Environmental
The Environmental Committee is focused on protecting and preserving the lake and its natural resources. A large part of this mission is to educate residents about the impacts of invasive species, shoreline stabalization, boating etiquette, and water levels. If you have questions or concerns regarding our lake habitat, including identifying Eurasian Milfoil, please reach out via email or phone Scot Ogden @ 231-463-9365. If we all do our part we keep maintain a healthy lake environment for future generations.
The MLSA (Michigan Lakes and Streams Assoc) newsletter contains information pertaining to bills that are pending in the Senate. These bills, most notably the Boat Wake Bill and the Septic Code Bill, if passed will have an impact on our lake and its community.
The Michigan Waterfront Alliance has also published information regarding the pending wake boat and septic code legislation.
"Legislation Restricting Watercraft Operating in Wake Boat Mode..."
"Legislation to Establish a First Ever Statewide Septic Code..."
Environmental Report Spring 2025
This is the year that we need to renew our special assessment district for the invasive species control. There will be information coming to you from your respectiveTownships during the summer with dates for the meetings. We have come a long way
in getting our EWM area reduced to about 5 Acres or less over the years. I believe that we need to continue with our efforts to keep the EWM in check. I hate to think what Silver Lake would look like if we allowed the EWM to go unchecked. Please keep a
lookout for the information from your Townships. The 2025 spring survey was completed on May 22nd by RLS. The total number of acres is 1.6 acres. The lake was rough so the actual area could be a little larger. The treatment is scheduled to June 4th, so it will be done by the time you receive this Newsletter.
The lake level is still about one foot below the high-water mark. We did have a very good winter with a lot of snow. I was expecting to see the water level closer to the high-water level but it didn’t happen. I have had residents ask me if lawn irrigation is causing
the low water level. I have read articles on this that say that it will have a small effect on the water level as the water that goes to the lawn goes into the lake water table. I am certain that some water will be lost through evaporation.
On another note, it is time to stay up to date on keeping your septic systems working properly. Keeping your septic tanks clean on a regular schedule will help to keep our lake clean.
*Please note the Ticker has reported that a new county wide septic regulation has been adopted, this WILL impact all waterfront lake residents. The new regulation will REQUIRE septic system evaluations on properties that are to be sold or transferred that are within 300 feet of surface water, effective January 1, 2026.
- Scot Ogden, Environmental Committee
Eurasian Milfoil treatments will be scheduled every Spring and Fall based on the most recent survey. Members will be notified via email prior to treatments. Individual properties will be posted prior to treatment.
