Aquatic Vegetation Restoration in El Dorado Lake, Kansas: A Case Study
Abstract
The overall objective of the project was to begin restoration of spawning and nursery fishery habitat for the sunfish family (largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill) lost from flood control operations (seasonal drawdowns) in El Dorado Lake, Kansas. When initially impounded, flooded terrestrial structure provided good habitat for the sunfish fishery. As flood control operations were implemented, habitat structure (primarily flooded trees and brush) degraded, leaving the lake poorly suited for this fishery. The loss of structure also contributed to increases in turbidity, further affecting the sunfish fishery. Specific objectives of the project were to: (a) evaluate the suitability of several emergent, floating-leaved, and submersed aquatic plant species for establishment in the lake; (b)develop and test effective methods for establishing desirable aquatic plant species; and (c) establish founder colonies of aquatic plants in several areas of the lake. In addition to providing immediate nursery habitat for juvenile fish, these founder colonies were expected to provide propagules for natural spread to other areas of the lake.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA424736
Entities
People
- Gary O. Dick
- R. Michael Smart
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center