Fall dockside 2015

FALL 2015

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$1 on newsstands

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A MAGAZINE FOR LAKE AND RIVER LIVING

A perfect place to paddle Three Hutchinson groups join efforts to encourage people to try using paddle-sports equipment and experience opportunities available on the Crow River

DNR confirms zebra mussels in Lake Stella Adults can bring youth on organized hunts Listen to Mom’s advice even on the ice: Pick up after yourself

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FALL 2015 • Vol. 7, No. 3

PUBLISHED BY Litchfield Independent Review P.O. Box 307, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3266

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Some 24 Waterways: anglers who ice fish

Currents: DNR adds lakes Stella,Washington to state’s list of impaired waters for zebra mussels

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 ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kevin True true@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4141 CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenny Berg SUBSCRIPTION OR ADDRESS CHANGE Michelle Magnuson magnuson@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4142 PRINTED BY Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 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.

ON THE COVER Cover photo by Juliana Thill Two people use stand-up paddleboards on the Crow River as kayaks rest on the shore.

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Three 16 Cover: Hutchinson

citizen groups work together to encourage people to be active by using the Crow River

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leave behind garbage, which can draw a fine for littering

Currents: DNR wants your input on pike problems

14 Currents: Off-highway vehicle park opens by Darwin 22 Currents: Keep pavement on a low-salt diet in winter 26 In the galley: Super Easy Twice-Baked Potatoes with Bacon & Chives; Battered Sea Bass; Campfire S’mores; and Turtle Shortbread Cookies

28 Ship’s log: Find out what’s happening in your area FALL 2015 | DOCKSIDE

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WELCOME ABOARD

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hat a wonderful summer we had, and it’s shaping up to be a beautiful fall, as well. I hope you had the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the numerous lakes and rivers in our area.

Sometimes, when people don’t live on a lake or along a river, it can be easy to forget what wonderful resources we have here. And those who aren’t water-front property owners might not have water equipment to use. That’s why it was so fun to see three Hutchinson citizen groups partner on a project to encourage people to be active on the Crow River. The Heart of Hutch’s Move Naturally Committee worked with Hutchinson Waters, as well as the city of Hutchinson’s Parks, Recreation and Community Education department, to offer two paddle-sports events in July. The city of Hutchinson has a staffed facility near the boat landing at Masonic Campground and West River Park where people can rent paddle-sports equipment. The two public orientations offered tips for using the equipment properly and then allowed people to step aboard the paddleboards, sit in kayaks or the canoe and paddle around. This combined effort to encourage people to be active and to highlight the underused resource we have with the river is our cover story. Read more about the paddle-sports events and how you can take part.

Also in this magazine, we have several stories about aquatic invasive species, particularly related to zebra mussels. As some of you have probably heard by now, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed zebra mussels were found in Lake Stella. Because Lake Washington is downstream from Lake Stella, the DNR will add both lakes to its list of impaired waters. Read about what is being done and what can be done to help prevent the spread of these and other aquatic invasive species.

We have many more stories in the magazine for anglers, hunters, and all-terrain vehicle users, as well as some tasty recipes for those who like to be in the kitchen.

And since we won’t be back until spring, we have an extended calendar of events. Take note of when your lake association meets, and become involved in preserving the treasure out your back door. And as lake associations set dates for meetings, annual picnics, fishing tournaments or other events, I would love to hear about them so I can include them in future magazines. See you in the spring!

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Adults can bring youth on organized hunts

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outh can hunt with adult mentors during several organized youth hunting opportunities this fall. Application forms and information can be found at www.mndnr.gov/discover, or by calling the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Information Center, 888646-6367, or Mike Kurre, DNR mentoring program coordinator, 651-2595193.

Some of the these hunting events had an application deadline in August.

However, a few are still available:

Youth, family upland bird hunt For ages 12 to 17 and family members who want to hunt together. Hunts and orientations are Saturday, Oct. 17 or 24.

Locations throughout Minnesota. Apply by Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Youth deer season For ages 10 to 15. Season is

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Minnesota offers several youth hunting opportunities in the fall.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Thursday, Oct. 15, through Sunday, Oct. 18. Permit areas in southeastern and northwestern Minnesota and portions of the Twin Cities metro area.

Twenty-seven deer permit areas are open to hunt, see hunting regulations book or DNR hunting page at www.mndnr.gov/hunting/deer for permit areas.

Take a Kid Hunting Weekend From Saturday, Sept. 26, to Sunday, Sept. 27, adult residents, accompanied by a youth under age 16, can hunt small game without a license, but must comply with open seasons, limits and other regulations.

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A sign of the times New signs alert people to check for invasive species on their watercraft

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ew aquatic invasive species signs stand at attention at a number of public accesses in Meeker County as a result of teamwork.

Crow River Organization of Water, in conjunction with the Meeker County Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force and the Meeker Highway Department, installed the new signs at eight public access sites within the county during the spring and summer.

With artwork provided by Hennepin County, these signs were crafted to quickly and simply provide vibrant prompts for AIS prevention measures for those out on the water, according to Diane Sander, CROW watershed coordinator.

There are two types of the red, yellow and green signs. One says: Stop, put in drain plug, pack your lifejacket. The other says: Stop, drain water, remove weeds.

The public access sites where the signs are located are at township, city and county parks.

A new sign at the public access on Silver Lake in Dassel alerts people as to what they should do to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and how to be safe on the water.

PHOTO BY JULIANA THILL

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Don’t let safety take a vacation while boating

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abor Day weekend marks the end of summer for most Minnesotans, yet many are still outside enjoying the water.

The Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone to keep safety in mind while out on lakes and rivers this Labor Day weekend and every day.

“Safety never takes a vacation,” said Kara Owens, DNR boat and water safety specialist.

In Minnesota so far this year, nine people have died in boating accidents compared to nine deaths for the same time period last year.

“We want people to get out and enjoy our weather, but don’t put yourself or someone else in danger by drinking and boating or operating your boat recklessly,” Owens said.

The DNR offers tips for safe and responsible boating including: N State law requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person on board all watercraft.

N All children under 10 years old are required to wear a Coast Guardapproved life jacket while a boat is underway.

N Take a boater course and receive an education certificate.

“Boaters should wear a life jacket every time they step on a boat and stay away from alcohol. Booze and boating don’t mix,” Owens said.

Find information on boating courses and boating safety information at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ safety/boatwater.

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PCA finds cosmetic ingredients, medications, endocrine disruptors in state’s lakes and streams

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new study released by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency confirms that lakes and streams across Minnesota are contaminated by a variety of pharmaceuticals, ingredients from personal care products, and endocrine-disrupting compounds.

This is the latest in a series of studies investigating the presence of these chemicals in Minnesota’s surface water.

Even in remote areas of the state, chemicals such as antibiotics, nicotine breakdown products, antidepressants, and medications to regulate diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure, were detected. The insect repellent DEET was detected in 91 percent of the lakes studied. These results are consistent with previous studies of Minnesota lakes and rivers.

“We have known for some time that these compounds frequently turn up downstream from wastewater treatment plants,” said Mark Ferrey, the study’s lead author. “And recent research has shown that a surprising number are found even in remote lakes or upstream waters. But we have a lot to learn about how they end up there.”

Ferrey noted that septic systems and stormwater runoff are among the potential sources of contamination to surface water not impacted by wastewater treatment plants.

While it is not yet clear how these compounds are entering more remote lakes and streams, Ferrey said it is possible that these contaminants are sometimes being distributed by rainfall or atmospheric transport of dust to which these chemicals are attached.

The study tested 11 lakes and four streams that were previously sampled for the presence of 125 different compounds — mostly pharmaceutical products, but also some ingredients that are used in cosmetics, detergents, and hygiene products.

“We’re also beginning to better understand how these contaminants can affect fish and other organisms in the environment,” Ferrey said.

Research into how these compounds might affect human health through long-term, low-level exposure is in its early stages. The MPCA works with the Minnesota Department of Health in evaluating potential human health impacts of these chemicals.

Because some pharmaceutical contamination of surface water is due to wastewater, the MPCA advises people not to flush unwanted medicines down the toilet. Better alternatives include taking the drugs to a medication collection site, or mixing them with vinegar or cat litter to discourage ingestion and throwing them in the trash in a sealed container. Special recommendations apply to liquid chemotherapy drugs.

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DNR seeks public input on state’s pike problems

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n hopes of improving northern pike fishing, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants to expand the dialogue with individual anglers, spearers, lake property owners and citizens who want to see improvements to northern pike fishing and spearing opportunities and to address the pike problem in Minnesota.

What’s the problem? Well, there isn’t just one problem — or one solution — because pike populations differ in various regions of the state.

In the northeast, pike are in low numbers and at relatively large sizes.

They reproduce naturally. Although they grow slowly, they can grow quite large because relatively few anglers scatter limited fishing pressure across a large number of lakes.

In southern Minnesota, pike are less abundant and don’t reproduce as well as in the north. Southern

The DNR has a web page at www.mndnr.gov/pike that has a video, frequently asked questions, and a comment form.

Minnesota has high fishing pressure and a high harvest rate relative to the number of pike; however, these fish grow fast.

The north-central area is plagued by too many small pike. There is moderate to high fishing pressure and high harvest of large and medium size pike.

Pike grow slowly, and an over-

abundance of small pike is the result.

“The DNR manages pike fisheries in more than 3,000 lakes,” said Don Pereira, DNR fisheries section chief.

“With good dialogue and support from anglers, spearers and all of our stakeholders, we should be able to improve pike fishing for those who are harvestoriented as well as those keen about pursuing trophy northern pike.”

One concept the DNR will discuss entails creating three pike fishing zones that could solve unique challenges with pike in northeast, northcentral and southern Minnesota.

“There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to effective pike regulations,” Pereira said. “However, a zone concept, if enacted, could protect large pike in the northeast, increase pike populations in the south and eventually solve the problem of an over-abundance of small pike in north-central Minnesota.”

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State adds Lake Stella, Lake Washington to list of impaired bodies of water

DNR confirms two findings of zebra mussels in Lake Stella

By Jenny Berg

Adult zebra mussels have D-shaped shells, shown below, often with alternating yellow and brownish colored stripes. Using sticky threads, a zebra mussel attaches itself to native mussels or other underwater objects, while a native mussel uses a foot to burrow into the river or lake bottom.

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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he Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced in early August that it will designate Lake Stella and Lake Washington, both in Meeker County, as infested with zebra mussels.

Lake Stella has the first confirmed case of zebra mussels in Meeker County.

Even though the DNR did not find zebra mussels in Lake Washington, it designated the lake as infested because it is downstream from Lake Stella. Zebra mussels can move to new waterways through downstream flow, according to the DNR. “We want to stress that lake users need to be diligent in following the laws, including inspecting, cleaning, and draining boats and disposing of unwanted bait in the trash,” said Nicholas Brown, a DNR invasive species specialist. “Following these steps will help prevent the spread of all invasive species.”

Lake Stella is a 596-acre lake south of Darwin with a public access point on the south side of the lake.

Lake Washington is a 2,434-acre lake with two DNR public access points and a culvert on the west side of the lake leading to Lake Stella.

In early July, property owners discovered zebra mussels in different parts of Lake Stella, prompting the DNR to investigate and later confirm the specimens as adult zebra mussels.

Kevin Compton, president of the Lake Stella Association, was the first to find a single zebra mussel attached to a clam on the lake’s east side in about three feet of water in Lake Stella.

Weeks later, another lake resident found a second zebra mussel tangled

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

in a weed that had washed ashore.

Both zebra mussels were about 1 inch long, which classifies them as adults, according to Scott Roemhildt, an information officer with the New Ulm Regional Department of Natural Resources Headquarters.

The DNR’s aquatic invasive species specialists were at the lake in late July conducting a “diligent search for other signs,” Roemhildt said.

DNR officials then met in St. Paul at the central DNR office, and it was decided to designate the two lakes as infested with zebra mussels.

The board of directors for Lake Stella, Lake Washington and Lake Manuella met Aug. 20 with the new Meeker County Aquatic Invasive Species Committee to talk about the zebra mussel issue and what steps need to be taken.

cities when they clog water intakes, and also cause problems for lake shore residents and recreationists. Zebra mussels can attach to boat motors and hulls, which reduces performance and efficiency, and can attach to rocks, swim rafts and ladders where swimmers can cut their feet on the sharp mussel shells.

The invasive species also can impact the environment of the lake because they eat food particles, which reduces available food for fish and other animals.

Compton talked about the zebra mussel he discovered during the lake’s homeowners association board meeting July 11. He asked lakeshore property owners to look for zebra mussels, especially at the end of the season when owners pull out docks and boat lifts from the water.

Zebra mussels

Other aquatic invasive species

Zebra mussels are small, fingernailsized animals that attach to solid surfaces.

Adult zebra mussels have D-shaped shells, often with alternating yellow and brownish colored stripes.

They can be a costly problem for

The DNR lists waters of the state as infested with aquatic invasive species if they contain AIS that could spread to other waters. The DNR also might list a lake, river, pond or wetland as infested if it is highly likely to be infested by AIS because it is connected

CURRENTS to a water body that contains a population of AIS. The list identifies Minnesota bodies of water that have been found to have one or more of the following: bighead and silver carp, Eurasian watermilfoil, flowering rush, faucet snail, spiny waterflea, and zebra mussels.

Lake Stella is one of nine lakes in Meeker County to be infested with Eurasian watermilfoil; the others being Clear, Erie, Little Mud, Manuella, Minnie Belle, Ripley, Washington and Wolf lakes. Cedar Lake in McLeod County also has Eurasian watermilfoil.

However, no other lakes in either county have had a confirmed infestation of zebra mussels until this summer.

What people can do to help Roemhildt asked the public to remain vigilant in the search for zebra mussels in area lakes. Especially in a chain, as Lake Stella is with Lake Manuella and Lake Washington, there

is a concern, he said.

“The big thing now is, we want the public to help out,” he said.

Mussels can survive out of the water and microscopic larvae can survive in water contained in bait buckets, bilges, ballast bags or any other water removed from an infested river or lake, according to the DNR. In Minnesota, citizens must clean weeds and debris from their boat before entering another body of water, drain live wells, dispose of unwanted bait in the trash, and dry docks, lifts and swim rafts for at least 21 days before placing the equipment in another lake.

If people find what they think might be a zebra mussel, they should not transport the zebra mussel anywhere, rather take a photo or call the Hutchinson Fisheries Office at 320234-2550.

Minnesota laws prohibit boaters and other lake users from transporting aquatic plants and invasive species. I

How to monitor for zebra mussels In summer or fall when removing equipment from lakes or rivers: Visually inspect hard surfaces such as docks, dock floats and supports, swimming platforms, boats, motors, anchors, and any objects that have been in the lake or river for the summer. Check areas where zebra mussels might be attached, such as trim tabs, rubber gaskets, grooves along the keel of pontoon boats, and sailboat centerboards. During early infestations, zebra mussels are likely to be small (1/4- to1/2-inch long) and the number attached on any object is likely to be low.You can also examine rocks and other hard surfaces along the shoreline and in shallow water, especially near water accesses.

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CURRENTS Sam Swisher, a Meeker County Sheriff's deputy, inspects the underside of a boat for evidence of aquatic invasive species or violations regarding the transportation of boats and trailers. Swisher was monitoring the public access at Lake Stella, which the Department of Natural Resources designated as infested with zebra mussels in early August.

When transporting boats in Minnesota, the plug — pictured here — must be open so water can drain, according to Meeker County Sheriff’s deputy Sam Swisher. “It’s a hefty fine to get caught driving down the road with a plug in the boat.”

PHOTOS BY JENNY BERG

Meeker County responds to spread of aquatic invasive species in local lakes

By Jenny Berg CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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Citizen committee spends months creating a prevention and management plan, as well as allocates state funds to help prevent or limit the spread of zebra mussels, other aquatic invasive species

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hen the Meeker County Aquatic Invasive Species Committee met for the first time last year, the learning curve was steep.

“With both milfoil and zebra mussels, there are so many unknowns as to where it will take us,” said Karen Langmo, president of the committee, which reports to Meeker County Board of Commissioners. “This is going to be ongoing. It’s going to be a learning process.”

The 15-member committee is responsible for dispersing nearly $360,000 from the state to prevent the introduction of, or limit the spread of, aquatic invasive species at all access sites within the county. Gov. Mark Dayton authorized the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Aid for counties in 2014, and mandated counties create committees to manage the funds.

The timing is crucial, as Lake Stella and Lake Washington — two popular recreational lakes in Meeker County — were designated as infested with zebra mussels this summer.

“It’s a serious problem. There is no magic bullet out there that is going to prevent this,” said Mike Solbrack, vice president of the committee. “But that the state allotted

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this much money shows how serious of a problem it could potentially be.”

But while the committee met with members of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Crow River Organization of Water and other county invasive species committees to create a prevention and management plan, no one is really an expert on invasive species because the threat is relatively new.

“It’s kind of uncharted waters with this,” Langmo said.

Langmo, who runs Langmo Farms with her husband, lives in Litchfield and owns land on Lake Koronis near Paynesville, which has about 170 Meeker County properties on the lake. She is a member of the Koronis Lake Association. Solbrack, a Litchfield dentist, lives on the west shore of Lake Ripley and is a member of the Lake Ripley Improvement Association.

Other members of the committee include representatives from area lake associations, as well as the owner of an Eden Valley bait store, a representative from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Meeker County Sheriff Brian Cruze.

The committee spent about four months creating an aquatic invasive species prevention and management plan, which includes the designation of money from the state for decontamination programs, enforcement

CURRENTS and inspection programs, and education and community engagement.

“It’s a lot of money. We want to spend it wisely, and be fair to all the lakes,” Langmo said. “The lakes in Minnesota are, in my opinion, sacred, and you want to keep them that way.”

Meeker County has 41 public access points for watercraft trailers, and 604 watercraft trailer parking spaces, which helped the state determine how much money the county should get. Meeker County received $111,547 in 2014 and $247,882 in 2015.

Last year, the committee granted requests from area lake associations totaling about $40,000 for restoration projects and the treatment of invasive species including curly-leaf pondweed and Eurasian watermilfoil.

Some of the funds also went to education, through advertisements in newspapers and publications in Meeker County, classroom lessons in public schools and signs for area lakes with accesses that are not run by the Department of Natural Resources.

Applications for the second round of grants and applications are due Nov. 15, Langmo said.

“Most of the lakes have been treating Karen Langmo (aquatic invasive species) for a number President of of years,” she said. “This just helps Meeker County them with it.”

Aquatic Invasive Some of the money the state allotted Species Committee for Meeker County also went toward enforcement of regulations pertaining to reducing the spread of invasive species — the committee was able to help fund nearly 300 extra hours of lake patrol by the sheriff’s office.

“So they are going to the busiest landings, mostly on the weekends, and trying to provide education and check boats,” Langmo said.

While no public access points in Meeker County have formal inspection Mike Solbrack programs, education and enforcement Vice president of is crucial in preventing the spread of Meeker County invasive species.

Aquatic Invasive Every weekend this summer, a Species Committee deputy or someone trained in aquatic invasive species management has been monitoring area lakes, according to Cruze.

“The typical day is maybe six hours on the water and two hours at accesses,” Cruze said. “We have about four people who focus on boats and water during the summer, but all deputies have been trained in that area, in case they have to respond to a complaint or come across a violation.”

Meeker County Sheriff’s deputy Sam Swisher has spent two years working with boats and water in the summer.

Swisher said he spends a lot of time monitoring the popular recreation lakes such as Manuella, Minnie Belle, Koronis, Stella and Washington.

“We do inspections when people are either putting a boat in the water, or taking it out,” he said, “just making sure they’re draining their boats.”

While checking boats and trailers, Swisher said he runs his hand along the side of the boat and under seams hidden to the naked eye, and examines trailers with rollers or other places where weeds could get tangled.

“Everybody that I’ve checked with was really glad to see us out and doing something about it,” he said, referring to laws that help prevent the spread of invasive species. “Most of them are happy to have me walk around the boat and check it.”

Not removing the plug at the back of the boat is the most common violation Swisher sees, he said. “It’s a hefty fine to get caught driving down the road with a plug in the boat.”

Swisher said he is concerned about the recent discovery of zebra mussels in Lake Stella.

“They attach to everything, absolutely everything,” he said. “It’s not good.”

Zebra mussels most likely were transferred into Lake Stella by people or watercraft, Solbrack said.

And they are hard to get rid of, he said, adding that people have not been able to eliminate zebra mussels from a lake once infested. “Once it’s there, it’s there.”

Solbrack said he hopes new treatments can help stop the spread of invasive species.

“Let’s hope science catches up,” he said. “The lakes in Minnesota are such a treasure. It would be sad to see them go downhill with invasive species going in every lake.” I

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Fall into habit of checking for invasive species Autumn is a good time to inspect posts, wheels, pieces of equipment that remain under water for extended period of time

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hen lakeshore and cabin owners remove a dock, boat lift, swim raft and other equipment from the water this fall, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources asks them to check each item for aquatic invasive species.

“Since those items have been in the water for several months, now is the ideal time to spot invasive species that may be attached to them,” said Heidi Wolf, DNR invasive species unit supervisor. “Carefully inspect everything you remove from the water to see if there are invasive species attached.

Your observations will provide invaluable information to the DNR in tracking the distribution of AIS — and give us a chance to rapidly respond if new infestations are found.”

People should look on the posts, wheels and underwater support bars of docks and lifts, as well as any parts of boats, pontoons and rafts that might have been submerged in water for an extended period. In newly infested waters, adult zebra mussels might not be abundant and there might only be a few mussels on a piece of equipment.

On a smooth surface, juvenile mussels feel gritty, like sandpaper.

If a new infestation of zebra mussels, faucet snails or other aquatic invasive species is suspected, the exact location should be noted, a photo taken and a specimen should be kept for positive identification. Call 888-646-6367 or contact a local DNR AIS specialist or a fisheries office. Responding quickly to new AIS infestations is critical to help curb the spread into other water bodies.

State requirements There are specific legal requirements for cabin owners and boaters when removing and storing watercraft

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

The DNR asks people to carefully check docks, boatlifts, swim rafts and other water equipment for aquatic invasive species such as zebra mussels, which were found on this boat lift in a Minnesota county. If people find what they think might be a zebra mussel, they should not transport it anywhere. Instead, take a photo and call the Hutchinson Fisheries Office at 320-234-2550. Learn tips and rules atwww.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/shoreland_owners.html. and equipment for the winter — or hiring someone to handle it:

Transporting and storing watercraft ◆ When hauling boats or other watercraft to a storage facility away from the shoreline property, make sure there are no invasive species attached.

It is illegal to transport watercraft with invasive species attached. ◆ Zebra mussels and other invasive plants and animals must be removed before transporting the watercraft back to a lake or other water body.

Transporting and storing docks, lifts and equipment ◆ It is legal to remove a dock, boat lift, dock, weed roller, swim raft, or irrigation equipment from infested waters and place it on the adjacent shoreline property — even if there are zebra mussels or other prohibited invasive species attached. A permit is not required to place equipment on the shoreline. Contact a DNR aquatic invasive species specialist if an invasive plant or animal is found that has not been sighted on the lake before. ◆ However, to transport equipment from infested waters to another loca-

tion for storage, cleaning or repair, people must have an authorization form to transport equipment to legally move it to another location. And all visible zebra mussels, faucet snails, and aquatic plants must be removed whether they are dead or alive. ◆ If equipment is to be installed in another water body, all aquatic plants and animals such as zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil, must be removed, and equipment must be dried for 21 days before placing in other waters.

Hiring a business or individual ◆ Any business or individual in Minnesota paid to decontaminate, install, or remove boats, docks or water-related equipment is legally required to complete AIS training and obtain a permit before working in state waters. Make sure they are on the DNR’s list of Permitted Service Providers. ◆ Lake service providers who have completed DNR training and obtained their service provider permit will have a permit sticker in the lower driver’sside corner of their vehicle’s windshield. If they work for a lake service provider business, ask to see an employee certificate.

CURRENTS Legislature repeals AIS training, trailer decal; adds affirmation to some licenses The Minnesota Legislature, during its recently completed special session, repealed the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources aquatic invasive species training and trailer decal program, which was due to launch this year.

In its place, the Legislature added an AIS affirmation provision to some licenses. The affirmation will be added to new watercraft and nonresident fishing licenses beginning in 2016.

“We appreciate the aquatic invasive species affirmation passed by the Legislature,” said Ann Pierce, section manager, for the DNR Ecological and Water Resources Division.

Starting in 2016, all newly issued watercraft licenses will have an AIS affirmation section. All nonresident fishing licenses will also include the AIS affirmation section beginning in March 2016. License applicants after these dates will receive a summary of AIS laws and will be required to affirm that they have read and understand the summary in order to receive their license. No fees are associated with the affirmation.

The repealed law applied to anyone trailering a boat or water-related equipment, such as docks and lifts, in Minnesota. It would have required these individuals to take aquatic invasive species training and display a decal on their trailer starting July 15.

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PHOTO BY LOUIE OPATZ

Crow River Wheelers President Kerry Hansen rides an all-terrain vehicle through the mud pit June 27 at the new Meeker County offroad vehicle park.

DNR accepting conservation grant applications

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he Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for its Conservation Partners Legacy grant program.

This program funds conservation projects that restore, enhance, or protect forests, wetlands, prairies, or habitat for fish, game, and wildlife in Minnesota.

Nonprofit organizations and government entities are eligible to apply, and a 10-percent match of non-state funds is required. Funding for this program comes from the Outdoor Heritage Fund.

For the traditional and metro grant cycles, $6.8 million is available. These projects must be on public lands or waters or on lands protected by a permanent conservation easement. Apply

by Sept. 14. For the expedited conservation projects grant cycle, $1 million is available. These grants, up to $50,000, are for eligible activities on public lands or waters open to all seasons of hunting and fishing. This cycle is open continuously for applications until May 18, or until all funds are awarded. Apply by Sept. 16 for the first round of funding.

For more information, email lscplgrants.dnr@state.mn.us.

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DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

Meeker County OHV Park opens

T

he opening of the Meeker County Off-Highway Vehicle Park in June was the culmination of the Crow River Wheelers Club’s attempts since 2009 to open the park to the public.

Crow River Wheelers was established in 1993 to promote all-terrain vehicle riding by educating its members and the public about the positive aspects of ATV use. Part of its mission has been to provide an area where people could ride their ATVs and off-highway motorcycles.

To raise funds for such an area, the club has hosted annual motocross races at the McLeod County Fair since 1995. In 2001, the club purchased land in Meeker County, where members have been building and riding on trails ever since. By 2009, the club started the process of opening the trails to the public so that club members could share their passion for the sport of ATV riding with more people. They submitted a project proposal to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

“With the DNR’s help and the help of Meeker County, this park is now open for everyone to enjoy,” said Kerry Hansen, president of the Crow River Wheelers Club.

Amenities of the 40-acre wooded park include 5 miles of ATV trails and 6 miles of off-highway motorcycle trails, a picnic shelter with tables, a wheelchair-accessible portable toilet, parking, a youth ATV training area and a mudding area. OHVs must have current registration to ride in the park.

The OHV park is south of Darwin and north of Hutchinson at 18738 CSAH 9. From Darwin, go west on Highway 12, then turn south onto County Road 9 and continue for approximately 6 miles. The entrance to the park is on the east side of the road.

“We’ve been out here quite a while riding the trails we’d established as a club,” said club member Paul Kruse of Hutchinson. “We just put them on a map now to let everybody use them.”

For information about the condition of Meeker County OHV Park and other public off-highway vehicle trails, visit www.mndnr.gov and click “Current Conditions.” Updates also are available by calling the DNR Information Center at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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15

With a paddle in tow, select a mode of transport and glide along the Crow

MAIN DECK

The city of Hutchinson operates Hutchinson Paddlesport Rentals, a staffed facility near the boat landing at Masonic Campground and West River Park, where people can rent paddleboards, kayaks or a canoe.

City of Hutchinson, Hutchinson Waters, and Heart of Hutch Move Committee join efforts to encourage people to be active and enjoy the Crow River

Grab a paddle and go Photos and story by Juliana Thill

▲

EDITOR

People of all ages and abilities participate in a paddle-sports event in July at Masonic Campground and West River Park in Hutchinson.

It was an opportunity for people to try the city’s equipment without having to pay a rental fee.

J

ohn and Shari Dorival pulled their paddles through the water as the canoe they sat in glided through the Crow River.

John has paddled a canoe before, but for Shari, it was her first time canoeing. And it wasn’t going to be her last.

“My son roped us into a Boundary Waters trip, so I figured, better to get out in a canoe before we go,” she said in early July.

The Dorivals and about 50 other people attended a paddle-sports event that the Heart of Hutch’s Move Naturally Committee hosted in early July at the boat landing at Masonic Campground and West River Park. The city of Hutchinson has a staffed facility near the boat landing where people can rent paddle-sports equipment by the half-hour, hour or halfday during the summer.

The Move Committee teamed up with

the citizens group Hutchinson Waters, as well as Hutchinson’s Parks, Recreation and Community Education department to provide two public orientations in July.

“We’re trying to get as many of you on the water, rather than in the water,” said Jessi Wendland, chairwoman of the Move Committee, as she offered paddling tips to those gathered for the July 9 event.

People of all ages, from children to senior citizens, listened and then stepped aboard the orange paddleboards, and sat in a colorful kayak or the canoe and paddled around the small bay near the boat landing. Some with more experience or bravery paddled up and down the Crow River, as well.

“We learned some good tips,” Shari Dorival said after she and John docked the canoe and stepped onto shore.

That was the purpose of the evening, Wendland said, to encourage people to try

FALL 2015 | DOCKSIDE

17

MAIN DECK

John and Shari Dorival paddle around the Crow River during a free paddle-sports event in July. They were preparing for a Boundary Waters canoe trip later in the summer. the kayaks, paddleboards and canoe without having to pay the usual fee to rent the equipment.

“It’s a really great way to use the park,” she said.

Members of Hutchinson Waters, a citizen-based group looking to improve the Crow River from water clarity to promoting recreational activities, and the city of Hutchinson were happy to team up with the Move Committee on the two public events.

“This is a great partnership. If there’s enough interest, we hope to build on it,” said John Paulson, project/environmental/regulatory manager for the city of Hutchinson and a member of Hutchinson Waters, which formed in the spring. “Hutchinson Waters is really in its infancy. It’s similar to the Heart of Hutch, in that it is truly a community-based, grassroots effort that is meant to improve the availability of cleaner water and activities that promote a healthier lifestyle — all the things that tie together. This is a great partnership for this event.”

Kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding are great ways to enjoy the Crow River and see Hutchinson from a different view, Wendland said.

Dolf Moon, director of Parks, Recreation & Community Education for the city of Hutchinson, would like

18

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

Jessi Wendland, chairwoman of the Heart of Hutch Move Committee, demonstrates how to hold a paddle when using a stand-up paddleboard.

People gathered in July for two paddle-sports events at Masonic Campground and West River Park in Hutchinson to try the city of Hutchinson’s equipment. The city offers one canoe, two standup paddleboards, four single kayaks, and one double kayak to rent.

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MAIN DECK Will Derosier, 14, of Cokato tries the paddleboard, but said he liked kayaking better.

Hutchinson Paddlesport Rentals What: The city of Hutchinson rents water equipment — kayaks, tandem kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and a canoe — at Les Kouba Point Landing.

Where: The landing is south of Minnesota Highway 22, behind Days Inn. Follow Les Kouba Parkway to Masonic/West River park campground.

Cost: Rates are $5 per half-hour, $10 per hour or $30 for a half day (four hours). Cash only; $20 bills or smaller are accepted.

Hours of operation: 3:30 to 8 p.m.

Wednesdays through Fridays and 1 to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day. After Labor Day, hours are to be determined.

Groups: Large groups are welcome; call 320-587-2975 in advance to schedule a day and time.

For more information: Go online to www.ci.hutchinson.mn.us, click on Parks/Recreation/CE, then click on Parks/Campgrounds; or call 320-5872975.

Hutchinson Waters Enhancing, restoring and preserving the waters of Hutchinson as treasured natural resources through collaboration and community involvement.

For more information: Go online to www.hutchinsonwaters.org

to see the free paddle-sports orientation become an annual activity to encourage people to try the watercrafts.

“I think people and families enjoyed themselves, and that’s what it’s really about,” Moon said. “It gets people out to enjoy the river. It’s an underutilized resource.”

About 55 people attended the first public paddle-sports event, and about 25 people attended the second event in late July. In addition, Robert Hantge of the Hutchinson Waters group provided free pontoon rides.

“The Crow River is a great asset for our community,” Moon said.

Moon is hoping to see some of the people who tried the equipment to return to rent the equipment.

“We’ve already noticed from last

20

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

year’s first season to this year, there’s more participation,” he said. “We had it eight years ago — canoes and seated paddle boats — and they went pretty good. But then due to budget cuts it went away. Then, there was some interest by the elected people to have it happen again.”

The equipment rental site is staffed Wednesday through Sunday, and the city offers one canoe, two stand up paddleboards, four single kayaks and one double kayak to rent.

“It seems to be a good mix,” Moon said of the equipment.

In addition to the better-thanexpected turnout, and positive response by people, Wendland noted one other plus with the evenings. “No one fell in. It’s a good, safe family activity.” ■

Heart of Hutch Heart of Hutch is a group of people who want to inspire positive change in habits, behaviors and attitudes across the community.The guiding principles are simple: Eat smart, move naturally, and connect wholeheartedly.

Next event: Open Streets will celebrate the opening of the newly paved section of Luce Line State Trail from McLeod County Road 115 to Winsted.

There will be activities for all ages from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at Third Avenue Northwest and Luce Line Trail. The event is free and open to the public rain or shine.

For more information: Go online to http://heartofhutch.com; text HEARTOH to 22828 to join the mailing list, or email info@HeartOfHutch.com.

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WATERWAYS

Keep pavement on a low-salt diet Minnesota Pollution Control Agency finds road salt washing into lakes and streams. Once in the water, it becomes a permanent pollutant

Brooke Asleson, MPCA chloride project manager. “We are trying to spread the word that less is more when it comes to applying road salt. It only takes one teaspoon of road salt to pollute 5 gallons of water. MPCA is collaborating with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, cities, counties, and local partners to tackle this dilemma.”

Asleson’s study on the real cost of salt use shows that chloride comes with economic consequences, too.

Cities throughout the state have been able to reduce salt use through smart salt use and by taking advantage of additional trainings. The city of Waconia has been able to reduce its use by 70 percent with an estimated total cost savings of $8,600 annually.

A

s Minnesota prepares for a return to wintery weather, most people will rely on a crucial tool to clear the roads and sidewalks: salt.

Minnesotans toss tons of salt on area roads, parking lots and sidewalks annually.

According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the state’s waters should follow the advice doctors have been giving for years: stick to a low-salt diet. Road salt, which contains chloride, is the most commonly used de-icer.

Salt keeps people safe on icy roads but can have the opposite effect on the nearby environment. Its public safety benefits come with environmental drawbacks like polluted waters and poisoned aquatic wildlife.

In the Twin Cities metro area, 78 percent of the salt applied to roads stays within the region’s watershed.

Chloride from road salt is washed away into lakes, streams, and wetlands and eventually finds its way into the groundwater. Once in the water, it becomes a permanent pollutant and continues to accumulate in the environment over time.

As winters become harsher, the piles of salt people dump are becoming a bigger problem. The MPCA assessed Minnesota’s groundwater and found that one-third of all wells across the state showed an increase in chloride concentration.

This year, the number of chlorideimpaired water bodies more than doubled. Currently, that includes 21 lakes, 22 streams, and four wetlands.

De-icing material was singled out as a major culprit and the salt people use

22

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

Tips for using less salt

Salt keeps people safe on icy roads but can have the opposite effect on the nearby environment. High chloride levels are toxic to aquatic life.

The more snow and ice you remove, the less salt you will have to use and the more effective it can be. is becoming a bigger problem. High chloride levels are toxic to aquatic life.

De-icing salt also can kill plants and trees along the roadways and those that soak up salty water through their roots. Salt in the groundwater can affect the taste of drinking water and can be a health issue for those restricted to low-sodium diets.

“Too much chloride has serious water quality consequences,” said

The MPCA remains concerned about the need to provide safe roads and paved areas, while also protecting surface and ground water resources from contamination. The agency recommends the following tips for reduced salt use while maintaining safety: N Shovel first. The more snow and ice you remove, the less salt you will have to use and the more effective it can be. After the ice has been broken up, you can decide if deicer is even necessary to maintain traction.

N 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 Fifteen degrees is too cold for most salt to work. Most salts stop working at this temperature. In frigid conditions, use sand for traction.

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.

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WATERWAYS Conservation officers with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources see everything from wooden fish house materials on lakes to empty propane cylinders, plastic bottles, pop cans, and even bags of human waste.

All of these materials constitute litter. Littering is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Follow Mom’s advice even on the ice: Pick up after yourself DNR conservation officers find many cases of ice anglers leaving trash behind when done fishing

I

ce fishing is a popular activity in the winter. Yet, come spring, not all ice anglers are making an effort to clean up and around their ice fishing hole.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officers report various types of garbage is being discarded along frozen waterways each winter and spring.

“Once again, the most common complaint dealt with while on patrol involved anglers leaving their trash behind,” conservation officer Bret Grundmeier said.

Grundmeier spends hours each ice fishing season checking anglers, and encouraging them to clean up after themselves and to remove garbage from lakes.

“It is disappointing to find so much trash left on our lakes,” Grundmeier said. “Anglers are urged to police

24

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

themselves and others.”

Minnesota’s fish house removal deadlines are March 2 in the southern part of the state and March 16 in the north.

Conservation officers make a concerted effort each year to monitor and identify possible problem areas.

“I always tell people, the area outside their fish house is not their front yard, it is public waters,” conservation officer Paul Kuske said.

Conservation officers see everything from wooden fish house blocking materials on lakes to empty propane cylinders, plastic bottles, pop cans, and even bags of human waste. All of these materials constitute litter. Littering is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000.

Used materials should be disposed of with local refuse haulers or at a local landfill. Litter tarnishes nature’s beauty, destroys wildlife habitats and ruins many opportunities for recreation.

Conservation officers also use technology to catch litterbugs, including digital pictures and GPS (Global Positioning System) coordinates.

Excuses like, “I was going to go get

that later,” will not work and anyone who leaves garbage on the ice will receive a citation for littering.

Conservation officers also have solid waste civil citation authority. These civil citations are “by the pound” or “by the cubic foot” penalties, and since they are not criminal charges, they don’t require proof beyond a reasonable doubt. The person suspected of littering must pay the penalty and clean up the mess.

The DNR offers the following tips to keep Minnesota waterways clean: N Set an example for others, especially children, by not littering.

N Properly dispose of any materials that could trap or injure wildlife.

N Check with a local refuse provider or landfill for disposal of items.

N Keep a litter bag or trash container with you when traveling or outdoors.

N Secure trash container covers to prevent wind or animals from spreading litter.

N Cover and secure any vehicle, truck, or trailer carrying refuse.

N When visiting any recreation area, make sure to leave the area clean for the next person to enjoy.

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IN THE GALLEY Battered Sea Bass Preparation time: 20 minutes • Cook time: 15 minutes 4.5 ounces all-purpose flour 4.5 ounces rice flour 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1.5 teaspoons salt 1 tablespoon sugar 12 ounces Montejo beer 1.5 pounds sea bass fillets, skin removed

SOURCE: CULINARY.NET/WWW.FRIENDSOFELSIE.COM.

Super Easy Twice-Baked Potatoes with Bacon & Chives Cook time: 20 minutes 4 Russet potatoes (10 to 12 ounces), scrubbed and pierced with a fork 1/4 cup milk 1/4 cup butter 8 slices Borden Smoked Cheddar Natural Slices, torn into pieces 1/4 cup chopped chives Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake potatoes in microwave on high (100 percent power) until tender, about 9 to 10 minutes per side. Cut potatoes in half; scoop cooked potato flesh into mixing bowl, leaving 1/4-inch thick “potato boat.” Add milk, butter, four slices of smoked cheddar and chives in mixing bowl; mix well with potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Spoon mixture into “potato boats.” Cut remaining four smoked cheddar slices into strips; place over tops of potatoes. Place potatoes on sheet pan. Bake until potatoes are heated through and skins are crisp, about 20 minutes. Makes eight servings.

Dipping sauce 3/4 cup Mexican crema 1/4 cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons malt vinegar 2 ounces chives, sliced thin Salt, to taste For batter, mix all dry ingredients into bowl and mix together using whisk.

Add beer and slowly whisk, making sure batter is smooth with no clumps.

Set aside.

For fish, rinse fillets in cold water and pat dry with paper towel. Cut fillets lengthwise down middle. To cook fish, fill 10inch sauté pan half way with preferred fry oil. On medium heat bring oil to about 320-335 degrees. Dip PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES fish into batter and coat SOURCE: CULINARY.NET evenly. Place fish into hot oil for about 4 minutes and flip. Cook for another 4 minutes. Batter should be golden brown.

Remove fish from oil and place onto paper towel to absorb excess oil. Repeat process until all fish fillets are cooked. Makes four servings.

For dipping sauce, in small bowl place all dipping sauce ingredients and mix together with whisk until incorporated together.

Place dip in small bowl and refrigerate up to 2 days. Serve fried fish with dipping sauce and favorite French fries.

Share your recipes 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.

26

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

IN THE GALLEY L

There’s no wrong way to make a s’more, but over a campfire is the time-honored way of doing it.And even if you end up burning your marshmallow, spending time around the campfire with your family can be the most rewarding part of the experience. Learn how Americans enjoy s’mores on social media with #shares’mores. For more recipes or ways to make a s’more if you can’t have a campfire, visit www.honeymaid.com

Campfire S’mores 1 Bag of Kraft Jet-Puffed Marshmallows 1 Package of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars 1 Box Honey Maid Graham Crackers Roasting sticks Roast one large Kraft Jet-Puffed Marshmallow slowly over a fire.

(Supervise children if they are roasting the marshmallow). Place 1/4 of a Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar on 1/2 of a Honey Maid Graham Cracker and put the roasted marshmallow in the middle. Top with the other graham cracker half.

Turtle Shortbread Cookies Preparation time: 20 minutes • Bake time: 10 minutes/batch Cool time: 30 minutes 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) butter or stick margarine, softened 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon almond extract 4 cups Gold Medal all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 24 caramels 1 package (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup) 2 teaspoons shortening 1 cup chopped pecans 6 dozen pecan halves Heat oven to 350. In large bowl, mix butter, sugar and almond extract. Stir in flour and salt. (If dough is crumbly, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons additional butter or stick margarine, softened.) Divide dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each part into 1/4- inchthick circle. (If dough is sticky, chill about 15 minutes.) Cut each circle into 6 wedges.

Place wedges 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 PHOTO COURTESY OF CULINARY.NET/ GOLD MEDAL FLOUR minutes. Meanwhile, in 1-quart saucepan, heat caramels over medium heat about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until melted. In small microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips and shortening uncovered on high 1 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through heating time, until melted and thin enough to drizzle. Dip two long edges of each cookie into melted caramel, then into chopped pecans. Place on wax paper. Place a dot of melted chocolate on top of each cookie, and a pecan half on chocolate. Drizzle remaining chocolate on tops of cookies. Makes about 6 dozen cookies.

FALL 2015 | DOCKSIDE

27

SHIP’S LOG

PHOTO BY JULIANA THILL

As the sun sets, the colors of the sky and clouds are reflected in Lake Washington.

Calendar of events, lake association meetings September Belle Lake property owners are having a group garage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 11 and from 8 a.m to 3 p.m. Sept. 12 at 24876 Vista Road, Hutchinson. Multiple families of the lake association are participating. There will be individual sales around the lake, as well. All proceeds from the group garage sale will go toward Belle Lake projects.

Lake Washington Improvement Association meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at the Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for the time and location of the next meeting. Annual meeting in June.

Belle Lake Association meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

Greater Lake Sylvia Association meets at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at Southside Township

28

DOCKSIDE | FALL 2015

Hall, 8209 County Road 3 NW, Annandale.

Lake Francis Area Recreation and Conservation Club meeting and volunteer dinner is Sept. 19, 2015.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille, 16818 Minnesota 22, Litchfield.

Lake Stella Homeowners Association meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Litchfield American Legion.

North Browns Lake Association meets at 9 a.m. the third Saturday of the month April through September.

Crow River Clean Up Day will be from 8 a.m. to noon Sept. 19 in participating communities. Following the clean up, volunteers receive a sponsorprovided lunch and a T-shirt. For more information or to participate, contact Diane Sander, watershed coordinator for Crow River Organization of Water at 763-682-1933, ext. 3. In Hutchinson, call Roger Hartsuiker 320-234-1240; in Forest City, call Chuck Schoolmeesters 320-693-2972.

October Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for time and location of the meeting.

Lake Washington Improvement Association meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at the Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Greater Lake Sylvia Association meets at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at Southside Township Hall, 8209 County Road 3 NW, Annandale.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille, 16818 Minnesota 22, Litchfield.

November Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

SHIP’S LOG December Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

January Eden Valley Sportsman’s Club annual ice fishing contest usually is from 1 to 3 p.m. the third Saturday of January near the public access.

Limited tickets are sold.

Lake Marion Improvement Association meets at 6:30 p.m. 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.

Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for time and location of the meeting.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

February Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for time and location of the meeting.

Lake Washington Improvement Association meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement

Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille, 16818 Minnesota 22, Litchfield.

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.

March Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for time and location of the meeting.

Lake Washington Improvement Association meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at the Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

April Lake Marion Improvement Association meets at 6:30 p.m. 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.

Lake Jennie Improvement Association meets the third Saturday of each month, except November and December. Contact a board member for time and location of the meeting.

Lake Washington Improvement

Association meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (February through October) at Dassel Rod and Gun Club.

Belle Lake Association meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

Greater Lake Sylvia Association meets at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at Southside Township Hall.

Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Bonfire Bar & Grille.

Lake Stella Homeowners Association meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Litchfield American Legion.

North Browns Lake Association meets at 9 a.m. the third Saturday of the month April through September.

Gopher Campfire Conservation Club usually has its annual Blue Bird Day from noon to 3 p.m. on the first Saturday of April.

Have your event or meeting listed free If your organization or lake association has a meeting or event to list in the calendar, contact Editor Juliana Thill by email at thill@independent review.net or call 320-593-4808 or 320-234-4172.

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SHIP’S LOG

PHOTO BY JULIANA THILL

The name, “Minnesota” is a combination of two Dakota Indian words. “Minni,” means “water,” and “sotah,” means “sky-tinted” or “cloudy.” Therefore, Minnesota means “sky-tinted water” or “cloudy water.” On a still summer afternoon, Lake Ripley serves as an example of how Minnesota was named.

Information about area lakes can be found online Editor’s note: If your lake association’s information is not included or if it changes, contact Editor Juliana Thill at 320-593-4808 or email her at thill@independent review.net.

French Lake Improvement Association • Website: www.frenchlake.org

Belle Lake Association • Website: www.bellelakeassociation.com • Facebook: Belle Lake Association

Lake Francis Area Recreation and Conservation Club • Website: www.lakefrancisarcc.com/lfarcc • Facebook: Lake Francis Lake Association

Brooks Lake Area Association • Website: www.brookslake.info • Facebook: Brooks Lake

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

Collinwood Community Lake Association • Website: www.collinwoodlake.com

Lake Jennie Improvement Association • Website: www.lakejennie.com • Facebook: Lake Jennie Improvement Association

Crow River Organization of Water • Website: http://crowriver.org • Facebook: Crow River Lakes and Streams • Twitter: @crowriverorg

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

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Improvement Association Lake Ripley Improvement Association • Facebook: Lake Ripley Improvement Association Lake Stella Homeowners Association • Website: www.lakestella.com • Facebook: Lake Stella Association Lake Washington Improvement Association • Website: www.lakewashingtonassn.com • Facebook: Lake Washington Improvement Association Koronis Lake Association • Website: http://koronislakeassociation.org North Browns Lake Association • Website: www.northbrownslake.org

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