Another good dose of BAD MEDICINE   

A NEWSLETTER FOR THE RESIDENTS OF THE BAD MEDICINE LAKE AREA SPRING 2011

2011 ANNUAL MEETING WILL BE HELD SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 2011 at 9 a.m. at the Forest Township Hall

Come at 8:30 for coffee, rolls, and fellowship with your neighbors, meeting 9-11.

Dear Bad Medicine Lake Residents and Friends,

Are you old enough to remember “The Beverly Hillbillies” TV show from the 1960’s and early 70’s?  Or perhaps you have caught reruns on some cable channels as I understand it is still in syndication.   It was one of those comedies from way back that week after week aired storylines that were so dumb that they were funny.  Well, at least they were funny to me and my sisters and brother.  Something about Minnesota’s fight with Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) triggered my memory of the show, and although I wish the situation was so dumb that it’s funny, it’s quite the opposite.

In January I attended the Tri-County (Becker, Hubbard and Otter Tail) Aquatic Invasive Species Legislative Summit sponsored by Becker County COLA held in Detroit Lakes.  The meeting was very well attended and included presentations from several COLA groups, the DNR, MN State legislators, business people, and others.  If you are interested in reviewing any of the presentations, you can find them on http://www.prwd.org/index.php?D=102  which is on the website for the Pelican River Watershed District.  One of the presenters equated the value of Minnesota’s lakes and streams to other states’ oil or mining resources.  The fact is that water in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” drives incredible economic and recreational value.  As one point of reference shared at the meeting, 54% of Becker County’s land value is tied to lake shore properties.  The problem with AIS is that it threatens to harm Minnesota’s lakes and streams to such a degree that they could lose value across many dimensions—economic, recreational, environmental, and ecological just to name a few.  While Jed Clampett may have shot at some game and “up from the ground came some bubbling crude,” we have the situation of our lakes being threatened by some “crude bubbling.”  A lack of resources and concern to keep AIS from wreaking all kinds of havoc could have incredibly negative consequences for all of us in the Bad Medicine Lake area as well as for our lake neighbors and friends throughout the state.   We can’t afford to be like the uninformed, out of touch Clampett family when it comes to controlling the risk of AIS—the potential impact is so serious that it’s scary.

You will find several articles in the newsletter that refer to Aquatic Invasive Species and other water quality risks.  I encourage all of us to become even more aware than we are already of the many threats to the amazing water resource that we have in Bad Medicine and our surrounding lakes.  Septic systems are another potential threat to water quality which is why the BMLAA has been doing work to update records for properties on Bad Medicine to better understand the risks.  Becker County is increasing its focus on septic system compliance which means we will all likely hear directly from the county sometime in the next year.  A Septic Pumping Frequency Worksheet is included in this newsletter to provide a guideline to help with your septic maintenance.

Ultimately, diligence and determination will keep our waters pristine and enjoyment high for generations to come.  Thanks to the many members and friends who are working creatively and energetically to keep the Bad Medicine Lake area “the land of sky-blue water.” 

Please make plans to attend the BMLAA annual meeting on June 25^th—the board looks forward to seeing you there.  Enjoy the summer! 

Mike Slette, President BMLAA

The mission of the newsletter is to provide lake area residents with information to build community. The newsletter is intended to present current lake issues

in a non-controversial and positive format.

Newsletter committee: Editors - Rose & Don Andersen: editorial board: Jane Gudmundson, Jim Luttrell, Ed Klepperich,

Mike Slette, Mardy Dovre, Ray Vlasak, Carole Olsen, and Gary Narum.

MONTHLY BMLAA BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

The BMLAA board meets monthly at 9 a.m. (April - September) at the Forest Township Hall. Four board positions will be filled at the annual meeting with at least five nominees to be presented for election.  Items that were addressed at the board meetings were: updating the septic records, bylaws review and changes (listed below), North Country National Scenic Trail, COLA, invasive species, directory distribution, tax updates and the schools, and the BML Foundation. 

BMLAA ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA – 8:30 to 9 – coffee and fellowship, 9 to 11 meeting

1. Review and approve minutes of 2010 Annual meeting – Tom Lorentzsen
2. Treasurer’s Report, Membership Report, and Directory – Jim Luttrell
3. By law revisions – Mike Slette
4. Election of new board members – Mike Slette
5. Election of nominating committee (assuming bylaw change passes)
6. Aquatic Invasive Species – Darrin Hoverson
7. MSRPO -  Jeff Forester
8. Septic Committee Report/Becker Co. ordinance update
9. Newsletter – Rose Andersen
10. Loon Rafts – Don Andersen
11. Bad Medicine Lake Foundation – Ray Vlasak
12. North Country National Scenic Trail – Ray Vlasak
13. Photo contest for BMLAA directory cover

Note: Agenda item order may change to accommodate speakers as needed.

PROPOSED BYLAW CHANGES – Mike Slette

Many changes were adopted in the BMLAA Bylaws at a special meeting held on August 22, 2009 including changing the Association’s fiscal year to the calendar year, instituting term limits for board members, and electing officers from within the board.  Now a year and a half later the board would like the membership to consider two other changes to the bylaws; these changes will be presented for discussion and vote at the June 25th annual meeting and, if approved at the meeting, will go into effect immediately.

~~The first change that is being recommended is that the board president no longer serves on the board for the year following the end of his or her service in that office.  Under the language of the bylaws prior to August, 2009, the board president was elected by the membership at the annual meeting; now the board president is elected by the board from within the board under bylaws which have defined three year terms, term limits, etc.  It is the board’s observation and recommendation that it no longer makes sense to have language in the bylaws that the board president serve for an additional year.

~~The second change relates to the process whereby board nominees are brought forward to the membership at the annual meeting.  There is currently no language in the bylaws that defines a nomination process or number of nominees to be brought forward for consideration at the annual meeting.  To define a process that remains accountable to and representative of the membership over the years, the following paragraph is being recommended as an addition to the bylaws in Article V:

Section 2. Nominating Committee.  There shall be a Nominating Committee consisting of two (2) Directors named by the Board and two (2)members who shall be elected by and from the membership of this Association at each annual meeting thereof.  The Nominating Committee shall serve until the next annual meeting at which time it shall present to members in attendance a slate of nominees for open Director positions.  The slate of nominees shall total at least one (1) more candidate than the number of Director positions open for election.

The complete recommended version of the bylaws can be found on the BMLAA website at http://www.badmedicinelakeareaassociation.com.  If you have any questions that you would like answered regarding the bylaws before the annual meeting, please direct your questions to the board members via the contact information provided in the newsletter.

BAD MEDICINE LAKE ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS

FOREST TOWNSHIP NEWS – Carol Peterson

It’s been a long dismal winter with a spring to match.  It’s with much relief that we welcome back everyone for the summer.

The Township Board of Supervisors includes: Tim Holzkamm, Chairperson, Carol Peterson and newly elected Doug Trenda.  Helen Holmer continues as Clerk and Donna Waliczek as Treasurer.

January is organizational, electing a chairperson, establishing meeting dates, selecting a township bank and official newspaper

(The PR Enterprise).  The following appointments were made for township business:  Carol Peterson – Zoning & Weeds, Doug Trenda – Roads & Website, Tim Holzkamm – Town Hall & Garbage/recycling.  Planning Commission members are John Backes, Rolf Christiansen, Mark Branstrom, Dennis Anderson, and Supervisor Carol Peterson.  The Board of Adjustment is made up of township supervisors and Ray Stordahl.

The Carsonville Fire Department held a meeting in January for all townships that use their fire and rescue services.  They presented last year’s service calls by township, reviewed expenditures, and the budget for the upcoming year.  The cost to our township is $10,005 for 2011, which was a minimal increase.

A township website was developed: www.foresttownshipmn.net .  See article in the newsletter.

Brushing of the roads will continue this year.  Sentence to Serve has been contacted, but some work may have to be contracted so it can be completed this year,

In May all supervisors took a road tour with our contractor to plan for grading work for this summer. 

The Board adopted a written policy establishing rates of pay and reimbursement for supervisors. 

Road Repair and the Summer Road Maintenance contracts were reviewed and up dated.  These contracts were signed with Projects Unlimited.

The Annual Meeting was well attended.  Don Tschudi was recognized for his years of service to the area.  The membership voted to bring the Board of Equalization back to the township next year (2012).  The treasurer’s salary was increased to the same as the township clerk and the supervisors were asked to do a survey of other township salary schedules for comparison.

The 2012 Annual meeting will be held Tuesday, March 13 with March 20 as the alternate date.  The Board will hold its regular March meeting Monday, March 12.  Township meeting dates, the annual meeting, and alternate date will be posted at the Township Hall and on the township website.

The membership also voted to continue applying treatment for dust control by the Holmer farm on East Bad Medicine Lake Road and to share the cost with residents on Red Top Road; the use of magnesium chloride reduces road work.

The township financial reports were presented, upcoming budget was discussed, and the levy for 2012 was approved at $62,683.

The township, BMLAA, and BMLF applied for a grant from the DNR for monies to assist with paying for aquatic invasive species inspections at the Bad Medicine Lake and Bass Lake accesses.  The grant was not approved.  Thanks to Darrin Hoverson, the DNR will provide 50 hours of DNR employees doing inspections at our public access this summer.  The DNR inspector will be at the access on opening day and several other high traffic days throughout the summer.

Amnesty Days are June 4 and August 27.  An extra dumpster will be provided for the June date.

2011 FOREST TOWNSHIP OFFICERS

Chair: Tim Holzkamm, (2008-2011) 218- 573-3442, 39414 Pinewood Rd. tholzkam@arvig.net; Carol Peterson, (2008– 2012) 218-573-2701, 37121 Red Top Rd.  carol_pete@hotmail.com; Doug Trenda, (2011-2015) 218-573-2255 or 218-779-5281(cell), 37535 Red Top Rd. supervisor2@foresttownshipmn.net; Treasurer, Donna Waliczek, (2003 – 2012), 218-573-3792, 36916 Sunset Drive; Assessor, Lisa Marschall, 218-346-5760, 15288 490th Ave, Menahga MN. 56564. 

NORTH COUNTRY NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL - Ray Vlasak

The Laurentian Lakes Chapter (LLC) of the North Country Trail Association (NCTA) is responsible for construction, maintenance, and promotion of the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) in Clearwater and Becker Counties a distance of approximately 65 miles. The complete trail extending from New York to western North Dakota is over 4600 miles long. The trail is a premier footpath on par with the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trails. The trail was created by an act of Congress and is administered by the National Park Service.

This year for the first time organized snowshoe hikes were held in February and March. The weather cooperated for both hikes, and new friends and members participated. Currently a series of hikes is underway which will culminate on August 27^th at the 5^th Annual North Country Hiking Fest at Itasca State Park. This series of hikes from west to east will cover the LLC’s 35 miles of completed trail. They are a great way to experience the forest and more. Hike details can be found at the chapter website www.northcountrytrail.org/llc or by calling 218-573-3243.

Plans for this year include a goal of extending the trail for another 25 miles to State Hwy 34. Some of this distance uses existing trails in the Hubbell Pond WMA, Greenwater SNA, and Tamarac NWR. Cutting through the bureaucracy to gain approval for use of these State and Federal lands is proving to be a significant challenge. Everyone agrees the trail is a great resource, but convoluted government rules result in progress at a snail’s pace.

Again this year Conservation Corps of MN (MCC) crews and local volunteers are working on trail construction. An AmeriCorps application has been submitted for another six-week team. The $100,000 Legacy grant has been extended for one year and is being used to pay for the MCC crews.

Trail adopters have made the task of maintaining the trail easier. Members and volunteers deserve recognition for all their effort and support. Chapter membership has grown to nearly 70 individual, organization, and household memberships. In 2010 LLC volunteers contributed 2,463 volunteer hours recognized by the National Park Service at $49,886. WAY TO GO!!

The Monday and Wednesday volunteer workdays are enjoyable activities with good camaraderie and physical exercise tailored to each person’s wishes and abilities. More help is always welcome and appreciated. Contact Chuck Church 218-573-2209 for trail adopter information or Ray Vlasak 218-573-3243 for information about hikes, workdays, or other volunteer opportunities.

WHY SHOULD I BECOME A MEMBER OF THE BMLAA & WHAT DOES IT DO FOR ME?

 Jim Luttrell

The BMLAA is the voice of Bad Medicine Lake property owners and users. It is a forum for members to voice their opinions on issues affecting the lake and its residents at its annual meeting and other special meetings that may be held each year. Through its Board of Directors, elected by the members, it takes action on mandates voted on by the general membership. The Association’s Board keeps up on important issues affecting the lake and property owners and communicates with its members. It takes action on issues deemed important to the overall membership. By being a member your voice can be heard. Your dues help pay for the newsletter, the directory, matching grants for invasive species monitoring, water testing and monitoring, COLA membership, the North Country National Scenic Trail, the website, and periodic mailings concerning lake information and responsibilities. The BMLAA brings strength in numbers when it comes to carrying out your wishes through your votes, especially when communicating with government agencies.  Please consider becoming a member. Dues are a mere $15 per person. As of this printing we have 149 members.  

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BMLAA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FORM

Annual dues to join the Bad Medicine Lake Area Association are $15 per person.  The membership year is January 1 to December 31.  Dues must be paid on or by the annual meeting in order to vote.

Member’s Names  _________________________________________________________                

Lake Address ___________________________________________________________

Home Address __________________________________________________________

                                     _________________________________________________________

Lake Phone             ______________________    Home Phone _______________________

E-mail Address _________________________________________________________ 

Dues enclosed ($15 per person).  Send Membership Dues to BMLAA, 39124 Horseshoe Rd. Ponsford, MN 56575                                             

BAD MEDICINE LAKE AREA FOUNDATION

WE’RE MAKING PROGRESS!! - Ray Vlasak

The Bad Medicine Lake Area Foundation [BMLAF] was established in 2004 under the direction and approval of the Bad Medicine Lake Area Association. The BMLAF is dedicated to protecting and preserving the diverse water and land resources of the lake area for our enjoyment, as well as those who come after us.

The BMLAF consists of volunteers from the Bad Medicine Lake Area Association board members and non-board members who own property in the lake area. The foundation is a component fund of the West Central Initiative, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit regional foundation. Board members are: Ray Vlasak, Chair, John Backes, Charles Church, Tim Holzkamm, Roger Olsen, and David Wiest.

Two Aquatic Management Area (AMA) projects to protect sensitive habitat shore areas are currently in process.

~~The east side shoreland preservation project, funded by a Reinvest in Minnesota grant which matches local cash and land donations dollar for dollar, is now completely funded. The BMLAF match was met thanks to generous contributions from lakeshore owners and interested citizens. The MN DNR Division of Lands and Minerals has now purchased the east side AMA parcels available from the Christiansen family. That was made possible by the family’s decision to contribute part of the asking price.  Transfer of the remaining parcels held for the project has been delayed by a minor title issue that is in the process of resolution. Dedication of the east side project is planned for later this season. Thanks to everyone who helped make this project a reality.

~~Looking toward the future, the MN DNR has agreed to fund the second AMA project on the west side of the lake with a Legacy Natural Areas and Wildlife Grant; however funding of these projects has been delayed by political issues.

Additional projects to fulfill the mission including conservation easements are being researched by the foundation. Bad Medicine Lake property owners should be proud of their accomplishments and activities undertaken by the BMLAF in partnership with the Bad Medicine Lake Area Association.

In addition to total preservation, as with an AMA, many individual property owners deserve recognition for putting into practice lakeshore improvements based on the knowledge gained from the expert presentations and literature about natural shoreland buffers. These buffers can reduce pollutant runoff by as much as 30 times over cultured lawn.

The foundation welcomes gifts and donations from individuals, corporations, associations, and foundations to help strengthen the BMLAF in pursuit of its mission.  Donations of the following types are accepted: cash, real estate, securities, charitable remainder unitrusts, charitable remainder annuity trusts, life insurance, retirement funds, and bequests. Annual pledge donations can be arranged with West Central Initiative.  Thank you for your support.                              

THE COLA REPORT, SPRING 2011 - Chuck Church

Several lake residents were concerned about the efficacy of our Becker County Coalition of Lake Associations - COLA.  I also became concerned, so I volunteered to be a part of the Executive Committee that has reorganized COLA.   COLA has gone from being information/education based to being advocacy based. However, you will find the best parts of the previous organization still remain, as they were.  Working on the COLA Executive Committee has been fun, exciting, very informative, but most of all, encouraging.  These folks are experienced, smart, dedicated, and are focused to help Lake Associations protect the quality of our water in these very tough times.

Here are some highlights from the last year:

~~As a result of recent efforts by COLA, the county will be changing the selection criteria for lakes that are to be included in the County’s Shore Land Septic Sewage Treatment Compliance Program.  This change, to a more science-based system, will likely result in Bad Medicine Lake being a participant in this county program for 2012.  As it turns out, our lake is at risk from septic pollution because of its shape, the lack of inlets or outlets, it’s classification as an Oligotrophic lake, (we have very clear, clean water), and also because we have had pristine water for a long time (trend analysis).   See Pumping Frequency Worksheet.

~~COLA has been funded with a grant through the Board of Water and Soil Resources called,” Next Step.”  Because of our size, depth, and unique water quality, Bad Medicine Lake will be included in this grant program.  The results of this study, which is described in depth in another article, will allow us to make much more effective long term decisions about how to protect our lake.

~~The dues structure for membership in COLA will be changing from $3 per member to a format, based on association size, to make it easier for all lake associations to participate.   After a bylaws update, the dues structure will be: Under 50 members- $50 50-100 members- $100, 100-300 members-$200, Over 300 members- $300, and individual memberships will be $5. 

~~Two of our COLA Executive Committee members have been appointed to the newly revised Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee. This committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Becker County Commissioners regarding any proposed changes to county regulations.  Our own Ray Vlasak has been appointed, as one of five voting members, to this committee and is also the chair of one of its major sub committees. These changes have given all lakes in the county a much bigger say in what the county is doing regarding shore land issues.

~~A DNR grant for an awareness program has been received by Becker County COLA. This award will be used to produce AIS awareness brochures to be distributed at public accesses, bait shops, resorts, and other appropriate locations.

~~Becker County COLA organized and sponsored an AIS, (Aquatic Invasive Species) Summit Meeting last January, in Detroit Lakes.  This summit, which was well attended by legislators, lake associations, watershed districts, and a variety of county and state stakeholders, has resulted in jump starting awareness and sparking a discussion, state wide, about the incredible threat rapidly proliferating AIS is to water quality and the economy of Minnesota.

~~Some of our COLA Executive Committee members have been actively lobbying the DNR and state legislators about AIS.  We are asking them to take this threat seriously with expanded funding to fight its spread and increased penalties for those who spread it.  We are cooperating with other stake holders to keep the AIS threat in the news and on television.     

~~Our COLA has decided not to publish a paper newsletter and will implement an email update of news and highlights.  This process requires the building of an extensive email list, so we are asking all of our members to share their lists with us.

If you would like to receive our email updates and highlights, send your email address to richard.prwd@arvig.net .

Read the literature and get educated about AIS and please, clean, drain, spray, or properly dry your boat and all of its water carrying systems, before you enter our lake or leave any other lake.   Remember to pull the bilge drain plug when transporting your boat.  See back page for a complete boat cleaning check list.

WAUBUN HIGH SCHOOL BEGINS TO IMPLEMENT IMPROVEMENT GRANT PLAN

John Backes

The Improvement Grant contains four key provisions for school reform, including: Increased Learning Time, Staff Development, Teacher and Principal Evaluation, and Parent/Community Connection and Partnership.

Increased Learning Time:  Waubun High School implemented a new schedule this year and expanded after-school programming.  In the past, the high school used a block system for courses.  The school has switched to a modified block system where classes meet for 47 minutes three days a week, and 92 minutes two days a week.  The modified block allows core courses such as math and English to meet throughout the year, while maintaining extended learning opportunities such as labs.  In addition, the school day was extended 20 minutes, homeroom was reduced to two days a week, and passing time between classes was reduced in order to gain additional instructional time.  The homeroom concept was revamped, and homeroom teachers are now also responsible for test preparation.  The before and after school program allows students the opportunity to work on homework, take online credit recovery courses, and receive Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) test remediation.  The gifted and talented program, credit recovery program, and the alternative learning program underwent a curriculum and procedural review.  In order to best meet the needs of these learners, a partnership with Aventa Learning, an online curriculum provider, was created.  Students now have the opportunity to earn credits through an online course in a variety of disciplines ranging from regular courses to Advanced Placement (AP) opportunities.

Staff Development:  Teacher effectiveness is a key component to student success.  Waubun High School teachers created School Improvement Teams (SITs) to brainstorm and implement ideas to address school needs.  These teams meet after school once weekly to collaborate in department and cross discipline groups.  The SITs developed a high school mission statement and created a master list of key curriculum skills and concepts to support the mission.  Teachers are now working in groups to address a list of needs ranging from literacy to student motivation; and will present their findings and a plan for implementation in spring of 2011.  In addition, teachers observed peers one period a week during the second quarter to better understand how the scope and sequence of skills are being implemented and to gain exposure to a variety of teaching and classroom management methods.  The district is also implementing a new data warehouse system that will aid in making data driven curricular decisions.  The data warehouse uses a system that integrates all the data from school-wide assessments and other programs to show student achievement indicators.  It also provides a viable, concise method for creating individual learning plans for students that enable monitoring of individual student’s progress toward goals.

Teacher and Principal Evaluation: A new teacher and principal evaluation system was implemented.  The new teacher evaluation system is based on the work of Charlotte Danielson, an expert in the area of teacher evaluation.  Teachers are also being evaluated by an outside evaluator (Richard Anderson, the former principal from Bemidji High School).  The principal evaluation tool is a new system from the Minnesota Association of School Administrators that encompasses best practices, goals setting, and data-driven components.

Parent/Community Connection and Partnership:  A new Parent-Teacher Organization is in the early stages of implementation.  This organization sought input from other parents regarding communication preferences, feedback on conferences, and a time and talent survey.  Suggestions from these surveys are being used to look at creating a conference structure that best meets the needs of our parents.  Two meetings have been held this year where the group decided on a purpose and generated a list of potential activities for the future.

LOON MATERNITY WARDS ON BAD MEDICINE LAKE! – Don Andersen

We are attempting to give loons a Bad Medicine boost by providing two loon nesting rafts from the successful program on Big Mantrap Lake.  These “Loon Pontoons” were developed through trial and error over 20 years on Big Mantrap by volunteers led by Lyle Laske.  Our rafts were paid for by the BMLA Foundation via donations from Rose & Don Andersen and Sandy & Dave Wiest.

The rafts were deployed prior to ice-out on April 29 to what we deemed quiet backwaters on the lake least likely disturbed by passing or curious boaters.  Loons thrive on privacy while nesting.  One raft was placed in flooded timber between the McCollums and Tim Johnsons, the other was put in the backwater southeast of Red Top Road.

Background on Big Mantrap Lake – 1550 acres with numerous shallow – bulrush areas with 18 to 20 identified loon nesting areas with 18 rafts in place in 2010. Ten rafts were occupied by nesting loons and there were eight known “natural nest” pairs.  In contrast Bad Medicine is 800 acres with fewer loons.

Loon hazards that may be minimized by nest rafts:

 ~~~Rafts offer some protection from avian predators.  The increased Bald Eagle population impacts heavily on loon chicks.  Crows, ravens, and shoreland predators – especially raccoons love the eggs.

~~~A floating platform is less likely to be swamped and ruined by high waves or boat wakes.  Natural loon nests are at high risk because they are on the shore very close to the water.  Loons don’t navigate  well on land.

~~~Human activity – You may be curious about the rafts but PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE!  don’t get closer than 50 yards from the rafts until August 1^st or later.

Disclaimer – There is no guarantee loons will use the rafts this year or any other year.  We will keep trying.  Chances are, in time, they will!  Once loons accept the rafts they will return year after year – but this may take three or four years.

Tax deductible donations for the above or other worthy projects can be made to the Bad Medicine Lake Foundation.  Contact Tim Holzkamm, Ray Vlasak, or John Backes.

OIL SPILL AND OUR LOONS

Adapted from an article that appeared in Big Sugar Bush Notes, Jim Jasken - editor

The MN DNR has launched a study to determine the effects of the oil spill on our loons. Researchers are looking for signs the loons may have been harmed by the Gulf oil spill.

One night last July, Kevin Kenow supervised a team of scientists from around the country as they launched a canoe onto a lake at St John’s University in Collegeville.  They were there to capture loons and outfit them with satellite transmitters.  “Between the calls and the lights, it pulls the birds’ attention enough that we’re able to move in and scoop them up with a landing net,” he said.  Carrol Henderson from the non-game wildlife program was on the lake that night.  He said the satellite transmitter they used has to be implanted internally.  “You can’t put a harness on a bird like a loon, because it impairs their diving ability,”

A veterinary surgeon from Florida was on the scene.  He implanted a small transmitter into the abdominal cavity of two loons (three loons were previously tagged).  An 8-inch wire antenna provides the connection with the satellites.  The wire sticking out the back makes the loon appear as if it’s sporting a jaunty antenna - which it is.  The bird also gets a geolocator tag fastened to a leg band.  This records the bird’s movements and also atmospheric pressure, showing how deep the loon dives for food.

Henderson and other experts think the Minnesota birds most at risk from last year’s Gulf oil spill are loons and white pelicans.  Young loons spend nearly three years in the Gulf and white pelicans spend one year there before they fly north.  So the loons that hatched in Minnesota in 2008 and 2009 were down in the gulf during the time of the oil spill, and we don’t know how many could have been lost.

More than 100 loons were found dead or dying after the spill, but Henderson said they’re dense birds, more likely to sink to the bottom than float to shore.  There could be longer-term risks, too, he said.  “Loons dive as deep as 250 feet and stay under water for up to five minutes – a lot of their feeding is actually on the bottom – if they’re feeding on bottom creatures that have been exposed to oiled sediment they could be affecting the food chain or their metabolism in the long term as well”,he said. Right now they don’t have any particular expectations, but they think it’s possible the time the birds spent in the Gulf could affect their survivability and their reproductive success.  If the oil affects their ability to reproduce, it will have a great impact.

Another study which will give us information includes 80 loons with the purpose of learning about botulism poisoning that is another threat to loons.  In this study 70 loons have geolocator tags attached to their legs which records their daily location for a year and 10 loons have satellite transmitters which tracks more detailed movements and locations.  The data will be collected this summer.  Although it was not part of the previous research plan, the transmitters and tags may also provide information to the researchers about the oil risk to the birds.

There is more information on this issue on the DNR website     Sources: MN DNR, MN NPR, and Minnesota Monthly April 2011

AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES - Stop any spread into Bad Medicine Lake -  Darrin Hoverson

Aquatic Invasive Species points of interest for Bad Medicine Lake

>>    Due to the hard substrates and narrow littoral area or areas shallow enough to grow plants Eurasian Water Milfoil and Curly-leaf Pondweed may not be as severe a problem as other shallow, nutrient-rich lakes.

>>    Bad Medicine is a thriving trout and walleye fishery that brings people from outside the area to fish and spreading the word to your visitors about AIS is important to stop the spread of AIS to Bad Medicine Lake.

 ZEBRA MUSSELS

>>    May disrupt food supply affecting the native aquatic invertebrate community and fishery.

>>    Will kill all or most all native mussels.

>>    Can clog motors, intake pipes, and other equipment in the lake making them difficult to use.

>>   Can make swimming hazardous where ZM’s cover lake bottom with live ZM’s and beaches with sharp shells of dead ZM’s.

>>   Filtering capacity can cause conditions that increase growth of other plants to greater depths in a lake.

>>    Have an open water reproductive form called a veliger that is invisible and can move in a bait bucket, boat live well, trailer, or other non-drained or dried up water surfaces.

>>    Pelican and Lizzie Lakes in Ottertail County, Gull Lake in Crow Wing County, and Mille Lacs are the closest infested locations to Bad Medicine.

>>    Fish populations will decline as ZM filter out nutrients for smaller fish.

>>    ZM attach to any submerged surface including docks, boat lifts, swim rafts, and pumps.

>>    One female ZM produces one million eggs each year.

 SPINY AND FISHOOK WATER FLEAS

>>   Prolific and can displace native plankton that are native fish food for trout, tulaby, and walleye in Bad Medicine Lake.

>>   Because of the tail spine zooplankton are difficult for certain fish to feed on and can kill larval fishes.

>>    Impedes fishing by entangling in lines and fishing equipment.

>>    Can change a lakes ecosystem.

>>    Have an overwinter egg that can resist drying and freezing, making them easy to transport.

 >>    Lake of the Woods and Mille Lacs are the infected lakes closest to Bad Medicine Lake.

 VIRAL HEMORRHAGIC SEPTICEMIA (VHS) 

>>    VHS is an extremely serious disease affecting fresh and saltwater fish.

>>    Spreading in Great Lakes and was recently verified in Lake Superior although no fish kills have been documented in Lake Superior.

>>   Can cause large scale fish kills and have severe economic consequences on the fishing community.

>>   Can be moved in water or the fish themselves such as bait fish and/or stocked fish from infected populations.

>>   At high rate of infection fish will display widespread internal and external hemorrhages (bleeding) throughout body surface and within internal organs.

For more information contact: Darrin Hoverson, Invasive Species Specialist, MN Department of Natural Resources, 218-699-7293, darrin.hoverson@state.mn.us 

Infected waters listed at: dnr.state.mn.us/invasives 

In 2009, Pelican Lake (near Detroit Lakes) was infested with Zebra mussels.  In the fall of 2009 this dockwheel had three attached mussels and within one year, the mussels had multiplied by thousands causing damage. They have spread to more than 53 Minnesota lakes and rivers. FLOAT A CLEAN BOAT -

REGULATION REFRESHER

TOWNSHIP AMNESTY & RECYCLING

Tim Holzkamm

Township Amnesty Days in 2011 are scheduled for June 4 & August 27. Please follow the posted rules and do not bring amnesty trash ahead of the scheduled date.

If you cannot wait for Amnesty Days, two area transfer stations are available to you:

~~Main location - 3 miles north of Detroit Lakes on Highway

#9 and 1/2 mile west on CR# 144. The hours are

8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. M-F and Saturday 8 a.m. - noon.

~~New East location - 1/2 mile west of Osage on Highway #34 and 1/2 mile south on CR# 47. Hours are 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday only.

As the summer season approaches and use of our township refuse collection site increases, it is important to remember only allowable trash may be left at our site. All household trash is to be left in the large dumpsters. DO NOT use the household dumpsters for unwanted construction materials. DO NOT leave other refuse such as appliances, electronics, tires, etc. anywhere on the grounds. More information on Township Trash Rules are posted on the new township website http://www.foresttownshipmn.net/pdfs/Trash_Rules.pdf

With spring and summer come hungry, messy bears. Everyone must fasten the dumpster covers. If a chain or fastener breaks call Tim at 573-3442.

We anticipate receiving new recycling bins to replace the old recycling sheds before the summer season begins. The new bins will have a much larger capacity and some of the categories are being combined which should make sorting easier.

Forest Township appreciates everyone recycling because it saves the township lots of money in trash removal costs and we receive money back depending on the volume recycled - this helps reduce your taxes. For example, when cardboard boxes are recycled it costs us - meaning you - about $10 per cubic yard (a dumpster holds about 6 cubic yards) to haul them away as trash, however, recycled cardboard earns money for Forest Township. We need to do it right - use the recycling bins only for the proper recyclable materials.

Please call Tim Holzkamm, Township Supervisor, at (218-573-3442) or email at chairperson@foresttownshipmn.net if there are any questions or to report problems at the refuse collection site.

KEYS

You may obtain a gate key from Tim Holzkamm 573-3442 to gain access to the area.  You are responsible for everyone who uses your key – be sure they know the rules.  Lock the gate when leaving or close the gate if the lock is not present.   Fee for the replacement of a lost key is $25; each additional key is $5.

BECKER COUNTY AMNESTY

We encourage you to take your appliances, tires, and batteries to the transfer station north of Detroit Lakes, phone 218-847-6382.   Appliances include refrigerators, freezers, ranges, microwaves, washers, dryers, dish washers, and dehumidifiers.  Take these items to the transfer station instead of waiting for Township Amnesty Days. This will save the Township having to pay for hauling.  For those who do it right and most of you do.     Thank You.              

FOREST TOWNSHIP TRASH RULES

1. Use the recycle bins – all clean cardboard must be recycled.  Follow the posted recycle rules.  Place unbroken fluorescent bulbs in labeled recycle container. 

2. Recycling saves the township thousands of dollars every year and it is the environmentally sound thing to do.

3. Put only bagged household garbage in dumpsters.  Close and secure the lids to keep bears out.   Fill dumpsters completely (front and back lids) in order starting from the east.

4. Take all other trash to transfer stations – Detroit Lakes, the new east location, Park Rapids, or Elbow Lake.

5. Do not leave the following: appliances, TVs, microwaves, electronic equipment, furniture, building materials, steel, ashes, or charcoal.

6. Animal carcasses, dirt, gravel, leaves, grass clippings, brush, or logs should be put in the woods out of sight from roads and trails. 

7. Take treated lumber to transfer station (do not burn).

9. Hire a commercial service if you are operating commercially from your home.

BURNING REGULATIONS, DID YOU KNOW???????

The leading cause of wildfires is burning barrels.  Burning barrels are regulated by MN statute. 

A burning permit is required for ALL open burning of brush/leaves/wood when there is less than three inches of snow on the ground.  You can obtain burning permits at Bad Medicine Resort or Veronen’s Resort.  A permit is not required when there is over 3 inches of snow on the ground.

NOTE: Several of your lake neighbors can testify to the cost of being cited by the DNR for burning without a permit.

BUILDING PERMITS FOR RESIDENTS OF FOREST TOWNSHIP

Building permit applications, as well as conditional use permit applications, for projects that are located 267' or more back from the high water mark must be reviewed and approved by the Township Board prior to submitting requests to Becker County.  This process can take a couple of meetings so it is important to get applications in as quickly as possible.  Contact Carol Peterson to get a permit application and a copy of zoning regulations.  Applications are also available from Becker County Zoning.

CHAPEL OF THE GOOD CREATION

Everyone is invited to attend the Chapel of the Good Creation for summer non-denominational worship services at 11 a.m. on Sundays throughout the summer.  Those who gather at Bad Medicine Resort will participate in fellowship and Christian worship led by a group of volunteers.  There is no membership requirement, all are welcome. Services are held Memorial Day through Labor Day. Contact Don or Helen at Bad Medicine Resort: phone 218-573-3790 or e-mail  Dtschudi@eot.com if you have questions The Chapel is also available for other events

BOOK CLUB – Sue Sanger

The Bad Medicine Lake Book Club met at Strohmeiers on April 28^th and we discussed the book A Town Like Alice.  The discussion was led by Marlys Johnson.  In May we will be meeting in Park Rapids at the Roger Geddes home and discuss the Big Burn by Timothy Egan, Roger will lead the discussion.  In June we will meet at Bill & Sue Sangers and discuss Across the Endless River by Thad Carhart.  It is the story of Sacagawea's son and how difficult it was for him to decide where he belonged.  In August we will meet at Harvey & Marlys Johnsons, the book is yet to be determined.  We meet at Churchs in September; the book is yet to be determined.  October the Hagens will host and the book will be chosen by Harvey Johnson.  We have had 10 - 14 members meeting and continue to enjoy this time together. Call Sue Sanger if you are interested in joining us. Her e-mail is sang@arvig.net  and phone is 573-3793.

.  

BAD MEDICINE LAKE STATISTICS

Ray Vlasak

Current Level (May 20)      1600.27 feet, MSL

2010 Range  1599.71        1600.05

2009 Range  1599.43        1599.76

2008 Range  1598.73        1599.32

2007 Range  1598.69        1599.27

2006 Range  1598.53        1599.74

2011 Ice-out  1600.25        (April 29)

2010 Ice-out  1599.81        (April 2)

2009 Ice-out  1599.59        (April 24)

2008 Ice-out  1599.05        (May 9)

2007 Ice-out  1598.95        (April 25)

2006 Ice-out  1599.47        (April 13)

Highest Recorded Level     1600.77  July 10, 2002

Ordinary High Water Mark   1594.86

Natural Basin Run-out Elevation 1608.3

OUR LAKE IS NEAR ALL-TIME HIGH WATER LEVEL.  PLEASE MINIMIZE YOUR WAKE WHEN BOATING NEAR SHORE.

BMLAA WEBSITE www.badmedicinelakeareaassociation.com

All previous newsletters, lake association by-laws, and other information about Bad Medicine Lake are available on this website.  

Websites also of interest:

COLA;  www.beckercola.org

MN DNR: www.dnr.state.mn.us 

FOREST TOWNSHIP WEBSITE

Doug Trenda

Forest Township arranged for an ADHOC committee to gather information and explore options for a township website.  The committee, Mary Follett and Suzanne Trenda, did an excellent job.  Bids by three website designers were presented to the Board. Tony Brahmer was selected and worked with the committee in designing the appearance, functionality, and content of the website.  Today, the public can access the website @ www.foresttownshipmn.net .  The intent was to establish an electronic information link for easy communication between the Township Board and Forest Township property owners. The website is designed to let constituents view meeting agendas, minutes, dates, budget reports, and news updates. News helps property owners remain informed of upcoming events such as road tours and amnesty days. 

Some highlights of the website are:  Easy contact with Township Board members and zoning ordinances along with printable forms. There are links to Becker County, COLA, BMLAA, North Country Trail, and other related organizations. 

Your feedback on our new website is welcome.  Let us know what you think.

MSRPO - MINNESOTA SEASONAL RECREATIONAL PROPERTY OWNER’S COALITION    

MSRPO is a non-partisan grass-roots group that advocates for property tax fairness and equity at the Minnesota State Capitol for families that own cabins, lakeshore, hunting shacks, and seasonal property in Minnesota.  MSRPO educates legislators, the general public, and property owners on the negative impacts of Minnesota’s antiquated property tax system. Without MSRPO the average cabin owner would be paying at least 40% more in property taxes.   MSRPO is also involved in other issues related to recreational property, seminars on passing recreational property to the next generation and most recently Aquatic Invasive Species legislation. Membership is not dependent on any level of dollar contribution but on any amount you contribute.  Obtain membership information at  www.msrpo.org  or 952-854-1317.   

JOIN TODAY TO BECOME INFORMED AND TO HELP EDUCATE THE MINNESOTA LEGISLATURE IN 2012

LAKE DIRECTORY APPRECIATED!!!

Thanks to Jim Luttrell who produced the 2010 BMLAA directory, it is wonderful!!!  Not only are we listed alphabetically but also by location.  The directory includes home and lake address, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses when available.  Hopefully we can get to know our neighbors better which helps to build community.   If you have an address or e-mail address change, please send the information to Jim Luttrell.   Directories are usually printed every two years.

If you have not received a directory you may pick one up at High Pines Resort, 46522 Wildwood Trail; Bad Medicine Resort, 38257 Bad Medicine Lake Rd.; Chuck Church, 37311 Red Top Rd.; Jim Luttrell- 39124 Horseshoe Rd.; or the Forest Township Hall.. 

WELL WATER TESTING  Gary Narum

In Minnesota, homeowners are responsible for assuring that their well water is safe for consumption.  The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that “At a minimum, private wells should be tested for coliform bacteria once a year and for nitrate every two to three years”.  Such testing should be conducted by a state certified water testing laboratory.  Becker County has one “contract lab” for private well testing:           RMB Environmental Laboratories, 22796 County Highway 6, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, 218-846-1465

Your water has to arrive at the lab in a sterile container.  RMB prefers that you use one of theirs.  Simply stop in to pick one up or call the laboratory, and they will send you a container along with the necessary instructions for collecting the sample.  Sterile containers are also available at the Township Hall.  The charge for testing for both coliform bacteria and nitrate is $30.

WHY SUBSCRIBE TO CABIN LIFE?

Cabin Life includes great ideas, inspiration, and practical information for your special place.  Want easy recipes for feeding a crowd? Need the secret to a great deck? Simple ways to keep your lake beautiful? Strategies for keeping your cabin in the family? Do you know the ten rules of making your septic system last? 

Cabin Life gets tips from experts and from other cabin owners.  $16 for eight issues, available from Kalmbach Publishing Co., P.O. Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187-1612 or order online: www.cabinlife.com .

MINNESOTA CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER

The DNR’s bi-monthly magazine, Conservation Volunteer, is free to anyone who requests it.  Subscriber’s tax-deductible donations cover all costs.  The magazine engages, entertains, and educates readers with a lively mix of photographs and stories about Minnesota’s woods, waters, and wildlife. 

Subscribe or give as a gift, at:

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteer/index.html 

Or write: Minnesota Conservation Volunteer, 500 Lafayette Road, St Paul MN 55155

ADOPT A HIGHWAY CLEANUP

BMLAA adopted a two-and-a-half mile stretch of County Road 37 that runs from Red Top Road to 113.  Spring cleanup was done on May 7, fall cleanup is scheduled for October 1st; weather permitting.  The alternate date is Oct 8th.  Meet at the entrance to Red Top Road at 9 a.m.   Call Chuck Church 573-2209 or Jim Luttrell at 573-3411 if you have questions. 

JUST SHOW UP TO HELP!!!

EDITOR ROSE ANDERSEN RETIRES

In our early years at Bad Medicine Lake, Don and I loved reading the lake newsletter and then it stopped. We missed it. When I was elected to the Bad Medicine Lake Area Association Board in 2006, I asked if there were plans to publish a newsletter. President Ed Klepperich said, “No, why don’t you do it?” So began my volunteer commitment as Editor in Chief. Don, the writer in the family, was drafted as my assistant.

We have now published nine newsletters. This is the tenth and it seems like a good time to retire. We have enjoyed being in the know, having the authority to call and ask people many questions, and to work with so many wonderful people. I thank all of the talented people who have contributed in so many ways to this newsletter. The newsletter’s mission is to build community and present current lake information. This is exactly what we have worked to do. I hope we have been successful.

It is time for us to move on and another Bad Medicine Lake resident needs to step forward and keep the newsletter going.   It is an important benefit to Bad Medicine Lake residents.  If you are interested, contact Mike Slette, President BMLAA.

LAKE QUALITY WATER STUDY

Dick Hecock

The Becker Soil and Water Conservation District together with Becker COLA applied for and received a grant to support the preparation of special reports on twenty Becker County lakes.  Bad Medicine Lake is one of the lakes selected.

Each report will review existing information available for each lake, identify water quality problems, and make recommendations for additional measures needed to address the problems.     In addition to looking at past water quality data, including Secchi readings, chl-a, phosphorus, and other analyses, the project will pull together fisheries surveys, lake morphometry,  topographic conditions, and parcel information.    Also, the lake’s watershed will be identified, and relevant data such as land use, impervious surface, will be added.    

During the project representatives from each participating lake will be brought into a discussion on their past data collection efforts, including information they may have obtained on shoreline conditions, boat counts, septic conditions, and other related information.  They will be queried as to their perceived water quality conditions, their water quality goals, and their understanding of the causes of any water quality problems they might think they have.   This information will be integrated into the respective lake reports and will be taken into account when making recommendations about future data-collection needs or other measures that seem warranted.  We expect the reports to be completed by the end of 2011.  Lake Associations will be provided both paper and digital copies of their report.   

The cost of each lake report will be $1000.   Half of the cost is covered by the grant and half will be paid by COLA.   Of the latter portion, we will ask participating lakes to contribute $250.  

Analysis and reports will be completed by RMB Environmental Laboratories.  Please feel free to contact Moriya Rufer with any questions, 218-846-1465, moriyar@rmbel.info or COLA President Dick Hecock, 218 846-0436 or rhecock@arvig.net

AN ANNUAL TRADITION

THE BORDERLINE PHILHARMONIC

If you like classical music, this is for you!!! 

Again this year the 37th Annual concert will be at Hoot Owl Lake Resort.  A music camp for adults, all accomplished musicians, led by nationally recognized conductor Cary John Franklin will play for us on Friday, August 12 at 8 p.m.  Admission is free although donations are accepted.  The Borderline Philharmonic started in 1965, and since 1974 has been at Hoot Owl.  The concert is a wonderful opportunity to tail gate.  For more information call resort owner Bill Fritze at 218-734-2245 or 1-800-635-2157.

A BOOK FOR YOU TO ENJOY

Fellow newsletter scribe and editor of “Big Sugar Bush Notes”, who has been helpful in the production of “A Good Taste of Bad Medicine,” has authored a book “Kayaking a Moonbeam”. The book contains 200 pages of stories, poetry, and observations gleaned from 25 years of north woods living.  Jim Jasken, a former junior high English teacher, has critiqued and graded our last nine newsletters for which we are grateful; leading to this free plug for his book.  Order from: Jim Jasken, Box 21, Richwood MN 56577. Cost postpaid is $19.99 per copy plus $1.37 tax, total $21.36. 

LAKE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Last spring a survey was sent to BML property owners as a basis to develop a lake management plan. A great response was received, 86 of 150 returned or 57%.  A lake management plan is important in applying for grants to improve our lake.

Following is a quick summary of survey results.  Areas of concern were: #1 is water quality, followed by high water, function and maintenance of septics, recreation, zoning, and improper altering of lake shore.  Improved areas were: #1 garbage handling, newsletter, focus on maintaining water quality, purchasing by BMLF of marginal shoreline, and stabilization of water level. Committee members are: Ray Vlasak, Chuck Church, Steve Lindow, Cheryle McFarland, Rusty McFarland, and Ray Stordahl

PONTOON SOCIAL - The third annual "floaters party" will be held July 9th.

Weather permitting, we’ll plan to meet and tie together in a flotilla of boats somewhere on relatively calm water at the north end of the lake at 5 p.m., exactly where will depend on the wind and its direction. Bring your own beverages and hors d'oeuvres to share - last year's offerings were delicious!  Please also bring boat fenders and an anchor.   On July 10^th, call Dennis & Ruby Anderson at 573-3502 or Don & Rose Andersen at 573-3690 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for an update on where we will meet.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Itasca Park phone numbers are:

Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center: 218-699-7251

Douglas Lodge: 218-699-7217

Campground Registration: 218-699-7214

DNR information – 1-888-646-6367

EDITORIAL POLICY

We appreciate receiving comments and suggestions regarding the content of ANOTHER GOOD DOSE OF BAD MEDICINE.  Information in this newsletter is as accurate as that received from various credible sources. Feel free to submit content, please understand we may need to edit if space is an issue.  Articles must be consistent with the mission of the newsletter.   Rose Andersen, Editor rosander@juno.com