Rehabilitation and Experimental Management of Mink and Somers Lakes (Wright County).

摘要

The report is a case study of two connected lakes, Mink and Somers Lakes. Wright County, Minnesota, that were reclaimed in 1994. Included in the study was an analysis of land use and water quality. A fish barrier of the high velocity culvert type was installed to isolate the lakes. Pre-treatment population estimates of carp, black crappie and northern pike were made. Pre-treatment population estimates showed carp populations ranged from 400-800 pounds per acre. Powder and liquid rotenone formulations were applied to the lakes and wetland areas by air and boat. Approximately 32,000 pounds of powdered and 770 gallons of liquid rotenone were applied to the two lakes and adjoining wetlands. Stocking strategies were developed and then implemented. The lakes were restocked with walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, and non-game species. Experimental angling regulations were applied to prolong good fishing. Daily possession limits became five sunfish, five crappie, two walleye, and 10 yellow perch per day; catch-and-release only is allowed for largemouth bass and no live minnows may be used. All species responded with favorable natural reproduction and subsequent growth during the first years. Post-treatment fish assessments monitored the developing fish populations and a creel survey in 1998 allowed an estimation of the angling pressure and harvest. The application of experimental regulations may be a way to prolong good fishing which occurs after treatment.