Conservation director: Casey Lake filling, fish stocking delayed by regional hatchery shortages

Black Hawk County Conservation Director Mike Hendrickson told the Board of Supervisors on April 1 that Casey Lake is catching water and contractor work is nearly complete, but fish stocking could be delayed because regional hatcheries lack the bluegills needed.

Hendrickson said contractors will return within a week or two to finish minor grading and seeding and that the lake's deepest part will be roughly 28' or 29 feet. He reported fisheries biologists are prepared to stock catfish, bass and bluegill "but they do not have the supply of bluegills that they need due to flooding on the Mississippi River last spring and summer," which affected hatchery production.

Hendrickson said the biologists are looking for alternate hatchery sources; if public hatcheries cannot supply the bluegills, the county will consider purchasing fish from private hatcheries and conducting a local fundraising effort to cover the cost.

Why it matters: The timing of stocking will affect the lake's inaugural recreation and education programming. The conservation department expects the lake to support education programs this spring and to receive tour requests from regional watershed and conservation partners.

Details mentioned at the meeting: - Campgrounds under county conservation opened April 1 for use; showers and many water services remain off until weather permits. Education staff expect to host more than 2,500 local students for spring field trips over April and May, including second- and fifth-graders from Waterloo schools. - Contractors will return soon to finish final grading and seeding for Casey Lake; the lake is filling and appears to be holding water. - Fisheries staff are ready to stock catfish, bass and bluegill but bluegill supply is uncertain because Mississippi River flooding disrupted hatcheries. Hendrickson said private hatcheries have been priced at about $0.55 to $0.85 per fish; county staff discussed the option of raising funds to buy the fish if necessary. - Hendrickson said the county plans to protect the lake's initial water quality by restricting unauthorized stocking and ensuring that introduced fish are inspected, keeping rough or invasive species out.

Hendrickson also described a planned April 17 tour and demonstration with the Cedar River Watershed Management and East Central Iowa Council of Governments at the Lakeview Lodge to show water-quality work and educational features.

Ending: Conservation staff asked for community support if private hatchery purchases are needed and said they will report back once fisheries staff confirm bluegill availability and any fundraising steps.