A comprehensive report, outlining the physical and biological characteristics and activities associated with the Kalamazoo River watershed, has been released in draft form. The Kalamazoo River assessment is one in a series of river assessments being prepared by the Fisheries Division of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for Michigan rivers.

As part of the assessment process, the draft document is now available for public review and comment. To ensure that all those with interest have an opportunity to learn about the study and provide comment, a series of public meetings will take place this spring within the watershed.

"Public review and comment is an integral component of the river assessment process," said Jay Wesley, Southern Lake Michigan Unit Manager. "These public comments will be incorporated into the final document."

The draft Kalamazoo River Assessment addresses geography, history, geology, soils and land use, dams and barriers, water quality, biology, fisheries management, recreational use and citizen involvement, as well as other aspects of the river watershed. Management options are identified, to provide a foundation for public discussion, priority setting, and ultimately planning the future of the Kalamazoo River.

The Kalamazoo River basin is located in the southwest portion of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and drains an area of 2,020 square miles, which includes an abundance of publicly owned land in the lower watershed.

Copies of the draft Kalamazoo River assessment are available on DNR Web site.

Hard copies can be reviewed at your local library and a limited number are also available by contacting Wesley at 269-685-6851. The comment period will remain open through July 1, 2005.