Zebra Mussels – Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are an invasive species originally native to the Caspian and Black Seas regions of Russia and Ukraine. These small mollusks are now widespread across both Europe and the United States. Their name is derived from the characteristic dark, zigzag stripes on each shell. Zebra mussels are believed to have been introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1980s via ballast water discharged by large vessels. The larvae propagate to other lakes through bilge water, engines, and storage wells on boats.
Zebra mussels adversely affect ecosystems in multiple ways. They filter out algae that native species depend on for food and attach themselves to native mussels, causing incapacitation. Each zebra mussel can filter up to one liter of water per day, leading to significantly clearer water even in large bodies like our lake. Over time, as their food supply diminishes, the population growth of zebra mussels will taper off until the food supply recovers, resulting in cyclical population dynamics. Weather patterns and runoff greatly influence these cycles, making it challenging to predict conditions in the following year. We are currently in an upward trend of the cycle.
There are several impacts members should monitor throughout the season. Firstly, zebra mussels can lead to increased water vegetation growth in shallow areas due to sunlight reaching seeds at the bottom. Proliferation of algae and grass in shallow waters can harbor toxins and sources of skin irritation, as observed last year. On the positive side, increased aquatic vegetation can provide additional habitats for aquatic life. Secondly, zebra mussel shells are extremely sharp and cut like a surgeon’s scalpel. It is essential to ensure recreational areas are clear of these hazards by scraping them away and wearing protective gear during removal. Lastly, zebra mussels accumulate on dock floats, lift floats, pontoons, and boat hulls, adding significant weight and potentially compromising safety and functionality. Scraping and power washing is the only way to remove them.
Please do not use any type of chemical in and around the lake when addressing Zebra Mussels on your water property.
Lake Levels – we have been fortunate that the lake is relatively close to full pool at this time of year. However, a prolonged dry spell can lower the lake enough to impact those with docks in shallow water areas. It is recommended that if you are new to the lake, talk to your neighbors and understand the potential impacts of lower water levels on lifts in your area.
Infrastructure Committee – The committee is compiling an inventory of our pathways around the lake based on categories it has developed. The goal is to better understand the condition of our pathways by creating a recommendation to the board that addresses the current issues related to lake access.
The committee is referring to our original plat of the Lake Lotawana Development. A plat is a map that defines the layout of a development, which is essential for obtaining permits from a city, county, and other agencies. Our plat has not been formally maintained or updated since its creation. Due to its age, it lacks the angles and dimensions necessary for a precise update. The committee is considering several options to gradually achieve full refresh over time.
One way to facilitate a refresh is for property owners to provide a current copy of their property survey, which the office can file. Then we can use these files to help establish irons, angles, dimensions needed to formally refresh the plat. This would reduce the need for new survey efforts and reduce costs. REQUEST: the LLA would like to request homeowners if they have their property survey to please provide a copy to the LLA Office. It is even better if you have an electronic version that can be loaded into CAD to speed up the process and reduce consulting costs.
Low Water Crossing – Spire’s contractor STARTED the boring project with the expectation of a 4-6 week timeline to complete the boring. ICON, our contractor for demolition and construction of the new crossing structure, will monitor progress to keep us in their work schedule. As previously noted, this will be several months’ construction followed by road resurfacing between Gate 3 and 4.
Ted Lasso Filming – many of you may be familiar with the Apple TV series Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis, from KC). They are filming next season and around July 22nd they will be filming at Mason Elementary School. On filming day there will be a lot of activity around the school and parking for crews at the Methodist Church, Community Club and LLA parking lot. This means additional traffic and people who are not familiar with the area. Great opportunity for KC and our local community.
Courtesy Reminders – Enjoy the summer, think about safety in all water activities and get ready for Lotawana Day (Friday Parade, Saturday Activities, Ski Show and Concert)
If you have questions or topics, you would like discussed regarding the Association, please feel free to drop me a note at President@lakelotawana.net.
Sincerely,
Jeff Clemow
President