Weed harvesting update

August 2021

By Jim Maxwell, Blake Lake Aquatic Plant Manager

The harvesting crew has been actively cutting weeds on the lake since early May. Our team this year includes Bruce Cullen, Jamie Goulet and Jim Maxwell. So far, this season they have harvested 31 loads of invasive weed curly leaf pondweed (CLP), which is 10 loads more than what was harvested in 2020.

Our harvesting permit allows us to cut CLP on 80 acres. In July each year, CLP drops and we begin to focus more on cutting coontail weeds. In 2020, we started harvesting native coontail weeds on July 2 and cut a total of 71 loads.

The weed harvester is operated during the week, but not on the weekend when there is high recreational activity.

Clean Boats, Clean Waters – we are hiring workers for boat landings

May 2021

Do something really great for our lake and come help fight invasive species at the landing this summer. New or past workers are welcome. Earn $12 per hour.

Job description for paid workers:
Wanted: Friendly, outgoing workers to help Big Blake Lake Protection &
Rehabilitation District educate boaters and conduct free boat checks throughout the summer as part of the Clean Boats, Clean Waters statewide program. Inspectors are at the Blake Lake boat landings June 1 to Sept. 1 with emphasis over the holiday weeks, 4th of July week and many weekends. Inspectors work to assure that boaters do not accidentally spread Eurasian water-milfoil, zebra mussels, curly leaf pondweed and other aquatic invasive species (AIS). Our district’s DNR grant includes the compensation of 400 hours per season inspecting boats at 2 landings, 200 hours per landing in addition to 300 volunteer hours performed. Hourly pay is $12/hr.

Workers are paid 2x per month. Anyone 14-18 years old will need to get a work permit to be paid. See https://www.jobsforteenshq.com/work-permit/how-to-get-a-work-permit-in-wisconsin/. The quantity of hours will be assigned per person is on a first come-first served basis. Some basic training is required. Hours will start June 1. Safe distancing practices will be followed in line with CDC guidelines.

Please email Peggy if you are interested. 

Dam Advisory Committee Update

October 2020

The dam committee has been working to maintain the dam and keep weeds out that restrict water flow. Thanks to committee members Jay and Jolene who did a lot of work in September clearing the weeds. I was able to help finish the work and it is amazing the amount of water now leaving the lake after the weeds have been removed. The weeds had basically created another dam upstream and once cleared several new channels of water are now going over the dam. We will ensure it is clean before winter and should have a regular maintenance routine next year, especially when our weed harvester is operating. I would have never guessed that weed build up could affect discharge to that extent.

We also installed a Private Property sign on each side of the dam. Thanks to Jolene for having them made and donating them! Luke came to our rescue by having a post driver that made the job much easier!

With the weeds clear we will check the level again next week (late September) and will likely add back the fifth log and then add the 6th log the following weekend. This will put us where we want to be for the winter.

Thanks again to Jay and Jolene for all of their help!

Dam Committee members include: Scott Bassett, Gerry Smith, Andy Aplikowski, Jeff & Sherry Jerry, Jim Maxwell, Jody Binfet, Jolene Martinson, Julie Sandell, Levi Kruse, Luke Mendlick, Mark & Renee Gisch, Paul Rodriguez, Randy Sevelius, Roxanne Smith, Ryan Schneider, Scott Bassett, Scott Mercer, Scott Sandell, Sheila Munson, and Welter Albee. Board Liason is Shelley Rodriquez.

Annual Meeting Committee Reports Online

August 2020

See the Dam Advisory Committee Report for the Annual Meeting on August 15 >> 

See all committee reports from the Annual Meeting including:

• Lake Plan Committee
• Dam Advisory Committee
• Healthy Lakes Program
• AIS – CBCW
• Aquatic Plant Management/Harvey

Annual Meeting Presentation

August 2020

See the Annual Meeting presentation here >>

Dam Advisory Committee – update on water level

June 2020

The committee met on May 23 at the north landing to discuss current water levels. There are currently 20 district members on the committee who will continue to monitor weekly and monthly conditions and precipitation levels. The committee plans to meet every month. Stop logs in the dam are removed or added as levels fluxuate. There are currently 3 logs in and 3 logs out.

For more information contact committee co-chairs: Scott Bassett scottbassett@live.com or Gerry Smith gsmith9108@gmail.com
Find the committee meeting minutes here at http://blakelake.org/records/
See past information about the dam reconstruction from 2016-2019 at http://blakelake.org/news.
Our dam information: Dam Inspection, Operation and Maintenance Plan (IOMP)

Weed Harvesting Update

Weed harvesting usually starts in late May, but this year the weeds are late emerging and are not at the surface yet. The harvesting crew is working on the north end of the lake on June 5. Weeds are not cut on the weekend. “It has been an unusual year so far”, says BLPRD Aquatic Plant Manager Jim Maxwell. “We typically see more weeds to cut by now. We monitor weed levels weekly and will cut as needed until August 30”.

The majority of weeds you see on the lake in the summer are curly-leaf pondweed (CLP), an invasive species, unfortunately, common to 542 lakes in Wisconsin.

Jim Maxwell is our aquatic plant manager. He can be reached at 715-554-4101 or papamaxwell@hotmail.com .

Spring Meeting Cancelled

The Spring Meeting scheduled for Saturday, May 16 has been cancelled. In light of the impact of COVID-19 we are not able to meet at this time. We are following the guidelines as set forth by the Governor of Wisconsin, the WI Department of Health, and the CDC. Thank you all for your understanding.
Regarding other 2020 events, we will post updates via the website (www.blakelake.org), email, Facebook, and mailings. We plan to communicate digitally as much as possible for the remainder of the year. If you have updates to your contact information, please submit it to www.blakelake.org/contacts.

Events Calendar

Saturday, July 4 Boat Parade, 4:00 pm.

Saturday, Aug. 15 Annual Meeting, 8:00-11:00am, Georgetown Lutheran Church
(subject to change to digital meeting or cancellation based on COVID19 pandemic).

Note: We are a lake district and not a lake association, unique rules apply to each. Lake associations are not required to follow particular statutory requirements for annual meetings or Open Meeting Law. The Board is working with the Wisconsin Lakes organization (www.wisconsinlakes.org) to clarify how we will be able to conduct our annual meeting this year. According to current state statutes, a lake district cannot hold a virtual annual or special meeting. In the opinion of Wisconsin Lakes, the statutory requirements to qualify as a voter in a lake district election, as well as prohibitions on proxy voting or absentee ballots probably preclude holding an annual meeting or special meeting online. This could be problematic if the stay-at-home orders extend out through the summer, as districts must under Ch 33 hold their annual meeting by Sept 8. Wisconsin Lakes is attempting to get clarification on how lake districts can operate under Ch 33 during the crisis by working with state government officials.

Upcoming District Board Meetings (working session will proceed public session posted below):

June 27, 1:00 – 1:30pm  /  Farm Table, Amery, or Zoom online meeting. Meeting ID posted 1 week prior.
August 15, 11:00am  /  following the Annual Meeting, Georgetown Lutheran Church

Grant Applications Due  /  December 1 and February 1

Wisconsin Lakes Partnership Convention  /  March 24-26, 2021
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/UWEXLakes/pages/programs/convention/default.aspx

New loon nesting platform on Blake Lake

By: Paul Rodriguez

April 21st was a great day on Big Blake as the loon nesting platform was put into position at the south end of the lake over at “Chipmunk Island”. As I set the platform close to where I wanted it to be, I had to run back to the house to get my chest waders. Upon returning, our adult loons were investigating the area! That is a good sign.

The idea for a loon nesting platform came last year. Record high water levels made it tough for the female to keep her eggs in place. After a little research on loons, I came across LoonWatch located in Northland College in Ashland WI. I followed their guidance to build a nesting platform that has a high success rate. I spent a couple weekends building it and I am hopeful that we will see the female sitting on the new platform very soon. After I finished the install the pair of loons was very close. Let’s hope it all works out.

Loons prefer to nest on islands and in backwaters protected from wave action. Often they use the same nest site every year. There are 4,000 adult loons in Wisconsin and we are lucky to have them on Blake Lake year after year. Please stay clear of the nesting platform by 200 feet.

LoonWatch, a program of the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute, protects common loons and their aquatic habitats through education, monitoring, and research. More information about about LoonWatch and loons can be found at: https://www.northland.edu/centers/soei/loonwatch/
https://www.northland.edu/centers/soei/loonwatch/about-loons/

Water Level Update

May 2020

The water level committee continues to monitor water levels week-to-week according to precipitation levels, observations or member reports of shoreline flooding, and measurements at the dam. Stop logs are removed or added as levels fluctuate. The most recent meeting of the committee was on May 2 at the dam. If you want to volunteer on this committee or have questions about water levels, contact the committee coordinator Jim Maxwell. He can be reached at 715-554-4101 or papamaxwell@hotmail.com.

To review past information about the dam reconstruction from 2016-2019, visit http://blakelake.org/news.

Water Level Update

January 2020

At the annual meeting in August there was much discussion about record high water levels and shoreline damage. A motion unanimously passed to remove three of the four stop logs in the dam and manage water levels by committee.

A water level committee formed
Thanks to all of the District members that volunteered to serve on the committee. The coordinator is Jim Maxwell. He can be reached at papamaxwell@hotmail.com. Members of the committee include Jamie Goulet, Deb and Randy Sevelius, Renee & Mark Gisch, Luke Mendlik, Jeff & Sherry Jerry, Joline Martinson, Andy Aplikowski, and Gerry Smith.

How many stop logs (boards) are out of the dam at present? 
All four stop logs (boards) were removed after the last heavy rainfall this Fall. The committee is monitoring the dam monthly and will tentatively be adding 1 to 2 stop logs in January.

Was it the plan to keep the lake extra low this winter?  
While lake levels are lower than what they were this Summer, the level is not lower than lake levels prior to the dam failure.  Some District members indicate that their shorelines are still under water. We are striving to find the right water level for all District members.

Background
The dam was completed in November 2018. The water level was set to the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHM) by the DNR using years of good historical data collected before the dam went out. Upon completion of the dam, we received the Dam Inspection, Operation and Maintenance Plan (IOMP) for managing the dam. See document at http://blakelake.org/records/. In 2019, it was the first year with our new dam and water levels were very high due to persisting heavy rains. Throughout the year, we have been consulting with DNR and Polk County about water levels. We have 4 removable stop logs in the dam design to adjust water levels. If water levels are higher than the OHW mark, the District can remove stop logs to let more water out of the lake, until the OHW mark is achieved. The District owns the Dam and is responsible for routine inspections, operation and needed maintenance.

To review past information about the dam reconstruction from 2016-2019, scroll down on this page. 

High Water Levels Persisting

July 2019

Many of our District members are frustrated with how the many rain events we are experiencing during this incredibly wet spring and summer are impacting Blake Lake’s water levels. The “set level” (historic ordinary high water mark, OHWM) of the dam has only been met once this season, and it was only for about one day. Otherwise, we have had higher than normal water throughout – as have other area lakes in Polk County. The timing of our unusually high water levels could not have been worse as it seems to correspond with the construction of the dam (completed 11-9-18).  By all accounts of Polk County officials, water is not uniquely high on Big Blake Lake, water levels are high all over.  Polk County confirmed measurements of Blake Lake water levels on May 17 at 4.5 inches higher than OHWM. On July 15, the water level was approximately 2” over OHWM. Measurements on Horseshoe Lake and Long Lake, for example, are 6”-9” above recorded levels last year. More rounds of storms are forecast as this goes out.

While correlation is not causation, we took actions immediately after our May 18 Spring Meeting to help the water flow out of our flowage lake as fast as possible, namely removing some of the stop-logs from the dam, and have been monitoring it regularly since then. We will continue to do so. We hope this will ease people’s minds to understand that the dam is not what is holding the water levels high this year, rather it is the continuous onslaught of wet weather. Water is continually flowing over and through the dam as it should do during high water events. Removing the stop-logs helps the water flow out a little faster, but Mother Nature controls the heavy precipitation we continue to get this year. 

The District owns the Dam and is responsible for routine inspections, operation and needed maintenance. This is our first year as Dam owners. We will continue to monitor water levels day-by-day or weekly as needed during high flow conditions. We are also monitoring extended periods of greater than average precipitation. This includes removing stop-logs as needed. See more on the Dam Inspection, Operation & Maintenance Plan (Dam IOMP), which can be found at http://blakelake.org/records/ see “Documents” at the bottom of the Records page.

Over the past few years, some members gave the Board concerns that the lake was too low during the Dam reconstruction. They were unable to get boats lifts in until this year. Now, this year, there are members highly concerned about flooding. Rest assured, the Board will continue to act on member input and work within DNR guidelines toward the best interest of all members. 

We are preparing for the Annual Meeting on August 17. The agenda includes a Dam Update and discussion of the water levels.
 

Dam Reconstruction Update

December 13, 2018

After a long and arduous journey, we are happy to report that the dam reconstruction project is complete. On November 8th, the District met with the DNR for a final site inspection and everything was approved. The construction costs were reduced by $15,293. This will be further offset by the $117,667 cost-sharing dam grant we were awarded by the DNR on August 22nd. The Dam Committee is working to submit the final costs to the DNR for the grant payment.

The reconstruction project kicked off on July 2nd with a pre-construction meeting with the District, John Olynick, Inc. and our project engineer Larry Gotham. This was to review the project work to be done. At that time, it was realized that since the time of the original survey, a fiber optic cable had been placed underneath the dam site with the potential to be damaged. As such, our project engineer had to submit a change order to the DNR. This was sent to the DNR on August 8th and was approved by the DNR on August 17th. Construction began on August 28th. The construction was completed on October 18th.

There have been a couple questions thus far with regards to the height or level of the dam which placed the dam at a higher water mark than it has been over the last couple of years. That water mark was determined by the DNR from measurements taken prior to the initial dam erosion and were set as a part of the overall plan. According to our engineer, that will remain as the water mark and the only time it will change is after significant rain where is could be up to an inch higher until it levels out.

In 2014, the land on the north and south sides of the dam was all owned by the Sherrard family. Now, the land on the north side of the dam is owned by Luke Mendlik (owner of the campground and bar). The land on the south side of the dam is private property, now owned by Caarin and Joe Pannkuk (as of 2017). The dam itself and land easement the dam is built on is owned by the District.

This project started back in 2014, when we sat down with the DNR to discuss our options for reconstructing the recently failed dam. While it seemed like a long time (it was), it was the persistence of many of our District members, the DNR and our project management team that finally won the day. We would like to send out special thanks to many that went out of their way to make this a success: Bill Sturtevant and Mike Rogney with the Wisconsin DNR, Larry Gotham who shared with us ‘everything dam’ and guided us down the path, our current and past Board members Adam Elliott, Peggy Lauritsen, Sam Rivers, Jen Wistrcill and Shelley Rodriquez who were relentless in obtaining financing, working on the assessments, communicating with the District and so much more. Also, we would like to thank Jim Maxwell, Tom Borden and Jim Filkens for helping kick things off, as well as being our feet on the ground during construction. Finally, a well-deserved thanks to the Sherrard family, Luke Mendlik and Caarin and Joe Pannkuk for all their assistance and cooperation.

Happy winter and we look forward to seeing all your smiling faces come spring! 

Board Positions Open in August 

July 14, 2018

Two current board members will be completing their 3-year term of office this year, Shelley Rodriguez and Jen Wistrcill. Jen will not be renewing and Shelley will be running again to be re-elected. Elections take place at our Annual Meeting on Saturday, August 18. Now is the time to think about serving on the board. For more information contact Sam Rivers Weber via email by clicking here or (715) 554-1054. 

Lake District Board Commitment:

• The Board shall nominate one or more members for any vacant positions. Additional nominations are presented at the annual meeting and willing to serve may be taken from the floor. 
• The Board consists of a Chairman, a Treasurer, a Secretary and commissioners. 
• Beyond the Spring meeting and the Annual meeting, the Board is also required to meet within 60 days of the Annual meeting. Other meetings are held as lake district business demands. Over the past couple of years, the board has met 4+ times each year to follow up on business related to the dam, the new lake management plan and new channels of communication. 
• Board meetings are held in person if possible or via teleconference. 
• Board members are asked to serve three year terms. 
• Board members are not compensated for their board service. 

Changes to District Board Roster 

July 14, 2018

Adam Elliott has resigned his position as district Co-Chair effective May 19, 2018. Many thanks to Adam for his volunteer service over the past 5 years. Adam will remain Chair of the Dam Committee. Sam Rivers Weber’s new title is Chair. 

Caarin Pannkuk was appointed by the Board to replace Adam Elliott, effective June 30, 2018. Caarin’s title is Secretary for a 14-month term. Caarin will replace Peggy Lauritsen in the role of Secretary. Peggy’s new title is Commissioner. 

Meet new Board member Caarin Pannkuk 

Caarin lives in Lakeville, MN with her husband Joe and two active young daughters, Autumn and Afton. Caarin and Joe own property on Blake Lake and both of their parents have property on Blake Lake as well. On July 8, Caarin’s parents, Dan and Carla Hagen, are celebrating their 30th year on Blake Lake! 

Caarin has a true passion for the well being of Blake Lake. She is passionate about keeping the lake healthy and safe for many generations to come. Her favorite moments on the lake are the quiet moments, when she can take her kayak around and enjoy the loon calls, the souring eagles, and the otters playing! 

During the week, Caarin is a real estate agent for Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Lovejoy Realty-The Property Geeks. She is a real estate geek who views her career as her life’s calling. As The Property Geeks’ leader, she inspires passion and enthusiasm in her colleagues in every aspect of the industry. Caarin was named one of Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine’s Super Agents of 2017 and 2018. Caarin is licensed in Minnesota & Wisconsin, specializes in residential, vacation & investment properties and is certified in relocation, luxury homes & staging. 

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE

Saturday July 14, 9:00am
LUKE’S SUNNY SALOON (Formerly Sherrards)
2049 90TH St, Luck, WI 54853

1) Call to Order
2) Tally all votes
3) Possible Action on Approval of BCPL Loan Resolution
4) Adjourn

Blake Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District (BLPRD) Board has accepted a bid to reconstruct the Dam, per unanimous member approval, and construction will begin next week around July 9th, 2018.  In order for BLPRD to facilitate the building of the dam, the engineering, and the legalities involved, we need to have our financing approved and available to pay these parties upon completion, which may be as early as the first week of August but will likely be closer to mid-August.  In order to do this, we need to solve a cash flow issue of having funding liquid to make these final payments while we wait for either 1) possible DNR grant reimbursement later this Fall or 2) our yearly Dam Assessments from BLPRD members spread out over a five year period.

In 2015, the District members unanimously approved the Board to borrow the $150k (plus interest) we are currently assessing for.  The District has already paid back three of the five yearly installments on our original $150k loan, but has only collected two of the five yearly installments from BLPRD members to date.  We expect the final Dam costs from all parties to come in around $257k-$270k.

In order for us to meet the financial obligations of paying for the reconstruction while waiting for assessed monies to come in over the years from BLPRD members or for the DNR to reimburse us, we need to apply for $140k loan from the same state agency we used before, BCPL, in a very timely manner; otherwise, there won’t be enough turn-around time for us to secure the funds and make these final payments in August.  

In order for BCPL to consider our loan request, we have to meet very strict guidelines on notification of District members, which we can do by holding this Special Meeting this Saturday, July 14, for the purpose of garnering your votes on the issue of approving the borrowing of additional funding in the amount of $140k necessary to fund the reconstruction of the Dam.  Our voting results may then be electronically transferred to BCPL that same day.

We will not know whether we got the DNR Dam Grant until July 5th.  Regardless of whether or not we get that grant, we still need to pay all parties upon completion of the Dam, then hopefully submit our expenses for reimbursement from the DNR at a rate of 50%.  This means that if we get the DNR grant, you will likely not be assessed for any portion of this $140k we are asking to borrow today and you may even have a reduction in the amount of your fifth assessment on our original loan of $150k.  That’s the best possible outcome and the one for which we are hoping! If the DNR does not fund our Dam Grant, then the amount needed to cover final costs, up to but not exceeding the amount of this additional $140k loan (plus interest) will be assessed over five years just as our original loan is being assessed on your property tax statement.  We anticipate an interest rate of 4% on this new loan, and there is no pre-payment penalty.

Voting Details: Qualified voters are 18 yrs of age or older, either reside in the District or own property within. Ownership of more than one parcel within BLPR District does not entitle the owner to more than one vote.  Trust properties may cast one vote via your official trust representative.

No absentee ballots or proxies are permitted – must be present to vote.

——————————————————————————————

Drive-Up Voting
In the interest of saving you some time, feel free to fill out this ballot (opposite side) ahead of time and simply drop it off between 9:00am Saturday morning, July 14, 2018 at Luke’s Sunny Saloon.  

Your signature and Blake Lake address will serve as your sign-in, which will not preserve the anonymity of your vote but will save you time. We will greet you at your car to collect your ballot. Voter/signator must be in the car.

Ballots handed out at the meeting will not require any identifying information.  

Voters will simply need to officially sign-in on the clipboard inside the town hall to obtain their yes/no ballot.  So if anonymity is important to your voting process, please feel free to exercise your right to vote anonymously in person anytime from 9:00am this coming Saturday, July 14, 2018 at the Luke’s Sunny Saloon. 

Dam Update

Dam Update

March 2018

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

Dear Blake Lake District Members,

As outlined in previous communications, our intent is to complete all reconstruction of the Big Blake Lake Dam in 2018.  Just to review, we decided to hold off on completing the project in 2017 as we learned that DNR grants for dam reconstruction were likely to be available in 2018.  DNR dam grants were approved in the 2018 Wisconsin state budget and we are currently in the process of applying for a DNR grant which would cover approximately 50% of all dam related reconstruction costs.

Here is a summary of where we are at and the project timeline for 2018:

• The dam grants are based on how many “points” you are awarded for your project. Over the past few weeks, our Project Engineer/Manager Larry Gotham – Morgan & Parmley) completed the Inspection, Maintenance & Operation plan and the Emergency Action Plan, and submitted to the DNR.  Both of these plans were approved by the Wisconsin DNR.
• These will be submitted along with the grant application before April 30^th, 2018.
• Currently, we are preparing bidding documents for prospective construction companies. We expect to begin advertising for dam bids in April 2018.
• Bids will be open for approximately 30 days.
• July 5^th, 2018 is when the DNR will inform us if we have been awarded a grant.
• If awarded, we will need to obtain the DNR award grant agreement which is expected to be delivered by August 5^th, 2018.
• We would expect to award the bid to a contractor on or about August 5^th, 2018.
• If awarded a grant, we would expect to begin construction around September 1^st, 2018 with construction ending on or about October 15^th, 2018.
• Note: if the grant is not awarded, we expect construction to start at an earlier date.

Dam Update

December 2017

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

Dear Blake Lake District Members,

Here is a review of the project highlights and the latest update.

Our year in review:

• In March 2017, the Wisconsin DNR approved our dam reconstruction plans.
• In July 2017, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved our plans. With this approval, we authorized our engineer at Morgan & Parmley to begin preparing bidding documents to begin the reconstruction.
• About this time, two things occurred:
  • We understood that sending out bidding documents out this late in the year was not the ideal time of the year to receive the best and lowest cost bids.
  • We also learned that grant monies were specified in the State of Wisconsin budget for dam reconstruction projects in 2018. The grants are structured to cover 50% of all dam reconstruction related costs. While the grant monies were specified, we had to wait for the budget to be approved.
• Given the above, we decided to hold off on the reconstruction project until 2018.

Current update:

• The State budget has now been approved with the grant monies specified.
• We are currently applying for a DNR dam grant. Our dam engineer at Morgan & Parmley has prepared an Operations, Inspection and Maintenance Plan (OIMP) as well as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Providing these plans will increase our chances of being selected for a dam grant.
• It is our intention to go through the dam grant process and hopefully be selected, which would pay for 50% of our overall costs. If the total cost of the project ends up costing $300,000, the grant would cover $150,000.
• Whether the grant is approved or not, we are intending on sending out bidding documents in the spring of 2018 and finalizing the construction project in 2018.

Respectfully,
 Adam Elliott, Sam Weber, Tom Borden, Jim Filkins and Peggy Lauritsen.

Dam Committee Members, Big Blake Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District

Dam Update

August 2017

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

Q: What is the current status of the Dam Project?

A: We just received word in early July that the Army Corps of Engineers approved our project. This was the last item needed before sending out the bidding documents.

Q: Will the dam project be completed in 2017?

A: Great question. We originally had planned to complete in 2017. However, this spring we learned that $5 million dollars in grant money had been set aside for dam re-construction projects.  These would be for projects completed in 2018. We would need to apply by November 2017. If awarded the grant, the grant would pay up to 50% of our overall cost. If the dam project
ended up costing $250,000 — the grant would result in a savings of $125,000.

Q: So, are we going to wait and apply for the grant?

A: Given the very large amount of the grant as well as what we feel is a decent probability of receiving a grant, we are going to pursue the grant monies and plan on completion of the dam project in 2018. Our existing approved permits are good for 2 years, so this does not present a problem.

Q: How are we going to handle the assessments?

A: We are not going to change the assessment method, so it will be as it was for 2017. Depending on the final bids and potential for grant monies, we will re-adjust.

Q: What is our status with respect to the WDNR?

A: We were informed by the WDNR in 2014 that we had an
illegal dam. They informed us that we would either need to
re-construct the dam or they would remove the dam completely.  The WDNR has been very cooperative since day 1. Yes — we
have to re-construct the dam, but as long as we continue to
make progress and work closely with the WDNR, we have no reason to believe that they will have any issues with completing the dam in 2018.

You can see previous dam updates below.

Dam Reconstruction Update

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

April 2017

Dear Blake Lake District Members,

We are actively working on the dam reconstruction project. Here is our latest update. Our engineer, Larry Gotham, will be our guest speaker and is ready to answer more of your questions at the Spring Meeting on Saturday, May 20, 2017.

Q1: Where are we at with the dam project?

A: Over the winter, our engineering firm (Morgan & Parmley) worked diligently with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to finalize a plan to reconstruct the Blake Lake Dam in such a way that meets a 100 year flood event and appropriate for our lake. On March 16, 2017, the DNR gave us final approval for the dam. The final plan accepted technically considers our dam a “large dam” with a height exceeding 6 feet.  We are now proceeding with steps toward completing the project.

Q2: With the new plan, what are the estimated total costs for the dam project?

A: According to our engineering firm, the estimated costs are $247,000, which includes all costs incurred to date. They advised that these costs could vary by 10% of this estimate. We will not be able to finalize this cost until bids are received.

Q3: What are the next steps and estimated timeline that need to be taken to complete the dam project?

A: According to our engineering firm, here are the next steps (expected to be completed in 2017):

1. S. Army Corp of Engineers: Right now, we are waiting on final approval from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, which takes place after the DNR plan was approved. We are expecting this approval any day.
2. Bidding Documents: We have authorized construction and have directed Morgan & Parmley to prepare the bidding documents.
3. Bidding Process: Morgan & Parmley will now complete the bidding documents, begin advertising and receiving bids. The lowest cost responsible bidder will be awarded the contract.
4. Construction: Upon contract signing and a pre-construction conference, construction will begin.
5. Completion: Project completion and certification to the DNR is expected in the fall of 2017.

Q4:  Where are we at on financing?

A: The Blake Lake Protection & Rehabilitation District (BLPRD) originally applied for a $150,000 loan based on initial cost estimates. This loan was taken in August 2015 when it was believed that the project would be completed in 2016. It is a 5-year loan with a 3% interest rate, and we can pay the loan off early if desired. The total finance charge is approximately $12,000.

At the August, 2016 Annual Meeting, our project engineer Larry Gotham described how the dam would likely be larger than originally thought and that costs could be $225,000. Given this information, a motion was made/carried to increase our ability to borrow from $150,000 to $250,000.

We have now made two payments on this 5-year loan. In addition, we have incurred approximately $30,000 in costs for legal fees, survey and engineering work, permits, etc. District members will note the additional line item for loan repayment on their Real Estate Property Tax Bill for 2016. Given the existing loan and costs, we made our first assessment for the dam to lake district members in January 2017. At this point, the board is considering options to finance the increased cost of the dam.

Q5:  How were properties assessed?

A: The BLPRD polled the district members at the 2015 annual meeting and considered various methods to assess properties.  The final method chosen breaks down as follows:

• • The total estimated cost of the dam was considered.  All eligible properties in the lake district are considered
  • Properties are designated as either shoreline properties or non-shoreline properties
  • Sixty percent of the overall cost is assigned to every property (shoreline or non-shoreline)
  • The remaining cost is assessed to shoreline properties based on lineal feet of shoreline

Q6:  How are these costs being assessed?

A: Each loan will be paid back over 5 years, so you will pay four more installments on our current $150,000 loan, which are shown as an separate line item on your real estate tax statement and are payable in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.  Additional financing will be assessed as needed and repaid in the same manner as this current loan.

Q7:  Could the costs be more than the estimated $250,000?

A: This is possible. Right now, our cost estimates are based on our engineer’s experience with similar dam projects and an initial estimate from a construction company.  We will not have final cost estimates until all bids are received.

Q8: Will there be a footbridge near the dam?

A: It is undecided. At this time, there is a pending sale of the land on the south side of the dam with new ownership involved. We have a permit approved for a future footbridge and a recommended location.

Q9: What are the anticipated water levels this Summer before the reconstructed dam is complete?

A: Because Big Blake Lake is on a flowage, the water levels can fluctuate based on many factors, including Spring run-offs, overall precipitation and other factors. At the end of last Summer, the water levels were manageable with the existing dam. We are working closely with the DNR to do what we can to maintain the existing levels until the dam project is complete.

Q10: Should I be putting in our docks and boats this Spring, or wait until the dam project is complete?

A: As mentioned above, the water levels can fluctuate, especially with the current state of the dam. While we do not anticipate water levels dropping to levels that may impact your dock and boat placement, your decision is personal preference and may depend on the shoreline water depth near your property.

Q11: If I am selling my property, what do I need to disclose to a
potential buyer?

A: Please consult your realtor or real estate professional about what you need to disclose. The board is doing our best to be transparent and update all members about the costs, timelines, risks and process as we move forward.

Q12: When the old dam is removed, will lake levels drop significantly?

A: The engineers have told us that this is not the expectation. The plan calls for placing the new dam west of the old dam and then to remove the old dam after placement of the new dam.

Q13: Will maintenance be required on the new dam?

A: Yes. Periodic inspections will be required and we will have secured the necessary easements and rights to inspect, maintain and repair (if necessary) the dam. We do not anticipate significant incremental costs to perform inspection, maintenance and repairs. We are anticipating any incremental costs to be covered in our annual budget.

2016 Annual Meeting Minutes

We hope you will be joining us at the Spring Meeting on Saturday, May 20 at 8:30am. SAVE THE DATE! To catch up on what happened at the Annual Meeting in August, get meeting minutes here >>

Respectfully, Adam Elliott, Sam Weber, Tom Borden, Jim Filkins and Peggy Lauritsen.

Dam Committee Members, Big Blake Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District

Update: Blake Lake Dam Reconstruction

March 16, 2017

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

Dear Blake Lake District Members,

We have been actively working on the dam reconstruction project since the annual meeting in August. Our engineer has been working with the DNR to meet all of the requirements we must follow. Our goal of this email is to bring you up to date on our progress and answer some of the questions you may have.
 Our engineer, Larry Gotham, will be our guest speaker, and ready to answer more of your questions at the Spring Meeting on Saturday, May 20, 2017.

What else?
Q: What is the current status of the dam reconstruction project?
A: Our project engineer is Larry Gotham (Morgan & Parmley, LTD – Ladysmith, WI). Over the winter, our project engineer has been going back and forth with the DNR to gain final approval for the dam reconstruction project design. We have provided all plans, and expect to obtain final approvals any day now. While we were anticipating March 1st, it now looks like April 1st.

Q: What are the steps for the project once the DNR approves our plans?
A: The BLPRD board will review the DNR approvals and authorize construction and direct Morgan and Parmley to prepare construction bidding documents. Here is a summary of the next steps.

• Morgan and Parmley completes the bidding documents.
• Advertising for the bids begins.
• Bids are opened.
• The BLPRD reviews the bids and authorizes award to the lowest responsible bidder.
• Contracts are signed and preconstruction conference is held.
• Construction begins
• Construction is completed.

Q: What is the timeframe for the dam to be completed?
A: Currently our project engineer is estimating that the entire project will be completed 195 days after the DNR approvals are obtained. If approvals are obtained by April 1st as expected, construction would be completed in the mid-October timeframe.

Q: What was the final determination for the type of dam needed?
A: Originally, our project engineer and the DNR believed that a small dam would suffice. After all measurements and calculations, it was determined that we would need a larger dam. The current plan is to build what the DNR refers to as a large dam.

Q: What is the estimated cost of the revised large dam?
A: The initial estimate for the total cost of the revised dam reconstruction project is $250,000.  This includes all construction costs as well as all permits, legal and engineering fees. This does not include the cost of the footbridge placement or construction. The exact location of a footbridge is not set. A footbridge cannot be placed over the new dam. Also, the ownership of the land for a footbridge has changed.

Q: How does this compare to what Morgan and Parmley outlined at our Annual Meeting?
A: At the Annual Meeting, our project engineer, Larry Gotham estimated that the cost would be $225,000. This led to a motion that was approved by members to increase the dam budget to $250,000.

Q: How and when will we then pay for the dam?
A: BLPRD took out a loan for $150,000 to pay for the project. This loan is from the Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. It is a 5 year loan with an interest rate of 3%. There is no penalty for early payment. The first installment of $32,328 was made in March, 2016 and a second installment in March 2017.

Assessments: Final calculations for the per-parcel special assessment will be developed as construction bids come in and final costs can be determined. Based on current information, we anticipate additional costs of $100,000 to complete the dam, which will be assessed in the same manner as the loan payment.

Respectfully,
 Adam Elliott, Sam Weber, Tom Borden, Jim Filkins and Peggy Lauritsen.
Dam Committee Members, Big Blake Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District

2016 Annual Meeting Minutes

We hope you will be joining us at the Spring Meeting on Saturday, May 20 at 8:30am.
SAVE THE DATE! To catch up on what happened at the Annual Meeting in August, get meeting minutes here >>

Dam reconstruction update

July 25, 2016

By Co-Chair Adam Elliott

Where are we at?

1. The land needed to reconstruct the dam has now been transferred from the Sherrard Estate to the Blake Lake Protection & Rehabilitation District (BLPRD).

2. Our Project Engineer — Larry Gotham (Morgan & Parmley, LTD – Ladysmith, WI) has completed all surveys and is currently working on the dam reconstruction plan. Based on the nature of our lake and flowage, it was recommended that the type of dam needed is a rip rap rock chute.

3. The initial estimates for the total cost of the dam reconstruction project was between $100,000 and $150,000.

4. In August, 2015 the BLPRD took out a loan for $150,000 to pay for the project. This loan is from the Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands. It is a 5 year loan with an interest rate of 3%. There is no penalty for early payment. The first installment of $32,328 was made in March, 2016.

What is next?

1. Per the plan, Morgan & Parmley are currently finalizing the plans for the dam. This is expected in May.

2. Once these plans are complete, they will be submitted to the DNR to obtain their approval for the project. It is expected that the DNR will take approximately 3 months to get through the approval process, but there is no guarantee on this time frame.

3. Once the project is approved, a request for construction bids will go out. Once the construction company has been identified, reconstruction of the dam will begin. The actual reconstruction of the dam is expected to take a few weeks.

4. We are hoping to complete all construction in the fall of 2016, but the final date will be dictated by when we receive approval from the DNR.

What else?

The plan calls for a footbridge to be placed over the dam. We will either use the old foot bridge or construct a new footbridge. This decision will be determined by cost as well as safety. The footbridge will be submitted to the DNR as part of the plan. As a part of the land transfer process, all parties agreed that the dam will be named “The Sherrard Family Dam” and appropriate signage will designate at the site.