Our Lake Plan

The lake management plan has not been updated since August 2016. One of the goals of the LLID is to review and make updates to the plan, but for now, the current copy can be viewed here: Lake Management Pla

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are the primary issue for the lakes included in the LID boundary. Zebra Mussels and Curly Leaf Pondweed (CLP) are present within the lakes. Increasing frequency of CLP is suspected to be the cause of increasing trends toward eutrophication, particularly in South Lake Lida. This was demonstrated in the summer of 2018, when an algal bloom throughout the entire South Lake Lida led to degradation in water quality and a decreased quality of life for lake residents and visitors. In response to the lake wide algal bloom experienced on South Lake Lida, the Lake Lida Property Owners Association (LLPOA) hosted a meeting in late August of 2018. In addition to the LLPOA, the meeting was attended by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, numerous concerned residents, and a wide range of Otter Tail County officials. The primary outcome from this meeting was the determination that the main factor we could effectively address was CLP. In response to outcomes from this meeting, the LLPOA completed an Aquatic Plant Survey of South Lake Lida to assess location and density of CLP. The survey was then used to prioritize treatment of CLP in South Lake Lida to the extent possible with funding available from the LLPOA. This resulted in treatment of approximately 24 acres on May 23rd, 2019. The total cost for the treatment was approximately $17,270, nearly half of the LLPOA’s available funds, and significantly more than the annual income generated from membership dues. The LLPOA was fortunate to have a surplus of funds that allowed continued surveys and treatments in 2020 and 2021, however surplus funds would not allow for continued treatment beyond 2021. The success of the treatment program has been apparent both through surveys and anecdotal observations of area landowners, demonstrating the continued need for monitoring and treatment. While the above example highlights the need demonstrated through one issue (CLP) that was recently addressed, the larger issue is the preservation and improvement of water quality within the lakes contained in the LID. Of all the diverse interests that exist among area residents, the common thread between our quality of life in lakes country is the quality of our lakes. The LLID works to ensure that the water quality, and resulting quality of life for our residents, is sustained, and improved. |

WATER AND RELATED LAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS TO ADDRESS LAKE PROBLEMS:
o Water Quality Evaluation: The LLID periodically assess the condition of our current water quality. Water quality data from monitoring by the LLID and others is used to assess the baseline water quality and identify pollutant sources. In addition to pollutant sources contributing to the lakes, in lake assessments will be completed to estimate ecologic changes that may result in degraded water quality. An example of this is characterization of lake composition changes due to invasive species. Environmental features, such as wetlands, of the lakes may also be assessed to gage compatibility other ecological services, such as wildlife and water quality. The goal of this evaluation is to provide the LLID with scientific based guidance on lake management.

o Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Management: Control of AIS is a priority for the LLID. The LLID will use any environmentally acceptable means necessary to control and/or eliminate present AIS species. An example of this would be continued CLP treatment as previously discussed. Scientific surveys will be completed to assess need for treatment and develop a prioritized treatment plan for AIS treatment. AIS management may also include public education and outreach of responsible use for landowners and lake visitors.

o Promote Lakeshore Better Management Practices (BMPs): The LLID promotes BMPs for lakeshore development to area residents that enhance water quality. Financial incentives may be considered by the LLID depending on available funding.

o Promote Sustainable Uses: The LLID promotes sustainable uses by landowners and lake visitors. This may include pollution control on the lake and at access points, public safety, or other pertinent issues that come before the Board of Directors.

o Advocate for Lake Issues: The LLID advocates for lake issues that may be subject to state or federal proposed legislation. The scope of advocacy will be limited to issue affecting water quality and lake health.

o Promote Watershed Capital Improvement Projects for the Enhancement of Water Quality: The LLID will consider, evaluate, and invest in larger capital improvement projects within the lakeshed that have a primary purpose of enhancing water quality within the lakes included in the District Boundary.

o Public Education of Landowners within the LLID: Constituents of the LLID will periodically be engaged to provide an update on current and upcoming initiatives of the LLID. The LLID may also seek public input as needed to inform Board of Director decisions.

o Establish Lake Coordinator Position: The LLID has established a Lake Coordinator position to ensure that goals and objectives of the LLID are met. This is a paid part-time position, currently contracted through RMB Labs.