PBWOA was pleased to be able to present findings from our long awaited ‘weed science survey’ and appreciated the attendance and thoughtful questions at the April 21st meeting. It would be daunting to include all the details, but Jennifer Jermalowicz-Jones from Restorative Lake Sciences explained the high points of her report with slides and clarifications of her scientific data. She concluded that, at this time, some action should be taken to begin to manage the invasive weed situation on the chain of lakes. One of the follow-up questions concerned the degree of urgency to address this problem. Jennifer responded that it is, in her analysis the Chain of Lakes, about a 7.5 out of 10. She suggested that with our 3 primary invasive species, as well as the complex nature of our lake system, chemical treatment is the most effective way to start. RLS was chosen for this analysis primarily because they are not a “treatment” company and so have no vested interest. They performed their study, analyzed it, and made recommendations based on scientific data.
A representative from the office of the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission then explained how a treatment plan might be funded. WCWRC could serve as the administrator for both Livingston and Washtenaw Counties. Once approved by the County Commissioners, WCWRC would conduct a deed survey to determine which parcels should be included in a possible Special Assessment District and at what level. Then, if supported by the 4 townships and after public hearings, they would proceed to set up a SAD (Special Assessment District) for funding treatment. A central treatment administrator could provide a comprehensive treatment plan eliminating the need for random and possibly conflicting neighborhood treatments.
This survey was an attempt by the PBWOA to address the main concern voiced to us by our members. The invasive plant problem is a very confusing issue encompassing hundreds of lakefront owners. We recognize that each person interprets lake use, lake responsibility and potential treatment options differently. We hope this study will open dialogue for all residents on the Chain of Lakes to be able to come together for the preservation and betterment of our waterways.
The Board of PBWOA would like to express our extreme gratitude to Shalom Lutheran Church for making its facilities available for this meeting. The venue provided an ideal setting for this informational meeting.