The benefit of joining the DCLA has many aspects. Some are tangible others are perceived. The group as a whole has gotten the attention of Land & Resource and the County Commissioners as we are consistently present at all meetings and have been able to input aspects of protecting the lakes though this effort. Our opinion is sought out when there are issues that are potentially involve to lake. We try to be on top of all issues for all lakes so that when an issue arises on any given lake we can get their attention. We have worked and succeeded in implementing some ordinances we felt needed to be in place. We successfully implemented a resolution for the County to provide funds for AIS spread prevention. This has enables Land & Resources to implement the boat washing stations in our county.
We meet as a group to share issues we are having on each lake and gather information on how to best proceed. With our resources we can usually point in the right direction how to proceed and at times implement what needs to be done so each lake does not stand alone.
We published the brochure 'Owning Lakeshore in Douglas County' for the Realtors to provide to clients and for lake association to distribute to their members, describing things you need to know about shorelines ordinances.
Thirdly, we have established the DCLA as the group to get the word out about lake issues. We work closely with Soil and Water and have hosted many forums on rain gardens, restoring your shore, invasive (species besides zm) and serve as the fiscal agent for lakes that receive grants for projects. We also are working with the Sauk River Watershed Dist and Chippewa project that specifically works on water issues. The DNR has worked with us in getting the issues discussed such as why have a Lake Management Plan and how to get started, implementation of the Clean, Drain, Dry, campaign combating Aquatic Invasive Species.
We also applied for and received from the DNR $10,000 as a grant, which spearheaded education of AIS and brought attention of this issue to the forefront.
In addition to your financial support, we encourage all members to be active on one of our many committees or activities that include:
I. Water Quality
- Prevent invasive species
- Improve Sechi clarity
- Re-vegetate shoreline education
II. Land Use and Zoning
- Storm water management
- Understanding the Ordinances
III. Communication and Public Relations
- KXRA Open line
- Echo Press Lake related articles
Fee is also $2.00 per lake association member.