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Manuka Park: art walk and fundraiser planned; county reviews pond study and proposed fishing-rule changes
Summary
Organizers announced a Manuka Art Walk and a concurrent fundraising 'Olympics' event; commissioners also discussed an electroshock survey of Manuka Lake recommending harvesting to reduce overpopulation and improve fish size. The commission is considering changes to the park operations manual and check-in procedures.
Park volunteers and county officials outlined upcoming events at Manuka Park and recommended rule changes after a fisheries survey.
Kathy Giles, who coordinates park events, said the first Manuka Art Walk will be held Sept. 27 with artists, vendors, music and food trucks; proceeds will go to Manuka Park. Giles also described a concurrent fundraiser — described in public remarks as the "Chilton County Redneck Olympics" — and commissioners raised concerns about the event name and urged sensitivity and inclusiveness in the branding. Commissioners encouraged the event but asked organizers to consider a different name to avoid alienation.
Commissioner Perkins presented results of an electroshock survey conducted by Southeastern Pond Management that found the lake to be "extremely overpopulated" with small fish, which stunts growth of sport fish. Perkins summarized recommendations from the study and subsequent consultant input: allow harvest (lift strict catch-and-release limits) to reduce population, restock bluegill as needed, add habitat/cover and require anglers to check in so county staff can track removals. Perkins proposed allowing harvest of bass under a defined size (recommendation discussed in the meeting: harvest all bass under 14 inches subject to state creel limits) and authorizing a park director to restore catch-and-release if the fishery requires it.
The commission did not adopt formal rule changes at the meeting; commissioners said they would consider amending the park operations manual and present a resolution to authorize staff to implement the proposed check-in and harvest program. Organizers continued to seek county approval for the Sept. 27 event and requested the commission's logistical support for vendors and park facilities.
