May 20, 2007
Press Release

Minnesota DNR - News Releases

Danger lurks at dams both large and small

In the wake of a tragic boating accident in which four occupants are presumed drowned, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is warning boaters to stay well away from both the top and base of dams.

"While the water around dams can look quite peaceful, at some times of the year, they can become extremely dangerous," said DNR boating safety specialist Tim Smalley.

According to Smalley, there is a recirculating backwash current at the base of most dams that can pull even large boats with powerful motors back towards the dam face, capsizing it and throwing the victims into the water.

Dams on the Mississippi River, from Minneapolis downstream, have a restricted area 600 feet above and 150 feet below the structures to help protect boaters and anglers.

The DNR said boaters also need to obey any other signs or buoys around dams as well, although even if there are no signs, that doesn't mean the area is safe.

Dams don't have to be large to cause injury or death. So-called low-head dams on smaller rivers and streams, have more been deadly to water recreation enthusiasts than bigger dams.

DNR records show there have been 57 deaths at dams in Minnesota since 1974, and most of them have been at dams much smaller than the navigational locks and dams on the Mississippi.

Most low-head dams are less than 12 feet high but tremendous backwash or recirculating current at their base can be just as fatal as larger ones.

Even a life jacket is no guarantee of survival from a dam mishap. The strong current combined with extra air in the water, reduces a life vest's flotation so it's more difficult to stay afloat. Even a good-sized boat motor can be overcome, since the current is so strong and the propeller doesn't bite as well in the bubble-filled water.

The best way to avoid the danger from a dam is simply to stay well away from them. All boats also should have an anchor with plenty of line ready to throw in case of a motor failure and everyone onboard should wear life vests.

Boaters can learn more about dams, dam safety and boating safety on the Mississippi River by obtaining a free copy of the Mississippi River Guide by calling the DNR at (651) 296-6157 or toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367) or going to www.dnr.state.mn.us/boating.

Shoreline alterations, aquatic plant removal may require permits

Lakeshore property owners are reminded that removing aquatic plants or altering shoreline may require a permit from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

DNR staff members who issue permits for shoreline alteration or aquatic plant removal can help lakeshore owners avoid harming the lake or river near their home, said Steve Enger, DNR Division of Ecological Services.

AQUATIC PLANT REMOVAL

“We encourage shoreline property owners to keep alterations as small as possible, because aquatic plants stabilize bottom sediments, protect water clarity, prevent shoreline erosion and are important fish habitat,” Enger said. “Changing the shoreline or improperly removing aquatic plants can seriously damage the lake in the long term.”

Cutting or pulling submerged vegetation, like pondweeds, watermilfoil, or coontail, in a small area for recreation is allowed without a permit.

The following activities require an Aquatic Plant Management Permit, which is valid for one year and costs $35:

- using herbicides or algicides to control aquatic plants in public waters

- removing emergent vegetation, like bulrush, cattails or wild rice

- removing floating leaf vegetation, like water lilies, in an area larger than a channel 15 feet wide extending to open water

- cutting, pulling or mechanically controlling submerged vegetation in an area larger than 2,500 square feet or wider than 50 feet

- removing or relocating a bog of any size that is free floating or lodged in any area other than its original location

- installing or operating an automated plant control device (such as the Crary WeedRoller, Beachgroomer or Lake Sweeper).

Projects that do not require an Aquatic Plant Management Permit include:

- cutting or pulling submerged vegetation from an area that does not extend more than 50 feet along the shore, or more than one half your frontage width, whichever is smaller, the cleared area may not exceed 2,500 square feet

- cutting or pulling floating leaf plants, like water lilies, to create a channel 15 feet wide extending to open-water, more extensive removal requires a permit

- cut or pulled vegetation must be removed from the water and the cleared area must remain in the same place from year to year.

Activities that are not allowed include:

- excavating the lake bottom for aquatic plant control

- use of hydraulic jets

- using lake-bottom barriers to destroy or prevent the growth of aquatic plants

- removing aquatic vegetation within posted fish-spawning areas

- removing aquatic plants from an undeveloped shoreline

- removing aquatic plants where they do not interfere with swimming, boating, or other recreation.

Many lakeshore property owners are restoring their shoreline property to a more natural condition. The DNR supports protection and restoration of shoreline, but encourages property owners to plan these projects carefully. A permit from the DNR is required to plant aquatic vegetation below the ordinary high water mark of public waters.

This will help reduce the potential for adverse impacts from these projects. There is no charge for this permit.

SHORELINE ALTERATIONS: WHAT PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW

Lakeshore owners who are considering projects that would alter their shoreline or lake bottom should review the DNR Division of Waters permit requirements before work begins. Certain types of alterations below the ordinary high water level of public waters or public waters wetlands require an individual Public Waters Work Permit.

Activities that fall under this requirement include excavating, dredging, filling, draining or the placement of structures, including docks of a certain size. Local permits may also be required.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Information on both the Aquatic Plant Management Program and the Public Waters Work Permit Program is available on the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us or by calling (651) 296-6157 or toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).

For more information about the Public Waters Work Permit program, contact DNR area hydrologist or the central office Division of Waters at (651) 259-5700.

Free admission just one of the perks at Minnesota state parks on Open House Day, June 3

Each year, Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas host an open house when vehicle permits are waived and admission is free. As an added open house bonus, many states parks also will offer refreshments and special programs. This year, Sunday, June 3, is when most of the state parks and recreation areas are hosting their annual open house event.

"Whether you are one of the 8.4 million annual visitors who already knows about Minnesota state parks or if you have never been to a state park, open houses are a wonderful way to experience what makes our state parks are among the best in the nation," said Courtland Nelson, director, Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Recreation.

Although no vehicle permit is necessary during open house, fees will be charged for tours of Mystery Cave at Forestville, Soudan Underground Mine and Hill Annex Mine, and the usual camping, lodging and rental fees apply.

Here is a listing of state parks holding open house events on June 3.

SOUTHERN REGION

Big Stone Lake, Ortonville: The Bonanza Quilt Show will feature a number of handmade quilts from local artists that showcase a variety of patterns and techniques. This event will be held at the Bonanza Education Center located within the Bonanza Unit of the park. Refreshments will be served. Although the show will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 2-3, free admission is available only on Open House Day.

Blue Mounds, Luverne: Get here early for a free buffalo burger and refreshments. They will be served starting at 11:30 a.m. at the shelter house in the picnic area, courtesy of the Luverne Chamber of Commerce, and they 're snatched up quickly. Also, take a peek at the park's herd of bison and the buff-colored young calves. Luverne's annual Buffalo Days takes place June 1-3.

Camden, Lynd: Drop by the park office for cookies, coffee, juice and information on activities in the park. The Friends of Camden will be selling root beer floats as a fundraiser at the North Picnic Shelter and hosting a Fly-fishing Casting Workshop. If you want to learn about fly-casting, each workshop is 45 minutes long and sessions be run on the hour from 1-4 p.m. Since the clinics focus on "casting" and no actual fishing is involved, a trout stamp or fishing license is not needed. Those who want to fish for trout will need a current fishing license with a trout stamp. Clinic capacity is four people per session and participants can sign-up in advance at the park office. The clinic instructor has written a book on fly-fishing the Redwood River in Camden along with information on flies and related fishing topics. That book will be for sale at the open house and will be signed by the author. More special programming is likely to be available that day so check at the office when you arrive.

Forestville/Mystery Cave, Preston: Open House is an economical way to take in tours of either Mystery Cave or the little village of Forestville, a Minnesota Historical Society site. Though tour fees for both will be charged, no park permits are necessary. Forestville, the state's most popular park with horse campers, also has great hiking trails. Look for red-and-yellow columbine flowers and the blue blooms of the tall bellflower on woodland walks in early June.

Fort Ridgely, Fairfax: The Friends of Fort Ridgely and Nicollet County Historical Society are sponsoring a free concert from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the park's amphitheater. Enjoy the music of "Spiritwood," a bluegrass band that also plays an assortment of music. There will also be a whopper wagon feed as a fundraiser for the Friend's group before the concert. Free popcorn and lemonade will be available during the concert.

Frontenac State Park, Frontenac: The park is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. The Frontenac State Park Association is planning a whole afternoon of activities during Open House including refreshments and a number of hikes. At 1 p.m., a Wall of Honor in the picnic shelter will be dedicated to all those individuals and groups who have donated their time or money to help establish or better the park. Guest speakers will tell of the history of the park as well as what is planned for the next 20 years.

Lake Louise, Leroy: Free hot dogs and refreshments are just one reason to come to this family-oriented park. Food will be served by the Friends of Lake Louise State Park beginning at 11 a.m. at the picnic shelter. No motors allowed on the lake, so it's perfect for a quiet canoe ride. Wildflowers are plentiful, including the pretty Shooting Star, for which the bike trail that runs through the park is named.

Lake Shetek, Currie: Have lunch, visit with park staff, neighbors, and make new friends during this Friends of Lake Shetek-sponsored event to raise funds to purchase additional children's play equipment for the park. Visitors are invited to stay after lunch for Friends Group Annual Meeting and learn what else the group is working toward.

Monson Lake, Sunburg: The Monson Lake Friends Group will host the event that includes refreshments and a prize drawing for four, two-night camping certificates.

NORTHEAST REGION

Crow Wing, Brainerd: Go back in time to the mid-1800s at the annual fur trade encampment. The Crow Wing County Muzzle Loaders will set up a one-day tent city, complete with costumed traders, buck skinners and other denizens of the time period. Participants will demonstrate their "old time" skills from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to stop at the Old Crow Wing town site area that all but vanished after the railroad passed it by. Little remains of the town except the Clement Beaulieu house.

Gooseberry Falls, Two Harbors: Access to the entire park, instead of just the visitors' center and trail to the falls, is free during Open House. Hike or drive down to the picnic area next to Lake Superior, where the ancient lava flows are easily seen, or look for agates on the shore. Stop in the visitor center to see interpretive displays and exhibits and shop for unique gifts in the park's Nature Store.

NORTHWEST REGION

Buffalo River State Park, Glyndon: Celebrate the summer season with an introduction to the park and science center's shared front yard, the Tallgrass Prairie. This open house program at the Regional Science Center coincides with the park's open house. Tour the science center's exhibits from 2-4 p.m. to learn more about a local natural resource, the prairie. A guided trail hike to Buffalo River State Park's picnic area begins at the science center at 2:30 p.m. While you're in the park be sure to visit the swimming area and beach.

Glacial Lakes, Starbuck: Friends of Glacial Lakes will be serving hotdogs and pop from noon to 3:30 p.m. at the picnic area. Tours of the park can be arranged for anyone. Hike the rolling hills that were fashioned when the last glacier retreated or enjoy boating (with electric motors only) on clear Mountain Lake.

Hayes Lake, Roseau: The park will be hosting interpretive programs throughout the day. There will also be demonstrations of a hunting simulator provided by the DNR Enforcement Division. The Hayes Lake Friends Group will have refreshments available for visitors to purchase.

Lake Bemidji, Bemidji: A hike along the bog boardwalk is one of the park highlights, on Open House or anytime. During the period of late May to early July, visitors will find a variety of orchids in bloom. Start out from the visitor center and allow plenty of time to explore. Bog walk Sundays, when interpreters will point out bog features from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., will be held May 27 and June 3, 10, 17 and 24.

Lake Bronson, Lake Bronson: The Lake Bronson Lions' Club will be serving cookies and beverages for visitors from noon - 4 p.m. Summer season's in full swing at the park. The sand swimming beach open and anglers can fish in the area's biggest lake, created in the '30s when the South Branch Two River was backed up to form Lake Bronson. Come back a week or two later, in mid-to-late June, when the Showy Lady's Slipper and Yellow Moccasin orchids will be in bloom in the park and along the roadsides.

Old Mill, Argyle: Enjoy a swim in the sand-bottomed pool or check out the old mill, built by Lars Larson, who homesteaded here in 1882. The mill roars back to life on the last Sunday in August to grind whole-wheat flour which is sold to the public. The Newfolden Lions Club will provide refreshments for Open House visitors at the picnic shelter.

CENTRAL REGION

Charles Lindbergh, Little Falls: Guests are invited to attend Family Fun Day and take advantage of free admission to the park and the Charles A. Lindbergh State Historic site, the Minnesota Fishing Museum, Charles A. Weyerhaeuser Museum and Pine Grove area attractions.

Fort Snelling, St. Paul: A day-use park, Fort Snelling has plenty to visitors in search of the great outdoors. Situated on the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, the park also has a lake for swimming and canoeing. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons nest in and near the park.

Among the park trails is a steep one leading up to Historic Fort Snelling, which is run by the Minnesota Historical Society. Naturalists will give guided tours of the historic Upper Bluff building during Open House.

Lake Maria, Monticello: Steve Saupe from St. Johns University will explain how to identify, pick and prepare wild edible plants. Call for time and more information (763) 878-2325.

Mille Lacs Kathio, Onamia: Gather at the park's picnic area to see and try out the latest and greatest in outdoor recreation gear including canoes, inflatable kayaks, personal flotation devices, fishing equipment, tents, camping gear and more. DNR and St. Cloud State University staff will present outdoor skills mini-sessions including campfire making, fish casting, compass orienteering for kids and camp cooking. A 90-minute class on beginning bird watching will begin at 9 a.m. A 90-minute class on outdoor photography will begin at 11 a.m.

ALTERNATE OPEN HOUSE DATES:

Glendalough, Red River, Sibley, Upper Sioux Agency, Wild River, William O'Brien and Whitewater state parks have an alternate date for their Open House celebration. There will be no free admission to these parks on June 3.

May 19 Wild River, Center City: 'Seegwan,' a spring celebration when visitors can plant a prairie, go on a bird hike, yank out pesky European buckthorn, and buy native plants that attract butterflies and birds.

June 9, Whitewater, Altura: Ninth annual Take a Kid Fishing Day is designed to help youngsters, 5 to 15 years old, learn how to trout fish. Lunch is provided. Participants receive a small, starter tackle box. Call (507) 932-3007, ext. 0 for time and reservations.

July 22, Red River State Recreation Area, East Grand Forks: Free admission to the recreation area in conjunction with the city of East Grand Forks annual summer community picnic celebration.

Aug. 4-5, Upper Sioux Agency State Park, Granite Falls: Colorful dress, drum music and the voices of singers are all a part of Wacipi (Dakota for powwow), a celebration of American Indian heritage, open to the public.

Sept. 8, Sibley State Park, New London: Free admission to the park in conjunction with the town of New London's celebration of Prairie Pothole Day

Sept. 29-30, William O'Brien, Marine on St. Croix: See demonstrations and tour a Voyageur Encampment.