IDNR Report

The Indiana DNR will host a public meeting to discuss the renovation of J.C. Murphey Lake at Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area in northwest Indiana.

The meeting will be held Aug. 21 at the Newton County Government Center in Morocco, Ind. from 6-8 p.m. Central time.

According to the DNR website, the shallow lake requires periodic renovations to maintain habitat for the maximum number of fish species. The DNR says it will also improve opportunities for waterfowl hunters, trappers and wildlife viewers.

Created in 1951, the lake has been renovated in 1962, ’77, ’89 and 2004.

During the proposed project work, the DNR will reshape some ditches, reinforce islands, work on the dam and improve fish habitat. Some of the fish will be salvaged while others will be eradicated. The DNR may offer a period where anglers can fish there under less restrictive regulations.

The project won’t be completed until 2024 so recreational opportunities will be impacted while the lake is drawn down and cleaned up.

For more information, call Mike Schoof, 219-285-2704.