Lake Draw-Down Planned for Big Muskego

Approved recently by the city council, the water level on Big Muskego Lake and connected Bass Bay will be lowered one foot in April and May.

“The purpose is primarily to encourage emergent vegetation – cattail growth – which then stops wind fetch on the big lakes,” deputy lake commissioner Tom Kies said.  The moving bogs have created problems recently, and the lower levels are expected to encourage rooting of the vegetation so it won't 'wander.'

There is a dam at the south end of the lake. Water will be withdrawn through a dropped gate. Six of the 12 inches will be returned starting in June through September.

Kies admitted that the 12-inch depth difference could impact local fishing enthusiasts.

“It may be a little tougher to get on the lake, particularly on Big Muskego,” Kies said. “The foot difference on a lake that’s only four or five feet deep might make it a little tougher to launch.”

Nearby Wind Lake is currently treating the bottom of the lake with alum in an attempt to reduce the sediment in the water. The idea is to make the water clearer and more beneficial for sight-feeding fish.

However, Kies pointed out, “It’s an over $300,000 project to try and achieve about the same thing that we’re doing here.”