We have been starting to hear from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources that milfoil can be good for lakes. Over the past month, I have heard and seen in various media that milfoil may be good fish habitat, milfoil may help to keep suspended sediments out of lakes, and milfoil may help keep lakes clear. I have also heard that overly aggressive control may do more harm than good.
There may be some truth to these statements in a very narrow context, but mostly milfoil is bad for lakes.
The DNR is concerned about protecting the health and integrity of lakes – we all are. However, when these concerns are framed inappropriately, they may be misleading. While milfoil control is high on Lake Minnetonka’s radar screen and keeping the lake healthy is in everyone’s interest, I think it is time to step back and examine these concerns.
The various statements from the DNR are true, but only in extreme cases. For example, milfoil is good fish habitat – but only when there are no other native plants in the lake. That is not the case in Lake Minnetonka. Lakes can become turbid and clouded with suspended sediment and algae, but this has only been observed in lakes where all plants have been removed, which has happened in only one or two lakes. That has not happened in Lake Minnetonka. Aggressive control, when it leads to total plant removal, can cause harm – again this has not happened in Lake Minnetonka.
We have heard with respect to the Lake Minnetonka milfoil treatments that the yardstick being used to evaluate this project is that the treatments will not cause more harm than good. This is an appropriate standard, but I have not seen any assessment weighing the relative harm versus good in Lake Minnetonka.
I believe the treatments on Lake Minnetonka have indeed been beneficial. Lake Minnetonka contains a variety of native plants, which by themselves provide beneficial fish habitat. Milfoil diminishes the quality of that habitat. Therefore, removing it is beneficial – as long as we do not also remove native plants.
Have we damaged native plants in this project?
The proposed Gideon and St. Albans Bay treatments were denied because the treatments in 2009 appear to have damaged native plants, “though no tests of the possible statistical significance of the apparent trend were reported.” In Grays Bay in 2009, three species of pondweeds had declined, which is accurate. Several species increased too. As well, in Carmans Bay, one of these plants decreased and there was no treatment in 2009. However, there is no objective basis to conclude, as the DNR points out, that the treatments were the cause.
Because we lack baseline information to indicate whether or not these plants normally increase and decrease in lakes without treatments, we do not know if the declines in some species are within normal ranges.
There is evidence that the opposite may also be true. Milfoil growth, if unchecked, can cause harm to native plants in lakes. Eurasian watermilfoil began becoming problematic on Christmas Lake in about 2001. Since that time, the DNR conducted surveys and found an increase in milfoil and a corresponding decrease in about a dozen native plant species. Overall, the habitat quality has diminished in Christmas Lake as a result of advancing milfoil growth. Good versus harm ought to be weighed on this scale too – it may be harmful doing nothing.
Milfoil is bad for lakes. While that does not mean we are compelled to treat it, if we desire to treat it, as we do in at least five bays on Lake Minnetonka, we should do so in a manner that is protective of the lake’s health and we should evaluate the relative benefits in the largest context possible.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Strong Medicine
By the time this reaches the paper, the Lake Minnetonka Association’s 9th Annual Clean Up event will be over. During the event, volunteer SCUBA divers search various areas of the lake bottom and bring in trash and treasures. This event highlights the need for us all to do our part in keeping Lake Minnetonka clean.
This event requires a Special Event Permit from the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District. The permit requires the submission of an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Plan to assure all necessary steps are taken to keep unwanted invasive species out of our lake – a good thing.
The prevention plan I submitted with the permit application included a requirement that all watercraft not already residing on Lake Minnetonka arrive clean and dry (inside and out), that all divers’ gear arrive clean and inspections of both. Upon review, LMCD Executive Director Greg Nybeck called me and said he was concerned because Prior Lake’s Clean Up event was the week prior and many of the divers would be participating in both events. Prior Lake is infested with zebra mussels. He said he would add the requirement that no boats participating in Prior Lake’s event the week before the Lake Minnetonka event would be allowed to participate in the Lake Minnetonka event. Greg asked if I would be agreeable to that, and after a few seconds’ thought – yes of course I would.
First of all, thanks to Greg and the LMCD. The Lake Minnetonka Association has been calling for agencies to step up and aggressively protect Lake Minnetonka for years. Greg’s action is a clear demonstration of what we have been advocating. Secondly, thanks to Greg for setting a high standard for future action for the LMA and others to follow.
As we have notified the divers, I have been receiving some pushback. (“Divers do not transport zebra mussels! What gives the LMA the right to require more than the MN DNR recommends? This is a public lake – you cannot prevent us from entering.”).
While there is some truth in all of these sentiments, these are exactly the reasons zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species (AIS) are moving – it always seems to be someone else’s issue.
Over the years, it seems every group I speak to or encounter – lakeshore owners, anglers, boaters, SCUBA divers, sailors, marina operators, transporters, dock installers, etc. – claim their group is clean and others’ are the carriers. The LMA does not have explicit ‘rights’ in a case like this, but we do have responsibilities and obligations to set an example. And Lake Minnetonka is a public lake, but when the LMA hosts or the LMCD permits an event inviting participants who could be bringing AIS, we have a trust to uphold and we should set an example.
Please, don’t become complacent, as I had. Please, all lake users, take the extra steps – every time you come to enjoy Lake Minnetonka. Make sure your boats, trailers, equipment are clean and thoroughly dry at least five days after leaving another lake (infested or not). Please everybody, urge your fellow lake users to adopt this ‘strong medicine’ ethic. This is what it will take to make sure Lake Minnetonka remains clean for all to enjoy.
This event requires a Special Event Permit from the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District. The permit requires the submission of an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Plan to assure all necessary steps are taken to keep unwanted invasive species out of our lake – a good thing.
The prevention plan I submitted with the permit application included a requirement that all watercraft not already residing on Lake Minnetonka arrive clean and dry (inside and out), that all divers’ gear arrive clean and inspections of both. Upon review, LMCD Executive Director Greg Nybeck called me and said he was concerned because Prior Lake’s Clean Up event was the week prior and many of the divers would be participating in both events. Prior Lake is infested with zebra mussels. He said he would add the requirement that no boats participating in Prior Lake’s event the week before the Lake Minnetonka event would be allowed to participate in the Lake Minnetonka event. Greg asked if I would be agreeable to that, and after a few seconds’ thought – yes of course I would.
First of all, thanks to Greg and the LMCD. The Lake Minnetonka Association has been calling for agencies to step up and aggressively protect Lake Minnetonka for years. Greg’s action is a clear demonstration of what we have been advocating. Secondly, thanks to Greg for setting a high standard for future action for the LMA and others to follow.
As we have notified the divers, I have been receiving some pushback. (“Divers do not transport zebra mussels! What gives the LMA the right to require more than the MN DNR recommends? This is a public lake – you cannot prevent us from entering.”).
While there is some truth in all of these sentiments, these are exactly the reasons zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species (AIS) are moving – it always seems to be someone else’s issue.
Over the years, it seems every group I speak to or encounter – lakeshore owners, anglers, boaters, SCUBA divers, sailors, marina operators, transporters, dock installers, etc. – claim their group is clean and others’ are the carriers. The LMA does not have explicit ‘rights’ in a case like this, but we do have responsibilities and obligations to set an example. And Lake Minnetonka is a public lake, but when the LMA hosts or the LMCD permits an event inviting participants who could be bringing AIS, we have a trust to uphold and we should set an example.
Please, don’t become complacent, as I had. Please, all lake users, take the extra steps – every time you come to enjoy Lake Minnetonka. Make sure your boats, trailers, equipment are clean and thoroughly dry at least five days after leaving another lake (infested or not). Please everybody, urge your fellow lake users to adopt this ‘strong medicine’ ethic. This is what it will take to make sure Lake Minnetonka remains clean for all to enjoy.
Friday, May 14, 2010
AIS with Apologies to Dr. Seuss
Aquatic Invasive Species – what are they?
They’re nearing our lakes and coming our way.
When they arrive, they’ll make a mess.
And we just call them A-I-S.
They hitchhike on boats from lake to lake,
Wreaking havoc in their wake.
They are plants, animals and even a virus.
We do not like you A-I-S!
As they infest lake after lake,
We must step up ‘fore its too late.
So many lakes are facing the test
Of this long, long list of A-I-S.
We’ve had some of these most of our life:
Milfoil, curlyleaf and purple loosestrife.
Flowering rush, common carp add to our stress.
Please, oh please no more A-I-S.
There are bighead, black and silver carp,
Brazilian elodea, Hydrilla and yellow floating heart.
Viral hemorrhagic septicemia – or VHS.
Alas, there are even more A-I-S.
Mystery snails – Banded, Japanese and Chinese,
European frogbit, New Zealand mudsnails and Indian swampweed – please.
Giant salvinia, water hyacinth and water lettuce.
When will it end? Yikes A-I-S!
Rusty – rainbow – spiny, gee!
[Crayfish, smelt and waterflea]
Mussels – Quagga and zebra – we cannot rest.
Will we stop these A-I-S?
Ruffe and round goby if you wish.
Even Northern snakehead, called ‘Frankenfish’
There are more and more of these awful pests.
We must stand up against A-I-S.
They spoil fishing, tourism, economy;
Recreation, enjoyment and ecology.
We can do more to ease our duress.
Why wouldn’t we stop these A-I-S?
Once in a lake, there is no cure-
All we can do is cope and endure.
We gotta prevent these blasted pests,
If we don’t want A-I-S.
A-I-S are big and bad,
A-I-S make us sad.
A-I-S are coming fast.
A-I-S are a pain in the … butt.
They’re nearing our lakes and coming our way.
When they arrive, they’ll make a mess.
And we just call them A-I-S.
They hitchhike on boats from lake to lake,
Wreaking havoc in their wake.
They are plants, animals and even a virus.
We do not like you A-I-S!
As they infest lake after lake,
We must step up ‘fore its too late.
So many lakes are facing the test
Of this long, long list of A-I-S.
We’ve had some of these most of our life:
Milfoil, curlyleaf and purple loosestrife.
Flowering rush, common carp add to our stress.
Please, oh please no more A-I-S.
There are bighead, black and silver carp,
Brazilian elodea, Hydrilla and yellow floating heart.
Viral hemorrhagic septicemia – or VHS.
Alas, there are even more A-I-S.
Mystery snails – Banded, Japanese and Chinese,
European frogbit, New Zealand mudsnails and Indian swampweed – please.
Giant salvinia, water hyacinth and water lettuce.
When will it end? Yikes A-I-S!
Rusty – rainbow – spiny, gee!
[Crayfish, smelt and waterflea]
Mussels – Quagga and zebra – we cannot rest.
Will we stop these A-I-S?
Ruffe and round goby if you wish.
Even Northern snakehead, called ‘Frankenfish’
There are more and more of these awful pests.
We must stand up against A-I-S.
They spoil fishing, tourism, economy;
Recreation, enjoyment and ecology.
We can do more to ease our duress.
Why wouldn’t we stop these A-I-S?
Once in a lake, there is no cure-
All we can do is cope and endure.
We gotta prevent these blasted pests,
If we don’t want A-I-S.
A-I-S are big and bad,
A-I-S make us sad.
A-I-S are coming fast.
A-I-S are a pain in the … butt.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Ah, Spring
My daffodils have been up for weeks now, my backyard prairie had its prescribed burn, I have raked the mulch from my perennial beds, the ice is now long off Lake Minnetonka. Signs of Spring.
As we look forward to another season enjoying beautiful Lake Minnetonka, let’s refresh our awareness of what boaters and lakeshore owners can do to be safe and keep ugly invasive species at bay.
The Lake Minnetonka Association wants Lake Minnetonka to be clean, safe and enjoyable for all. The summer rules for Lake Minnetonka are listed on the LMCD or Hennepin County Water Patrol websites. We urge special attention to safe and courteous boating.
We ask boaters visiting Lake Minnetonka to please take these simple precautions:
• INSPECT your boat, trailer and equipment and remove all vegetation, animals and mud before launching.
• DRAIN all water from live wells, bilges and bait containers – before arriving and away from the lake.
• SPRAY or DRY your boat before arriving – either thoroughly spray with high pressure/high temperature water or allow your boat and equipment to thoroughly dry for five days.
• When arriving at Lake Minnetonka, please be patient with the inspectors.
• For additional information, go to the ‘Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers’ website.
Lakeshore owners should also take precautions when working with water gardens, installing used docks and water structures and working with lake service providers, because these are all potential avenues for invasive species introductions. The Lake Minnetonka Association has received a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to prepare a lakeshore owners’ guide – this will soon be available on our website and is being mailed to all Lake Minnetonka lakeshore owners.
Flowering rush, now in Lake Minnetonka, is believed to have escaped from a water garden because it is a commonly-used plant in water gardens. Last year’s Flowering rush discovery highlights the importance of prevention actions we should all be taking.
In 2010, less than a year after its discovery, we know Flowering rush to be found in only several areas of Lake Minnetonka. The Lake Minnetonka Association believes that until the full extent of the infestation is documented, areas of known infestation should be restricted to harvesters and boaters, because these activities are known to accelerate the spread of the plant around the lake.
Unfortunately, these conservation sreps are not going to be taken. In fact, there are no plans to document the extent of the infestation and there are no plans to control or contain the infestation. Because the plant is extremely difficult to identify as well as the fact that the plant has an underwater growth form, it will be impossible for harvesters or boaters to avoid. In deed, last year after the time of its first discovery, LMCD harvesters were operating in bays later discovered to have had Flowering rush. Alas, Flowering rush will likely spread rapidly around Lake Minnetonka. In other lakes, Flowering rush grows in thick beds, like cattails, often precluding access and activity.
It is not yet too late to keep additional invasive species out. We must dedicate our resources to comprehensive prevention actions because, as the Flowering rush example illustrates, once they get into the lake, the only action we are left with is coping. With respect to other invasive species, we have no early detection plans, no rapid response plans, no control or containment plans.
Individuals – boaters and lakeshore owners – have an important role – indeed an obligation - in preventing invasive species from getting into Lake Minnetonka. We urge all to become aware of and get into the habit of taking simple prevention actions. We all have the responsibility to keep Lake Minnetonka safe and clean.
As we look forward to another season enjoying beautiful Lake Minnetonka, let’s refresh our awareness of what boaters and lakeshore owners can do to be safe and keep ugly invasive species at bay.
The Lake Minnetonka Association wants Lake Minnetonka to be clean, safe and enjoyable for all. The summer rules for Lake Minnetonka are listed on the LMCD or Hennepin County Water Patrol websites. We urge special attention to safe and courteous boating.
We ask boaters visiting Lake Minnetonka to please take these simple precautions:
• INSPECT your boat, trailer and equipment and remove all vegetation, animals and mud before launching.
• DRAIN all water from live wells, bilges and bait containers – before arriving and away from the lake.
• SPRAY or DRY your boat before arriving – either thoroughly spray with high pressure/high temperature water or allow your boat and equipment to thoroughly dry for five days.
• When arriving at Lake Minnetonka, please be patient with the inspectors.
• For additional information, go to the ‘Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers’ website.
Lakeshore owners should also take precautions when working with water gardens, installing used docks and water structures and working with lake service providers, because these are all potential avenues for invasive species introductions. The Lake Minnetonka Association has received a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to prepare a lakeshore owners’ guide – this will soon be available on our website and is being mailed to all Lake Minnetonka lakeshore owners.
Flowering rush, now in Lake Minnetonka, is believed to have escaped from a water garden because it is a commonly-used plant in water gardens. Last year’s Flowering rush discovery highlights the importance of prevention actions we should all be taking.
In 2010, less than a year after its discovery, we know Flowering rush to be found in only several areas of Lake Minnetonka. The Lake Minnetonka Association believes that until the full extent of the infestation is documented, areas of known infestation should be restricted to harvesters and boaters, because these activities are known to accelerate the spread of the plant around the lake.
Unfortunately, these conservation sreps are not going to be taken. In fact, there are no plans to document the extent of the infestation and there are no plans to control or contain the infestation. Because the plant is extremely difficult to identify as well as the fact that the plant has an underwater growth form, it will be impossible for harvesters or boaters to avoid. In deed, last year after the time of its first discovery, LMCD harvesters were operating in bays later discovered to have had Flowering rush. Alas, Flowering rush will likely spread rapidly around Lake Minnetonka. In other lakes, Flowering rush grows in thick beds, like cattails, often precluding access and activity.
It is not yet too late to keep additional invasive species out. We must dedicate our resources to comprehensive prevention actions because, as the Flowering rush example illustrates, once they get into the lake, the only action we are left with is coping. With respect to other invasive species, we have no early detection plans, no rapid response plans, no control or containment plans.
Individuals – boaters and lakeshore owners – have an important role – indeed an obligation - in preventing invasive species from getting into Lake Minnetonka. We urge all to become aware of and get into the habit of taking simple prevention actions. We all have the responsibility to keep Lake Minnetonka safe and clean.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Ramping Down
Last year at this time, we were abuzz with the heightened prospect that zebra mussel had been discovered in Prior Lake – way too close for comfort. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources indicated they were beefing up their prevention and enforcement efforts. The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District made increased inspections their ‘top priority.’ The Lake Minnetonka Association agreed to make a $10,000 match available to support these increased inspections. The LMCD directed its Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Task Force to develop a comprehensive prevention plan for implementation in 2010.
So, as we approach the open water season this year, where do we stand?
The DNR issued less than 100 aquatic invasive species-related citations state-wide in all of 2009. A channel 9 investigative report last summer noted that ‘boat after boat’ left zebra mussel-infested Prior Lake without draining their bilge water as required by state law.
On Lake Minnetonka, the promised increased inspections did not occur. In their Spring/Summer 2009 newsletter, the LMCD message from the chair stated, “One of the most serious issues facing Lake Minnetonka is the potential introduction of zebra mussel. The LMCD Board has made it a top priority to do what we can to stem the invasion of these aquatic pests.” Dick Woodruff, LMCD Board member, in the April 20, 2009 Lakeshore Weekly News stated, “There is a lot of horsepower being put into this.” A May 4, 2009 letter-writer called the prospect of zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka an “Eco-Disaster.”
The LMCD stated they were increasing the number of inspection hours in 2009 by 40% (LMCD Spring/Summer 2009 newsletter). The actual increase was 6% and there were less than 4,000 total hours of inspections in 2009. Part of the shortfall was due to the inability of the MN DNR inspector program to hire sufficient numbers of interns. As this has been a perennial issue, we would urge the LMCD to hire seasonal inspectors.
And inspections and monitoring in 2010 will actually decrease. The MN DNR has notified the LMCD their grant will be less than last year (by about one third) and the hourly rate for the inspectors will be increased by about 20%, neither of which had been budgeted for by the LMCD. At their March 10th Board meeting, the LMCD approved an inspection plan for 2,700 hours of inspections – 24% less than last year! Video monitoring at accesses has been discontinued.
In a larger context, the LMCD’s Strategic Plan Work Plan (2009-2014), has identified a goal of 18,942 inspection hours per season – seven times what was approved for 2010. I am aware of no plan or proposal to bridge this gap.
The comprehensive AIS prevention plan, approved by the LMCD is nothing more than a list of prevention activities that the participating agencies and organizations had already planned and programmed in 2010, plus some other ‘proposed’ actions, but with no commitment to implement these. Perhaps most concerning is the submitted plan is far from comprehensive. The technical representatives on the committee could come to no consensus whatsoever regarding the relative risk of various AIS introduction pathways. Thus, the resultant plan is merely the collection of what agencies and organizations are already doing, rather than a comprehensive or focused strategy dealing with what needs to be done.
We are going entirely the wrong direction.
A year has gone by and Lake Minnetonka is less protected than last year. Our protection system for Lake Minnetonka is incomplete and seriously broken. The inspections, as noted above are vastly less than the stated need. Special events, events that bring participants (and their watercraft) from other states and who often frequent AIS-infested waters, are neither inspected nor washed, even though the LMCD found the voluntary affidavit system was not working and there was no use of the LMCD washers (Oct. 25, 2000 LMCD Board minutes) – this has gone on for 10 years with no change to the program! The prevention plan for 2010 calls for education of special event participants – which is a requirement of LMCD code anyway – again, no change.
The Lake Minnetonka Association, speaking on behalf of lakeshore owners and businesses, expects the agencies charged with protecting Lake Minnetonka to be aggressively moving the ball forward for protecting Lake Minnetonka.
Flowering rush, another invasive plant, was discovered on Lake Minnetonka last summer. This plant has the potential to circle the entire shoreline of Lake Minnetonka and there are no plans to contain its spread. Let’s not let zebra mussels (or spiny wateflea or hydrilla or VHS, or …) get into Lake Minnetonka.
The AIS protection ball has lost ground – and we will be penalized for delay of game.
So, as we approach the open water season this year, where do we stand?
The DNR issued less than 100 aquatic invasive species-related citations state-wide in all of 2009. A channel 9 investigative report last summer noted that ‘boat after boat’ left zebra mussel-infested Prior Lake without draining their bilge water as required by state law.
On Lake Minnetonka, the promised increased inspections did not occur. In their Spring/Summer 2009 newsletter, the LMCD message from the chair stated, “One of the most serious issues facing Lake Minnetonka is the potential introduction of zebra mussel. The LMCD Board has made it a top priority to do what we can to stem the invasion of these aquatic pests.” Dick Woodruff, LMCD Board member, in the April 20, 2009 Lakeshore Weekly News stated, “There is a lot of horsepower being put into this.” A May 4, 2009 letter-writer called the prospect of zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka an “Eco-Disaster.”
The LMCD stated they were increasing the number of inspection hours in 2009 by 40% (LMCD Spring/Summer 2009 newsletter). The actual increase was 6% and there were less than 4,000 total hours of inspections in 2009. Part of the shortfall was due to the inability of the MN DNR inspector program to hire sufficient numbers of interns. As this has been a perennial issue, we would urge the LMCD to hire seasonal inspectors.
And inspections and monitoring in 2010 will actually decrease. The MN DNR has notified the LMCD their grant will be less than last year (by about one third) and the hourly rate for the inspectors will be increased by about 20%, neither of which had been budgeted for by the LMCD. At their March 10th Board meeting, the LMCD approved an inspection plan for 2,700 hours of inspections – 24% less than last year! Video monitoring at accesses has been discontinued.
In a larger context, the LMCD’s Strategic Plan Work Plan (2009-2014), has identified a goal of 18,942 inspection hours per season – seven times what was approved for 2010. I am aware of no plan or proposal to bridge this gap.
The comprehensive AIS prevention plan, approved by the LMCD is nothing more than a list of prevention activities that the participating agencies and organizations had already planned and programmed in 2010, plus some other ‘proposed’ actions, but with no commitment to implement these. Perhaps most concerning is the submitted plan is far from comprehensive. The technical representatives on the committee could come to no consensus whatsoever regarding the relative risk of various AIS introduction pathways. Thus, the resultant plan is merely the collection of what agencies and organizations are already doing, rather than a comprehensive or focused strategy dealing with what needs to be done.
We are going entirely the wrong direction.
A year has gone by and Lake Minnetonka is less protected than last year. Our protection system for Lake Minnetonka is incomplete and seriously broken. The inspections, as noted above are vastly less than the stated need. Special events, events that bring participants (and their watercraft) from other states and who often frequent AIS-infested waters, are neither inspected nor washed, even though the LMCD found the voluntary affidavit system was not working and there was no use of the LMCD washers (Oct. 25, 2000 LMCD Board minutes) – this has gone on for 10 years with no change to the program! The prevention plan for 2010 calls for education of special event participants – which is a requirement of LMCD code anyway – again, no change.
The Lake Minnetonka Association, speaking on behalf of lakeshore owners and businesses, expects the agencies charged with protecting Lake Minnetonka to be aggressively moving the ball forward for protecting Lake Minnetonka.
Flowering rush, another invasive plant, was discovered on Lake Minnetonka last summer. This plant has the potential to circle the entire shoreline of Lake Minnetonka and there are no plans to contain its spread. Let’s not let zebra mussels (or spiny wateflea or hydrilla or VHS, or …) get into Lake Minnetonka.
The AIS protection ball has lost ground – and we will be penalized for delay of game.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Is Anyone Listening?
Lakeshore Weekly News Editor Brett Strusa’s Column in the January 11th edition asked whether our elected officials were listening in reference to recent City actions in Deephaven.
Here, I want to talk about what lakeshore owners and businesses are saying relative to milfoil control on Lake Minnetonka.
Around Lake Minnetonka, the lakeshore owners and businesses have been very clear they want milfoil controlled and are elated over the results from the results in Grays and Phelps Bays last year. The lakeshore owners represent a significant constituency and in fact have provided the majority of funding to this project as well as additional projects planned for 2010.
Milfoil has been the scourge of Lake Minnetonka for over 20 years. It impacts the lake’s ecology and recreation. Indeed, in my 10 years on this job, complaints about milfoil (or the harvesters) have topped all other I have received.
Right now, there are ten active bay captains or co-captains – and a dozen or so street captains - working on fundraising for the planned 2010 milfoil treatments. They have or soon will raise about $220,000 toward the 2010 projects on five bays. We anticipate receiving about $60,000 in public money as well. Lakeshore owners and businesses are making serious and significant investments to clean up Lake Minnetonka for all to enjoy as well as for improving its health.
The lakeshore owners and businesses are speaking – with their investments, energy and commitment – are our public agencies listening?
Some are. The Cities of Excelsior, Greenwood, Mound, Shorewood and Tonka Bay have committed funding toward these projects in 2010. The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District’s Save-the-Lake Fund (private donations) has committed funding. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources probably will provide grant funding (grant application pending). We appreciate these commitments.
Unfortunately, some are not. It is unfortunate that lakeshore owners and businesses ought to foot the majority of the bill to protect and manage a public resource. It is unfortunate that over $100,000 per year is being spent on old technology – the harvesters – which cut less and less milfoil each year, which have trouble picking up all the milfoil fragments, which have difficulty cutting in straight lines and which will likely facilitate the spread of flowering rush (an invasive plant newly discovered in Lake Minnetonka last year). It is unfortunate there is no long-term plan or vision for milfoil control on Lake Minnetonka.
The Lake Minnetonka Association’s ‘Milfoil-Free Minnetonka’ campaign is resonating with lakeshore owners and businesses. Lake Minnetonka can be Milfoil-Free in a a manner that is safe and restorative.
We know the lakeshore owners and businesses are not the only constituencies the agencies and municipalities ought to listen to. However, with respect to milfoil control, lakeshore owners and businesses are willing, enthusiastic and committed partners. We urge the agencies and municipalities overseeing the management of Lake Minnetonka to listen to lakeshore owners and businesses, tap their energy and investment and help to make Lake Minnetonka Milfoil-Free.
Here, I want to talk about what lakeshore owners and businesses are saying relative to milfoil control on Lake Minnetonka.
Around Lake Minnetonka, the lakeshore owners and businesses have been very clear they want milfoil controlled and are elated over the results from the results in Grays and Phelps Bays last year. The lakeshore owners represent a significant constituency and in fact have provided the majority of funding to this project as well as additional projects planned for 2010.
Milfoil has been the scourge of Lake Minnetonka for over 20 years. It impacts the lake’s ecology and recreation. Indeed, in my 10 years on this job, complaints about milfoil (or the harvesters) have topped all other I have received.
Right now, there are ten active bay captains or co-captains – and a dozen or so street captains - working on fundraising for the planned 2010 milfoil treatments. They have or soon will raise about $220,000 toward the 2010 projects on five bays. We anticipate receiving about $60,000 in public money as well. Lakeshore owners and businesses are making serious and significant investments to clean up Lake Minnetonka for all to enjoy as well as for improving its health.
The lakeshore owners and businesses are speaking – with their investments, energy and commitment – are our public agencies listening?
Some are. The Cities of Excelsior, Greenwood, Mound, Shorewood and Tonka Bay have committed funding toward these projects in 2010. The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District’s Save-the-Lake Fund (private donations) has committed funding. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources probably will provide grant funding (grant application pending). We appreciate these commitments.
Unfortunately, some are not. It is unfortunate that lakeshore owners and businesses ought to foot the majority of the bill to protect and manage a public resource. It is unfortunate that over $100,000 per year is being spent on old technology – the harvesters – which cut less and less milfoil each year, which have trouble picking up all the milfoil fragments, which have difficulty cutting in straight lines and which will likely facilitate the spread of flowering rush (an invasive plant newly discovered in Lake Minnetonka last year). It is unfortunate there is no long-term plan or vision for milfoil control on Lake Minnetonka.
The Lake Minnetonka Association’s ‘Milfoil-Free Minnetonka’ campaign is resonating with lakeshore owners and businesses. Lake Minnetonka can be Milfoil-Free in a a manner that is safe and restorative.
We know the lakeshore owners and businesses are not the only constituencies the agencies and municipalities ought to listen to. However, with respect to milfoil control, lakeshore owners and businesses are willing, enthusiastic and committed partners. We urge the agencies and municipalities overseeing the management of Lake Minnetonka to listen to lakeshore owners and businesses, tap their energy and investment and help to make Lake Minnetonka Milfoil-Free.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
A Fresh Perspective
The Lake Minnetonka Association (LMA) was fortunate to have had Andrew Bredeson as a summer intern last year. Andrew spent much of his youth visiting his grandparents on West Arm Bay and has a love for Lake Minnetonka. I asked Andrew to summarize his impressions and experiences following his internship this past summer. Below is an excerpt from his summary.
“I learned so many things from the three months I spent working with the LMA.
I learned that most people are hesitant and guarded when asked for a moment of their time or a contribution. That said, almost all those who gave me a few minutes were on board with the concern of the LMA and the vulnerability of Lake Minnetonka.
I learned that many people are very results driven – for example, they gave money for the milfoil treatments then were put off when asked for further contributions ("I've already given you guys money, why do I need to give more??)
I learned that the fear of aquatic invasive species introductions is widespread. I heard so many times that not enough is being done to prevent the introduction of zebra mussels.
I learned that I personally do not enjoy calling people and asking them for money, even when it is for a cause I know is incredibly important to the preservation of the lake I love and so many others also love.
I learned that it is frustrating and difficult to have to deal with governmental organizations to get things done. It seems to me that to gain more leverage with the LMCD and other governmental organizations, the LMA must persuade lakeshore residents to pester these officials and representatives repeatedly until they feel a greater sense of urgency to deal with problems like insufficient AIS prevention plans, outdated/inefficient methods of milfoil control, and so on.
Most importantly, I learned that ordinary (or extraordinary) citizens can indeed initiate change, frame and direct conversation, and get things done for the greater good. I also learned that these efforts can be tedious, frustrating, and exhausting, but that perseverance and effort can make a meaningful impact.
I did come away from my experience with the LMA with a sense of hope that Lake Minnetonka can be protected, but so much more needs to be done. People around Lake Minnetonka need to realize that their direct involvement, be it with financial contributions, showing up at LMCD meetings to voice their opinions, calling state legislators, etc., is crucial to the preservation and betterment of the Lake.
A prevailing attitude of many Lakeshore owners seems to be something like: "I will take care of myself and do what is right for me, my neighbors will do what's right for them and everything will be fine." This needs to change so that all lakeshore owners realize "What is right for me and my neighbors, should also be right for Lake Minnetonka as a whole." This may sound idealistic, but I feel this mentality needs to be encouraged as much as possible.
I also detected in some people a sense of despair. Some people felt that the problems and threats facing the lake were too large, and that not enough could be done to protect the lake so why even try. This did not seem to be the majority opinion, but a significant one nonetheless.
I learned so much more in the three months I was with the LMA. Keep up the good work and thanks for all you and the LMA do.”
Andrew is spending this year as a Team Leader with the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) and is based in Denver, Colorado.
“I learned so many things from the three months I spent working with the LMA.
I learned that most people are hesitant and guarded when asked for a moment of their time or a contribution. That said, almost all those who gave me a few minutes were on board with the concern of the LMA and the vulnerability of Lake Minnetonka.
I learned that many people are very results driven – for example, they gave money for the milfoil treatments then were put off when asked for further contributions ("I've already given you guys money, why do I need to give more??)
I learned that the fear of aquatic invasive species introductions is widespread. I heard so many times that not enough is being done to prevent the introduction of zebra mussels.
I learned that I personally do not enjoy calling people and asking them for money, even when it is for a cause I know is incredibly important to the preservation of the lake I love and so many others also love.
I learned that it is frustrating and difficult to have to deal with governmental organizations to get things done. It seems to me that to gain more leverage with the LMCD and other governmental organizations, the LMA must persuade lakeshore residents to pester these officials and representatives repeatedly until they feel a greater sense of urgency to deal with problems like insufficient AIS prevention plans, outdated/inefficient methods of milfoil control, and so on.
Most importantly, I learned that ordinary (or extraordinary) citizens can indeed initiate change, frame and direct conversation, and get things done for the greater good. I also learned that these efforts can be tedious, frustrating, and exhausting, but that perseverance and effort can make a meaningful impact.
I did come away from my experience with the LMA with a sense of hope that Lake Minnetonka can be protected, but so much more needs to be done. People around Lake Minnetonka need to realize that their direct involvement, be it with financial contributions, showing up at LMCD meetings to voice their opinions, calling state legislators, etc., is crucial to the preservation and betterment of the Lake.
A prevailing attitude of many Lakeshore owners seems to be something like: "I will take care of myself and do what is right for me, my neighbors will do what's right for them and everything will be fine." This needs to change so that all lakeshore owners realize "What is right for me and my neighbors, should also be right for Lake Minnetonka as a whole." This may sound idealistic, but I feel this mentality needs to be encouraged as much as possible.
I also detected in some people a sense of despair. Some people felt that the problems and threats facing the lake were too large, and that not enough could be done to protect the lake so why even try. This did not seem to be the majority opinion, but a significant one nonetheless.
I learned so much more in the three months I was with the LMA. Keep up the good work and thanks for all you and the LMA do.”
Andrew is spending this year as a Team Leader with the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) and is based in Denver, Colorado.
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