Collins Marsh State Wildlife Area, June 28, 2021. PC: Fox 11 Online
MANITOWOC COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Collins Marsh has been drawn down in an effort to improve habitat for wildlife.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says it drained the main body of water by opening the gates at the dam on Mud Creek.
Water levels are drained periodically to mimic the natural ebb and flow in an unrestricted system, the DNR says. This allows seeds at the marsh’s bottom to be exposed to sunlight so they can germinate and grow, with the plants becoming a food source for birds.
The marsh will be re-flooded next spring after plants have established roots and grown sufficiently.
The drawdown will also allow the DNR to install new gates that are expected to provide for better ability to manipulate water levels.
The drawdown will affect hunting this fall, but the DNR says it will improve hunting in future years.
Collins Marsh Wildlife Area is a 4,200-acre property about four miles south of Reedsville.
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