Wisconsin's natural landscape is set for an upgrade as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) kickstarts a waterflow improvement project at Sam Gordy's Slough. Starting this June, the initiative aims to restore fish habitats and water quality by enhancing the connection with the Mississippi River's current. While this marks good news for local ecosystems, recreational users should be prepared for some disruptions.
Despite the likely construction buzz, official statements assure minimal access restrictions for the general public. The project, nestled within the approximately 350 acres of Sam Gordy's Backwater Complex along the Wisconsin side of Pool 6, is getting a boost from both the DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This collaboration has secured the expertise of Schafer's Marine Services, according to the DNR.
According to the DNR in detailing the project’s objectives, "The river inlet at Sam Gordy’s Slough is currently blocked by sediment during normal and low flow conditions," explained Shawn Giblin, a DNR Mississippi River Water Resource Management Specialist. He shared this insight with an emphasis on the anticipated outcomes: "Once this project is completed, the area will be better suited for fish production and provide a valuable recreational asset for the public."
To counter the sedimentation issue, the project includes the construction of a rock deflector at the river inlet to curb sand deposits, whilst facilitating oxygen-rich water flow into the slough. This design has seen success in other Mississippi River projects, promising a similar outcome for Sam Gordy's. Additionally, the nearby riverbank is set to be strengthened with rock riprap, and the aeration channel will be cleared of sand through mechanical dredging, the DNR states.
With an expected completion date of December 1, Sam Gordy’s Slough project stands as a testament to ongoing efforts to balance human recreation with ecological preservation. It's a complex task that requires patience and strategic planning, but with clear goals and a defined timeline, the DNR appears confident in delivering both better fishing grounds and a boost to local biodiversity.
