Spring Issue

 

 

Last season was our first ever Clean Boats, Clean Water (CB/CW) program. Lake volunteers, along with the help of high school contract workers, successfully taught boaters the importance of inspecting and removing visible aquatic plants, animals, and mud before leaving our lake. Examples of the things we watch for include, Eurasian Water Milfoil, Zebra Mussels and mud that can hide fragments of invasive species. CB/CW is important because it prevents the spread of aquatic hitchhikers. Hitching is the main way that invasive species get into our lakes, rivers, and wetlands. So, not only is it important for our lake but for all surrounding lakes.

 

The Clean Boats, Clean Water program is part of our AIS grant. Last year, we were able to cover 3 key weekends in the summer by providing a power washer, brochures, and good spirits. And as part of our Lake Management Plan we are now being asked to implement this monthly, at least.

 

With that said, we need your help. Although we have the materials and the program set, we need a volunteer to coordinate the activities. So, if anyone is interested in keeping our lake “hitchhiker free” and have a great time meeting people, call Jody Pobjecky at 1-815-871-9299 or email her at Westfield@maqs.net