Lake Helen in Gothenburg has been chosen for lake rehabilitation. The lake previously had frequent fish kill events and poor water quality due to shallow water depths and high amounts of phosphorous contaminating the lake.

Myers Construction of Broken Bow will start the lake rehabilitation this week with construction to continue through June, 2015.

The project will involve deepening the lake for improved habitat, adding underwater rock shoals for habitat diversity, a new boat ramp with floating dock, an ADA fishing pad and a fish screen structure to keep unwanted species from entering the lake from the canal. The lake is scheduled to be stocked with game fish next summer.

Financial contributors include the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Aquatic Habitat Program funded through the purchase of Aquatic Habitat Stamps, Sportfish Restoration Program funded by the purchase of fishing gear and licenses and Motorboat Access funds from the purchase of boating gear along with the City of Gothenburg and the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality.