Canoe, kayak launching area part of Winnebago River dam mitigation project in Mason City

MASON CITY — Work continues on the mitigation of dams along the Winnebago River in Mason City to improve recreation opportunities on the river.

Mayor Bill Schickel says as part of the project, a new canoe and kayak launching area and access point is currently being constructed near 12th Street Northeast.  “That will open up in May, that will be a new park area where you can launch your canoe or your kayak. The other thing is…see that’s a dangerous dam there, and we’re mitigating the stream flow there so while you are canoeing or kayaking on the Winnebago River, you’ll be able to get through there just fine, removing the hazard in that area.”

Schickel says the dam mitigation project will also help improve fishing along the river corridor. “That dam prevents the migration, certainly inhibits the migration of wildlife and fish right now. So, we’re building what’s called a fish ladder to be able to allow the fish to migrate through that area and continue to make Mason City a destination for this kind of water recreation.”

Schickel says the mitigation efforts will improve safety for those who want to traverse the river.  “It will eliminate that hazard, and yes we’ve had fatalities at that particular dam. With water sports, water recreation, obviously you have to use your head, but this will substantially reduce the hazard in that area.”

 The access point was paid for through a grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Schickel made his comments during the “Ask the Mayor” program earlier this week on AM-1300 KGLO, and he also featured the project on a social media update earlier this week, which you can view below.