Dockside - Fall 2014 Edition by Big Fish Works

FALL 2014

$1 on newsstands

D CKSIDE W

A MAGAZINE FOR LAKE AND RIVER LIVING

Finding serenity & simplicity on Lake Stella DNR identifies zebra mussels, milfoil in two

Kandiyohi County lakes Share your experience on Crow River to earn a paddle patch

Yoga group uses paddleboards on Lake Ripley

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DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

STOWED INSIDE N

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FALL 2014 • Vol. 6, No. 3

PUBLISHED BY Litchfield Independent Review P.O. Box 921 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3266

9 Waterways: If you care about clean

Waterways: Those who share their experiences on the Crow River can earn a paddle patch from CROW

Hutchinson Leader 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Suite 100 Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5000

PUBLISHER Brent Schacherer schacherer@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4143

EDITOR Juliana Thill thill@independentreview.net 320-593-4808 Litchfield office 320-234-4172 Hutchinson office

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jenny Berg, Jeremy Jones, Stan Roeser

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kevin True true@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4141

SUBSCRIPTION OR ADDRESS CHANGE Michelle Magnuson 320-234-4142 magnuson@hutchinsonleader.com

PRINTED BY Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2062 Dockside is published three times a year (April, June, September) by the Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader newspapers. It is distributed free to lake and river property owners around Litchfield and Hutchinson. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

Lake Stella 16 Cover: features a serene

setting for visitors, as well as property owners

water, volunteer to help collect trash from the Crow River in September and get a free T-shirt and lunch

12 Waterways: Two women make a push for paddleboard rental on Lake Ripley

14 Currents: State uses Kouba’s artwork on license plate 26 Waterways: Keep your septic system from freezing 28 Ship’s log: Listing of coming events, meetings 30 In the galley: Spinach-Stuffed Fish Fillets, Fire-Roasted Jalapeño Onion Dip, S’more Meltaway Pie FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

WELCOME ABOARD

ake Stella doesn’t have the popular swimming beach that its neighbor Lake Manuella has, nor the size its other neighbor Lake Washington has, but property owners aren’t complaining. Instead, they rave about how clean the water is, the lake’s beauty and the fishing opportunities they have. It’s another gem that our local counties are so fortunate to have. Yet, it takes work by volunteers to make this gem sparkle. Lake Stella Association has worked to reduce Eurasian watermilfoil and is trying to prevent other aquatic invasive species. Inside this magazine, we take a closer look at Lake Stella. One of the greatest threats to the ecosystems in our lakes and rivers is the increasing number of aquatic invasive species, according to Conservation Minnesota, a nonprofit organization with a mission to protect the great outdoors. AIS are any type of aquatic species that are not native to Minnesota and have no native predator. As a result, they often out-compete native species for food and habitat. Many local lake associations have undergone training with the Department of Natural Resources so they know what to look for and how to look for AIS as boaters come and go from public accesses. The training paid off for Lake Sylvia near South Haven. On the Greater Lake Sylvia Association website, the association reports that a boater arrived Aug. 5 at the public access. As a matter of practice, a man who helps monitor

boats for AIS began inspecting the boat. When he crawled under the boat, he found under the hull and hidden by the trailer, dozens of fullgrown zebra mussels stuck to the boat. He sent the boater to a local marine, which spent three hours decontaminating the boat. He also notified the Department of Natural Resources, according to the Lake Sylvia website. We have several stories about AIS inside this magazine. The DNR reminds boaters to closely inspect their boats, and lakeshore owners should examine their docks, boat lifts and rafts as they remove them in the fall. This year, I have heard from several readers with great story ideas. I am researching one, and will follow up on two others for the spring edition. Please call or email me if your lake association is working on a project, whether it’s shoreline restoration or a fun lake event. With 39 lakes in our coverage area, I know there are stories out there. However, there’s only one of me, but many lake association members. My contact information is on Page 3, and I enjoy hearing from readers. This will be our last edition of 2014. We will see you in spring 2015. — Juliana Thill, editor

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

CURRENTS

MPCA seeks comments on water quality report for North Fork Crow River watershed With the Minneapolis skyline in the background and a barn in the foreground, the patch showcases the rural and urban interface along Crow River.

CROW offers paddle patch to those willing to share river adventure

he Crow River Organization of Water is offering a paddle patch to encourage outdoor recreation on the Crow River. After the North and South Fork Crow rivers converge at Rockford, the Crow River flows 24.8 miles to the Mississippi River. The river’s course is used to define the boundary between Wright and Hennepin counties. With the Minneapolis skyline in the background and a barn in the foreground, the patch showcases the rural and urban interface upstream of the Mississippi River. To receive a patch, send CROW a picture or a story from a two-hour minimum adventure on the Crow River. CROW might use images and stories for future promotion of future programming via online and print mediums. For more information, contact Diane Sander or Charlene Brooks at 763682-1933 ext. 3, email diane. sander@mn.nacdnet.net or charlene.brooks.mn.nacdnet.net, or send mail to 311 Brighton Ave., Buffalo, MN 55313.

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

he Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is seeking comments on a water quality improvement report for the North Fork Crow River watershed. The report, known as a Total Maximum Daily Load, focuses on pollution caused by excess nutrients, bacteria, and turbidity. A public comment period began Aug. 11 and continues through Sept. 10. The North Fork Crow River watershed includes parts of Kandiyohi, Meeker, Pope, Stearns, and Wright counties. The report addresses water quality impairments in six river and stream reaches, and in 34 lakes throughout the watershed. The pollution is mainly caused by excess nutrients, bacteria, and turbidity. The North Fork Crow is joined by the South Fork Crow River in Rockford, and eventually drains into the Mississippi River near Dayton. The TMDL report is part of a nationwide effort under the federal Clean Water Act to identify and clean up pollution in streams, rivers and lakes. Every two years, states are required to submit a list of impaired waters to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A TMDL report is a scientific study that calculates the maximum amount of a pollutant a water body

PHOTO BY JULIANA THILL

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will accept comments on a water quality improvement report for the North Fork Crow River watershed through Sept. 10. can receive (known as the “loading capacity”) without exceeding water quality standards.

Water quality improvement draft report The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s water quality improvement draft report, known as a Total Maximum Daily Load, is available on the MPCA’s TMDL projects website, or at the St. Paul office, 520 Lafayette Road N. Comments can be submitted to Margaret Leach, MPCA, 7678 College Road, Baxter, MN, 56425, or by email to Margaret.leach@state.mn.us. For more information, contact Leach at 218-316-3895, or toll-free at 800-657-3864. Written comments must include the following: 1.A statement of your interest in the draft TMDL report; 2. A statement of the action you wish the MPCA to take, including specific references to sections of the draft TMDL that you believe should be changed; and 3. Specific reasons supporting your position. More information on the state's impaired waters list and TMDL studies is available online at www.pca.state.mn.us/water/tmdl/index.html, or toll-free at 800-657-3864.

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How’s the water? Click to find out with new MPCA web feature Showing how land use directly affects water quality just got easier with a new feature on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s website called, “How’s the Water?” By clicking through maps, graphics and information, browsers can see the challenges facing Minnesota waters at www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/water/hows-thewater/index.html. They also can access the science and data — in layperson’s terms — behind the issues. For example, clicking on “lakes” leads to a page explaining the threats of runoff, erosion and sediment, along with road salt and invasive species. The MPCA developed the “How’s the Water” feature to offer a snapshot of water quality across the state in four areas: lakes, rivers and streams, wetlands, and groundwater. The MPCA gathers and analyzes a huge amount of environmental data, but often that data is embedded in long and technical reports. “How’s the Water?” offers a broad and accessible look at the threats to state waters, the current water quality in regions around the state, and the steps the MPCA and other groups are taking to restore and protect our water resources.

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

WATERWAYS

McLeod County sees few AIS problems County will use state funds to create plan that continues prevention efforts By Jeremy Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITER

innesota has about 175 bodies of water infested with zebra mussels, which is why Department of Natural Resources officers find it so frustrating that there is a 26 percent violation rate at enforcement check stations. “Far too many people are still not following the law,” said Greg Salo, DNR central region enforcement manager. “Violators should know better by now.” So far this season, watercraft inspectors have found more than 1,300 boaters at public water accesses with aquatic plants, invasive animals or water in or on their boats and equipment. The DNR has issued 169 citations and 375 warning tickets to boaters for aquatic invasive species violations. Though the problem of AIS continues to threaten state waters, McLeod County has remained in fairly good shape. Nick Brown, an AIS specialist at the Hutchinson multi-discipline office, said McLeod County hasn’t seen many problems so far. The only infestation on record is at Cedar Lake, where Eurasian water milfoil is growing. “It’s an invasive plant that creates a recreational nuisance. It’s dense and hard to get a boat through, and difficult to fish around. It can out-compete

FILE PHOTO

Signs like this one have been installed at numerous area lakes where the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources maintains public accesses. some plant species,” Brown said. He said Cedar Lake had seen an ebb and flow with the trouble caused by the milfoil plant, but it has only been on the lake for around two years. “AIS are a big environment problem statewide,” Brown said. “But less so here. We don’t have big recreational lakes. Areas that draw people from around the state, Minnetonka for example, are a concern.” Just because lakes in McLeod County aren’t popular sites for fishing enthusiasts around the state doesn’t mean they’re immune to danger. If local boaters aren’t checking their boats, and cleaning them of invasive

species, plants or mud, an AIS can still latch on and be transferred. In addition to cleaning boats of mud, plants and any animal species, Brown said boaters also need to be sure to drain their boats, and not transfer over bait, or bait water, from other lakes. “Those zebra mussel larva are microscopic, and can move around easily in any water,” Brown said. “What we need is for people to be as diligent as they can when inspecting boats.” So far, it appears McLeod County boaters are taking the necessary precautions. In his talks with DNR enforcement officers, Brown said he has learned McLeod County residents are being responsible. “It looks like more people have been following the rules, compared to other places,” Brown said. Similar to most McLeod County lakes, the Crow River is also clear of AIS so far, but the DNR is concerned some state rivers could become infested as invasive carp are found further north. “There is always a chance for one of those species to get into our smaller rivers and streams from the larger ones,” Brown said. To stay ahead of the spread of AIS, Minnesota approved the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Aid program. As part of the program, McLeod County is receiving $75,700 to create and execute a plan to further prevention efforts. On July 1, the McLeod County Board gave county staff the go-ahead to work with the Crow River Organization of Water to develop a plan, and see if there could be cooperation with neighboring counties. Jeremy Jones is a staff writer at the Hutchinson Leader.

Meeker County focuses on ways to spend state funds to curb invasive species

eeker County will receive about $332,000 in state money through Dec. 31, 2015, to curb invasive species in county lakes. The County Board appointed five people — Mike Solbrack, John Decker, Leo Bauer, David Thompson and Karen Langmo — to a county committee to determine the

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

best way to spend the funds to combat invasive species in the county’s lakes. Also serving on the committee will be the sheriff, County Administrator Paul Virnig and two County Board members. — Stan Roeser, contributing writer

WATERWAYS

CROW seeks volunteers for Crow River Clean-up Day

he Crow River Organization of Water is planning its annual Clean-up Day from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20 in communities across the watershed. Volunteers walk along the banks of the Crow River and its tributaries, as well as paddle the river collecting trash. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt and enjoy a sponsor-provided lunch as they admire their piles of collected trash. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an activity for everyone to participate in, including individuals, families, and organizations such as Boy Scout troops, Cub Scout packs, Girl Scout troops, 4H clubs, church or school groups, and businesses. For more information, including communities nearby that are participating, contact Diane Sander, CROW coordinator at 763-682-1933, ext. 112 or email her at diane.sander@ mn.nacdnet.net.

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

WATERWAYS

The early September Canada goose season will open statewide on Saturday, Sept. 6.

DNR announces fall duck, goose seasons

population index of resident breeding innesota’s waterfowl season mallards was down slightly from last will open a half-hour before year, but 13 percent above the longsunrise on Saturday, Sept. Youth Waterfowl Day will be term average. 27, under a similar season structure to Saturday, Sept. 13. Hunters ages 15 and “Continental breeding duck numlast year, with similar bag limits and under may take regular season bag limbers were good this year, and following with season dates that vary for north, its when accompanied by an adult age heavy rains in the spring, wetland concentral and southern zones, according 18 or older. The accompanying adult ditions in the major waterfowl breedto the Department of Natural can’t hunt that day and does not need a ing areas were favorable,” Cordts said. Resources. license. Canada geese, mergansers, coots and moorhens may be taken from Additional details on the duck, The waterfowl seasons are based on a half-hour before sunrise to 4 p.m. goose, sandhill crane, and other migraa federal framework that applies to all Motorized decoy restrictions are in tory bird hunting seasons are available states in the Mississippi Flyway. effect. Five geese may be taken in the 2014 Minnesota Waterfowl “While the season structure is simistatewide. Hunting Regulations, available in in lar to recent years, there is an adjustbooklet form and online at ment in the duck season dates in the www.mndnr.gov/ hunting/waterfowl. south duck zone,” said Steve Cordts, DNR waterfowl specialist. In the south duck zone, hunting opens for three days Duck seasons In the north duck zone (north of Highway 210), the duck from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Monday, Sept. 29, and then closes. The season then reopens from Saturday, Oct. season will run from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Tuesday, Nov. 25. 11, through Saturday, Dec. 6. In the central duck zone, the duck season will run from In all zones, the daily bag limit remains at six ducks per day. The mallard bag limit remains at four per day, includ- Saturday, Sept. 27, through Sunday, Oct. 5, and Saturday, ing two hen mallards. The wood duck bag limit remains at Oct. 11, through Sunday, Nov. 30. In the south duck zone (south of Highway 212), the duck three per day. The only bag limit change from the 2013 waterfowl season is the canvasback limit, which decreases season will run from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Monday, Sept. 29, and Saturday, Oct. 11, through Saturday, Dec. 6. from two to one per day. Mallard abundance from a continental spring survey that includes Minnesota is used to set overall duck season Canada goose hunting Canada goose hunting is open in the three duck zones, length. This year’s estimate was 11 million mallards, which was similar to last year’s estimate of 10.8 million mallards and also in an intensive harvest zone. For a map of the intensive zone and other information, see and well above the long-term average. In another measure of Minnesota duck populations, a www.mndnr.gov/hunting/waterfowl. Hunting dates and

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

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WATERWAYS information: The early September Canada goose season will open statewide on Saturday, Sept. 6, and run through Monday, Sept. 22. Bag limits for Canada geese are 10 per day in the Intensive Harvest Zone and five per day in the remainder of the state. A $4 permit is required to hunt Canada geese during September season. The restriction prohibiting hunting within 100 yards of surface water remains in effect in the Northwest Goose Zone, Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area, Ocheda Lake Game Refuge, and an area surrounding Swan Lake in Nicollet County. Early season goose hunters should consult the 2014 Waterfowl Supplement for zone maps and additional details. Minnesota’s regular goose season will open in conjunction with the duck season statewide on Sept. 27, with a bag limit of three Canada geese per day the entire season. Goose season will be closed in the central and south duck zones when duck season is closed. In the north duck zone, goose season will run from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Thursday, Dec. 25. In the central duck zone, goose season will run from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Sunday, Oct. 5, and Saturday, Oct. 11, through Tuesday, Dec. 30. In the south duck zone, goose season will run from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Monday, Sept. 29, and Saturday, Oct. 11, through Monday, Jan. 5, 2015.

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANDALA LIFE PRODUCTIONS

Juli Rathke, second from left, leads a paddleboard yoga class on Lake Ripley the evening of July 31. Participating in the class is Kateri Kormann, far right, who runs Open Sole Yoga in Litchfield.

A balancing act on Lake Ripley By Jenny Berg CONTRIBUTING WRITER

o make the most of Minnesota’s short summers, Kateri Kormann sometimes moves yoga classes from her downtown Litchfield indoor studio to the outside deck overlooking Lake Ripley. A few times this summer, she even moved yoga classes onto the lake itself — with the help of stand-up paddleboards. “You think you know your inner thighs until you get on a paddleboard,” Kormann said with a laugh, referring to the workout a paddleboard provides a person’s leg and core muscles. Paddleboards Kormann was able to share the yoga experience with allow people paddleboard attendees of Open Sole Yoga in through certified paddleto enjoy the Litchfield board yoga instructor Juli Rathke, visited Litchfield this summer. lake, relax, who Rathke graduated from Litchfield get exercise High School in 1992 and now owns Meta Yoga Studios and Schools in Breckenridge, Colo. “We have so much water here. Why not use it,” said Rathke during a paddleboard yoga class Aug. 1 on the south shores of Lake Ripley. Rathke, who regularly instructs stand-up paddleboard and regular yoga classes in Colorado, said she was disappointed last summer when she visited Litchfield and could-

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

Yoga instructor Juli Rathke, a Litchfield graduate who now owns a yoga studio in Colorado, performs a halfmoon pose on a paddleboard in Lake Ripley. Besides paddleboarding offering an excuse to get out in nature, it provides a good workout — especially for the leg and core muscles, Rathke said. n’t find a local place to rent a paddleboard. This summer, Lakawa (Lakes Area Kiting and Windsurfing Advisory) loaned Rathke a few boards to bring to Litchfield. Paddleboarding — one of the fastest growing sports in the world, Rathke said — involves a person kneeling or standing on a long board made of plastic, fiberglass or inflatable material. If standing, the person can propel

WATERWAYS

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Antonia Muellerleile, 4, paddleboards behind Kate Carlson on Aug. 1, demonstrating that people of all ages can do the popular sport. himself or herself using a single paddle. “The nice thing about the paddleboard is it’s for everyone,” Rathke said. “If you can stand and you can find your balance, you can do it.” Kormann’s children — 4-year-old Antonia Muellerleile and 6-year-old Augustin Muellerleile — proved Rathke’s point Aug. 1 as they effortlessly stood up on the paddleboards and floated around near the shore of Lake Ripley. “The biggest thing is balance,” Kormann said. “You have to really balance out your left and right.” The evening of July 31, Kormann tipped off of her paddleboard while attempting a “wheel pose,” which involves arching the back and lifting the body while facing upwards. Despite the quick splash into the lake, practicing yoga on the water is relaxing, Kormann said. It’s also a great workout. “It’s like being on a sailboat, but you’re working hard.” Even if people are not interested in performing yoga poses on paddleboards, the boards still offer a fun recreational activity, according to both Kormann and Rathke. “Not only is it fun for yoga, but just paddleboarding alone is awesome,” Kormann said. The biggest downfall to the sport is the price, according to Rathke, who said an average board is about $800. “So it’s not super cheap, but once you make the investment, you have it for the rest of your life,” Rathke said. “And with all the lakes around here, everyone should have one.” Rathke said she hopes a local retailer will begin renting paddleboards so anyone who wants to try paddleboarding will be able to. She also hopes to teach a weekly or bi-weekly paddleboard yoga class next summer, she said. “My dream is that there is a boat house out here,” she said, referring to a place where people could rent paddleboards at Lake Ripley Memorial Park. Kormann said she will spend the winter months trying to find a way for local people to rent paddleboards. “We have the teacher. We have the lake. We need the boards,” she said. Jenny Berg is a staff writer for the Litchfield Independent Review.

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

CURRENTS

State uses Kouba’s artwork on critical habitat license plate

Nonprofits groups, local governments can apply for Conservation Partners Legacy grants

roups that want to restore, protect or enhance public land can apply for Conservation Partners Legacy grants that help pay for work on Minnesota prairies, forests, wetlands, or on habitat for fish and wildlife. Nonprofit organizations and government entities are eligible to submit applications until 4:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at www.mndnr.gov/cpl. Projects must be on public land or land permanently protected by conservation easements. Applicants may request up to $400,000 with a total project cost not exceeding $575,000. Projects also must have 10 percent of the funding come from a source outside a state agency. Information about the grants can be found at www.mndnr.gov/cpl. Potential applicants are encouraged to review the request for proposals and the “how to apply” tab at the website, which guides users through the application process. Questions can be directed to: Jessica Lee, DNR CPL grant program coordinator, jessica.lee@ state.mn.us or call 651-259-5233, or Kelly Pharis, DNR natural resource grants specialist, kelly.pharis@ state.mn.us or call 651-259-5174.

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innesota motorists can support conservation with a new critical habitat license plate featuring moose art by the late Les Kouba, a renowned wildlife artist formerly of Hutchinson. “Moose are synonymous with Minnesota’s north woods and its outdoor heritage,” said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Tom Landwehr. “Nothing captures the essence of being up north better than a bull moose feeding in the shallows of a boreal lake, and that’s exactly what this new license plate depicts.” The new moose plate, which displays a never-before-published painting by Kouba, is the eighth critical habitat plate offered. Other plates display the loon, pheasant, chickadee, showy lady’s slipper, a fishing scene and white-tailed deer.

Moose critical habitat plate The Minnesota Legislature created the critical habitat license plate program in 1995 to provide additional opportunity for Minnesotans to contribute toward conservation. Motorists who purchase a critical habitat plate make a minimum annual contribution of $30 to the Reinvest in Minnesota program. Every dollar generated through the sale of the license plate is matched with private donations of cash or land. Critical habitat license plate revenue has generated more than $25 million toward the purchase of 7,700 acres of critical habitat and helped fund non-game wildlife research and surveys, habitat enhancement and educational programs. Revenue from the sale of the new moose plate will go to RIM Critical Habitat and not be used for moose research and management.

Kouba research partnership Kouba, a Minnesota wildlife artist noted for his paintings of pheasants and waterfowl, died in 1998. The

The moose license plate displays a never-before-published painting by the late Les Kouba. DNR worked with Les Kouba Outdoors, the company that holds the rights to the late painter’s artwork sales, to design the license plate using previously unpublished art. The two organizations also signed a partnership agreement that will use some of the proceeds from the sale of Kouba’s moose imagery to help fund research and management projects. “This is a unique public-private partnership formed to help pay for wildlife research and habitat work that we hope keeps moose on Minnesota’s landscape,” said Lou Cornicelli, DNR wildlife research manager. The partnership offers Kouba’s moose imagery as incentives for individuals and organizations to join Call of The Moose Minnesota as a member, sponsor or licensee. Les Kouba Outdoors will direct a significant portion of the proceeds to Minnesota’s moose research and management. I “Les Kouba, the man and his wildlife art, have long epitomized the love of nature and wildlife conservation,” said Greg Meyer, Les Kouba Outdoors president. “We are all challenged to conserve, restore and manage our precious natural resources so that generations to come can enjoy Minnesota’s bountiful outdoors to the greatest extent possible.” The new license plates are available at deputy registrar offices statewide. For more information, call the Department of Public Safety-Driver and Vehicle Services at 651-297-3304.

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Lake Stella offers serenity & simplicity PHOTOS BY JULIANA THILL

Fog mutes the landscape around Lake Stella on a cool, humid August morning. As one angler returns to shore, two other boaters with children prepare to cast a line during the Lake Stella Association’s youth fishing contest.

Nestled between two lakes south of Darwin, Lake Stella offers a clean, quiet location for fishing, boating and relaxing — alone or with friends and family By Juliana Thill EDITOR

he air was cool, yet humid. And the heavy cloud cover hid the sun, allowing the fog to hang low on Lake Stella for most of this calm, midAugust morning. It was a good day for fishing, reasoned Roger Taylor, a member of the Lake Stella Association. Unfortunately, fewer children than usual participated in Lake Stella’s youth fishing contest this year. However, that boosted the six children’s chances of catching a prize fish. Avery, Bailey and Carter Broich of Clearwater headed out in a boat with their grandfather, Dave Gorham, who

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

lives on Lake Stella, and his friend Jerry Betker, who lives on Lake Washington. Avery, 9, used a nightcrawler to catch a 1.7 pound bass. It was large enough to win her first place for largest bass. Bailey, 7, won first place for largest sunfish with a 0.4 pounder, edging out her brother and another angler, Hannah Wadholm, 9, of Delano by 0.1 pound. “It was the perfect way to spend the day,” said Judd Wadholm. He brought his daughters, Hannah and Abby, to fish with their grandparents, Rick and Cheryl Molenaar, who live on Lake Stella. The youth fishing contest is an activity that the Lake Stella Association hosts to encourage lake

property owners to become involved in the association. The contest is open to youth — children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends — of those who are lake association members. “A member of the lake association has to be in the boat to take part in the contest,” said Rod Portele, who is cochair of the association’s board of directors. It’s a way to encourage lake property owners if they want to participate in the contest, to join the association, he added. Lake Stella, which is nestled between and connected to Lake Manuella (to the southwest) and Lake Washington (to the east), has about 144 property owners. In addition, 20 campers take up near-permanent

MAIN DECK At left, Abby Wadholm, 7, and her sister, Hannah, 9, each caught a sunfish during the Lake Stella youth fishing contest Aug. 16. The girls take part in the contest each year with their grandparents, Cheryl and Rick Molenaar, who live on the lake.

Avery Broich, 9, used a nightcrawler to catch a 1.7 pound bass during Lake Stella’s youth fishing contest in mid-August. Her sister, Bailey, 7, won first place for largest sunfish while fishing with their grandfather, Dave Gorham, who lives on the lake. residency in the campground on the west side of the lake. And four campers are located along the road separating Lake Stella and Lake Washington. “It’s a very clean lake,” said Rick Molenaar, who moved to Lake Stella in 2001. “We have wonderful neighbors. On the east shore, where I live, it’s just beautiful.” A sandy beach extends out several dozen feet on the east side where many homeowners live. “The lake is ideal for kids and for swimming,” said Portele, who had a cabin on the lake for years, and eventually built a permanent home in its place 17 years ago. Lake Stella Association helps manage and maintain the lake. The association’s mission is: to protect, operate, and improve Lake Stella and its properties, in a fiscally responsible manner, with appropriate planning for the future.

An active lake association The association was established July 22, 1988, and bylaws were adopted July 30, 1988. The board of directors is active and has brought on new, younger members, which Kevin Compton, who is the other co-chair with Portele, likes to see. “If we can get everyone involved, it would help. We need funding to treat milfoil,” Compton said, adding that the association treats areas in the lake each year for Eurasian watermilfoil, an aquatic invasive species. “An active lake association is necessary to protect the lake from all the invasive species including milfoil, curly leaf pondweed, zebra mussels, and Asian carp,” said Rick Steinbach, who serves as secretary on the association’s board of directors. “In addition, run-off and other threats can definite-

ly impact the water quality.” To pay for spot milfoil treatment, which runs into the thousands of dollars, the association depends on income such as annual dues from association members, lake directories they print and sell advertising for, and profits from Lake Stella sweatshirts and Tshirts they sell. Among the association’s other lake concerns are zebra mussels and cormorants. “We try to be ahead of the game on zebra mussels,” Compton said. “It’s another invasive species that’s going to show up, it’s just a matter of when.” To help educate others on zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species, Compton helped coordinate training in June with lake association members from Stella, Manuella and Washington and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

MAIN DECK

Lake Stella Association members Rod Portele, Roger Taylor, Kevin Compton, Rick Steinbach, Dee Dee Reiner, Lynnae and Tim Sellner, gather at the public access for a meeting in August. Board of Directors are Portele and Compton, who are co-chairmen, Steinbach, who is secretary,Taylor and Tim Sellner. Board members not present include Dave Franzen, Gene Putzier, Craig Reiner, Grant Wurdell, Ryan Severance, John Decker, and Galen Witte. “We learned what to look for and what to do if it happens,” Compton said. “The lake association will sit here (at the public access) during peak points — Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July,” and watch boats and inspect them.” Following the training, the association installed a sign in August at the public access to warn boaters that the lake association will make periodic inspections for aquatic invasive species and asks for cooperation. “They do it (inspections) on a lot of bigger lakes,” Compton said. “Lake Sylvia is doing it quite religiously up there. The DNR can’t afford to put a person in (at each public access), so if the lake association or homeowners on the lake can do it, it just makes sense.” This year, cormorants were heavy in the spring, but have mostly left the area, Portele said. “There have been years that they’ve been out here all year.”

Lake Stella history Gary Otto, who has lived on Lake Stella for 19 years, has been actively researching and compiling a history of the lake. According to a written historical account by Otto: N The earliest date of land procurement (later Oakwood Shores) was on March 3, 1855. It was deeded to Alfred

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

C. Hitchcock by Register A.C. Smith. N Prior to the city of Darwin being platted, on the bend of Lake Stella, which some historians referred to as Lake Casey, was a townsite platted and named Rice City. When the railroad was built, Rice City was abandoned and Darwin was built up along the railroad. N Harry Clemenson operated Two Lakes Resort in the late 1930s with seven or eight cabins, a baithouse and a bath house. Henry Hagen also apparently operated a resort in the southwest corner of the lake, where boats and bait were available. N Around 1963, the Barricks’ campground was constructed on the southwest side of the lake. N In the summer of 1964, County Road 14 was rebuilt and the culvert between Lake Stella and Lake Washington was installed. N In the summer of 1970, County Road 9 was rebuilt and the culvert between Lake Stella and Lake Manuella was installed. N Prior to July 1988, a new channel leading from Lake Stella to Lake Washington was created to the east of the original channel. County Road 33 was rebuilt with major departures from the route of the previous roadway. This also affected the path of streams and ditches it crossed and changed the nature of some of them, in that some portions are now underground. The

Lake Stella Location: Southwest of Darwin in Meeker County State public access: A boat launch is on the lake’s south side along County State Aid Highway 33 Water clarity: 5 feet Maximum depth: 75 feet Lake acres: 596 Aquatic invasive species present: Eurasian watermilfoil Fish species: Black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, smallmouth bass, walleye, white crappie, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, bowfin (dogfish), common carp, white sucker, banded killifish, bluntnose minnow, brook silverside, Johnny darter, logperch, tadpole madtom. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conducted a fish population assessment in 2008. Thirteen different species of fish were sampled, plus hybrid sunfish. Stella is one of the few lakes in Meeker or McLeod County that contains a fishable population of smallmouth bass. Website: www.lakestella.com Facebook: Lake Stella Association Lake association: The Board of Directors meets at 9 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month from April through September at Litchfield American Legion. To join the lake association, contact any of the board of directors or email Rick Steinbach at steinie41@hotmail.com. Annual dues for 2014 are $50.

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MAIN DECK

Lake Stella Association installed a sign in August at the public access on County State Aid Highway 33 to warn boaters that the association will make periodic inspections for aquatic invasive species. relocation did away with the old bridge over the inlet from Birch Lake, a favorite carp spearing location. N The DNR created a boat launch and paved parking area on the south side of the lake in 1992.

As the sun sets, anglers leave Lake Stella through the channel to Lake Washington. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conducted a fish population assessment in 2008, and found that Stella is one of the few lakes in Meeker or McLeod County that contains a fishable population of smallmouth bass.

Origin of Lake Stella’s name While interested in the area’s history, Otto also wanted to know how Lake Stella earned its name. “The origin of the Lake Stella name has been a topic of interest for myself and others. After moving to the lake in 1995, it became a mission to search for the answer,” he said. In Otto’s early research, he tried to find a link to the name of early settlers of the area. However, searching 1860 U.S. Census documents listing every Meeker County resident failed to identify a single person with the name Stella, Otto said. Undeterred, Otto then focused his search on land surveyors, who arrived from Dubuque, Iowa. He obtained a copy of the original survey from the Meeker County Recorder’s Office. This document was a certified copy of the original plat, surveyed in 1856 by Deputy Surveyor Dennis “D.S.” Langton and Mortimer Hayden. Coincidentally, Hayden had a 4-yearold daughter named Stella. “‘Stella’ is a family name given to Lake Stella by the Haden/Langton surveying party in 1856,” Otto said.

Many offerings More than 150 years later, Lake Stella is a popular lake appreciated by

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

PHOTOS BY JULIANA THILL

individuals and families. “It’s a nice, clean lake; a nice bunch of people, and it’s got a good lake association,” Gorham said. Steinbach agreed. He and his wife, Joni, live in Savage, Minn., and wanted to buy lake property that was within a two-hour drive of their home that would avoid traffic issues. “We didn’t realize there were so many lakes in this area until we start-

ed performing research,” he said. They settled on Lake Stella in 2002. “Stella is a deep and relatively clear lake. I’m a darkhouse spear fisherman, so clear water is a definite plus. The area has many things to offer, and it’s close enough to do day trips to the Cities. We love being on and around the water. We spend every possible weekend there, and usually have friends or family sharing the time with us.” I

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WATERWAYS

DNR reports aquatic invasive species found in two Kandiyohi County lakes

ew finds of aquatic invasive species have been reported in Green Lake near Spicer and Games Lake near Sunburg, both in Kandiyohi County, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. During the week of July 14, a new infestation of Eurasian watermilfoil was reported to DNR Invasive Species Specialist Nicholas Brown, by a lakeshore owner on Games Lake, about 7 miles east of Sunburg. The report was confirmed when the plant was found growing in the lake near the outlet from Norway Lake. Norway Lake is also infested with Eurasian watermilfoil. On July 21, a suspected zebra mussel specimen was brought into the Spicer DNR office for positive identification. The property owner said he found the zebra mussel attached to a dock post in about 4 feet of water in Green Lake, but was unable to find another. Brown confirmed that the specimen was an adult zebra mussel, though it was dead at the time of inspection. DNR personnel conducted additional searches on Green Lake, July 22 and July 24, but no additional zebra mussels were found. Green Lake will be designated as infested with zebra mussels. The DNR will work with local partners to contin-

“

Lakeshore owners should take extra time to examine docks, boat lifts and rafts, especially when removing them this fall. NICHOLAS BROWN, DNR invasive species specialist

ue monitoring for the presence of zebra mussels. If no additional evidence of a zebra mussel population is found in Green Lake for the next five years, the DNR may revisit the decision to list the lake as infested with zebra mussels. As a precaution, Lake Calhoun in Kandiyohi County will also be designated as infested because it is directly downstream from Green Lake. “These newest reports emphasize the need for everyone to be on the lookout for zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species,” Brown said. “Lakeshore owners should take extra time to examine docks, boat lifts and rafts, especially when removing them this fall.” Zebra mussels pose serious ecologi-

cal and economic threats to Minnesota’s lakes and streams. Heavy infestations can kill native mussels, impact fish populations and interfere with recreation. Minnesota currently has more than 175 water bodies designated as infested with zebra mussels. Designation does not mean each body of water is confirmed to be infested, but that zebra mussels have been detected in a lake accessible by boat, and spread is likely between connected waters. Preventing the spread of invasive species takes personal responsibility. Before leaving a lake, boaters must remove all aquatic vegetation and animals including zebra mussels or other prohibited invasive species, drain all water by removing drain plugs and keep drain plugs out while transporting watercraft. “We want to stress that lake users be diligent in following the laws, including inspecting, cleaning, and draining boats and dumping all unwanted bait in the trash,” Brown said. “Following these steps will slow the spread of all invasive species.” More information about aquatic invasive species, how to inspect boats and other water-related equipment, and a current list of designated infested waters can be found on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/ais.

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WATERWAYS

DNR plans to collect, sample ground water in Renville County

ater samples from about 90 wells in Renville County will be collected and analyzed for water chemistry during the next two months by hydrogeologists from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Samples will also be tested to learn how long the water has been underground. The data are being collected for the Renville County Geologic Atlas, an effort involving staff from the Minnesota Geological Survey, the DNR’s Ecological and Water Resources Division and Renville County. DNR staff will contact residents to request permission for well sampling, which involves collecting a water sample and measuring the depth to water in each well. The selection of wells for sampling will be based on geology, location, well depth and well construction. The samples will come from wells drawing water from aquifers at varying depths. Owners of wells that are sampled will receive a report of the laboratory results for their well. Preserving the long-term quality of the region’s surface water and groundwater requires that policy makers have access to accurate information based on sound scientific principles. A county geologic atlas is a valuable tool used by county planners, resource managers, and other local government staff when making general planning, land use management, and water resource protection decisions. The Minnesota Geological Survey has already published Part A of the atlas, which illustrates details of each county’s geology. In 2016, the DNR Ecological and Water Resource Division will publish the groundwater portion of the atlas (Part B). The Part B reports will include maps and descriptions of the hydrogeology, cross sections illustrating groundwater conditions, and the pollution sensitivity of groundwater in the county. The DNR County Geologic Atlas Program is funded in part by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. Funding also comes from the Clean Water Fund, which receives 33 percent of the sales tax revenue from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, approved by voters in November 2008. A description of this DNR program and status reports for atlas products can be viewed at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ waters/groundwater_section/mapping/index.html. For information, contact Jan Falteisek, DNR county geologic atlas program supervisor, 651-259-5665, jan.falteisek@state.mn.us or Randy Bradt, DNR hydrogeologist, 651-259-5728, randy.bradt@state.mn.us.

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WATERWAYS

Road salt, which contains chloride, is the most commonly used de-icer. Chloride from road salt enters lakes, streams, and groundwater after snow melts. Once in the water, it becomes a permanent pollutant and is harmful to fish, insects and plants.

MPCA recommends low-salt diet for state’s waters

or years, doctors have told people to stick to a low-salt diet. Minnesota waters should follow the same advice, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Winters in Minnesota bring slippery roads, parking lots and sidewalks as well as the application of de-icing materials to keep these surfaces safe and ice-free. Road salt, which contains chloride, is the most commonly used de-icer. Chloride from road salt enters lakes, streams, and groundwater after snow melts. Once in the water, it becomes a permanent pollutant and is harmful to fish, insects and plants. During the past five years, the MPCA has assessed the condition of Minnesota’s groundwater as part of the agency’s overall vision for clean water. The chloride that enters surface water is eventually carried downward into the aquifers that provide the state’s drinking water, and it can even change the taste of tap water. “Salt is a real threat to water quality,” said BROOKE Asleson, chloride project manager at the MPCA. “It only takes one teaspoon of road salt to pollute 5 gallons of water. If chloride continues to increase in groundwater, more waters will likely exceed drink-

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

“

Salt is a real threat to water quality. It only takes 1 teaspoon of road salt to pollute 5 gallons of water.

BROOKE ASLESON, chloride project manager at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

ing water and water-quality standards in the future. We are trying to spread the word that less is more when it comes to applying road salt because at high concentrations, chloride can harm the fish and plant life in our waters.” The MPCA remains concerned about the need to provide safe roads and paved areas, while also protecting water resources from contamination. The agency recommends the following tips for residents and individuals who are responsible for winter pavement

maintenance: N Shovel first. The more snow and ice you remove manually, the less salt you will have to use and the more effective it can be. Then, break up ice with an ice scraper and decide if application of a de-icer or sand is even necessary to maintain traction. N Slow down. Drive for winter conditions, and be courteous to slow-moving plows. The slower they drive, the more salt will stay on the road where it’s needed. More salt does not mean more melting. Use less than four pounds of salt per 1,000 square feet (an average parking space is about 150 square feet). One pound of salt is approximately a heaping 12-ounce coffee mug. And be patient: salt takes time to work. Applying more will lead to unnecessary contamination. N 15 degrees is too cold for most salt to work. Most salts stop doing their job when the temperature is below 15 degrees. Instead, use sand for traction in frigid conditions. N Sweep up extra salt. If salt or sand is visible on dry pavement, it is no longer doing any work and will be washed away. The excess can be swept up and reused for the next snow or disposed of in the trash. To learn more, visit the MPCA’s website: www.pca.state.mn.us.

WATERWAYS

MPCA publishes report on condition of state’s rivers, streams

ow healthy are Minnesota’s rivers and streams? How do our land use choices affect water quality and aquatic life? Do conditions vary in different parts of the state? These are some of the questions the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is working toward answering in its newly published report, “The Condition of Rivers and Streams in Minnesota.” From 1995-2006, and again in 201011, the MPCA conducted two statewide water monitoring surveys, at randomly selected sites, to help researchers characterize the condition of rivers and streams throughout Minnesota. This is known as probabilistic surveying. Probabilistic surveys allow researchers to form conclusions about the condition of rivers and streams across the state with a known degree

of certainty, much like a political poll. Information from the two surveys provides insight on current conditions and how different patterns of land use are associated with water quality and aquatic life. Now, for the first time, combined results of the surveys are available in the full condition of rivers and streams report on the MPCA web site. A third survey will begin in 2015, which, “combined with this report will help further identify short-term changes, build on our understanding of long-term trends, and aid in the development of watershed restoration and protection strategies throughout the state,” said MPCA biologist April Lueck, co-author of the report. Among the many findings in the report, some highlights include: N The likelihood of finding healthy aquatic life in streams is dependent on both natural and human factors.

N Nearly 50 percent of Minnesota’s streams have been altered to promote drainage for agriculture and urban development. N The state was divided into three regions based on soils, vegetation, topography, and land use. River and stream conditions generally range from very good in the northeast region to poor in the southwest region. The report established baseline conditions for Minnesota’s rivers and streams, so that future surveys can track changes in overall river health. The full report is available on the MPCA’s biological monitoring of water in Minnesota web page, go to www.pca.state.mn.us, click on the “water” tab, then click on “monitoring and reporting,” then scroll down ad click on “biological monitoring of water in Minnesota.” For more information, call 800-6573864.

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FALL 2014 | DOCKSIDE

CURRENTS

Keep Jack Frost out of septic systems As colder temperatures arrive, it’s important for homeowners to keep septic system from freezing in winter

ust as frost can cause problems with underground pipes in cities, it can also impact pipes and other parts of septic systems that are used to treat and disperse sewage. Cold temperatures combined with lack of snow in some areas may spell problems for some Minnesota residents who rely on subsurface sewage treatment systems or septic systems. “Snow helps to insulate septic systems and keep them from freezing,” said Dan Olson, public information officer with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MPCA

There are some things residents should never do to try to fix a frozen system: N Do not introduce antifreeze, salt or a septic system additive into the system. N Do not pump sewage onto the ground surface. N Do not start a fire over the system to attempt to thaw it out. N Do not run water continually to try to thaw the system. This can overload the system.

Tips to prevent freezing With cold temperatures spreading across much of Minnesota, there are several things homeowners can do to prevent their septic system from freezing: N Place a layer of vegetative insulation eight to 12 inches thick over the pipes, tank and soil treatment system to provide extra insulation. This insulation can be straw, leaves or other loose material that will stay in place and not become compacted. Spread out several bales of straw on top of the septic tank and drainfield area- and try to extend out a few feet around the outside of the tank(s). Insulation is particularly important for new systems installed so late in the year that vegetative cover has not been fully established. N If you’re worried that your system is starting to freeze, use water — the warmer the better — as regularly as possible. Spread out your laundry schedule so you run one warm/hot load a day. Use the dishwasher and take hot baths. However, do not leave water running all the time, as this will hydraulically overload the septic sys-

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

tem. N Leaving for an extended period? Have someone use warm water in your home regularly while you are gone, or have your septic tank pumped out before you leave. If a shallow tank is left full for several winter months, the sewage will become very cold and can freeze. N Fix any leaky plumbing fixtures or appliances in your home. This will help prevent freezing problems and help your system perform better all year long. N If you have appliances that generate low flows, such as high-efficiency furnaces, you can put heat tape in the pipe, and have someone run warm water for a while you are gone. Alternatively, install a small condensate pump that holds and discharges two gallons per cycle. N Keep all vehicles, animal and human traffic off the system. This is a good rule to follow all year long as compacted snow and soils cause frost to go down deeper and faster. Pay spe-

cial attention to the area between the house and the septic tank. N Make sure all risers, inspection pipes and manholes have covers. Making sure lids are closed tight and adding insulation is a good idea. Insulation may be added during construction particularly if the top of the septic tank is within two feet of the surface. N Keep an eye on your system. If any seeping or ponding occurs, contact a septic system professional to help determine the cause and remedy. N Add more insulation to your system. This could include replacing pipe with insulated pipe, installing expanded foam panels over the septic tank, or adding more soil cover. A common cause of freeze-ups is pipes that are not installed with the proper pitch or that have settled, resulting in dips in the line. Where a dip or flat spot occurs, sewage can collect and freeze. Pump lines can develop a dip right next to or above the septic tank as a result of soil backfilled during tank installation settling.

If your septic system freezes If your septic system freezes, call a septic system professional. The MPCA website includes a search tool for finding certified installers, maintainers, or service providers in your area. (Search the Internet for “MPCA SSTS licensed business search”.) In addition to checking your local area, also check surrounding counties since licensed businesses frequently work in multiple counties. If it’s not feasible to correct a problem, the only option is using the septic tank as a holding tank until the system thaws naturally. Have a septic maintainer empty the tank when it is nearly full. To minimize pumping costs you can reduce water use by limiting the number of toilet flushes, taking short showers, laundering at a laundromat, eating prepared meals, using paper plates and disposable utensils and/or using the dishwasher only at full capacity. More information is available at http://septic.umn.edu/.

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Organizers can start planning now for 2015 fishing tournaments Anglers and others who want to host fishing tournaments in 2015 can apply now on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, at www.mndnr.gov/fishing/ tournaments. The DNR said applicants should consider: N The application period opened Aug. 1, and preference is given to applications received by Sept. 26. N Permits are required for most tournaments with more than 25 boats, or an entry fee more than $25, or ice fishing contests exceeding 150 participants. N A fee is required to apply, due at time of application, with fees typically ranging from $60 to $200. N Permits are not required for certain types of contests, including youth tournaments. N A lottery is used to allocate permits if the number of applications exceeds monthly limits. The DNR limits the size and frequency of tournaments on most waters based on lake size, and also keeps two weekends each month free of permitted tournaments. The application fee is designed to recover administrative costs and free up dollars for fish management programs. For tournament regulations, call the DNR Information Center, 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367; online at www.mndnr.gov/fishing/tournaments.

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SHIP’S LOG

Calendar of local events, meetings will meet from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Nov. 19 at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

September Lake Washington Improvement Association Board of Directors meet at 7 p.m. Sept. 2 at Dassel Rod and Gun Club. Belle Lake Association will meet at 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at Bonfire. Lake Stella Association Board of Directors meets at 9 a.m. Sept. 9 at Litchfield American Legion. Greater Lake Sylvia Association board meeting will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Southbrook Golf Course. Lake Francis Area Recreation and Conservation Club Board of Directors meets on the third Saturday of the month at 8:30 a.m. at Triple R in Kimball. Lake Jennie Improvement Association board meeting is the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for the time and location of the next meeting. Crow River Organization of Water annual Crow River Clean Up, will be Sept. 20. For more information, contact Diane Sander, CROW coordinator, at 763-682-1933, ext. 112 or email her at diane.sander@ mn.nacdnet.net. Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association Board of Directors meet from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17 at Bonfire Bar & Grille. North Browns Lake Association Board of Directors will meet at 9 a.m. Sept. 20. Greater Lake Sylvia Association Board of Directors meet at 9 a.m. Sept. 13 at Southside Township Hall, 8209 County Road 3 NW, Annandale.

October Lake Washington Improvement Association Board of Directors meet at 7 p.m. Oct. 7 at Dassel Rod and Gun Club. Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association Board of Directors will meet from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 15 at Bonfire Bar & Grille. Lake Jennie Improvement Association Board meets the third Saturday of each month, except

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

January Eden Valley Sportsman’s Club annual ice fishing contest 1 to 3 p.m. Jan 17 by the public access. Limited number of tickets will be sold. Lake Marion Improvement Association meets at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 (on the third Thursday in January, April, June and August) at the Brownton Rod and Gun Club, County Road 87 at the south bay of the lake.

February Fifth annual Litchfield Wintercade ice fishing contest planning is underway. In the past, the contest has been the second Saturday of February on Lake Ripley. For more information, contact the Litchfield VFW or Litchfield American Legion. Lake Washington Improvement Association board members meet at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Have your event listed If your organization or lake association has a meeting, coming event or item to list in the calendar, we want to hear from you. Email information to Juliana Thill at thill@independentreview.net or call 320-593-4808 or 320-234-4172. November and December. Contact a board member for the time and location of the next meeting. Greater Lake Sylvia Association Board of Directors meet at 9 a.m. Oct. 11 at Southside Township Hall, 8209 County Road 3 NW, Annandale.

November Greater Lake Sylvia Association board meeting will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 11 at Southbrook Golf Course. Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association Board of Directors

March Lake Washington Improvement Association board members meet at 7 p.m. March 2 at Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

April North Browns Lake Association Board of Directors will meet at 9 a.m. April 18. Lake Stella Homeowner’s Association will meet at 9 a.m. April 7 at Litchfield American Legion. Lake Stella Homeowner’s Association spring clean-up will be at 9 a.m. April 25 at the public access. Lake Marion Improvement Association meets at 6:30 p.m. April 16 at the Brownton Rod and Gun Club, County Road 87 at the south bay of the lake. Belle Lake Association meetings are usually at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at Bonfire Bar and Grille.

SHIP’S LOG

Information about area lakes can be found online Editor’s note: We are compiling a list of lake association websites and Facebook pages. If your lake association’s information is not included in this list or if it changes, please contact Editor Juliana Thill at 320-5934808 or email her at thill@ independentreview.net. Belle Lake Association • Facebook: Belle Lake Association Brooks Lake Area Association • Website: www.brookslake.info Collinwood Community Lake Association • Website: www.collinwoodlake.com Crow River Organization of Water • Website: http://crowriver.org • Facebook: Crow River Lakes and Streams

Lake Francis Area Recreation and Conservation Club • Website: www.lakefrancisarcc.com/lfarcc French Lake Improvement Association • Website: www.frenchlake.org

North Browns Lake Association • Website: www.northbrownslake.org Lake Ripley Improvement Association • Facebook: Lake Ripley Improvement Association

Lake Jennie Improvement Corp. • Website: www.lakejennie.com

Lake Stella Homeowner’s Association • Website: www.lakestella.com • Facebook: Lake Stella Association

Koronis Lake Association • Website: http://koronislakeassociation.org

Greater Lake Sylvia Association • Website: www.lakesylvia.org

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association • Website: https://sites.google.com/site/lmbiaorg • Facebook: Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association

Lake Washington Improvement Association • Website: www.lakewashingtonassn.com • Facebook: Lake Washington Improvement Association

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IN THE GALLEY Spinach-Stuffed Fish Fillets 1 tablespoon corn oil 1 large clove garlic, minced 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese 1/3 cup Old London or Devonsheer Plain Bread Crumbs* 4 fish fillets (about 1 pound) Toasted bread crumbs for garnish

Share your recipes

In skillet heat corn oil over medium heat. Add garlic. Cook, stirring 30 seconds. Add spinach, nutmeg and pepper. Cook, stirring 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese and 1/3 cup bread crumbs. Spread about 1/3 cup mixture SOURCE: WWW.CULINARY.NET/ OLD LONDON FOODS INC. evenly on each fillet. Roll up. Arrange seam-side down in greased, shallow baking dish. Cover and bake in 400-degree oven 15 minutes or until fish is firm but moist. Garnish with toasted bread crumbs as desired. Makes four servings.

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables 4 cups cubed winter vegetables (cut into1/2-inch pieces), such as carrots, butternut squash, parsnips or sweet potatoes 1 medium onion, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes 3/4 cup chicken stock OR chicken broth can be used 1/4 cup dry red wine or apple juice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Black Pepper, Coarse Ground 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Thyme Leaves 3 McCormick Bay Leaves

SOURCE: WWW.CULINARY.NET/ MCCORMICK

Preheat oven to 425. Toss cubed vegetables and onion with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Arrange in single layer on large baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes or until vegetables are golden brown. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Return all beef to skillet. Add roasted vegetables, stock, wine, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving. Makes six servings.

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2014

Share your favorite outdoor recipe, whether it’s for scrumptious crusted fish, campfire treats, or garden vegetables salads. Selected recipes will be published in a future edition of Dockside. Email your recipes to Juliana Thill at thill@independentreview.net or send them to Juliana at Hutchinson Leader, 170 Shady Ridge Road NW, Hutchinson, MN 55350 or at the Independent Review, 217 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355. Include your name, address and phone number.

As the temperature cools, turn up the heat with this FireRoasted Jalapeño Onion Dip SOURCE: WWW. CULINARY.NET/ WILTON ENTERPRISES

Fire-Roasted Jalapeño Onion Dip 4 jalapeño peppers 1 package (5.7 ounces) onion soup mix 1 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise Preheat broiler. Place peppers on non-stick cookie pan; broil, turning at least once, 6 to 7 minutes or until blackened. Let stand 10 minutes. Remove stem and seeds; coarsely chop. In large bowl, stir together onion soup mix, sour cream and mayonnaise. Fold in peppers. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Serve with cucumber and zucchini slices, celery, carrot sticks, sliced bell peppers and other favorite vegetables. Makes about 1-3/4 cups dip Note: For spicier dip, include seeds from peppers.

IN THE GALLEY S’more Meltaway Pie 20 squares Honey Maid Honey Grahams, finely crushed (about 1 1/2 cups) 1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted 1 (12-ounce) jar hot fudge sauce, divided 1 pint vanilla ice cream, slightly softened 16 Jet-Puffed Marshmallows, halved Mix graham crumbs and butter or margarine until well combined. Press firmly on bottom and side of 9-inch metal pie plate. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely. Carefully spread about half SOURCE: WWW.CULINARY.NET/JET-PUFFED MARSHMALLOWS, HONEYMAID HONEY GRAHAMS the fudge sauce over the bottom of the crust. Spread with softened ice cream. Freeze, covered, for five to six hours or until firm. When ready to serve, preheat broiler and remove pie from freezer. Place marshmallow halves, cut-side down, on top of pie. Broil 4 inches from heat source until marshmallows are golden brown and puffed, about two minutes. Serve immediately with remaining fudge sauce. Makes eight servings.

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