ohn Redmond Reservoir, located on the outskirts of New Strawn, is a favorite lake for many Kansans. Boating, camping, water-skiing, swimming, hiking, nature trails, mountain biking and equestrian trail, fishing, and hunting are available for seasonal outdoor activities. John Redmond Reservoir spans the broad floodplain of the Neosho River near the town of New Strawn. Located in the Central Flyway, it is an important stopover for many species of migrating waterfowl. Nearby croplands of wheat, corn, and milo provide food for the migrating birds. During migrations greater and lesser yellowlegs, long-billed dowitchers, and other shorebirds are found in the mudflats. The surrounding bluestem pastures support many grassland animals. John Redmond Wildlife Area, along Otter Creek on the southwest side of the lake, is managed to maintain ample food, cover, and breeding areas for wildlife. In winter bald eagles perch in trees near the dam, and rough-legged hawks float overhead. Thousands of snow geese are in the area during the winter. Year-round, white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, cottontail rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and coyotes can be seen in the Otter Creek area. In summer, look in the shallow waters for great blue and green-backed herons. For lake information, contact: U.S. Army Engineers, 1565 Embankment Rd., S.W., New Strawn, Kansas 66839 (620) 364-8614
