01-10-23 Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Discussion: Renee reported that the DNR had applied for a new gauge to be funded, installed and calibrated in Karth Lake. If approved, it would likely be installed within a couple of weeks. Volunteers would be needed to record and upload lake levels weekly when there is open water. She and Jim Elliott have volunteered to take readings in 2022 and others said they could fill-in, if needed. Renee also reported that Matt Kocian of RCWD will provide funding for its hydrologist consultant, Chris Otterness, to develop a model of Karth Lake lake levels and develop an improved pumping strategy to reduce lake level bounce. They have offered an option of deliverables: (1) a spreadsheet tool for our use or (2) a pumping strategy designed to meet a set of written goals / criteria. Tony asked if we could have both: a pumping strategy and a tool that we could use after the analysis is completed. The board agreed and, as a whole, expressed a desire to receive the full benefit of Chris’ know-how through delivering a pumping strategy. With regards to the task of developing a written set of goals and criteria, Renee suggested it would be helpful to have a meeting up front with Matt and Chris, with people at the city that will be responsible for implementing a revised strategy, and with board representatives, myself and Gary Gerding. Specifically, implementation constraints and alternative could impact the strategy recommendation. All in attendance agreed. David and Lucas said they would be happy to participate in such a meeting. Action: Renee will set up a meeting with Matt, Chris, David, Lucas, Gary and myself to launch the modeling effort. Renee will follow up on gauge status and begin lake level measurements once available. 7. New Business 7.1 Plan for 2022 removal of excess lake weeds and debris and control of invasive purple loosestrife. Discussion: Susan agreed to manage this effort again in 2022. The board requested that the city’s KLID web page include information about purple loosestrife. David said there is a new communications director. Action: Susan will send a flyer about weed removal and include a note and photos about purple loosestrife. David will send the new communications director’s contact information to Renee. Renee will provide content to the city to add information to the website. 7.2 Report results of 2021 water quality monitoring for Karth Lake – Gary Gerding Discussion: Gary shared charts provided by Matt Kocian of RCWD (shown below) and the following observations: • Over the past 10 years, water quality has been generally stable. I.e., there have been no statistically significant trends in total phosphorus nor chl-a averages. Total phosphorus and chl-a levels in 2021 were 7% and 17% higher than their 10- year averages, respectively, but the magnitudes of these changes are consistent