DRA to consider conservation work on Chaplain Schmitt Island

Wetland conservation work could soon be coming to Chaplain Schmitt Island. Mike Shannon, regional biologist for conservation group Ducks Unlimited, gave an overview of his group’s recommendations for the island at Tuesday’s monthly full board meeting of DRA, the nonprofit license holder for Dubuque’s two casinos. Shannon’s team recently completed a survey of the island in partnership with DRA to see what kind of conservation work could be feasible. Several parts of the island’s peripheral lowlands were surveyed for the project. The final results of the survey are not yet available, but Shannon said the project would improve waterfowl habitats, help manage stormwater runoff on the island and enhance visitors’ experiences. Two large zones in particular — one just west of the Q Casino + Resort parking lot, and the other east of McAleece Park and Recreation Complex — were identified as having good potential for wetland restoration. The board will discuss Ducks Unlimited’s full recommendations at a future meeting.