Estabrook

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The land for the Estabrook Park (named after Charles Edward Estabrook) was acquired from the Milwaukee Cement Company in 1916.  Originally consisting of 83 acres, the park has since expanded, much of its development taking place in the 1930's.  This concrete, low-dam sits below the site of the recently decommissioned, and, for a time, controversial Estabrook dam.  The structure was put into service in 1937 to elevate water levels in the Lincoln Park area after a project to blast bedrock from the bed of the river to minimize flooding drastically reduced water levels (MKE River Keeper).  Improper maintenance and concerns about the altered flows' effect on local wild life out weighed the recreational use of the reservoir and the dam gates were permanently opened in 2009.  Water levels and sediment transport are slowing returning to normal and fish populations have already improved.  The earthen drop structure down the way is still a popular spot for anglers, luring park goers to the newly added beer garden by the river's edge.

The Park System>>>

June 10, 2012
Habitat Above [Impoundment]:
Lentic
Collection Time: 5-6 pm
Specimen Count: 167
BMI Rating: 6.3

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Habitat Below [Impoundment]:
Lotic
Collection Time: 6-7 pm
Specimen Count: 108
BMI Rating: 4.6

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Refs--

"Estabrook Dam Removal." Milwaukee RIVERKEEPER. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Oct. 2012. <http://milwaukeeriverkeeper.org/content/estabrook-dam-removal>.

Images:

[1] Image generated using Google Maps
[2-11] Personal Photos