Lake Management – Status Update

Most of us remember the days when the lake was green with swirls of blue-green algae on the surface. We saw toxin levels exceed EPA limits, cautioning residents to avoid contact with the lake. The water was also cloudy, with poor transparency. 

Over three years ago, we began an effort to develop a Lake Management Plan. This plan has been flexible to allow changes while continuing to move forwards with actions that have shown success.

As a result of the Plan, we have seen a shift in those poor conditions. We have begun treating the blue-green algae before it gains a foothold, in spite of roadblocks that mother nature places on us. The lake is now clearer. The recent study shows that the fishery is healthy. And the algal toxins have been in control.

There have been a number of recent comments concerning what we are now seeing on the lake that we wanted to address. With the clearer waters, aquatic weeds and green filamentous algae are becoming more prevalent. An additional reason for their growth is that nutrients are driving the productivity of the lake. Until we begin to control the nutrients, something will grow using those nutrients. It is also possible that the early drought and the now prevalent rains are driving this growth. While less desirable aesthetically, these consequences are not detrimental to the health of the lake.

For the next steps, we have been working with outside vendors to develop programs to start to mitigate the nutrients and thus reduce the secondary effects of the control measures targeting blue-green algae. These efforts are more costly, and we are seeking ways to get financial assistance.

Until we move into the next phase of our plan, we will need to find ways to adapt to the changes. Many have indicated that they are manually harvesting the filamentous algae. It should be reminded that you should use precautions such as protective clothing and gloves while removing the clumps. Also, dispose of the material properly so that it does not come in contact with children or pets while it is drying. Filamentous algae is not toxic, but the clumps can contain other materials which some people may be sensitive to. We will also look for other ways of reducing the filamentous algae.

We don’t believe that anyone wants to go back to a blue-green algae dominated lake. It will take some patience, and maybe a little work, to get through this stage in our journey. Enjoy the lake!