1. PRESENT SITUATION – Low Water Levels across Northern WI
   1. Milwaukee article details ongoing issues for the last 3-5 yrs.  -  http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=643082
   2. Lake Superior has hit an all time historical low (NOAA data)
   3. Other issues may have also contributed incrementally to present low levels. Although perceptions run strong and deep, there are no connected facts.

2. Low Lake Levels vs Weeds – DNR Rhinelander was unaware of any formal reference documents but made the following points:
   1. Low water levels directly correlate with more sunlight reaching nutrient rich beds, generally containing large quantities of latent seeds. This generally triggers not only an increase in the existing weed growth, but also allows for the growth of “other species” , which were kept suppressed;  i.e. we should continue to expect more aggressive growth.
   2. Anecdotally - DNR has fielded about a 10 x increase in calls over the last 2 years relating to weed issues in lakes that are in the drought-prone (low water level) regions of the state.
   3. As long as we continue to experience low lake / rain levels - - we should expect more aggressive weed growth.

3. Can we do Anything ? - - - - Water Levels / Weeds ?
   1. Water Levels – 80 / 20 approach - - Additional rain to break drought. Also, Jeff in discussions with DNR concerning natural beaver dams as important and protected lake level control devices on private land(s).
   2. Weed Control - - - revolve around Lake Mgmt Plan – The DNR has approved our lake mgmt plan, including the weed survey section. We’re good to go - - - -But - - - -

                                          i.    The DNR looks upon the weed section as one in need of frequent update, needing revision every 3 yrs. Our document established baseline weed population based on transect methodology vs GPS. The DNR has accepted this methodology and data, even though there are newer recommended methods. HOWEVER – our Lake Mgmt plan did not include recommendations for weed control / planning. (Jill / Jorga – update with your efforts ?)

                                         ii.    In the absence of a formal written weed control recommendations plan - - the DNR can only feel comfortable issuing VW Lake Assoc a $300 1-yr permit vs a $300 3-yr permit. However, individuals can apply for an individual weed control permit specific to their dock area and boat access for ~ $30.

3. Weed control – How does the DNR view it ?  - - Governing Laws & Principles

                                          i.    WI DNR website – aquatic plant mgmt programs -http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/fhp/lakes/aquaplan.htm

                                         ii.    Citations on this page for:

1.     Overview Guidance – Chapter 30 Navigable Waters, Harbors and Navigation

2.     Aquatic Plant Mgmt (Chemical) – Admin Rule NR 107

3.     Aquatic Plant Mgmt (Mechanical & Hand) – Admin Rule 109

4.     UW Extension Lakes Program  -

5.     http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/uwexlakes/ecology/APMguide.asp  - This is the NO BS  /  LOW legalese version of most of the stuff above. The document is in DRAFT form but the DNR is beginning to use this as a baseline guidance document for all future discussions.

4. Weed Control – Methods / Comments

                                          i.    Manual

1.     No permit required  /  30 ft wide corridor (rectangle)  /  manual (person’s own muscle power)

                                         ii.    Mechanical Harvesting

1.     Any removal / control outside the 30 ft manual removal zone requires a DNR permit - - be it mechanical or chemical.

2.     Old Boat & Harvester - - - belonging to Smithson family has been refurbished. (PENDING) Unit will be trialed in Birch Bay under private owner DNR permit. Details of future legal status, ownership, use-operation, and liability are under review with VW Lake Assoc Officers & Board.

3.     Commercial Harvesting – Rough estimates could be in the range of $10-15 K ( 1 x cut )

4.     With any mechanical method(s) - -The DNR will be extremely concerned that any mechanical methods avoid disturbance of the soil bed.

                                        iii.    Chemical Control

1.     Past efforts have worked

2.     No estimates obtained

                                        iv.    Other – Lead times for commercial harvesters and chemical control are generally 1 yr out.

4. VW Lake Officers  - Next Steps / Recommendations