Public Meeting: Arbor Lake and Lake Nyanza Improvements

Overview

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the City of Grinnell will host a public meeting to discuss plans to improve water quality and recreational opportunities at Arbor Lake and Lake Nyanza.

Iowa DNR and City of Grinnell staff will share proposed restoration activities for the watershed and lakes. The public will have an opportunity to express their comments and ask questions about the plan and timeline for the project.

Proposed restoration activities for the lake include removing excess sediment to increase lake depth in Arbor Lake, stabilizing the shoreline, renovation of the fishery, fish habitat improvements, reconstructing Arbor Lake to meet current dam safety standards, watershed improvements to reduce runoff to the lakes, and recreational access improvements. Work is scheduled to start in 2027 and be completed in early 2029.

The City began working with DNR and Houston Engineering in 2023 to assess water quality in the lakes and develop a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. The City hired RDG Planning and Design in 2025 to develop a parks master plan, which will be integrated with the lake restoration plan.

Arbor Lake is currently listed on the State’s List of Impaired Waters due to high nutrient levels, siltation and algal growth. The overall goal of this restoration project is to improve water quality and recreational opportunities in the lakes and remove the lake from the Impaired Waters List.

Any person with special requirements such as those related to mobility or hearing impairments who wishes to participate in the public meeting should promptly contact the DNR or ADA Coordinator at 515-725-8200, Relay Iowa TTY Service 800-735-7942, or Webmaster@dnr.iowa.gov to advise of specific needs.

Address & Contact

For more information, contact:

• (641) 236-2600