel proposals to revise runoff rules for ag and urban sources of phosphorus.”
The proposed rules would set the highest levels of phosphorus that could be expected in lakes, rivers and the Great Lakes and still support the fish and other aquatic life they were capable of supporting. Different numerical levels would be set for five categories of lakes and reservoirs, for rivers and streams, and for the Great Lakes, Baumann says.
Wisconsin’s proposed rules would also establish the procedures for setting limits on the amount of phosphorus permitted facilities could discharge.
All states are required to establish such water quality criteria, or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency can set it for them. A national state-EPA task force has concluded that the amounts of phosphorus and another key nutrient, nitrogen, entering U.S. waters over the past 50 years has dramatically escalated. “Nutrients now pose significant water quality and public health concerns across the U.S…” concluded the report, “An Urgent Call to Action (exit DNR; pdf).”
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient that controls the growth of plants and animals, but too much phosphorus entering lakes, rivers and other waters can spur excessive aquatic plant and algae growth. The sources of phosphorus pollution to a water body depend on the prevailing land use activities that discharge water to a particular water body.
Public hearings on the proposed rules will all begin at 1 p.m. and are set for the following dates and locations:
Written comments on the proposed rules may be submitted via U. S. mail to Jim Baumann, DNR-WT/3, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921 or by e-mail to james.baumann@wisconsin.gov. Comments may be submitted until April 30, 2010. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U. S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. A copy of the proposed rules and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may also be obtained from Jim Baumann, DNR-WT/3, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921, or by calling (608) 266-9277.
MADISON – Public hearings start statewide in mid-April for proposed rules aimed at reducing levels of phosphorus, a key nutrient fueling excessive algae growth on many Wisconsin lakes and other water quality problems on rivers statewide.
The proposed rules would affect industry and municipal wastewater treatment plants that release phosphorus in their discharges to Wisconsin water bodies. The proposed rules complement changes now being finalized to rules aimed at reducing phosphorus in water runoff from farms and urban areas, as well as other measures targeting phosphorus. These include the April 1 start of a statewide ban – with a few exceptions -- on selling, displaying and using phosphorus-based fertilizer for grass.
“We recognize we have phosphorus-related water quality problems across the state – it’s evident in nuisance algae blooms on lakes, cladophora] along Lake Michigan beaches, and low levels of dissolved oxygen in streams that endanger the survival of fish and other aquatic life,” says Jim Baumann, the Department of Natural Resources water quality official who led development of the proposed rules.
“There are many ways that phosphorus reaches our waters. We’re working on the biggest sources first, through these proposals that address wastewater discharges and our parallel proposals to revise runoff rules for ag and urban sources of phosphorus.”
The proposed rules would set the highest levels of phosphorus that could be expected in lakes, rivers and the Great Lakes and still support the fish and other aquatic life they were capable of supporting. Different numerical levels would be set for five categories of lakes and reservoirs, for rivers and streams, and for the Great Lakes, Baumann says.
Wisconsin’s proposed rules would also establish the procedures for setting limits on the amount of phosphorus permitted facilities could discharge.
All states are required to establish such water quality criteria, or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency can set it for them. A national state-EPA task force has concluded that the amounts of phosphorus and another key nutrient, nitrogen, entering U.S. waters over the past 50 years has dramatically escalated. “Nutrients now pose significant water quality and public health concerns across the U.S…” concluded the report, “An Urgent Call to Action (exit DNR; pdf).”
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient that controls the growth of plants and animals, but too much phosphorus entering lakes, rivers and other waters can spur excessive aquatic plant and algae growth. The sources of phosphorus pollution to a water body depend on the prevailing land use activities that discharge water to a particular water body.
Public hearings on the proposed rules will all begin at 1 p.m. and are set for the following dates and locations:
- April 15, Rhinelander, Quality Inn, 668 W. Kemp St.
- April 20, Green Bay, Green Bay City Hall, Green Bay City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 203, 100 N. Jefferson, St.
- April 21, Oconomowoc, Olympia Resort and Conference Center, Crown Room, 1350 Royale Mile Road.
- April 27, Eau Claire, Ramada Inn, 205 S. Barstow St.
Written comments on the proposed rules may be submitted via U. S. mail to Jim Baumann, DNR-WT/3, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921 or by e-mail to james.baumann@wisconsin.gov. Comments may be submitted until April 30, 2010. Written comments whether submitted electronically or by U. S. mail will have the same weight and effect as oral statements presented at the public hearings. A copy of the proposed rules and supporting documents, including the fiscal estimate may also be obtained from Jim Baumann, DNR-WT/3, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921, or by calling (608) 266-9277.
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