Editorial

The Cullman area gained an expansive new recreational area Tuesday with the opening of the Duck River Reservoir’s trails and water body for public use.

Cullman city and county officials officially cut the ribbon to introduce the 20-plus miles of biking and walking trails that circle the approximately 600-acre lake that was created by the construction of the dam.

For those who love the outdoors, the grounds and lake offer another setting to get back to nature in this scenic area just east of Cullman along U.S. 278.

A few anglers also tried out the reservoir, taking their boats for a day of fishing in the stocked lake. Crappie, bream and bass are part of the lineup for fishing. Channel catfish have also been added, but they have not reached maturity for fishing.

Nonetheless, the setting at Duck River is compliment to a lot of hard work and planning to make a new public area. The trails offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and gain valuable exercise.

Filled since late 2015, the reservoir will begin providing water sometime in 2019. Duck River gives the area two major water supplies, with the older Lake Catoma still a viable source. Officials believe the new reservoir will ensure another 100 years of a reliable water source.

Arriving at the point of cutting the ribbon was a long journey. Disagreements and objections through the years finally culminated in the Duck River Reservoir becoming a reality for Cullman County.

A drought several years ago left the area dangerously close to disaster as Lake Catoma began drying up. Local officials determined at that time to move forward and face whatever challenges awaited in their quest to ensure a reliable water source. Their decision was sensible, but bold at the time.

In the years ahead, Duck River will serve the area’s needs well for both residential and business needs. The recreational aspect of the reservoir is a bonus for residents. That, too, was good planning for the community.

Being short of water would be a disaster for any area. We congratulate those who made the decision to move forward with constructing the new reservoir. Adding the recreational aspect is a gift to the community.