Rep. Matt Bliss Press Conference 10/15/26
Water Level Crisis in Woman Lake Chain of Lakes and DNR's Inaction
Full Document Analysis
Votes (1)
Address Water Loss at Woman Lake Chain of Lakes and Secure DNR Approval for Temporary Dam Shutdown
Speakers detailed the ongoing water level crisis in the Woman Lake Chain of Lakes following the replacement of a dam with a 'rock arch rapids' structure. They presented evidence, including observations, photographs, and preliminary findings from an independent engineer, suggesting the new dam is flawed and causes excessive water flow out of the lake. They highlighted the severe economic repercussions for Longville's tourist-dependent economy, the damage to property values, and the critical threat to the walleye fishery. The City of Longville filed an official complaint and hired hydrologist Joel Toast, who recommended a temporary shutdown (sandbagging) of the outlet for a comprehensive study. However, DNR Commissioner Stroman has repeatedly delayed or denied approval for this crucial step, leading to public frustration and the launch of a new direct action campaign to pressure the Commissioner.
Notable Quotes (7)
ever since the time that that new dam was installed, people have race issues and complaints about the loss of water through through the rapids...
We discovered a provision within Minnesota law that allowed the city to file a official complaint. The DNR if that Dan structure Rizz reside within the city limits and they did so on August 19th.
the woman like chain or represents a critical alocal community of our city's future independent upon maintaining a healthy lake chain.
what we need is this engineering review essentially prove the case that there's a defect with a dam. That's that's all we're asking for.
So we're announcing today the launch of a new campaign that we're going to do in downtown Long Bill... We're going to me Commissioner Stroman famous in the city of long...
all she has to do is say, yes, I approve it and she has not done that.
It's about preserving the help as well. It's about preserving the health and well-being of of the city of one girl. You know, they are completely dependent upon the tourist industry.
Ordinances & Resolutions (3)
A legal provision that allowed the City of Longville to file an official complaint against the DNR regarding the dam structure.
Legislation used by the advocacy group to request documentation from the DNR regarding the construction of the rock arch rapids, with delays reported in receiving full information.
Cited as the statute granting Commissioner Stroman the authority to order temporary or permanent solutions for dam outlet structures.