Summer will be a busy time on the Four Lakes, with work continuing to stabilize the dams, remove debris and vegetation from the lakebottoms, and activate new monitoring instrumentation. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:
Is Four Lakes Task Force doing anything about vegetation on the lakebottoms?
Yes, we're working on a plan to manage the trees and vegetation growing on the lakebottoms. We're collaborating with EGLE, the Townships and weed assessment districts to work out a plan. It is too early to share details but property owners can look for a more specific plan later this summer. Rest assured the option will be safe for people, pets and desirable plant life. Safety is a priority! GLADWIN AND MIDLAND COUNTIES AND FLTF ASSUME NO LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES, INJURIES OR DEATH RESULTING FROM ACCESS TO, OR ACTIVITIES UPON THE BOTTOMLANDS. PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK.
FLTF, as the Delegated Authority for both Gladwin and Midland Counties under State of Michigan Part 307 regulations, has acquired the properties formerly owned by Boyce Hydro and will be managing these properties associated with the Secord, Smallwood, Wixom, and Sanford Lakes (Four Lakes), including shoreline and lake bottomland (defined as the shoreline area between the previous water’s edge and the current water’s edge) areas. FLTF is also managing the restoration of water levels for the Four Lakes; an effort that includes the redesign and reconstruction of dam and spillway-related structures, as appropriate. The exposed bottoms of the lakes and rivers in Gladwin and Midland counties continue to be unstable in many areas.
Please exercise great caution when using the lakebottoms because they have changed significantly. There is no guarantee that walking, hunting, etc. on the lakebottoms will be safe.
During the summer season after the May 2020 flood events, many of the exposed bottomlands of the former Wixom Lake and Sanford Lake as well as some of the connected streams and other lakes have become densely vegetated, from the natural seed bank in the exposed soil. Vegetation is a highly effective means of stabilizing sediments and preventing further erosion or scouring of these areas.
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July 2024
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