AUTHORS: Michael Hawkins, Iowa Department of Natural Resources
ABSTRACT: Lake restoration projects in Iowa focus on improved water quality, nutrient management, and habitat restoration. Many of the management actions taken during these projects focus on long-term improvements and stability, but some actions can produce an immediate impact, shifting a lake between turbid and clear water stable states. This shift can have dramatic impacts on aquatic plant densities and diversity. This shift in aquatic plant communities can then trigger a rapid shift in the fish community. These changes have positive ecological impacts and improve fishing opportunities, but this rapid shift in lake biology may present challenges for some users. The methods for lake restoration on three northwest Iowa natural lakes will be discussed along with the impacts on plant and fish communities. Challenges associated with public perception and invasive species will also be presented.
