State issues warning for lake beaches

Van Wert independent/contributor content

GRAND LAKE ST. MARYS — The weather is warming and recreational visitors will soon be frequenting the Grand Lake St. Marys region. This week, the state has recommended caution at the West, East and Camp beaches. Testing is ongoing, but officials have chosen to post these advisories to increase public awareness. Although wading and swimming are not recommended in these areas, visitors can still access the lake by boat and fish.

“We must stay positive and continue to pursue the initiatives planned for action this summer, and investigate all possible solutions for next year as well,” said Grand Lake St. Marys Restoration Commission Facilitator Tom Knapke.

The Lake Strategic Plan, drafted earlier this year, details work being currently done and plans for future execution. It includes increased aeration and sediment removal, installation of treatment trains on tributaries, rough fish removal, and the application of alum during the first week of June.

In addition, the LRC is focusing on the review of several scientific proposals to enhance the effectiveness of this plan with other research partners.

Funding for these efforts includes partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies as well as dozens of private vendors and organizations. The commission is seeking a number of grants and foundation opportunities to expedite the number of projects being implemented.  Universities and researchers from across the country have been in contact with the group offering innovative approaches to the complex issues surrounding the health of the lake and its watershed.

“People’s persistence and desire for our project’s success are quite high, and I have confidence that we can restore both the lake and our economy,” said LRC member Julie Miller, with Wright State University’s Business Enterprise Center. “There is tremendous value in focusing in on a long-term self-funded process for restoration.”

“As the general economy is improving slowly and steadily, I feel Grand Lake St. Marys will continue to improve,” noted LRC Marketing Chair Linda May. “Yes, this latest advisory is a setback, but the alum treatment is being done in a few weeks and we are feeling positive that the treatment will help to slow down the algae growth. Let’s all work together and stay positive.”