Officials celebrate completion of Perch Lake habitat restoration project

DULUTH, Minn. –   The completion of the Perch Lake Habitat Restoration Project is celebrated, marking a major milestone in improving fish and wildlife habitat.

Members of the community joined state and local leaders in celebrating the Perch Lake habitat restoration project along Highway 23 near Gary-New Duluth. The project consisted of dredging and associated site restoration, the installation of the Highway 23 culvert, and the installation of the trail crossing bridge.

“By enhancing Perch Lakes’ connection to the St. Louis River, we’ve now restored and enhanced important coastal marsh wetland habitat,” said Sarah Strommen, the Minnesota DNR Commissioner.

Officials say the major restoration transformed Perch Lake into a destination for outdoor recreation, including paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and enjoying wildlife.