Thirty years after planning began, Iowa's newest state recreation area has reached an important milestone. Lost Grove Lake in northern Scott County is at full pool, meaning the lake has reached its maximum depth of 62 feet.
Fisheries Biologist, Chad Dolan, from the Iowa DNR, says planning started in 1985, a site was chosen in 1987, and then gradually the agency began buying land when owners were willing to sell, acquiring the last piece in 2003.
The DNR then had to raise money for the project.
He says even before heavy rain this year helped fill it, Lost Grove Lake has shown its potential for fishing - dam construction began in 2010, and he began stocking the lake in 2012.
Located between Eldridge and Princeton, it opened a year ago, and besides fishing offers boating, kayaking, and hiking.
A study by Iowa State University estimates Lost Grove Lake will attract 350,000 visitors a year, boost the economy by 20 million dollars, and support 175 jobs.
