The PBWOA board has heard member concerns and has taken significant steps to address them. Over this past year the board met with several scientific lake management companies, as well as governmental agencies to better understand the problems we face and possible solutions to either eradicate or manage invasive species in our lake system. We felt it was most important to deal with someone who could provide an unbiased analysis and recommend treatment.
As a result, PBWOA has contracted with Restorative Lake Sciences, an aquatic analysis company to perform a hands on, feet on the ground, scientists in boats study. They will survey, analyze and produce a detailed report of what species we have, where they are, their size and recommended treatment methods. RLS does NOT provide weed control services, only unbiased recommendations for the best treatment.
This initiative was presented to Dexter, Hamburg, Putnam and Webster Townships for their input. Their concern about the health of our lakes was evident and they volunteered to collectively contribute $5,000 dollars toward this study, which is half of the total cost of $10,000. In addition, we are soliciting donations from other lake associations on the chain and affected businesses to help offset the cost.
Our hope is that results from this comprehensive study will pave the way to a holistic management program that will combat current as well as new invasive species that could negatively impact our lakes ecosystem.
Late News: On-the-water weed study has been completed and the final report will be available shortly.
On-the-Water Weed Study in Progress
Scientists from Restorative Lake Sciences completed the on-the-water portion of the weed study on August 7. They will now be compiling the vast amounts of data they collected and preparing a final report and recommendations. Once final revisions of the report are available, PBWOA will schedule a membership meeting to present the findings and recommendations of the study. Scientists from RLS will be present to explain their findings and answer questions.