Blake Lake Protection And Rehabilitation District

This interim Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Management Plan for Big Blake Lake aims to integrate existing information and planning meeting results into a cohesive strategy. The plan's primary goals are to decrease curlyleaf pondweed (CLP) frequency and density, promote the substantial recovery of the native aquatic plant community, and restore reasonable uses of the lake over a five-year period (2007-2011). Key objectives include protecting sensitive areas, improving water quality, and increasing community involvement and education. The strategy emphasizes mechanical harvesting of CLP, monitoring, and an information and education program to achieve beneficial aquatic ecosystem restoration and enhanced community participation.

The Annual Meeting included a review of the Treasurer's Report as of August 17, 2017, noting account balances. Old Business involved committee reports covering Dam Updates, the Lake Management Plan (LMP), Healthy Lakes Program, Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW), and grant updates. Key discussions focused on the Dam Grant Application, the progress of the Lake Management Plan (which aims to reduce phosphorus, manage curly leaf pondweed (CLP), and enhance habitat), and the Healthy Lakes Program emphasizing native plantings to filter runoff and reduce algae. Updates were provided on the CBCW program to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), and a report indicated a record year for CLP harvesting. New Business included Polk County and Georgetown updates, setting the 2018 4th of July Boat Parade date, proposing the 2018 budget of $27,400, and the election of two new commissioners for three-year terms.

The annual meeting included a welcome to new lake members, introductions of board members, and acknowledgment of volunteers. Reports were given on the dam, lake management plan, clean boats clean waters, and healthy lakes program. An update was provided on the new harvester and harvesting activities. Representatives from the Round Lake District presented information about their upcoming alum treatment. The 2023 budget was approved, and a commissioner election was held.

The meetings covered topics such as the Treasurer's Report, updates on the dam and slow-no-wake zone, and committee reports including Clean Boats Clean Waters, APM Harvey Report, and EPP Grant Update. Discussions also included Polk County and Georgetown updates, the approval of the 2016 Annual Budget, and the election of two new commissioners. A guest presentation was given on reconstructing the history of Blake Lake with results of core sediment sampling. The Spring Meeting included a presentation on grant updates, survey results, and discussions on lake management, aquatic invasive species, and communications.

The annual meeting included a presentation on the history of Blake Lake with results of core sediment sampling. A lake management committee was formed to create a comprehensive lake management plan. An update on the Dam Project was provided, including land transfer, planning, DNR approval, contractor selection, construction, and completion timelines. There was also a discussion regarding the slow-no-wake zone, buoy placement, and quantity. The meeting also included standing committee reports, such as Clean Boats, Clean Waters, APM Harvey Report, and EPP Grant Update. The July 4th Boat Parade was moved to July 3rd, and water balloons were prohibited. The annual budget was approved, and two new commissioners were elected.