Administrative Costs

Additional signs to prevent invasive plant introduction and to better publicize the no-wake rule: In our efforts to fight Eurasian watermilfoil, the Lake Advisory group suggested that we post more warnings to boaters who might bring in additional milfoil or other invasives (zebra mussels, spiny water fleas, etc). We plan one more sign at the landing. In addition, among the approximately 45% of district citizens who returned the 2004 survey, many were concerned with violations of the no-wake rule. We plan to put some signs on land sites other than at the boat landing (e.g., on the island on the west end), with land owner permission of course. The remaining administrative costs are comparable to previous years.

Special Projects
Barley Straw: We plan to purchase four (4) bags of barley straw for each riparian owner to place at their pier to continue the program we started this year as one more means to control algae. While we lack objective measures, property owners report that this measure seems to help reduce algae and there are studies to support those perceptions. The barley straw is being obtained in cooperation with the Tri-Lakes District in northern Adams County who has it prepared in the convenient bag form by a local farmer. In 2006, we will want to get it in the water as early as possible, ideally before May 1.

Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWMF) Treatment & Plant Harvesting: As noted in the Lake Management Plan (approved by the board after several opportunities for public input and after a final public hearing), we have changed our handling of Eurasian watermilfoil. We plan to reduce chemical treatment and substitute EWMF harvesting early spring and fall, with limited spot chemical treatments of smaller areas (total of 5 acres or less), using granular agents.