Fisheries Biologist Ryan Ryswyk has given us some great information on the cages some of you may have had questions about out at Ft. Cobb lake: Those cages at Ft. Cobb are “Aquatic Vegetation cages”. Quality habitat (vegetation for species like LMB and sunfish) is critical for fish populations to thrive. The bottom of Ft. Cobb lake has resembled a “bath tub” for the last twenty or so years. Basically, a smooth and bare bottom lacking any vegetation. ODWC partnered with OWRB to work on establishing native vegetation in Ft. Cobb. The intent was for the vegetation to uptake excess nutrients in the lake which would in turn improve water quality. The vegetation would also benefit fish populations. The cages were constructed with enclosed tops to keep the plants from being uprooted or eaten by things like carp, turtles, etc. With an enclosed top the plants should be undisturbed by critters even in the event of a flood. The cages were constructed in about two feet of water. However the extended drought has left them dry. We are trying to keep the cages intact and functional so that we can give it another shot once the lake refills. The attached pictures are from the first summer the cages were built (2012). Ideally the vegetation will not only grow inside the protected areas but also begin to spread to areas outside the cage. Vegetation cages have been used for a number of years in the fish division but these at Ft. Cobb are probably the most “critter proof” cages we have ever built. Only time will tell if they are successful or not.
Posted on: Tue, 20 May 2014 13:53:29 +0000
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