FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2005


Red Hills Lake Temporarily Closed to Fishing
Lake to Be Treated for Aquatic Species Invasion

Sumner—A popular Southern Illinois state park will be closed to fishing while aquatic biologists take steps to control an exotic weed that is interfering with the natural ecosystem. Fishing will be prohibited at Red Hills State Park from 8 a.m. Monday, March 21st until 8 am. Thursday, March 24th.

Biologists from IDNR will be applying aquatic herbicides to the lake in an effort to control curleyleaf pondweed. It’s an exotic weed that inhibits the growth of native plants in the lake.

The 40-acre lake at Red Hills State Park is popular among both anglers and those who enjoy boating. A dam constructed across Muddy Creek, a tributary of the Embarras River in 1953 created the 40-acre lake with a maximum depth of 30 feet and 2.5 miles of shoreline. Those who fish are likely to pull out largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, blue gill, and bullhead.

Red Hills State Park is located in southeastern Illinois, midway between Olney and Lawrenceville, on U.S. Route 50. The 948-acre park includes high wooded hills, deep ravines, and springs that flow year-round. The Red Hill is the highest point of land between St. Louis and Cincinnati. A 120-foot tower and cross rise from the summit.

For additional information, contact Red Hills State Park, 618/936-2469, or the IDNR District Fisheries Office at 618-393-6732.

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