Lake Weed Management Update
Recent Lake Survey with Progressive Several members of the PLPOA Board recently joined Progressive (our new weed management consultant) on Pine Lake to assess the effectiveness of Savin’s initial spring treatments. Overall, the treatments have been successful, with only a few areas needing retreatment. In addition, the board noticed the following areas needing additional attention: Nuisance Natives: We observed significant growth of Sago and Illinois pondweed in boat lanes and between riparian docks and boat lanes. In some areas, these weeds occupy 100% of the water column making boat access difficult.
Eurasian Milfoil (invasive species): Unfortunately, we found new milfoil growth in deeper waters and several other areas. A small area in the bay by the condos/sandbar needs retreatment beyond the initially recommended area from the spring. Larger patches of milfoil were found between the club’s launch area and Pine Lake Road, along Birch Harbor’s dock area, and near Middlebelt closer to Pine Lake Road. Additional milfoil was found in the bay and along Interlaken.
We also observed many floating fragments of milfoil, indicating increased propagation risk due to boat activity. Algae Concerns: We noted floating algae and a greener water color than usual, given phosphorus levels in the lake and the lack of ice cover last winter. The board continues to monitor the need for phosphorus treatments to address long-term water quality, but there is no action at this time.
Treatment Plan: Based on the above observations, Progressive has provided Savin with a treatment plan for the affected areas and Savin was out on the lake per the notice to complete the 2nd weed treatment. A few additional details about the treatment plan: Our EGLE permit allows us to treat nuisance natives beyond 100 ft from shore in a few areas in the bay to improve access to boat lanes. All other treatment areas around the lake are limited to within 100 ft of the shoreline for nuisance natives and this week’s treatment will focus on sections along Middlebelt and Long Lake where nuisance natives are bad. All areas where Milfoil was identified will be treated. If weeds become problematic outside these boundaries, harvesting may be a consideration due to permit limitations. Given the expense and mess that can come with harvesting, we hope our mid-summer treatment will help avoid the need for harvesting later. Note that the PLPOA dues does not pay for treating dock areas and shorelines. The permits that Savin Lake Services files with EGLE cover private treatments. If you are interested, please contact them directly for any concerns you'd like addressed by your dock area and shoreline.
Our goal is to ensure Pine Lake remains a beautiful and accessible resource for all. Thank you for your cooperation and support. Elaine Coffman, Vice President
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