June 24, 2020
Lake and Weed Growth
To start the year, we saw a decrease in lake vegetation (algae, weeds, etc.) in comparison to the last couple seasons. We have typically seen a late May/ early June bloom, which wasn’t as significant this year.
However, over the last week to 10 days, we have seen a significant increase in the vegetation of the lake, especially on the shoreline.
We are often asked why these increases occur. There is no simple answer to that. There are a number of environmental factors that can contribute to changes in lake vegetation week to week, and year over year. Some of these factors are water temperature, sunlight, winds, rain and runoff, fertilizer use etc.
What is the SSRA doing about it?
Each year, including this season, we spend significant financial resources and time actively managing the lake. We work with a contracted team of biologists that each season run a variety of tests to create recommendations for both short term and long term lake interventions.
The potential interventions that the SSRA can do are as follows:
- Use of our aeration system
- Chemical water treatments
- Mechanical weed removal
- Sediment and fertilizer controls and education
- Water testing
Our biologists have recommended that the best course of action this year is to continue with the consistent use of the aeration system, and mechanical weed removal. You will see our staff spending a significant time on the rock line over the next week, and into the summer to keep the shore as clean as possible.
Our biologist team was out recently as well to continue to collect data to use for any potential short term and long term intervention recommendations. We value their education, experience and expertise, and will continue to follow any recommendations that they give to us.
Additionally, notices were sent to all lakefront and lake access properties reminding them of the dangers of fertilizer use in the lake to its long term health.
Lastly, though the government isn’t testing water this year, the SSRA is paying for weekly private testing to be done.
It’s important to remember that our lake, though initially man made, is now very much part of nature. Vegetation is important to the ecosystem in the lake, and that the goal will never be to eliminate algae and vegetation entirely. We are committed to doing everything we can to make sure the lake continues to be a beautiful centerpiece to the community. We will continue to actively manage the lake and all the areas that are in our potential control, and make any necessary adjustments based on the recommendations of our contracted biologists.
Feel free to contact the office if you have any questions at 780-497-7558.
