SOUNDINGS Steuben County Lakes Council, Inc. 207 South Wayne Street, Suite B Angola, IN 46703 Phone (260) 665-1730 E-mail [email protected] Web www.LakesCouncil.org Volume #34 Fall 2007

Steuben County Lakes Council “Protecting Our Lakes Today, For Tomorrow”

President’s Live Box By Bill Schmidt President of the Steuben County Lakes Council, Inc.

First, I have sad news to report. Chuck Goodale, the long time treasurer of the Lakes Council, died in late August. In the history of the Lakes Council, there have been many presidents, but there have only been two treasurers. Chuck has filled that post in the Council for the past 25 years. Thanks. Chuck was a valuable member and a most valued volunteer. The Council and his many friends will miss him. If you see an “M” on this mailing label, you are a member for 2007. As you are most likely aware, both the Town of Clear Lake and the Commissioners of Steuben County have passed ordinances banning the use of lawn fertilizers containing phosphate. The State Chemist notified both parties that their ordinances were unenforceable as they were in violation ADDRESS CHANGES of IC 15-3-3-12.5(C). This state law also allows for a waiver of this section We are diligently working on our data base to make sure we have current lake of the State Code. As the result of a meeting with representatives of the State addresses and current mailing addresses of those who prefer receiving mail other Chemist’s Office, your Lakes Council and representatives of Clear Lake are than at the lake. Please keep us informed of any changes that need to be made. If working on an educational out-reach program. The program has the goal of you are a “Snow Bird” and have a different winter address, please advise us of this educating the public on the reasons to voluntarily use phosphate free lawn address and the times this should be used. We want to be sure to reach you with any fertilizer. The results of this educational effort will be determining the mailings we may have. To make a change, please send a note in the mail or call the direction the waiver process takes. In order to allow the residents of the County to better understand the office (260) 665-1730. Thank you for your help. problems associated with and potential solutions to the use of lawn fertilizer containing phosphate, several experts have written articles on the subject for this issue of Soundings. We thank the writers for their time in preparing these Soundings is a fall publication of the Steuben County Lakes articles for our publication. Council, Inc., 207 South Wayne Street, Suite B, Angola, IN 46703. This fall the Lakes Council is funding a comprehensive water quality Telephone (260) 665-1730 testing program in the Pigeon River watershed of Steuben County. The results E-mail [email protected] Web Site www.LakesCouncil.org of this study will be presented at the December meeting of the Board. It is (Continued on page 2) Page 2 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 23 (Continued from page 1) expected that this study is a precursor to a county wide water quality-testing YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLES GOODALE program for 2008. Submitted by Sue Myers, Secretary S.C.L.C. If you are interested in lake issues, have questions about your lakes, or would like to meet others who are involved in lake issues, I urge you to attend the monthly For the past few years, volunteerism has been promoted nationwide as a meetings of the Lakes Council Board. The meeting is the first Saturday of the necessary and worthwhile social characteristic. Hundreds of examples have been month, January excepted, at 8:30 a.m. The meeting is held at the First publicized and discussed of the benefits this country would receive if more Congregational United Church of Christ, 314 West Maumee, Angola. people came forward and served the many hours needed in so many charitable organizations. The Steuben County Lakes Council, Inc. has had a perfect example working for us right here in Steuben County. The organization was established in 1972 because of concern to protect the quality of water in the lakes and streams in the county. For the past twenty-five years, one man has volunteered hundreds of hours of his time and talents to serve as treasurer of the organization. Charles Goodale is a name we will all remember long and well for his service to us. Having been a professor at Tri-State University teaching others how to succeed in accounting, he was well versed in the knowledge it took to manage the finances of this organization. He did it all—from creating a budget to filing the taxes and necessary government papers at the end of the year. START OF WATER QUALITY DATA That is not all he did. Being familiar with the tricks of the trade of the modern new (to many of us) computer systems, he could set up programs and PROJECT produce more fact sheets than most of us and, (with less effort as well), produce Submitted by Jim Aikman, Water Quality Committee Member more reports on the progress or failure of our work than you could imagine. His advice to others was always “Try it! You can’t hurt the computer!” The Steuben County Lakes Council has always been concerned about the When I first came on board this organization, Chuck and I discussed the quality of life on our 101 lakes and recently has made a decision to be more data base and how we could best reach all the lake property owners out there in proactive in its efforts to monitor the quality of the water which makes up the county. Neither of us had ever done large scale mailings. When I told him I those lakes. The Council Board will be funding a Water Quality Data Project was willing to give it a try, he jumped right on the computer, began researching programs and we were off to working out a really great modern-day with the purpose of sampling the water flowing through our lakes in order to communication plan to serve the S.C.L.C. determine where there is cause for concern. That was Chuck. Even though he had not been well for some time, he The Council at first considered using volunteers to collect the samples and worked on the books right up to the end, turning in his last monthly report in May then contracting with a laboratory to evaluate the water collected. After much and making contact by phone through August. Although Charles Goodale died consideration, it was decided to hire a company to both collect and evaluate August 28, 2007, I find it difficult to refer to Chuck in the past tense. His the samples. This will maintain the integrity of the sampling process and insure dedication and spirit live on here in the office as an example to all of us. the samples are collected from the same sites, in the same way, each time. His many friends miss him. The lakes and streams of this county that he We sought proposals from two companies engaged in this business and worked so hard for all those years have benefited from his expertise and care. In have awarded the contract to Aquatic Enhancement & Survey, Inc. owned by present tense still—“You’re a good man, Charles Goodale.” Scott Banfield. He will begin the sampling process in October at several sites on the Pigeon Creek chain and lakes along the Pigeon, as well as sites adjacent to Clear Lake. A report will be presented at the December Board meeting on this beginning study. At that time it will be determined how this project might be best continued in 2008 and enlarged to include other lakes in the county. Funding of this large project will be a challenge.

Page 22 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 3 (Continued from page 21) We celebrated the 50th anniversary of our Inland Cat Sailing Association in SCRIBBLING FROM SUE the Regatta. We enjoyed our newsletter, the Lake George Breeze, and our Lake By Sue Myers, Secretary George web site as they kept us up with pertinent news. We look forward to a successful end to the appeal process on the Lake George Dam and intend to have a great time at the Appreciation Picnic/Hog Roast As you can see by the first two articles in this issue of the at our Lake George Preserve this October. May our lakes enjoy a good freeze this Soundings, your Steuben County Lakes Council Board has two winter! Come on spring and summer. challenges it faces: 1. Educating property owners regarding the use of phosphate free fertilizer and 2. Establishing a trial Water Quality Data Submitted by Corky Van The Lake James Association (LJA) had a pancake and sausage breakfast Project. These are very ambitious goals. served at the annual meeting. Seven owners of documented cottages 100 years or In order to begin the exploration of the fertilizer subject, we have older were presented centennial certificates. The litigation at Eli Point has finally invited articles from various sources. It is the hope of the Council that been successfully concluded. you will read the material provided, sharing it with others, in order to The fireworks were spectacular. At this time one more pontoon is needed. determine for yourselves what you can do personally to keep our water The air show had a turnout of approximately twenty planes and a huge crowd at quality at its very best. the park and sandbar with everyone having a great time. You can begin with the article from the State Chemist to learn If you have any questions for lake projects, contact your Lake Representative about its “History and Responsibilities.” Then move on to read or attend the LJA meetings, which are held the third Saturday of each month at the information provided by an Assistant Professor at Purdue University, Presbyterian Chapel of the Lakes starting at 8 a.m. No meeting will be held in information from a resident of Clear Lake regarding their efforts to December. ban phosphorus, and information on how you can help as a protector LAKE PLEASANT Submitted by Nancy Bandelier of our lakes. The Lake Pleasant Home Owners Association has enjoyed a busy summer The State Chemist has requested that we initiate this program in achieving record high membership participation. Activities around the lake an effort to achieve voluntary use of phosphate free fertilizer rather included an annual hot dog roast and boat flotilla, weed control treatment funded than necessitate a waiver from the state in order to enforce a ban on solely by donations, area parties supported by friends and neighbors of Seller’s Shores, North Shore, and other fun loving groups around the lake. While heavy phosphorous. With this in mind, hopefully these articles will be useful rains dampened (pardon the pun) Labor Day events at many surrounding lakes, our to you. lake was fortunate to continue boating related activities thanks to the many Regarding the trial Water Quality Data Project, which began in individuals who see to the ongoing maintenance of our outlet dam. October, it was decided to begin in a small way and enlarge the base Unfortunately, Al Dennison, President of the Lake Pleasant Home Owners as the need, time, and funds allow. Such work is expensive but Association, resigned his position due to other time constraints. Our current vice accurate records may very well help future decision making on the part president, Jan Bohney, will finish out the 2007-2008 term. Our thanks go to Al for of our county boards. We need to be able to show where problems exist his positive influence over the past four years. and how to best solve those problems using facts. Funding will need to WEST OTTER LAKE Submitted by Dana Slack be explored in order to support expansion of this project. West Otter Lake has had a year that has pulled the lake community together In addition to the above challenges, due to the change in the due to a well planned Lake Fair. It was orchestrated by Lake Member of the Year, office of Treasurer, it has been necessary to establish a new record Jim Szudarek. The four hours of the Lake Fair on August 11th brought County, keeping process so Quick-Books was installed on our computer. This State, DNR, Lakes Council, Indiana Lakes Management Society, Local Fire led to new computer needs, which the SCLC Board members solved by Departments, and Rescue Squads all together to inform and educate over 120 lake giving permission to purchase the necessary equipment to update the residents and visitors. The program was focused on letting lake people see and feel all the support and services that are here to make our lake better and safer. The office to meet the needs. Thanks to them, we are ready for whatever! program was cosponsored by the Indiana Lakes Management Society. Please, give the Soundings articles your attention. The SCLC is Another big plus for the year was the development of westotter.org web page. about to complete its 36th year of reaching out to make our lakes and Take a look—this web site was developed by a lake resident, Editha Burns, a very streams even better. All of you are the key to this happening. Thanks creative and capable web developer. If you would need a web page for your lake for your support. or business [email protected] is very reasonable. Page 4 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 21 (Continued from page 20) OFFICE OF INDIANA STATE CHEMIST causing for docking boats, especially those using boatlifts. He was curious if AT PURDUE SINCE 1881 anything could be done at the Nevada Mills Dam to control the water levels. As it Submitted by the office of the State Chemist is, the dam is not adjustable. The lower part of the dam is to be reworked in the near future, bur there are no plans to change the upper portion. Alas, Jack’s concerns History: In 1881, the General Assembly found it was necessary to were addressed by a Higher Authority, and by the end of August, the new concern assure Indiana farmers that the fertilizers they purchased contained the was trying to keep boats from floating off the lifts—even though you couldn’t use the boats. So whether you enjoyed or cursed the boat ban, give credit (or blame) to nutrients claimed and needed for crop production and passed the Indiana Jack. Commercial Fertilizer Law, with an indication to the Governor that he Some of our officers have changed for the new year. Tim Knoblauch will should appoint the Professor of Chemistry at Purdue as the Indiana State continue as president; as will Jim Miller as vice president. We have a new secretary, Chemist to administer the law. Over the years, several additional truth-in- Linda Worden, and a new treasurer, Marianne Schaefer. The outgoing secretary, labeling laws have been assigned to Purdue and the Office of Indiana State Linda Miller, and the outgoing treasurer, Donna Hanna, have provided many years Chemist (OISC) covering seed, feed (including pet food), and pesticides. of dedicated, volunteer service to the JLA. We would not be where we are today Also, the Indiana Pesticide Use and Application Law, the Agricultural without them. A big thanks to both of them. Ammonia Law and the Lawn Care Service Law have likewise been given to OISC to administer. LAKE GAGE/LIME LAKE Submitted by Allen LeFevre Responsibilities and Duties: The OISC approach to regulation puts The residents of Lake Gage and Lime Lake have enjoyed another great summer at our lakes. A record number of residents joined our Lakes Association education and compliance assistance first, while enforcement is reserved and received a copy of our new directory, which is published bi-annually. for when all else fails. Product laws require OISC to license firms and/or Membership was at 84%. New Resident and Rental Cottage packets were products, inspect manufacturing facilities, sample products and conduct developed and distributed. The packets contained information on Indiana boating analyses to assure products meet label claims and are not adulterated. laws, lake history, pertinent information on Steuben County and our Association. Thus, OISC assures consumer protection and provides a level field upon The annual carp rodeo, lake-wide garage sale and the Marina’s Pig Roast which the involved industries may compete. Over the past few years, were all very successful. On June 30, we celebrated Independence Day with our product traits both desirable and undesirable, associated with safety have 11th annual Walk/Run around Lake Gage. Then in the evening luminaries were set received increasing emphasis in the laboratory and during inspection. Feed out along the lakeshore by our residents. Many people were out in their boats to inspectors have emphasized prevention of feeding products containing look at the luminaries and to watch all of the fireworks. It was a beautiful evening. materials associated with BSE to cattle and other ruminants. Numerous On Labor Day weekend we held our first lake-wide carry-in picnic. The lots of fertilizer have been screened for heavy metal content, in particular Association provided the chicken and soft drinks, and the attendees provided the arsenic, cadmium and lead, while seeds have been screened to assure “fixin’s”. We also had a DJ for music while we ate and for dancing later. A good claimed genetic traits are present and unclaimed ones are not. Retail clerks time was enjoyed by all. are required to be knowledgeable before recommending pesticide uses and J.F.New is completing the design phase of our LARE grant. We are planning integrated pest management guidance is being provided to schools and to reroute Concord Creek, coming from Crooked Lake, back to its original streambed. This will allow additional filtering of the water coming into Lake Gage childcare centers. The new emphasis is clearly human and food safety. and eliminate much of the erosion that is occurring in the current streambed. Our Inspection and Analysis: Inspection includes reviewing labels, members voted to apply for a construction phase LARE grant this coming year. checking product registrations, observing and sampling products (even This, of course, will be dependent upon receiving state funds and landowners during product use for pesticides), reviewing safety practices and product approval. We are only sorry that the summer is over! stewardship while also communicating about and dealing with product and facility compliance, OISC program emphasis and potential changes or LAKE GEORGE Submitted by Frances Ort program redirection. In the feed, fertilizer and seed programs, records are Mother nature has exercised her muscles this summer, and she has hung kept for client visits as retail (1,304), manufacturing (1,384) and dealer around longer than any of us had ever dreamed. What a delight to see families (1,211). enjoying water sports on hot fall weekends. What a treasure to live “on Golden While the above illustrations of the work of OISC are not Pond” through the week…seeing only sea gulls, geese, swans, and a beautiful sailboat… the lake at rest. Residents of Lake George counted their blessings… having comprehensive by any means, they do serve to illustrate some of the sewers, as we weathered the rains. important activities of the office. (Continued on page 22)

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(Continued from page 19) FERTILIZING LAWNS of Hamilton Lake has to do with the Callendar property on the north side of the lake. This beautiful and pristine one hundred acre parcel has been placed on the TO PROTECT WATER QUALITY market. The Callendar family has expressed the fervent desire that the acreage be Submitted by Cale A. Bigelow Ph. D., Asst. Professor, Purdue University purchased by an environmental trust and kept in its pristine state. Certainly, this is one of the most beautiful sections of natural lakefront in northeast Indiana and the Healthy turf areas provide many environmental and recreational benefits. A HLA shares the hope that the property can be acquired by an environmental properly fertilized turf has fewer weeds, is more resistant to insect feeding and is trust. The web address www.callendarshamiltonlake.com. will give you a less disease prone than malnourished turf. Furthermore, a dense turf slows and closer look at this property. This and other issues are also explored regularly at the decreases water runoff following storm events which helps reduce flooding in Hamilton Lake web site: www.hamiltonlake.org. urban environments. In recent years there have been numerous reports regarding HOGBACK LAKE Submitted by Jim Aikman poor water quality. While the exact causes are unclear, some of the problem is Another year has slipped past, it seems such a short time ago we were putting associated with nutrient enrichment. Increased nutrient loads stimulate excessive piers and boats in and getting ready for the summer fun which goes with being on algae growth, which results in poor odor/taste, decreased clarity, habitat loss and the lake. Looking back it seems the summer was very nice with just a couple in the worst scenario, fish-kills. The exact source and contributions of excess exceptions. Mike Surface, a new cottage owner on the lake, died unexpectedly and nutrients is uncertain, however, traditional agricultural practices and urban we extend our condolences to his wife, Kathie, and their family. We also had quite sources such as septic system failure and fertilizing lawns with nitrogen (N) and a problem with the lake level following several very heavy rains. The level phosphorus (P) have all been suggested. increased over five feet in less than three days, but returned to normal quickly. Among the “big-three” nutrients, P is required in smaller quantities than N We had our annual meeting at the Circle B campground in the spring and had or potassium but its importance should not be overlooked. Deficiencies, although a good turnout. Bonnie Schoppman is President, Jim Aikman is Secretary and rare in mature turf, are a serious concern in newly established turf due to the lack Diane Peachey is Treasurer of our lake association again this year. We are all of a root system. In soils that possess sufficient P reserves, once plants become looking forward to a beautiful, long fall and a quick, mild winter and early spring. established and develop a deep root system the annual P fertilization requirement (It never hurts to hope.) normally decreases. In certain other situations such as when reseeding, where the JIMMERSON LAKE Submitted by Ken Erlenbaugh plant has suffered substantial root loss due to environmental stress like severe heat The Jimmerson Lake Association (JLA) has once again been very busy this and drought, or during the spring when soils are cold and P uptake is limited, P year making the lake a safer, cleaner and more enjoyable destination and/or home fertilization may be necessary in order to promote healthy turf growth. for all. Much was accomplished with funds earned from membership dues, three The biggest risk for P loss from turf is during establishment or where successful chicken BBQs, a $1,000.00 gas raffle and LARE state grants. mature turf density is low. Phosphorus readily binds with soil elements and may We started the year with an extensive campaign to revamp the buoys and move with sediment as soil erodes during water runoff. It is important to signage on the lake. We placed new buoys in the usual areas, as well as in some understand that P is a naturally occurring element found in most soils, water and additional sensitive parts that should be left undisturbed. All of the signs on the lake living organisms. Non-fertilizer P sources such as pollen can be significant have been refurbished with post extensions and new, highly visible placards. The sources of P entering surface waters. This is particularly true during the spring association also purchased replica DNR signs that were posted at the private boat when pollen drops onto impervious surfaces such as roads and sidewalks and is launches to warn against the transportation of invasive aquatic hitchhikers carried into storm sewers during rainfall events. Additionally, the P level of (nuisance species of plants, fish and animals). The overall consensus is that the domestic animal wastes or migratory birds like Canada geese is very high. Runoff buoys and signs have proven to be a great investment because they have slowed losses from these natural sources can significantly affect pond and lake P levels. boat traffic in the desired areas. You can debate whether the “troop surge” in Iraq this year has done any good, Selecting a fertilizer product is often a confusing task, but understanding but the surge of increasing weed-control applications to twice this season certainly how to read the fertilizer label helps.The analysis (e.g. 16-48) lists the percentage improved the insurgent weed problem on Jimmerson Lake this summer. The JLA by weight of N, phosphate and potash. Most fertilizer programs are constructed hopes to continue that plan of attack in the foreseeable future. The next phase is to around N applications to meet a specific need. If you are planting a new lawn secure LARE funds to control the purple loosestrife scourge in our wetlands. from seed or sod then a “starter” fertilizer with a higher percentage P than N At the annual meeting in early August, a member of the JLA, whose name should be used to ensure proper root growth development (e.g. 12-24-12). By shall remain Jack Heinze, discussed the problems that low water levels were contrast, if your turf is mature, “maintenance” fertilizers (e.g. 22-3-8) should be (Continued on page 21) (Continued on page 6)

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(Continued from page 5) (Continued from page 18) used because they supply mostly N and less P or potassium. When selecting $20,000.00 was received form LARE for weed control, primarily in 1st and 3rd basin. individual products it is important to note that fertilizers with a high N content The Crooked Lake Association patrol boat was out week-ends as well as will cover more area than those with a low N content applied at the same target Friday evenings when there is disregard for the speed limit after sunset. N rate. Additionally, to avoid excess P applications the % phosphate of individual Officers for the coming year are President, Keith Hoskins; Vice-President, fertilizers should be carefully evaluated. Dave Simon; Secretary, Andy Hosey; and Treasurer, Jim Huber. The Board of Some communities have proposed P-containing fertilizer bans. Acquiring Officers meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. January these products can be difficult and frequently the only available fertilizer that through November at Anchor Realty’s main office, 3683 State Rd. 127. meets the zero P requirements is urea (46-0-0). Urea is an effective N fertilizer; however, it may not be the best overall fertilizer choice for homeowners because FOX LAKE Submitted by Carl Wilson it is completely fast release. Improperly applied urea results in unwanted growth We are proud to share with you that our Fox Lake Women Beachcombers flushes which results in excess mowing. Additionally, since urea is highly water Club had another active and successful season. Sponsored activities included a soluble the N is prone to leaching into groundwater. beach beautification project, sip and dip program for golfers prior to our golf One alternative to the zero P ban is the concept of using fertilizer N to P outing, chili and Karaoke night, yard sale and brunch on the beach. ratios. For example a 4:1 or 5:1 ratio would be appropriate for most mature turf Other Fox Lake programs included our annual Sunday School Program, family picnic, golf outing, closing dinner in October, and our up-coming areas. Thus, a 28-3-8 fertilizer product qualifies, whereas a 6-3-4 or 12-12-12 December wild game dinner. We participated in the City of Angola’s July 4th product would not. One tool that may help determine proper fertilizer product parade and recently held an election of officers and board members. needs and avoid fertilizer misapplication, is Purdue’s fertilizer calculator. To use We are extremely pleased to announce acknowledgements for William the tool, simply input your target nutrient rate, the fertilizer analysis and size of Watkins, Tuskegee Airman and Marion and Donald Spencer, Cincinnati, the area to be treated. residents. William, along with several other Tuskegee Airmen fame colleagues http://www.agrypurdue.edu/turf/fertcalc/Fertilization%20calc..html were presented a Congressional Medal of Honor by President Bush at the White House several months ago. Marian and Donald were presented with an Honorary Best Management Practices to Protect Urban Water Quality: Doctorate Degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, for their many years of 1. Do not apply unnecessary nutrients. The old adage: “Don’t guess, soil test” outstanding service to the City of Cincinnati. The presentation was a “first” for a applies. The only way to truly know your soil nutrient status is to take a soil wife and husband team to receive such an honor. We look forward to another test. productive year in 2008. 2. Keep fertilizer on the turf, if granular fertilizer particles land on hardscape (e.g. sidewalks, driveways, patios etc.) sweep or use a landscape blower to HAMILTON LAKE Submitted by Bill Dillon move them back into the turf where they can be used by the plant. The summer of 2007 on Hamilton Lake was very much dictated by the weather. We had a very hot and dry early part of the summer, followed by much 3. Never apply nutrients to frozen soil or dormant (e.g. brown) turf. moisture and an unprecedented invasion of mosquitoes in late August, early 4. Return lawn clippings back to the turf during mowing; this recycles nutrients September. Many long-time residents of Hamilton felt that the lake was in better like N and P back to the soil and can reduce annual fertilizer needs. recreational shape than ever before. This was, doubtless, a result of intensive 5. Maintain a 5 to 10 foot vegetative buffer strip around all surface waters efforts on weed control in 2006. Residual chemical weed control from 2006, when (ponds, lakes, streams, etc.). Avoid direct fertilizer applications to these the lake association spent nearly $140,000 on weed control, simply paid off. Late areas. in the summer, domestic weeds made an aggressive comeback but were treated 6. Keep excess lawn debris, twigs, lawn clippings, etc. out of gutters, storm effectively with standard weed control practices. sewers, streets, ditches and any surface waters. The major disappointment faced by the Hamilton Lake Association was 7. Pick up pet waste promptly. Pet and animal wastes contain nutrients as well denial of its application for a LARE grant to handle the construction phase of an as harmful bacteria. effort to stabilize the streambed of Black Creek, the major tributary feeding For more turf related information visit the Purdue University Turf Science Hamilton Lake from the surrounding watershed. Previous grants permitted the website http://www.agry.purdue.edu/turf completion of engineering feasibility and design studies and it is hoped that a new grant application will be approved in July, 2008. A major development which is certain to have a profound effect on the future ~ (Continued on page 20)

Page 18 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 7 (Continued from page 17) CLEAR LAKE TO BECOME The boat access has two signs warning about the Hydrilla weed species that has arrived in Indiana. We are going to get another sign welcoming others to PHOSPHORUS FREE the lake with the posting of a 10 mile per hour speed limit. Submitted by Mary Jo Fitzenrider Most of the piers were either under water or out of view with the rain we had. It was a different looking shoreline for a couple of weeks. We thank the The community of Clear Lake has a long tradition of pride in its actions DNR for closing the lakes during that time. Have a good safe winter. to maintain and monitor its pristine clear waters. Teams of lakers have volunteered over the years to regularly collect lake samples for water quality CLEAR LAKE Submitted by Greg Brown testing. Preservation of a high level of water quality has been and will Another summer is history. I hope it was a good summer for you and your continue to be the primary goal for current and future lakers. families. Even though some years are better than others it’s still history. Time gone While many traditions remain unaltered, changes, nevertheless, are by and always time to look back on and not to dwell on. It’s time to look at and plan rapidly occurring along our shorelines. As small summer cottages have been for 2008, but don’t rush November & December of ’07. Lots of things are still replaced with larger year-round homes, lush lawns and extensive landscaping going on. 2008 should see the purchase of Kasota Island. It is all coming together have accompanied this transition. More property owners are applying for us. fertilizers, either through self application methods or by contracting with lawn As usual, lots of new projects are happening on the lake. Home, garage, and application services. Many residents have become concerned how run off landscaping changes are taking place. When you work with your designer and with from such increased use might impact Clear Lake water quality. In more your builder, please keep your neighbors and the integrity of our lake in mind. We recent years, lakers have begun to comment about the increase in weed encourage you to keep as many trees in place as possible. If you cut some down, growth and frequency of recurring algae blooms. Seeking answers, several please replace them for the good of our lakes and mother nature. lakers contacted the DNR. Their response indicated that changes in plant Also, in the treatment of your lawn, please work with your lawn people to use growth could be attributed to many factors including run off of excess non-phosphorus fertilizer. It does the same job on your lawns as those fertilizers phosphorus found in lawn fertilizers. We began to question if we could have with phosphorus and is much more lake friendly. Most lawn care firms have zero green lawns and clear water. phosphorus fertilizer available if you ask for it. At present, our lake association Coincidentally, the Steuben County Lakes Council newsletters began along with the Steuben County Lakes Association and the city of Angola are trying featuring more articles regarding the impact of fertilizers containing to get a waiver permitting the regulation of phosphorous fertilizer. Since the waiver phosphates on plant growth in lake waters. The Lakes Council invited experts has not yet been granted, it is up to each individual property owner to voluntarily to speak at their monthly and annual meetings about water quality topics purchase only phosphorous free fertilizer. Please keep up to date by visiting our web including the impact of phosphorus run off from lawn fertilizers. Printed site. We all want to keep our lakes clear and clean and limiting the use of materials and brochures regarding this topic were made readily available. phosphorus is one way to help. Another big way to help is to refrain from raking Clear Lakers began to educate themselves about the impact of excess leaves into the lake as leaves and grass clippings are detrimental to the water. phosphorus and shared this information with all lake property owners through Always encourage others to be good ambassadors, think before you act, and mailings, door to door informational handouts and articles in the quarterly work for the best environment possible. Have a great winter. Clear Lake Newsletter. A survey of area retailers and lawn application CROOKED LAKE Submitted by Louise Reed services was conducted to determine those that provided a phosphorus free The semi-annual Association meetings held on Memorial Day and Labor Day product. A comprehensive list was provided to all Clear Lake property were well attended. For the second year the Membership Development Committee owners with additional information to encourage those who fertilized to only mailed incentive coupons sponsored by local businesses to Association members. use zero phosphorus lawn materials. The Clear Lake Association supported Enclosed was a business size envelope Crooked Lake membership card for the campaign to educate Clear Lakers by inviting Pete Hippensteel, a known displaying. water quality expert, to speak at their annual meeting. Armed with The Association donated the following: $50.00 to the Indiana Lakes information regarding the potential impact of excess phosphorus on our Clear Management Society; $1,000.00 to SCURRT; and $5,000.00 to the Attorney Fund Lake waters, the issue of intentional use of lawn fertilizers containing in the Crooked Lake Beach Club Estates group pier issue. phosphorus became a topic of discussion among neighbors. The goal of many The long range restoration of 9 native plant species were submerged for was to make Clear Lake a Phosphorus Free Zone. stability in June. The project is in 1st basin and blocked off for protection. The This past spring a resident approached the Town Council with the plants are doing well though there was concern after the heavy August rains and possibility of an ordinance to ban the use of lawn fertilizers containing perhaps when the ice forms. Two hydrilla information signs were purchased and phosphorus within the limits of the Town of Clear Lake. The Town Council (Continued on page 19) (Continued on page 8) Page 8 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 17

(Continued from page 7) challenged those present to find a precedent for such action. Subsequent research located several communities and states that have enacted or are considering legislation to ban the use of lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus. Following a period of review, the Clear Lake Town Council adopted a phosphorus ban ordinance and became the first community in the state of Indiana to take such action. Currently this ordinance is under review BALL LAKE Submitted by Paul Oakes by the State Chemist's office. If you know about Ball Fruit Jars, Ball State University, and Pleasant Lake While we can't control all factors that impact our lake waters, every lake Baptist Church, it is a big step to knowing the origins of our 87 acre lake in the property owner can choose to use phosphorus free materials if they fertilize corner of Steuben and DeKalb Counties. their lawn. We all need to be vigilant stewards of our lake waters and the Guidian Ball IV came out from Massachusetts in the late 1800’s and bought surrounding water sheds and continue to educate ourselves on ways to be 800 acres from Hamilton to Pleasant Lake for the tidy sum of one dollar. He guardians of the lake waters we are so privileged to enjoy. brought his family, by wagon train, and built a house on what is now Bellefountian Road, just north of Ball Lake. Buffalo came to drink in the lake in those days ~ according to Olive Weight, who taught school in Hamilton in 1908. Ball’s mother died in route and is the first person buried in the Pleasant Lake cemetery. Her sons, FERTILIZER AND HOME LAWNS bearing the names of the founders of the Ball Fruit Jar Company are alongside her Submitted by Robert E. Andrews grave. The Ball family founded the Pleasant Lake Baptist Church. Indiana Professional Lawn & Landscape Association Today Ball Lake is known for its 87 acres of tranquility and big muskies. As a 10 MPH speed limit water basin, the livin’ is easy here. Pontoon boats cruise the One of the primary concerns of many lake front homeowners is the perimeter and the occasional speeder coming in from the public access is promptly contamination of surface water by phosphorus. Since phosphorus is a primary pressed into compliance. A few years ago tiger muskies were introduced to control component of many fertilizers, it is good to look at its use and determine how an overabundance of gizzard shad. Now, the Department of Natural Resources best to reduce its movement into bodies of water. Here are some things for places real muskellunge in the spring and an occasional 40 incher is hooked, and homeowners to consider. for the most part, lost. 1. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for plant growth. However, many One of the real highlights of the Ball Lake area is Robb Canyon, 65 acres as lawns may not need phosphorus in their diet. Having a soil sample a gift by Dr. & Mrs. Robb to Acres Land Trust and 10 acres on the north side of the taken to test phosphorus requirements in your lawn, is a good place to lake that will remain natural in perpetuity. The woods are home to wildlife, including osprey, deer, blue heron, beaver, mallards and an occasional eagle. start. Check with your local County Extension Service or your lawn The lake is a trophy bass lake; any catch under 18 inches must be returned as care provider for information on soil testing. catch and release and the rule is leading to an increasing bass population. All in all, 2. When fertilizing your lawn, be sure to sweep or blow off hard surfaces Ball Lake is typical of small lakes that will become more and more popular as such as drives or walks. Runoff from these impervious surfaces is a traffic, piers, noise and people increase on larger bodies of water in Steuben County. primary way for phosphorus to enter bodies of water. Two picnics are held each year, one in June and the other in August. The 3. Do not put grass clippings or other organic debris in the water as this spring meeting is a business pitch-in and around Labor Day there is a wiener roast. facilitates direct movement of phosphorus into it. Around 50 association members attend and this year voted to replace our brick wall 4. Do not treat within 8’ to 10’ of the water. Creating this barrier will help Ball Lake sign. It is a good group of neighbors and citizens. in preventing runoff into the lake or stream. Creating this barrier is also BIG & LITTLE OTTER LAKES Submitted by Velda Dose important since shallow bodies of water tend to rise after heavy rains Our annual meeting was held on August 18th. Officers for the following year and thus cover treated lawns when they do so. are President, Dan Thiele; Vice President, Greg Mauk; Secretary-Treasurer, Arnold 5. Selecting a proper fertilizer is also important. It may not be prudent to Dose; Lake Representative, Velda Dose. Our lake was fairly quiet this summer. Tear automatically look for a phosphorus free mixture since many of these down and rebuilding is still taking place. are fast release all nitrogen products. Used at the wrong time or at high There seemed to be fewer mosquitoes, maybe due to the purple martin rates can cause excess top growth in the spring or leaf blade burning in population. We had about six pair on our side of the lake. I think the solution to get the summer. Selecting a fertilizer with slow release components and a martins is to get the house out in the water. The two swans are still without a family lower rate of phosphorus may be the best course of action. this year. 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(Continued from page 15) (Continued from page 8) amount of soil yielded by those uses we often gain an understanding of the It is also important for us all to remember that simply not treating the water quality we observe. Our lakes simply respond to the run-off they lawn is not a viable option. Lawn grass is indeed a growing plant and requires receive. Change the runoff and you will change the nature of the lake. Always regular nutrition in order to survive. The proper maintenance of it enhances remember that your lake cannot give you the good water quality you seek on a steady diet of dirt! the appearance and value of the residence. Regular fertilization also aids in the control of crabgrass and broadleaf weeds. Appropriate use of fertilizer is the key. SPECIAL THANKS If you are a do-it-yourselfer, talk with a reputable lawn & garden center The S.C.L.C. Board would like to give a special “Thank You” to about what fertilizers they offer which provide long term feeding along with the Indiana Lakes Management Society for helping fund the mailing of a lower rate of phosphorus. If you employ a lawn care company, contact them the 2007 issue of Soundings. We have worked with them for many years with any questions or concerns and ask that low phosphorus fertilizers be used and feel honored to have received their help. on your property as much as possible. Ask that their applicators avoid the barrier area along the water line and that any particles landing on impervious surfaces be blown off or swept back into the lawn. Proper use and application of lawn care fertilizers is essential if we are INDIANA LAKES WORK GROUP COMMITTEE to reduce the flow of phosphorous into our lakes and streams while still Submitted by Paul Oakes, Committee Member maintaining our lawns and landscapes. The third and final meeting of the Indiana Lakes Work Group Committee for 2007, held October 3rd in Columbia City, met to coordinate legislation benefiting and protecting Indiana’s lakes. This group is chaired by Senator Bob Meeks and there are twenty-eight members from around the state. Pete Hippensteel, Paul Oakes and State Representative Dick Dodge serve on the committee from Steuben County. Paul Oakes had been asked to develop a study of the economic advantages of our state’s lakes and reservoirs. Also, Mr. Oakes and Jed Pearson, of the DNR, were asked to lead a discussion on bass tournaments and closed seasons for bass. Other agenda items were: NOTICE TO READERS 1. Multiple piers and docking spaces The Steuben County Lakes Council Board has tried to present a 2. Proliferation of water toys and shoreline and density stress variety of articles on fertilizer and its implications to the watersheds. It 3. Acquiescence related to funneling is the position of the Board that an ordinance banning the use of fertilizer 4. Categorizing public freshwater lakes containing phosphorus would be helpful especially in a county such as 5. Bioengineering standards ours with so many lakes and streams. We have spent much effort 6. Phosphorous free fertilizer 7. CRP to ethanol collecting information on this from various parts of the country which 8. Classified Filter Strip Act we welcome you to examine in our office at your convenience. We also 9. Aquatic nuisance species education have an informative brochure published by the Indiana Association of 10. Legal drains Soil and Water Conservation Districts explaining that “One pound of 11. Algal toxins phosphorus can produce 10,000 pounds of wet weeds and algae.” This meeting was the last opportunity to begin drafting legislation for the Perhaps switching to non-phosphorus fertilizer is one simple way we 2008 legislative session. This is to be carried by Senator Meeks in the may all be able to help protect the water quality of our lakes and streams. legislature. If you have an interest in a significant topic not covered in the above, please contact Representative Dodge, Mr. Hippensteel, or Mr. Oakes.

Page 10 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 15 THE WATERSHED CONCEPT (Continued from page 14) Submitted By: Kayleen Hart. Resource Conservationist these lands per year and also receive all the nutrients that go along with that Steuben County Soil & Water Conservation District soil. Construction sites, woodlands, residential areas, etc., all have their own figures for soil loss. Many tricks are available for minimizing soil losses from Recently, a customer called our office to inquire about the Lake and River all of these types of land uses. It’s often up to lake associations to be Enhancement Program a neighbor had told her about. She explained that her concerned with the land uses in their own watersheds and see that the “best neighbor urged her to call our office before she planted trees because she might be management practices” are implemented to reduce soil losses. The following eligible for cost-share assistance under a watershed program we had. She called in are a few tips for limiting lake-bound dirt in your region. for the information, but also added that she didn’t think she was eligible because • See that proper erosion control practices are implemented at she didn’t live in a watershed. This prompted me to think that I really couldn’t construction sites in your watershed. The soil disturbances associated with explain how our programs helped improve water quality if part of the public didn’t construction and earthmoving can cause these areas to lose tremendous know what a watershed is. amounts of soil in a short period of time. Properly installed erosion control A watershed is all of the landscape that drains to a specific point. Depending fencing and other practices can help keep the soil on-site until the project is on what you are discussing, this could be very broad or very narrow. For example, complete. Steuben County is encompassed by two huge watersheds, the St. Joseph East, • Prevent new drainage from being introduced into your watershed. If which ultimately drains into Lake Erie and the St. Joseph West, which travels to new ditches and drain-ways are installed in your watershed it can actually Lake ; or you could narrow the concept down to figuring out the cause new lands to drain toward your lake and expand the size of your watershed. This can mean your lake is now picking up several more tons of watershed of a single farm if you are putting a waterway into a field which is soil each year. Lake residents should keep an eye on new activities in their experiencing gully erosion. No matter what size watershed you are talking about, region designed to enhance drainage. everyone lives in one. In fact, everyone lives in several. • Work with local resource professionals and farmers to prevent and In Steuben County, the two St. Joe Watersheds are broken down into five minimize erosion on agricultural lands. A wealth of resources is available smaller sub-watersheds: Crooked Creek, St. Joe River, Fish Creek, Pigeon Creek, through the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and your and Turkey Creek. Our office has received state-funded grants in several of these county Soil and Water Conservation District for limiting soil loss in your watersheds to offer cost-share assistance to landowners. We first meet with the watershed. Often funds are available for planting grasses on eroding areas to landowners to find out what their particular needs are and then assist them in stabilize soils. Because the loss of topsoil can negatively affect crop yields, developing a conservation plan for their land. The next step is to use this plan as a farmers share a common interest with lake users in protecting lands from tool to put the actual conservation practices on their land to reduce nonpoint source erosion. pollution (NPS) from ending up in our water. • Protect shorelines from erosion by limiting high speed boat traffic in NPS comes from many widespread sources. Sediment, fertilizers, animal key areas and encouraging the growth of native vegetation along shorelines. manure, pesticides, oil, road salt, fecal material from failing septic systems, pet Shoreline erosion doesn’t just claim your yard, in some cases it can affect waste, and debris from paved areas are transported over the land by runoff, snow water quality. The soil lost from an eroding lakeshore or tributary stream bank melt and wind. This eventually enters our streams, wetlands and lakes, or gets into can contribute significant amounts of nutrients to your lake. the groundwater and damages aquatic habitat and aquatic life and reduces the • Protect wetlands, woodlands, grasslands and other natural capacity of water resources to be used for drinking water and recreation. landforms. Naturally well-vegetated landforms generally yield little soil At the present time, our office has Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) loss, so protecting the remaining natural areas in your watershed can help Watershed Land Treatment grants in Pigeon Creek, Turkey Creek, and a sub- limit lake-bound nutrients. Wetlands can also act to collect and sequester watershed of Fish Creek (Ball Lake). LARE grants are State programs funded by lake-bound soils that erode from other areas thus keeping them out of the the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife, from lake. a portion of the state’s boat tax. There are also several Federal programs that work In general land uses which absorb and hold run-off or shield the ground to put conservation on the land in all the watersheds in the county, such as the from the erosive power of raindrops are key as is vegetative cover that Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the Environmental Quality Incentive provides root systems to stabilize soils and hold them in place. If we begin to consider carefully the types of land uses in our own watersheds and the

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(Continued from page 10) IT’S ALL ABOUT DIRT Program (EQIP), which are run by the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation By Scott Banfield, Aquatic Enhancement & Survey, Inc. Service (NRCS), also located in our office. How does putting conservation on the land help the lakes in our county? We often worry about contaminants like petroleum, pesticides, septic Since the Pigeon Creek Watershed makes up the largest portion of our county, I’ll seepage, and fertilizers getting into our lakes, but one of the biggest pollutants use it as an example. This watershed is located in the central portion of Steuben of all often gets overlooked–dirt. Yes, dirt is a common lake pollutant. This County and accounts for 76,325 acres (36.8 percent) of the county. This might seem strange since the whole bottom of the lake is essentially dirt. The watershed also contains the “Chain of Lakes”: Long, Golden, Big and Little base component of dirt is silica and it’s not much of a problem biologically, Bower and Hogback Lakes, as well as West Otter, Fox and Pigeon Lakes. In this but there are a myriad of other components in dirt that matter. To be more watershed, as well as all the other watersheds, a majority of the land is cropland. technically correct we should refer to this dirt as soil. You see the soil that gets Seventy one percent of the Pigeon Creek Watershed is agricultural. Therefore it into your lake is made up of more than just grains of sand (silica). is extremely important to the watershed and ultimately to the streams and It was an exciting day when we landed a spacecraft on Mars that was waterways which feed our lakes to put land treatment practices, such as tree capable of collecting and analyzing the Martian dirt because we could then see if it was just merely dirt or the glorious rich concoction known as soil. Soil is plantings, filter strips, and grassed waterways into place. When you combine the the product of life or “dirt” shaped by life in and on it. Plants, fungi, bacteria, federal and state assistance our office has offered landowners and the financial and animals all shape and enrich the upper layer of our dirt by collecting, contributions they have made to the projects, it amounts to 3.3 million dollars of adding, and concentrating organic molecules, nutrients and many other conservation put on the land in this county since 1993. Each year, this accounts components, turning it from dirt to soil. The presence of actual soil on Mars for a significant sediment reduction load going into our lakes. with its life-induced components would have quickly confirmed the presence The next greatest percentage of land use in the Pigeon Watershed is the of current or historical life. Unfortunately we have been disappointed to have urban community (12 percent). It is important with the great increase in only found red dust, no soil. development around the county, and especially around many of the lakes, that we Here in Steuben County however; most of our soils are rich in nutrients continue to educate developers and contractors as to the proper way to put and organic materials. The key in maintaining water quality as we manage our sediment and erosion control measures into place while they are building in order yards, farms, and watersheds, is to keep these rich life-formed soils out of the to reduce the amount of sediment that moves from the construction sites into our lakes and on dry land where they belong. When we allow the rains to fall onto lakes. It is also important to educate the urban community how little things they the bare soil they can collect a rich bounty of soil and run downhill with it do, such as proper use of fertilizer, may have a big impact on water quality. toward the lake. As Indiana soils enter the lakes in rain run-off they bring with By working on these two areas, the SWCD hopes to improve not only the them significant amounts of the nutrient phosphorus which is notorious for water quality in our lakes in Steuben County, but ultimately in the water that clouding lake waters and turning them green. Nitrogen is another nutrient that drains into the Great Lakes. If you have any questions about watersheds or any enters the lakes bound to particles of Indiana soil. This is a form of non-point of the programs our office offers, please call us at (260) 665-3211, ext. 3, or source pollution and can make up a large portion of a lakes overall annual check out our website at www.steubenswcd.org for more information. nutrient budget. Because of this we as lake managers spend a great deal of time examining and quantifying the way lands are used on our watersheds. In doing this we can predict the amount of soil entering the lake each year and thus get a bead on the amount of soil-attached nutrients entering the water. Experimentation and careful measurement have given us estimated figures for erosive soil losses from various types of land uses. For example we know that in Steuben County an average acre of agricultural lands growing crops in a corn-bean-wheat rotation can yield about 1.15 tons of erosive soil loss per year, while a single acre of lands in a corn-bean rotation will yield about 1.3 tons per year. This means if you have 100 acres of this land draining to your lake your lake could potentially receive over 100 tons of soil from

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Page 12 SOUNDINGS 2007 2007 SOUNDINGS Page 13 THANKS Pow Wow Point Campground Stock, John, RE/MAX REALTY BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATES 2007 Printing Place, Inc. The Corner Landing, Inc. Quality Interchange, LLC Timbers Casual Dining & Lounge 5R Films Gay’s Hops-N-Schnapps Re/Max Tri-State Realty Tom’s Donuts A + B Construction Hamilton Lake Association, Inc. Rockwell, Joyce A., D.D.S. Tri-State Chiropractic Clinic A-1 Wildlife Services & Pest Control Hamilton Lake Marine, Inc. Satek Winery Tri-State Docks Acres, Inc. Hamilton Self Storage Scheumann, Gary, D.D.S. True Speech Transcription, Inc. All Appraisals, Inc. Hansbarger Realty S.C.U.R.R.T. Waggoner’s RV Parks Allen Construction, Inc. Hawkins, Pamela, Attorney at Law Sea Dwellers And Friends Ward Corporation Alpha Mowing Heller Well Drilling, Inc. Sheehan’s Imperial Estates Mobile Home Park. Weed Patrol, Inc. Anchor Realty & Auction, Inc. Henion, Eric, MS4 Stormwater Group Silver Lake Mobile Home & RV Park Wernet, B. Lynn, CPA, CFP Angola Lumber Company, Inc. Hi-Vue Campground, LLC Sowles Bay Yacht Club Whitmore, John M., Attorney At Law Angola Schwinn, Inc. Illuminated Image Special Cutting Tools Williams, Craig, Angola Wastewater Treatment Aquatic Enhancement & Survey, Inc. Jacob Insurance Service Stanley Steemer Willits, David, D.D.S. Aquatic Management, Inc. JAZ Development, LLC Steuben County Community Foundation, Inc. WLKI-FM 100 Aquatic Weed Control Jilek, Michael F., Attorney at Law Steuben County REMC Wunrow, Don N., C.P.A., P.C. Augspurger, Fred G., CRS, Realtor Jimmerson Lake Property Owners Association, Inc. Steuben County Tourism Bureau Yoder Body Shop Bar-Bid Enterprises Corp. Jimmerson Woods Cooperative, Inc. Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Bassett, Larry, Realtor Jimmerson Shores Cooperative, Inc. Steve Westrick Agency B & C Associates, PC, B. Hendrick & C. Walker JK Property Investments, LLC Thank You! Bledsoe’s Incorporated JMR Cottage, Inc. Blue Heron Ministries, Inc. Kelley’s Surplus & Stuff MEMORIALS ARE ACCEPTED Bradley Overhead Door, Inc. Kottage Kare FOR ALL WHO WISH TO REMEMBER OR HONOR Brenneke Design Lake Gage/Lime Lake Association OTHERS AND WILL BE PUT IN OUR GENERAL FUND OR Brinkerhoff & Brinkerhoff Lake Gage Pottery SCHOLARSHIP FUND ACCORDING TO THEIR WISHES Cap’s Mobile Home Park, Inc. Lake George Conservancy, Inc. We wish to thank the following contributors in 2007: Carmer, Rose, Realtor Lake George Cottager’s Association Don & Janet Ahlersmeyer, Jim Aikman, Judith Armstrong, John & Barbara Baker, Harry CB Richard Ellis/Stugis, Commercial Realtor Lake George Regional Sewer District & Ann Bancroft, Warren & Barbara Barnes, John Berger, Dennis & Vicki Berkey, Velma Circle B Park, Inc. Lake James Association Bloom, Christene Burke, Michael Burkhalter, Jack Burkholder, Katherine Camp, Perry City of Angola Lake James Christian Assembly Carpenter, Jr., Mark & Dawn Christman, Eldon & Doris Clark, Nancy G. Connavino, Clays Restaurants, Inc. Lake James Lutheran Chapel Association Richard & Ruth Craig, Edward G. Dooley, Dan & Paulette Downing, Elmer & Maxine Clear Lake Association Lake Pleasant Cottage Owners Association Clear Lake Marina Langdon & Co., P.C. Featherston, William & Jacqueline Feil, Robert & Melody Ford, Steve & Brenda Clear Lake Yacht Club Larry’s Lock & Safe Service, Inc. Franzman, Frank & Doris Goodale, C.D.Goodale, Dale & Ruth Graft, Tom & Judy Cleary, Patrick A., M.D. Leinard Manufactured Homes Guthrie, Bill & Janet Hartsuff, Pamela Hawkins, John Hiatt, Peter & Delores Hippensteel, Commonwealth Biomonitoring, Inc. Long Lake Cottage Owners Association Hi-Vue Campground, Jack & Nadine Hodell, Thomas & Karen Israel, Tom & Jane Consulting & Counseling Assoc. Manapogo Park Kaiser, Dean & Gail Kelly, James & Jean Kinder, Leo & Margo Knight, Robert & Ruth Core Communications, Inc. Marfran Lakefront Apts. Kopko, James & Linda Krouse, Ron & Kay Kummer, Jim & Debby Lemmel, Larry Crooked Lake Association, Inc. Meijer of Angola Lyman, Scott MacDonald, Berdena Mann, Ronald & Annette Matthews, Myrna Croxton & Roe Insurance Service, Inc. Melton, Shelley, Realtor McCracken, Ralph & Margaret McDowell, Stephen & Susan McDowell, Katherine C.S.T. Enterprises, LLC Midas Auto Service McGough, Betty Moody, Shirley Mowry, Stephen & Irene Murray, Arthur & Sue Myers, Culligan Water Conditioning Mutton Rental Center Louise Reed, Philip & Jeanne Reid, Gregg & Dianne Reidenbach, Richard & Beverly Dodge, Richard, State Representative National Company, Inc. Rossmeier, Donald & Dorene Scheimann, Don & Carolyn Schenkel, Eve Schloser, Bill DTW Enterprises, Inc. Nolan Real Estate & Appraisal Schmidt, John & Dorothy Scott, Dale Seiberling, Philip A. Shafer, Leonard & Barbara Duch, Ronald V., D.D.S. Northeast Indiana Solid Waste Management Sheffield, Spring Point Association, William & Thresa Steward, Larry Thomas, Dan & EPPO, Eli’s Point Property Owners District Margo Toigo, Donald & Elizabeth Trennepohl, Joanne Thoorsell, Jason & Diane Turner, Farmers State Bank Northern Indiana Fuel & Light Co. Marilyn A. Vachon, William & Adele Wangler, P. J. Warner, David & James Wiegman, First Federal Savings Bank of Angola O’Connell, Patrick J. Kenneth & Jeanne Willis, Sarah E. Yoder, David & Myra Zoll, David D. Zook. Franz Nursery, Inc. Pappas Furs, Inc. Freeman Jewelers Inn