In search for answers on the Arkansas river dams included in the Vision Package we turned to experts for a better understanding. The Shovel Nosed Sturgeon, Paddle Fish, and Least Terns were some of our chief concerns.
Some of you may know Dave Lindo from Tulsa Kayak and Oklahoma Kayak, but did you also know he is a biologist as well? If you have ever spent much time with him outdoors you will notice he catches many subtle things happening that a casual nature observer may miss. This made him the perfect resource to turn to with this question.
When asked this is Daves response, “The current situation is feast or famine in regards to water in the river. Least Terns (endangered) make a living by nesting on the sand bars that get flooded. As part of the project, the federal government requires that like for like habitat be provided for any projects which involve their nesting grounds. Putting a stable water level in the river and creating nesting islands will give these critters a chance to incubate an egg for 21 days without getting flooded.”
Dave notes that as the city made cuts to the vision proposal he was surprised they left the in river side passages billed as a whitewater kayak channel. “The reason you see this still included, is because this will act like a fish passage channel for the sturgeon who need to migrate up the river past the low water dams. Currently, sturgeon and paddlefish, etc. get trapped in pools on the river when power generation water ceases. Additionally, the dams can raise and lower into the river bed, disappearing completely when needed for seasonal migrations or to stop the impoundment of silt (see current situation at Zink Dam).”
“Compared to the current situation created by the impoundment of water by Lake Keystone, I think this is a win for wildlife, recreation, and overall quality of life for Tulsans. The big picture that must be considered, is that improvements in the river will likely get Tulsa area residents outside, active, and using the river. This is turn should cause citizens to more actively involved and interested in water quality, and the preservation and protection of all the birds, fish, and critters that call the river home.”
Biologist • Conservationist
Photo By Mark Edward Allen
