Did you know that lake water is not always safe for activities like swimming? While most people are familiar with the risks posed by e-Coli— a topic that has been widely discussed—there are other natural factors that can compromise the safety of lake swimming. Apart from e-Coli, various bacteria can lead to infections that can severely impact health, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Both aquatic vegetation and bacteria are integral components of any lake ecosystem; however, some can be harmful to wildlife, pets, and humans. Although Lake Lotawana, being a larger body of water, experiences fewer issues, risks still exist for individuals with open wounds, severe allergies, or compromised immune systems.
The presence of certain types of algae, such as blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), can produce harmful toxins that affect fish, wildlife, and humans. Other aquatic plants like specific water lilies and milfoil species may negatively impact aquatic ecosystems as well. While some vegetation, such as duckweed, is merely a nuisance, it can still harbor harmful bacteria and parasites. This year, we have observed an increased prevalence of duckweed, which tends to disperse around the lake due to wind and currents. Consequently, some areas, like coves, may be fully covered one day, and scattered the next.
Algae growth typically occurs in warm, sunny conditions and is often exacerbated by nutrient runoff, particularly phosphorus, which settles into the sediment and has long-term effects on the lake. This highlights another driver for a comprehensive dredging plan that the committee is currently working on. Caution should always be exercised in high-risk areas, such as shallow bays, near inlet streams, and regions with significant nutrient runoff. Additionally, areas that lack strong currents or are protected from wind should be approached with care. Even if you have swum in an area all season with no issue, be aware that the environment changes very quickly.
The Lake Lotawana Association (LLA) typically conducts e-Coli testing in various high-risk coves a few days before major holidays. While e-Coli is a common presence in the lake, it can be intensified by runoff from rain and gardening activities. The droppings of geese and ducks along the shoreline, or even on docks, can wash into the lake, raising concentrations in those areas. Individual lake residents can purchase online kits for testing, but it is important to note that no single test kit can comprehensively assess the safety of a large body of water like Lake Lotawana. Typically, water samples are analyzed by a third-party lab, with results available after 24 hours, so conditions can change from testing to current time.
I was surprised to learn that our historical testing has only focused on e-Coli and that our testing capabilities are limited. I have proposed this topic for exploration by the Executive Board to determine water quality management strategies moving forward. It is crucial that all lake members recognize the potential health risks associated with water activities, regardless of the LLA approach and make decisions best for your family and friends.
Road and Infrastructure – at the time of writing, we are finishing the culvert and road work on the lake’s east side, including the Alley Road entrance. There will be future work on the Alley Road hillside ditches as part of the longer-term projects being planned. Thanks to Tim Gravlin and the Roads Committee for all their time and effort. As well as Scott Johnson and the Operations Crew who scrambled to do a lot of ditch work at the last minute.
Lower Water Crossing Project (Gate 3) – as outlined in the last article this is a high priority for the Roads Committee. The first step is working on updated design drawings, then letting the project for bids followed by scheduling and material order. As we finalize planning and start the project, we will be able to provide more definitive timelines, however, it will be well into the late fall most likely to complete.
Courtesy Reminders – please have the November 12th Annual Budget meeting on your calendar. There will be many updates on our major project planning for 2025 and a deep dive into the budget and how the new numbers came together.
Sincerely,
Jeff Clemow
President