DNR announces public input for Leech Lake management plan
(Released July 1, 2010)
Citizens interested in the Leech Lake fishery now can provide input to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff on the department’s proposed five-year fish population objectives and fisheries management actions. The public comment period begins July 1 and ends July 30.
The draft plan incorporates the recommendations of the 17-member Leech Lake Advisory Committee, which has met 11 times since August 2009. The public can review the committee’s final report and background information and provide proposal feedback online at http://www.mndnr.gov/leechlake. Paper questionnaires also are available in Walker at the DNR’s Walker Area Fisheries Office, 07316 State Highway 371 NW, and the Walker Public Library, 207 Fourth St.
“Walleye fishing on Leech Lake is very important to the Walker community and surrounding area,” said Harlan Fierstine, Walker area fisheries supervisor. “The Leech Lake fishery is also a significant statewide resource that all Minnesotans can enjoy. With the lake’s walleye population and fishery recovered to historic levels, Leech Lake is once again one of the premier walleye fishing destinations in Minnesota.”
Public input will be reviewed and considered in August and September. The final Leech Lake management plan will be completed in the fall.
For additional information on the draft management plan and the public input process, contact the DNR’s Walker Area Fisheries office at 218-547-1683.