The Concern

 

• We were extremely fortunate in the past to enjoy a relatively clean lake, and, therefore, did not need to worry about weed treatment. However, that all changed in late 2012, when the lake was diagnosed with Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM).
• EWM is an infestation that cannot be eradicated, it can only be controlled.
• For a few years, we underwent spot treatment for EWM. However, given the severity of our invasion,  the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) allowed us to enter into a Lake Vegetation Management Plan (LVMP)  in 2016.
• An LVMP is a 5-year  plan which allows us to treat a larger than normal area. In return for being granted a larger treatment area, we are responsible for the cost of lake monitoring and/or consultants to assist us.
• That’s why, starting in 2013, the Lake Josephine Improvement Association began seeking a voluntary contribution from lake homeowners to cover both treatment and monitoring costs. We also used the funds to begin building a preparedness fund so that we would have the werewhithall to move quickly if faced with additional invasive threats.
• As suspected, invasive threats continue. Curly Leaf Pondweed (CLP) has become perhaps a greater problem on Lake Josephine than EWM. It’s another invasive plant that grows early in the season and negatively impacts recreational activities.
• Likewise, Zebra Mussels have infested several neighboring lakes, to include Lake Johanna, White Bear Lake, Bald Eagle and McCarrons. These small, hard-shelled, razor-sharp invasives can be easily transferred by watercraft dropping in from one lake to another. They attach to surfaces and can clog pipes and irrigation, reduce the performance and efficiency of boat motors to which they adhere, cut the feet of recreational lake users and negatively impact a lake’s ecosystem.
• Working  with Ramsey County, we have posted invasive species warnings at our boat launch and have created a designated area for boaters to  stop and inspect their watercraft for invasives before and after entering the lake. Fishermen are also instructed to drain their live wells between lakes. We also host Ramsey County-provided monitors at our boat launch periodically throughout the  summer months,  inspecting boats and ensuring that boaters comply with best gractices.
• Additionally, we have educated our homeowners about best practices to reduce aquatic species spread, and we have provided them free Zebra mussel sampler plates to help us identify a potential invasion early on.
• Nonetheless, the threats continue, and we must be diligent.
• The response from our homeowners to our fundraising efforts has been overshelming!
• From 2013 to present, nearly 80% of lakeshore properties contributed towards treatment and the building of a contingency fund.
• THANK YOU to those who contributed!
• If you have not yet contributed, but would like to, please visit the “Donate” tab on our website.

Living on Lake Josephine is a privilege. . . one that we don’t want to take for granted. THANK YOU for your continued support in protecting and preserving this beautiful resource.

For more details on the Association’s management of EWM and other invasive species go to the Treatment Plan section.