WEED CONTROL FAQ's and ANSWERS
2008
The following are frequently asked questions about the weed control management program and answers to those questions;
Why did property owners petition for a Weed Control District in the first place?
Several years ago, the invasion of non-native species of lake weeds (primarily Eurasion Watermillfoil) had advanced to the point of severely affecting the enjoyable use of Chippewa Lake. Large patches of millfoil covered the surface of the lake, making it difficult to safely navigate when skiing, boating or riding PWCs. The dence shading provided by the millfoil also hampered the growth of "fishing-friendly" native weeds.
Why continue treating the lake?
Although the Eurasion Watermillfoil has been significantly decreased, the year 2007 survey of the lake identified approximately 50 acres of millfoil remaining. If not treated, this WILL repopulate the lake to the same distructive level prior to beginning treatment.
What weeds will be controlled?
Eurasion Watermillfoil, Curly Leaf Pondweed and Algae in the lake channels.
How will the Eurasion Watermillfoil be controlled?
An aquatic herbicide known as floridone (SONAR) AND RENOVATE will be applied to selectively target the millfoil
Why not remove the Eurasion Watermillfoil with mechanical harvesters?
Since millfoil spreads and reroots through fragmentation, harvesters would actually aid and accelerate the spread of millfoil.
Will the native plants be killed off?
No. Native plant species will be retained because they are good for water quality, fish and other aquatic life.
What land parcels/lots would be assessed?
Those with direct access or deeded access to the lake. There are 892 such parcels in the proposed weed control district.
How much of the lake would be treated?
The treatment would be on problem areas identified in surveys of the lake.
What effect will treatment have on fish, animals and other aquatic life?
The SONAR concentration will be limited to 6 parts per billion. This level will not harm aquatic life or animals. Sunlight breaks down SONAR so that it will not remain in the lake over time and RENOVATE becomes inert when contacting soil.
Who will apply the treatment?
The treatment will be applied by qualified professionals, approved by the DEQ and selected from the competitive bid process. Treatment would be under the oversight of the State of Michigan - Department of Environmental Quality.
Who must sign the petition to be included as supporter(s) to extend the Weed Control District?
Anyone having any ownership interest in any of the 892 parcels involved. PLEASE NOTE... IF/WHERE APPLICABLE TO A PARCEL, the following parties must ALL sign in support of the proposal: Deed holder, spouse of deed holder, any other family member holding a legal interest in the parcel and any non-family party holding a land contract on the parcel.
How many signed petitions are required to extend the Chippewa Lake Weed Control District?
The township board would proceed to extend the district when signatures representing 50.01% of the acreage involved in the 892 parcels have been submitted.
Who would control/administrate the Chippewa Lake Weed Control District?
The Chippewa Township Board would continue to control and administrate the District.
Will residents be notified when the treatment occurs?
As in the past, the proposal will call for all residents within 100 feet of the treatment area to be notified in advance of the treatment.