DNR fisheries seeks comments on Brainerd area management plans

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DNR fisheries seeks comments on Brainerd area management plans
(Released March 1, 2012)

People interested in Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) strategies for managing Brainerd area lakes and streams have until Monday, March 19, to ask questions or submit comments.
“Management plans describe the past, present and desired future conditions of the waters,” said Marc Bacigalupi, Brainerd area fisheries manager. “The plans identify specific management activities planned for that lake or stream 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 Brainerd area, plans for the following lakes and streams will reviewed:

■Bay Lake.
■Black Hoof Lake.
■Sandbar (Horseshoe) Lake.
■Star Lake.
■Little Star Lake.
All waters included in this management plan are located in Crow Wing County.

People can review current plans for lakes and streams in the area as well as recent fish population assessment information at the DNR’s Brainerd area fisheries office, 1601 Minnesota Drive, Brainerd. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Individuals also may call 218- 828-2550, or email lori.snider@state.mn.us to request a copy of a plan or submit written comments.

Public comments on management plans for the five specified lakes may be submitted via mail or email through Monday, March 19.

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

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