ONAWA – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will host a public meeting at 5:30 p.m., June 26, at the Onawa Community Center, 320 10th Street, to discuss Blue Lake low water levels.
Extended drought conditions continue to impact water levels at Blue Lake, located within Lewis and Clark State Park. The lake level is about five feet below crest elevation, which will impact recreation on the lake this summer.
Iowa DNR staff will share the results of more than 15 years of water level studies, findings from the 2010 diagnostic and feasibility study for the restoration of Blue Lake, and current water level management strategies.
Blue Lake, like many other oxbow lakes, is characterized by a small watershed drainage area relative to the size of the lake and a localized water recharge area. Oxbow lakes form when a curve (or meander) in a river finds a shorter path, effectively isolating the old curve, forming an oxbow lake in a low-lying plain near the side of the river. Water levels in these lakes are highly influenced by nearby river and groundwater levels, especially during periods of flood or drought.
Sitting about 11 feet above the Missouri River, Blue Lake is especially sensitive to long periods of low water in the river, as groundwater near the lake seeps downhill towards the river. Water levels in the Missouri River have been especially low over the past five winters, contributing to lower than normal groundwater levels.
Any person with special requirements such as those related to mobility or hearing impairments who wishes to participate in the public meeting should promptly contact the DNR or ADA Coordinator at 515-725-8200, Relay Iowa TTY Service 800-735-7942, or Webmaster@dnr.iowa.gov to advise of specific needs.