DNR fisheries biologists have concluded a two-year project designed to improve aquatic habitat in Monroe Lake.

Monroe Lake was the fourth lake selected for habitat improvement through the DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife's Reservoir Aquatic Habitat Enhancement Program (RAHEP).

Approximately 300 habitat structures were dropped into Monroe Lake in a 17-acre area to provide fish with a place to feed and hide from predators. Current structure locations can be found at wildlife.IN.gov/files/fw-monroe-habitat-map.pdf.

The habitat structures were placed in 7 to 14 feet of water during summer. Four different types of structures were used for the project. Each was designed for different fish species, fish life stages, and water depths.

Habitat structures were built with the help of volunteers and donations from businesses in the area. Five volunteer build events were hosted during which volunteers donated more than 150 hours of time to the project. Wooden pallets, drainage tile, and concrete blocks were donated to the project by Cook Medical, Advanced Drainage Systems, and Jones and Sons Concrete and Masonry Products.

RAHEP provides fish habitat in reservoirs where natural structure is lacking. Since RAHEP’s inception in 2015, more than 750 habitat structures have been placed in three project lakes. Projects have also been conducted at Sullivan Lake and Cecil M. Harden.

Planning has already begun for the next RAHEP project, which will take place at Patoka Lake starting this winter.

Learn more about RAHEP at wildlife.IN.gov/7665.htm.

To view all DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.

Media contact: Sandy Clark-Kolaks, Southern Fisheries Research Biologist, DNR Fish & Wildlife, 812-287-8300, sclark-kolaks@dnr.IN.gov