Reflections On the Ice Out Date for 2012

Thanks to Shari Peterson for the Ice Out picture on Teal Lake with the fog in the distance.

The WDNR definition of lake ice-out varies from lake to lake, and individual to individual. For some, ice-out occurs only when the lake is completely free of ice. For others, ice-out is defined as the moment when navigation is possible from point A to point B. And yet for others, ice-out is when 90 percent of the lake is ice free.

Due to the variable definitions of this rather subjective observation, the participating agencies attempt to contact the same individuals each year to maintain a consistent record.

For the Quiet Lakes Blog, we are setting the standard as being "open water across the lake".   Thus, we are deeming the Ice Out date this year to be March 21st (even though there may be a couple of spots of ice in varous coves)

It's thus time to think about getting those docks out....................

Looking for Boat Ramp Monitors

The Quiet Lakes were awarded grants by the WDNR to monitor our boat ramps to protect against the introduction of invasive species into our lakes.   We will hire monitors for the Lost Land Landing Camp, Teal River Dam, Teal Lake Larson Road and the Ghost Lake ramps; and expect this to encompass the following:

• Approximately 12 - 15 hours each weekend from Friday afternoon through mid-day Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day
• The monitors will examine incoming and outgoing boats for invasive species, help educate the ramp users on invasives, etc.
• We expect activity at the ramps to be hectic at times, and then hours of no activity.   Thus, a college student would be the ideal candidate as they could study during the down times

We will conduct training in May for the monitors selected.   Our Environmental Director, Rex Clevenger, will begin interviewing for these roles in April.   Thus, if you know of dependable candidates, please respond directly to the Quiet Lakes at quiet_lakes@yahoo.com.