Menasha Lock, seen in 2021. PC: Fox 11 Online
KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Work continues to design an electrified barrier against round gobies at the Menasha lock, but there’s still no definite estimate of much such a system would cost, how it would be paid for, and when it could be installed. In the meantime, the lock will remain closed indefinitely.
The Menasha lock, which connects Lake Winnebago and Little Lake Butte des Morts, has been closed since 2015 to prevent the round goby from spreading to Lake Winnebago. The Fox River Navigational System Authority wants to install an electric barrier, and then reopen the lock.
Phil Ramlet, the executive director of the FRNSA, said Thursday the latest conceptual plan may be completed by August. More details, including a cost estimate, are expected to be released then.
Previous estimates called for an electrified field that’s about about 34’ wide, 100’ long, and 12-13’ deep – but that could change with the latest study. DNR approval would be required
Even if the barrier is installed and is successful, the Menasha lock is just one of 60 entry points into Lake Winnebago.
Traditionally, the Menasha lock was the busiest of the 17 locks. Sixteen have been fully restored but Rapide Croche near Wrightstown remains closed as a barrier for sea lampreys and other invasive species.
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