Lower water levels affecting wildlife in Wabash River

LOGANSPORT, Ind. (WLFI) - Severe drought is draining the water level of bodies of water throughout the area. 'Where did all this land come from' is a question on many people's minds, especially in Logansport where the Wabash River flows through downtown.

"It's never been this low in the seven years I've lived here," said Logansport resident, Bette Reynolds.

It's safe to say the drought is wreaking havoc with the water levels of area rivers and lakes. The Wabash River in Logansport is no exception and residents are taking notice.

"There's islands that I never knew existed and you can walk across to the far island," said Reynolds.

The low waters don't just have residents concerned, the Department of Natural Resources is worried as well. Conservation officers have noticed more dead fish, like carp, along the banks of the river.

"The water, obviously, will heat up. the oxygen level is reduced and we have had some reports of some natural fish kills because of the drought," said Conservation Officer, Dave Schwanke.

Wildlife over on the Tippecanoe River is getting some help with the Oakdale Dam releasing some water from Lake Freeman.  But opening the gates means lake levels are suffering.

"Right now, the water level has only dropped approximately 4 inches in most places. So a lot of the hazards, debris, stumps, and rocks haven't been exposed to the point where they are a severe hazard," said Schwanke.

Dave Schwanke said a few recent pop up rain showers have kept levels higher than they would be otherwise.  But whether you live near a lake or river, just about everyone everywhere agrees --

"We're hoping that we get some rain," said Reynolds.

To check up on the water levels of Lake Freeman and Lake Shafer, click here.