The Department of Natural Resources has scheduled two public meetings to review the draft of a comprehensive study of the Black River watershed. The Black River Assessment, which outlines the physical and biological characteristics and activities associated with the watershed, is one in a series of river assessments being prepared by the DNR Fisheries Division.

"These meetings are an integral component of the review process," said Robert Haas, a fisheries research biologist at the Lake St. Clair Fisheries Research Station. "We're soliciting public comment to be incorporated into the final document."

Meetings have been scheduled for July 30 in Conference Room A of the St. Clair County Administration Building, 200 Grand River Avenue, Port Huron, and July 31 at Aitkin Memorial District Library, 111 N. Howard Avenue, Croswell. The meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. with an overview program, followed by a question-and-answer session.

The draft Black River Assessment is available online at www.michigan.gov/dnrfishing. A copy also is available on a CD by contacting Haas at (586) 465-4471.

The Black River is located at the southern end of Lake Huron where it flows south before entering the St. Clair River. The Black River basin drains an area of 710 square miles, which includes the Port Huron State Game Area.

The Black 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 planning the future of the Black River.

The comment period will remain open through Sept. 1, 2008. Individuals unable to attend these meetings may send comments to Robert Haas, Lake St. Clair Fisheries Research Station, 33135 S. River Road, Harrison Township, MI 48045.

Individuals attending a meeting are requested to refrain from using heavily scented personal care products in order to enhance accessibility for everyone. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for the meeting should contact Haas at (586) 465-4471 a minimum of five business days before the meeting. Requests made less than five business days before events may not be accommodated.