One of the first steps in lake renovation is the lowering of the lake water level (if it is at all possible). This concentrates the fish and leaves less water to be chemically treated.

A chemical called rotenone is applied to the water. The chemical interrupts the fish's ability to use its body's energy and it quickly and painlessly dies.

Once the out of balance fish population has been destroyed, the dead fish have to be removed and properly disposed of.

When a lake is drawn down for renovation, it is an excellent time to add additional access to the water, such as this handicapped accessible fishing pier.

The construction of silt-retention structures like this one can keep a tremendous amount of sediment from reaching and filling in the lake. Note the brown water above the lake and blue, clear water in the lake. Preventing sediments from filling the lake will keep the lake clean, clear, and healthy for years to come, as well as slowing the lake from filling with mud and debris.