Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have announced changes to management responsibilities at Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. Approximately 2,600 acres in Eckert's Woods and Speaker Lake sub-impoundments will be returned to USACE for wildlife management.

Before this transition, IDNR plans to remove the bridge at Eckert's Woods due to its failure from frequent flooding, age, and natural deterioration. The demolition is necessary for public safety and to prevent obstruction of creek flow.

The primary objective of this change is to enable IDNR to concentrate limited funds on areas safeguarded by existing levee and water control systems in sub-impoundments 1 and 2. This will allow the Corps of Engineers to focus on rehabilitation efforts needed for these areas.

"IDNR and the Corps of Engineers have a shared goal of providing quality habitat for wildlife and migrating waterfowl while enhancing the user experience of all customer groups," stated IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie.

The transfer of management rights is scheduled after the current 2024-2025 waterfowl season ends. Hunting and fishing regulations will remain unchanged during this period to minimize disruption.

For further information, inquiries can be directed to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Carlyle Lake Office at 618-594-2484 or the IDNR site office at 618-425-3533.