Let’s Fix This!
What is the problem?
Manmade lakes should be dredged at least every 15-20 years to restore depth, water quality and a healthy ecosystem for aquatic life. Ever more shallow depth caused by rising layers of sediment, debris and pollutants is just what these weeds need to thrive as they continue to overcrowd the water, inhibiting recreational use.
Though there are many small lakes and ponds in the area, there are very few contractors offering dredging or even weed management with the appropriate sized equipment. The harvester that has been used previously in the big lake is too big for shallow shores. Lake Associations may find it in their best interest to purchase the necessary equipment themselves. The equipment we have identified as appropriate for the WLA:
Can launch from and operate in very shallow shores.
Does not require any special permit, license or training to operate.
Can be transported by a standard mower or ATV hitch.
Requires no specialized maintenance or parts.
FAQs
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09/25 Spirit, Alan + others to get written estimates from contractors by 10/6.
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Eco Force: Hose clean between uses. Smaller models: Removable lithium battery should be stored long term in a fairly climate-controlled environment to prevent freezing or overheating.
Weeder should be hosed clean before storage.
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The operation will require a 6 foot wide shore entry accessible from the road with a truck or UTV and trailer. Depending on the model, it will initially require up to 2-4 weeks of full-day access and yearly, or twice-yearly access for up to 2 week periods. Several members have offered their shoes as entry points. Those without sensitive lawns would be best as the heavy trailer loads of weeds will be towed out repeatedly to the common landfill or other designated dump site.
As there is no temperature controlled storage on the common grounds, Spirit and Jared have volunteered to store and charge the batteries. A meter will be used on a dedicated outlet to track the energy cost for recharging the batteries.
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The weeder can operate any time the lake isn’t frozen but late spring is a great time to initiate the operation.
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Proposed: A fund to which anyone can anonymously contribute will be raised. The funding goal should be enough to purchase the weeder, contract an operator; and reserve at least 3 years future operation costs. The WLA existing funds may subsidize up to 30% of this funding goal.
Our options:
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Eco-Force | $65,000
The most effective long-term solution for both lakes. This is the only machine which can address the root problem by suction dredging and weeding at once. This is a gas-powered pontoon style machine which can operate in the shallow shores of the small lake.
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WaterGator | $46,248
The WaterGator can cover more ground in less time than its little brother the WaterBug; more than double iin fact, but it does cost more than double as well. This will give relief from weeds and prevent further shallowing but will not dredge or resolve the 1-1.5 feet of existing unhealthy muck.
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Waterbug | $17.228
The Waterbug is easy to use, easy to store, lightweight and light cost. It can cut about an acre a day (on one batter charge lasting around 5 hours.