The howling winds and the single digit temperatures are reminders that winter is here for at least another eight weeks. Eight weeks before we will again look for outdoor projects, think about the seeds that will provide food from a well-tended garden and get ready to put docks and boat lifts into the water. While we wait for the sun to bring us closer to warmer weather, there are lake maintenance items that can be done now and a to do list for spring work.
Shoreline home owners may find that the frozen lake offers an opportunity to assess if the shoreline needs attention. Is it eroding, have rocks fallen into the water, are there tree limbs near the shore and other things that might need attention? Any of these things can actually change the ecosystem of the shore and water because these troublesome things can cause erosion of the shoreline and disturb fish habitat. Care needs to be taken to do the projects carefully. Also, if there are weeds and other debris in the water these also need to be removed.
If shoreline has eroded completely, it is best to contact the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to inquire what can be done, when can it be done and how. Most often if a shoreline needs replacing, a DNR visit will insure it is done correctly and with the proper permit. Sometimes it is illegal to replace a lost shoreline.
The following are tips and reminders about other planning for spring work. Proper lawn care is important. No fertilizers should be used close to the water or wetlands. Instead of fertilizing, consider aerating. Done at the beginning of the growing season, this is an easy way to give new life to a lawn. If fertilizer is going to be used, it should not contain phosphorous. If for some reason you think that is needed, do a soil test first.
Installing a rain barrel that collects roof runoff is a good strategy. It not only protects against soil erosion by stopping the water flow, it becomes a source of water for flower and garden plants.
While fire pits are popular and easy to put together, there are some considerations when near water. The pit should be at least 50 feet from the lake. The leftover ash from burning wood is high in phosphorous which is not good for lake water. High winds can blow the ashes into the water or rain can wash the ashes into the lake.
A couple of other items for a spring shoreline to do list include proper pet disposal waste. This waste also contains phosphorous and disease-causing organisms. Getting this in the water could make it unsafe for swimming. The last thing to consider is a s check of the septic system. Any maintenance needed should be done immediately.
Planning for these things now will mean that there will be more lake time without worry.
Previous question’s answer: According to Dr. Coffey’s book, Saving the Glaciers Creation, 1963 produced torrential rains that caused the east outlet of the lake to overflow. A stream formed from the southwest corner of the lake and ran to lower areas south near where Casey’s is today. It continued down past the old football field and was headed to the Des Moines River.
Question: In what decade was Five Island Lake rated to become useless in 20-25years?
Written by: Diane Weiland
Comments