MEDIAPOLIS – Iowans interested in the results of a DNR study to improve water quality in Big Hollow Lake in Des Moines County can view a presentation on the Iowa DNR’s YouTube channel.
Big Hollow Lake is on the state’s list of impaired waters for high levels of algae, pH, and turbidity. The current study, or DNR water quality improvement plan, shows how these problems are caused by too much phosphorus in the lake. 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.
The presentation is available now at youtube.com/iowadnr through June 2. The full document can be downloaded on the Iowa DNR’s website at the following:
https://www.iowadnr.gov/wq-improvement-plans
Public comments on the plan must be submitted by June 2 to the following:
E-mail: James.Hallmark@dnr.iowa.gov or tmdlcomments@dnr.iowa.gov
Mail: James Hallmark, care of Iowa DNR, 6200 Park Ave, Suite 200,
Des Moines, Iowa 50321
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.
*Free Language Assistance. If you speak a non-English language, we offer you language assistance services free of charge. Call (515) 725-8200.
Asistencia lingüística gratuita. Si habla un idioma que no sea el inglés, los servicios de asistencia lingüística están disponibles de forma gratuita. Llame al (515) 725-8200.