Park, pond taking shape

The makeover of Garnant Park is continuing, but to be a complete success, officials are pleading with residents to adhere to the “no-fishing” rule at the park.“We can’t emphasize that enough,” New Hampton Parks and Recreation Director Rick Kramer said. “A big part of the [fishing restoration program] is to let those fish grow. We’re hoping by next summer maybe, but for sure the following summer.”The department partnered with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources last summer, and after the pond that is the hallmark of the park was drained, DNR workers conducted a fish kill.Once the pond, which is spring fed, refilled, DNR officials began its restocking program.The idea was to rid the pond of carp and bullheads, which DNR officials describe as “very hearty and tough to deal with” and replace them with bluegills, largemouth bass and channel catfish.“Everything they’ve told us says it’s going really well,” Kramer said, “and it’s just a matter of time before we have ‘catchable’ fish out there.”But the fishing restoration program isn’t the only thing new at Garnant.A beach was added to the west side of the pond and dock supports were put up last summer. Kramer said work continues on the beach and, earlier this month, workers completed a cinder path that goes around the pond.Members of the New Hampton Lions Club will soon lend their talents to completing the dock.And while fishing the pond is still prohibited, Kramer said people are starting to use the park, and that was the goal of the improvements to the park that is located on New Hampton’s southeast side.“We felt it was kind of a hidden gem and really underutilized,” Kramer said. “We’re not quite there yet, but I think we’re well on our way.”