Events and Activities : Hannen Lake water quality meeting set for May 24

Iowans interested in the results of a DNR study to improve water quality in Hannen Lake in Benton County can attend a meeting Thursday, May 24. Citizens are encouraged to bring their questions and ideas to improve the lake to the meeting for discussion.

Hannen Lake is on the state’s list of impaired waters for high levels of algae and pH. The current study, or DNR water quality improvement plan, shows how too much phosphorus in the lake causes these problems. The problems impact recreation on the lake and aquatic life.

The plan explores the amounts and sources of phosphorus entering the lake and offers potential solutions to reduce those levels and work toward fixing the problem. The document is designed as a guide for local resource agencies, partners, stakeholders and residents to improve the lake. Staff from the DNR’s Watershed Improvement Program will be on hand to answer questions.

The May 24 meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Belle Plaine Community Center, 1309 Fifth Ave. in Belle Plaine. Those not able to attend the public meeting can receive more information atwww.iowadnr.gov/Environment/WaterQuality/WatershedImprovement/WatershedResearchData/WaterImprovementPlans/PublicMeetingsPlans.aspx and submit comments on the plan by June 11 via:

E-mail: jeff.berckes@dnr.iowa.gov

Mail: Jeff Berckes, care of Iowa DNR, Wallace State Office Building,

502 E. Ninth St. Des Moines, Iowa 50319

After gathering Iowans’ comments, the DNR will forward the final plan, also called by its technical name of Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for approval.