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Jerry Kane
Public Information Officer | jerry.kane@nebraska.gov
| 402.471.5008
Burchard Lake Boat Ramp Now Open
LINCOLN – The new boat launch facility at Burchard Lake in Pawnee County is now open for public use. Recent rains in the area have increased water levels to near conservation pool, allowing for boat launching from the new ramp.
An aquatic habitat rehabilitation project was completed at Burchard in 2013. The lake was drawn down 11 feet during the project so the outlet structure could be repaired, while maintaining the high-quality fishery. The lake has been filling slowly since completion of the project.
Other work completed during the project includes improvements to shoreline angler access and installation of a handicap-accessible fishing pier. Offshore breakwaters were placed to protect shorelines, and a sediment dike and basin were added on the reservoir’s north arm. Aquatic habitat was enhanced by deepening near new breakwaters and placing underwater rock shoals and cedar tree fish attractors in the reservoir basin.
Boaters are reminded to be aware of underwater hazards and adhere to current fishing and boating regulations. Boats are restricted to a 5 mph, no-wake speed limit. Anglers are reminded of the 21-inch minimum length limit on largemouth bass in effect at Burchard; all bass less than 21 inches must be released immediately.
Visit OutdoorNebraska.org to purchase fishing permits.
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Aquatic Habitat Project in Progress at Valentine NWR
LINCOLN – An aquatic habitat project began this month at Valentine National Wildlife Refuge to address the lakes’ presence of common carp and their passage through water control structures.
Engineers designed improvements to the control structures below Watts, Hackberry, Dewey, Whitewater, Clear, Willow and Pelican lakes. These new structures are designed to limit upstream fish passage and help control high densities of carp in these lakes.
In addition, West Long Lake will have some earth fill added to the existing roadway berm. Channel clean-out between the lakes also will allow U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) personnel to manage water levels and fish populations more effectively.
There may be construction and construction equipment along the public roads and trails through next May. Road and trail closures may occur for short periods as the project progresses. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and USFWS appreciate the public's patience during this project.
For more information, call Game and Parks’ Zac Brashears at 402-376-8080 or Mark Porath at 402-471-5583. For information on the project or the refuge, call Juancarlos Giese, refuge manager, at 402-376-1889 or visit: http://www.fws.gov/refuge/valentine.
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