Now that the Kletzsch Dam Fish Passage project is completed, it is time for the west side of the river to get some TLC! Kletzsch Park is a very popular recreational spot, whether it be enjoying the Oak Leaf Trail, watching the waterfall or having a picnic! However, the natural areas within the park have been in decline for many years, natural areas that contain priority plant and animal species like wetland bird species! Kletzcsh Park is an important AOC project for multiple reasons, including its large size, location on the Milwaukee River, and known habitat for forest and wetland birds and mammals. Enhancements to these areas will not only help land critters and birds – but also a wide variety of fish and semi-aquatic species (like frogs and salamanders!).

In 2023, Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) successfully completed the Kletzsch Dam Fish Passage project! Necessary dam repairs occurred, and an upstream channel was created that goes around the east side of the Milwaukee River, creating a fish passage. The creation of this fish passage will allow native fish from the Milwaukee Estuary to move upstream allowing them to migrate and spawn (reproduce). Now that the Fish Passage project is substantially complete, the complementary habitat restoration efforts for wildlife populations will begin on the west side of the Milwaukee River. Reminder that the fish passage is not open to the public and crews are still working onsite to establish vegetation.

Not only will this project help to enhance native biodiversity and outdoor recreation for the community, but it is also a necessary action to help delist the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern. “Delisting” involves implementing projects that will address issues which have prevented humans, fish, and wildlife from being able to fully and safely use our natural resources. Some of the benefits to come out of the Kletzsch Park project are: