Easter Lake is a reservoir ripe with potential. Located in the heart of Iowa’s largest urban center, the reservoir and its surrounding park can provide close-to-home fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the fastest-growing demographics in the state.
Urbanization in Iowa, like other states, is a growing trend, and urban and suburban residency is directly related to reduced fishing participation. Providing backyard fishing opportunities and quality outdoor experiences is essential for engaging new anglers. Easter Lake currently draws relatively low numbers of recreational users and relatively low expenditures, but wise development of the reservoir could drastically increase visitation. The failing fishery, a result of poor quality habitat, could become a great draw for family fishing in the community with lake and watershed renovation.