DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR
LOST GROVE LAKE IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT

Commencing immediately, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in
cooperation with the U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS), is seeking public
comments on the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the future
construction of Lost Grove Lake, in Scott County.

The DNR's "Proposed Action" alternative includes constructing a dam that
will impound 350 surface acres of water.  With this alternative the
elevation of county road 220th Avenue will be raised to allow through
vehicular traffic.  Shoulders will be added to the raised portion for safe
parking and to permit shore fishing.  A large culvert under the road will
provide boats access to the upper end of the lake.

Six locations will be developed for public access to the lake.  Boat ramps
will be constructed at three of these areas and restrooms present at two.
Roads, parking areas and shoreline fishing areas will be developed at all
six locations.  The construction of fish habitat and shoreline riprap is
also part of the "Proposed Action" alternative.

The DNR believes that the "Proposed Action" alternative has minimal
vegetative, biological and floodplain impacts while having the most benefits
to anglers and other site users and to the area's economy.  This alternative
best meets the DNR's plan to create fishing opportunities in an area now
lacking in lake fishing opportunities.   Two other alternatives are also
considered in the draft Environmental Assessment including the "No Action"
alternative required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

The EA is available for review at the FWS website
(http://midwest.fws.gov/NEPA) and at the Davenport Public Library at 321
Main Street.  No verbal comments will be accepted.  Please submit written
comments to Martin Konrad by traditional mail to: Department of Natural
Resources, 502 East 9th Street, Wallace State Office Building, Des Moines,
IA 50319; or via fax (515/281-6794); or e-mail at
[log in to unmask] Comments are due by the close of business on
June 7, 2004.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To get off the IOWA-TOPICS list, send any message to:
[log in to unmask]