A large-scale channel maintenance project will soon be underway at Green Island Wildlife Management Area, in Jackson County, to remove silt from the water delivery channel that runs from the Blake’s Lake boat ramp to the outlet structure on the Mississippi River, also known as the 5th Channel.
The project is expected to last until early October, weather permitting, just ahead of the second duck season opener. However, hunters should be aware that the project may be underway during the five day early split of the duck season in September.
The creation of a lateral channel into Blake’s Lake will also be part of the project. It has been more 25 years since the last channel dredging project, and in that time the old channel has completely filled in with silt, making boat access and water conveyance very difficult. When completed, the enhanced channels will allow for improved water level management, as well as creating much improved boat access to the area.
Water levels on the east half Green Island may be lower than normal this fall to facilitate this project. “No Wake” buoys will be placed along the channels as an added measure of protection for the newly dredged channels and spoil berms.
[mappress]
Press Release, August 16, 2013