After the flooding in Dane County in 2018, Resolution 227 was passed. It created a technical work group to identify short and long term approaches to improve resiliency for future flooding events. This group submitted their report Feb. 1. The resolution also called for the formation of a Lake Levels Task Force to review these findings and make policy recommendations. 

The task force has reviewed and discussed the scenarios outlined in the technical work group report. The scenarios were divided into two areas: adaptation and mitigation. The adaptation scenarios included lowering Lake Mendota by 1 foot, managing Lake Mendota at a 100-year water level, and removing all dams from the Yahara Lakes. The mitigation scenarios included bridge modifications, Yahara River dredging, water rerouting and pumping, and dredging.

Each meeting of the task force welcomed public comment, with a public hearing March 5. Public comment may also be submitted via email. Visit countyofdane.com/Yahara-Chain-of-Lakes-Lake-Levels-Task-Force for more information and updates.

There has been much discussion about lowering Lake Mendota, with people on both sides of the issue. The chain of lakes are connected and must work as a system. There are different options for increasing the flow of water, which would result in Lake Mendota being at a lower level. Many spoke in favor of aquatic plant harvesting and dredging, and many spoke to the importance of protecting our wetlands. 

I am confident the task force will present good policy recommendations that will include both short-term plans as well as a long-term vision. We need collaboration throughout the chain of lakes. We also need continued monitoring and evaluation of our efforts. We need to better manage stormwater and protect our wetlands. I am committed to this process.

Feel free to contact me with any concerns or issues. I can be reached at 335-6827 or ritt.michele@countyofdane.com.