Public hearing scheduled to discuss management of Sibley Co Lake

A public hearing has been scheduled to discuss management options for a Sibley County lake.

Minnesota Department of Resources replaced a failing water control structure at the outlet of Silver Lake earlier this year.  The new structure will provide opportunities for periodic, temporary water level management.

The DNR says managed drawdowns help mimic natural drought cycles that reset lake ecosystems by removing bottom-feeding fish species and consolidating sediments, improving habitat conditions for fish and wildlife.

The proposal also includes stocking game fish such as walleye or northern pike after a drawdown and subsequent winterkill. The DNR says this will provide angling opportunities and allow predators to suppress bottom-feeding fish species such as common carp and bullheads.

The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 22 at 7 p.m. at the Green Isle Sportsman’s Club.  The hearing will be 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.