6.2.10

The LIPOA is aware that there has been a larger than normal fish die off in the lake in the past few weeks. Although the start coincided with the first treatment for invasive lake weeds, particularly Eurasion milfoil, we have been assured by our DEQ representative, DNR fisheries dept. and our Lake applicator Guy Savin of Savin lake and pond that the DEQ regulated 2-4D applications for milfoil DO NOT affect fish. However, In speaking with Jim Baker, head of the DNR fisheries department out of Bay City, when you treat lake weeds and have a sudden warming of the water, as we did earlier in the week, the warm water speeds up the weed decaying process taking dissolved oxygen out of the water at a quicker rate, adding this to also spawning season and the smaller weaker fish are more likely to die off. It will not affect the overall fish population and that unless we see thousands of fish dying off it is not much to be worried about. It is unfortunate that this has happened just ahead of a major holiday, but be assured that we are doing everything in our power by keeping in contact and having the appropriate agencies notified. We ask that association members help us by aiding in clean-up efforts along all shorelines to ensure a clean and safe lake.