Good news for our muskie lake.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 14, 2005

Contact: Mary Nardo 517-241-5121 or Mary Dettloff 517-335-3014

DNR Secures Funding for Critical Hamlin Dam Project

The Department of Natural Resources has secured a $1,164,533 federal sport Fish Restoration Program grant, which will cover about 75 percent of the cost to rehabilitate the Hamlin Dam at Ludington State Park. In addition, $535,467 has been appropriated from the Michigan State Waterways fund in the 2006 budget to close the gap to enable the Hamlin Dam project to move forward.

Hamlin Dam was constructed in 1913 and deeded to the state of Michigan in 1935. The repair will ensure future access to the diverse recreation opportunities at Ludington State Park and preserve the natural resources and ecosystems of the dune shoreline community.

In 2002, an inspection by the Department of Environmental Quality classified the dam's hazard potential as "high" and recommended immediate repair. The project will address needed structural repairs to the dam's concrete and replacement, and updating of the old wood stop log control mechanism for the lake.

"The combination of grant funds and the appropriation from the Waterways Fund will ensure that use of inland waterways, sport fishing and other water-based recreation can continue in this area," said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

Competitive bids will be sought from contractors with construction expected to begin in spring of 2006. Work is scheduled to minimize impact to visitors and property owners and their recreation opportunities.

The DNR is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural resources for current and future generations.