BMLDCM Minutes20151216
Unapproved
CITY OF MUSKEGO
BIG MUSKEGO LAKE DISTRICT DEPUTY
COMMISSIONERS MINUTES
December 16, 2015
7:00 PM
Muskego City Hall, W182 S8200 Racine Avenue
CALL TO ORDER
Len Pilak called to order at 7:00 pm.
ROLL CALL
Deputy Commissioners Len Pilak, Karl Hoeppner, Rich Multhauf, Tom Kies, Larry Schweitzer.
Tom Zagar, Greg Burmeister, Andy Lewandowski also in attendance.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
All pledged allegiance to the USA
STATEMENT OF PUBLIC NOTICE
The meeting had been legally noticed.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETINGS - JULY 28, 2015
Tom Kies moved to approve; Carried by all.
VOUCHER APPROVAL
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Discovery and future management of the invasive algae starry stonewart in Big Muskego Lake
and Bass Bay
Tom Zagar noted that the vicinities around the boat ramps were treated with algaecide to
reduce likelihood that departing boats and trailers would transport SSW from the lake. Part
time ramp attendants worked through most of October collecting data and providing
information on aquatic invasive species. Marine Biochemist completed the plant survey and
will soon provide the report.
Current status of lake (water levels, ice, fish, and wildlife)
It was noted that the lake had not frozen yet (mild weather) and that water was at a rather high
level (recent rainfall) despite the dam being somewhat open. Larry said flooding in his yard
was attributable to a beaver dam on the tributary rather than the higher water (which was
measuring about 6” above the dam sill). Len noted many open water anglers recently on Bass
Bay. Rich Multhauf noted that it was featured on Gillespie’s TV show.
NEW BUSINESS
Election of Chairman and Secretary
Larry nominated Len as Chairman. Karl seconded; carried by all. Len nominated Tom Kies as
secretary; Rich seconded; Carried by all.
Preliminary results and aquatic plant survey and aquatic plant management
Data was not presented.
Resident Andy Lewandowski's concerns regarding lawn fertilization
Mr. Andy Lewandowski brought forth a concern about the frequency which residents fertilize
their lawns and how these nutrients can get into the lakes. In particular he observed instances
where landscape contractors fertilized prior to rain events and assumes much of it just runs
into the lakes. Tom Z. noted that lawn fertilization mainly consists of Nitrogen and that
products are typically time-released. He explained that Phosphorus is typically the “limiting
nutrient” in lakes – meaning that extra inputs of that nutrient would directly cause more plant
growth. Furthermore, in Wisconsin, Phosphorus is banned in lawn fertilizers. So while some
fertilizer likely gets into the lake, the situation may not be as bad as one would think. Len Pilak
shared the concern about fertilizing and suggested that Mr. Lewandowski research the issue
(SEWRPC, DNR, lawn companies) to see what products are used and information about
fertilizer impacts to lakes.
Future project ideas
Resident (former Deputy Commisioner) Greg Burmeister noted that this past year was
exceptionally bad for a recurring problem of prolific plant/algae growth near the mouth of the
tributary of “Groveway Creek” which enters the lake just south of his home. Tom Z stated that
there have also been problems at times with excessive plant/algae growth near the other
“north” Groveway Lane tributary which enters the lake adjacent to Larry Schweitzer’s home.
Discussion ensued on what land use in the watershed could be causing this. It was noted that
at least portions of both of these flow through the golf course and the “south” tributary starts at
the landfill. Greg suggested more water quality testing in these streams. Tom Z told the group
that samples were occasionally taken over the past few years in these tributary streams. It
was discussed that a more intensive monitoring could be done and Greg suggested that he
would be willing to do this. Tom stated that it would have to involve several sampling sites and
collection during and after rain events. Plans for this will be discussed further at the next
meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS AND ANY OTHER BUSINESS AS AUTHORIZED BY
ADJOURNMENT
Larry moved to adjourn and meeting adjourned at 7:58 pm.
Minutes recorded by Tom Zagar