Wednesday, April 13, 2011

ILWP/ILDC Weed Harvester Campaign

Over 20 years ago, Indian Lake businesses and residents saw our water quality headed for serious economic trouble - the lake was too shallow for boating and too muddy for fishing.

The Indian Lake Watershed Project was formed with monumental support of farmers, landowners and government agencies. Over the years, we have made a difference reducing the sediment flowing into the lake from 80,000 tons per year to 15,000 tons per year.

Because of these actions, CLAM volunteers have seen disc depth readings at Indian Lake of 52" with an average of 12" for the 2010 season. Swimmers can have peace of mind knowing that the water quality will not create health issues. The real estate property values have increased and residents and businesses are experiencing a better quality of life. Indian Lake now has over 1.2 million visitors per year, making it a great destination point. Most importantly, Indian Lake DOES NOT have a toxic algae issue, however, with the increased water clarity, sunlight is able to penetrate the water that causes weed growth. Weed growth that unfortunately restricts and even prevents boat traffic in many areas.

To remedy the weed situation, chemical spraying practices along private docks and channels will continue providing the availability of state funding and we need to purchase a WEED HARVESTER, which costs $127,000.

We need everyone's help and support. The weed problem will be an ongoing issue that will require annual maintenance to keep growth manageable. The ILWP and ILDC organizations have been conducting a fundraising campaign to purchase a weed harvester that will be solely dedicated for use at Indian Lake.

We are asking for your help to continue our efforts of "Improving the Water Quality of Indian Lake One Drop at a Time" by contributing to the ILWP/ILDC Weed Harvester Campaign today.

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