Monitoring efforts begin on Ahnapee River

Representative Joel Kitchens, R-Sturgeon Bay, announced plans for a new initiative to monitor total phosphorus (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) loads in the Ahnapee River. Per Kitchens’ request, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will fund and conduct a citizen-based monitoring effort to close information gaps that currently exist.

The DNR plans to start monitoring before the end of this month, pending volunteer availability, and will install two flow meters, likely one near Blahnik Heritage Park and another at Willow Drive.

“We want clean and safe resources in our area. This is especially true for the Ahnapee River and its largest tributary, Silver Creek, which flow into Lake Michigan and are reported to contribute to algae blooms and excessive sedimentation," Kitchens said.  "This negatively impacts the city of Algoma and Crescent Beach, which are popular destinations for locals and tourists."

Gathering accurate information on TP and TSS is vital for our efforts to ensure that we remain good stewards of our natural resources, Kitchens said.. These TP and TSS load estimates will serve as the foundation for a total maximum daily load (TMDL). Kitchens said he plans to request funding for a TMDL in the next state budget and the information gathered through the citizen-based monitoring effort would strengthen his case for a TMDL.

“I look forward to working with the Friends of Crescent Beach and any other interested parties,”  Kitchens said.

To request further information or to volunteer for the monitoring effort, contact Kitchen's office in Madison at (608) 266-5350.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press Gazette: Monitoring efforts begin on Ahnapee River