If you are interested in learning more about AIS, here is a class in the University of Minnesota, College of Continuing Education, Summer 2014 brochure that might interest you.It’s called: “Innovative Developments: Addressing the Threat of Aquatic Invasive Species” It’s on July 31st from 9-11. Event ID: 188128 Cost is $50. Their phone number is 612/624-4000 andthe website is: www.cce.umn.edu/learninglife
The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) is watching closely for any new aquatic invasive species (AIS) infestations this season, but we can’t be everywhere at once. Help be our eyes on the ground!
Early detection of a new invasive species can allow for rapid response and increased awareness of AIS issues in a lake. In some cases, these actions can prevent a full-blown infestation.
This season MCWD staff will be monitoring highly-used lakes for signs for a variety of invasive species, including zebra mussels, spiny waterflea, and invasive snails. We will be snorkeling, kayaking, boating and walking shorelines. We will be testing water samples for signs of microscopic zebra mussels. We will continue to help fund inspectors at public boat launches and to educate residents on how to prevent the spread of these species.
Say hello if you see us at your lake, and keep your eyes peeled! If you see a suspicious plant or animal in a water body, please contact our AIS Specialist immediately at (952) 471-7873 or efieldseth@minnehahacreek.org. Learn more about various invasive species at www.minnehahacreek.org/AIS.
There are endless ways to get out and enjoy the beautiful lakes and streams in your area this season. Boating, paddling, fishing, swimming, and reading at the beach are all great ways to take advantage of the multitude of water bodies in the state.
Unfortunately, there are also many ways to spread invasive plants and animals that threaten the health of these water bodies. It’s not just boaters who need to take precautions — aquatic invasive species (AIS) like zebra mussels or milfoil can travel via canoes, docks, and boat lifts. They can also spread when people dump a bait bucket or aquarium into a water body or storm drain.
Anyone bringing a boat, canoe, kayak, paddle board or other water-related equipment into a new body of water should thoroughly clean, drain, and dry it before entering and after leaving.
Those who hire a professional to remove their dock or boat lift should make sure the person or business is a certified Lake Service Provider from the MN DNR, which ensures they have received training on how to prevent the spread of AIS. Dump bait and aquarium plants and fish in a waste bin, not in a lake, stream or storm drain.
AIS can cause significant long-term damage to Minnesota’s precious water bodies, and can keep us from enjoying them in ways we have in the past. Learn more about steps you can take to prevent the spread of AIS at www.minnehahacreek.org/AIS.
For any neighbors looking for something fun to do this coming weekend. Saturday, July 12th, is the Tonka Mud Run at Lake Minnewashta Regional Park. It is a family friendly mud run. Mini-Tonka Mud Run starts at 8:30 and the Tonka Mud Run starts at 9:30. The Chanhassen Fire Department will be there to hose you off when you are done. There are many activities including the US Marine Pull Up Challenge, face painting, bounce house, DJ and more. All proceeds go to Kids Against Hunger-West Metro.
Bring the family and enjoy a morning of fun and help a good cause too!
Google Tonka Mud Run if interested.
With the month of June being one of the rainiest on record, our lake was filled to the highest level ever recorded. To prevent further property damage on the land owned by our residents, a “Slow-No Wake” restriction continues over the entire lake by the City of Chanhassen. Speeds above 5 MPH are forbidden. Please help out your neighbors dealing with flooding and observe the limits. As the water levels decrease to a level where boat wakes will no longer damage property, the city will release the restriction.
JULY 3rd UPDATE: This morning the water level was 0.04′ feet above the last confirmed pre-storm elevation. That means that at some point today it will be below that elevation. The city of Chanhassen will lift the restriction after we experience three days below that elevation which is on Sunday, 7/6/14 at noon.
Thanks for your cooperation, patience and understanding. It is a difficult balance between shoreline protection, property damage and recreational enjoyment.
