Photos courtesy of the Wisconsin Aquatic Invasive Species Early Detector Handbook produced by the Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, UW-Stevens Point - Extension Lakes Program.

While it would be wonderful to eliminate these harmful organisms, a more realistic goal is to contain them. Methods such as hand pulling, diver assisted suction harvesting, and spot treatments in small, targeted areas are all effective strategies that have been used and will continue to be used this summer to ensure these species stay under control.

In addition to containing the species already present, it’s equally important to prevent the introduction of any new invasives into the lake. Since 2012, invasive species in Elkhart Lake have been intercepted through the Clean Boat Clean Water program (a partnership between the DNR and ELIA). Each summer this program organizes volunteers and paid employees to oversee 200 hours of boat inspections and boat washing. Conversations are initiated with local boaters and paddlers about how to prevent the spread of invasives before launching into the water. While many people assume that smaller vessels like kayaks and paddleboards are not a risk for introducing new invasives, microscopic organisms can hitch a ride on these human-powered vessels and travel between different bodies of water. Whether using a motor or a paddle, all watercraft users play a critical role in keeping boats clean and keeping Elkhart Lake’s ecosystems thriving.

Another incredibly effective way that all lake lovers can participate in preventing invasive species (even from the shoreline) is by keeping a close eye on the water and taking part in early detection of potential new invasives. Anyone can become a helpful lake monitor by simply paying attention to plants and animals in the water. If you happen to see an out of the ordinary weed or lake creature in the water, take a photo of it, or if you can– gather it in a Ziplock bag and call the Sheboygan County Conservation Aquatic Invasive Species specialist at 920-459-1375 or email Katie.Hanson@SheboyganCounty.com. Because invasive species are difficult to control after they become established, it’s best-case scenario to catch them early and have a specialist have a look to help with identification and preventing the spread.

While Elkhart Lake does have a few invasive species, it’s worth noting that having only three of them is a feat considering neighboring bodies of water such as Lake Michigan have nearly 180. The work that local scientists and volunteers have been doing for over a decade are a huge reason why the number of problematic species has been contained. Because of the containment Elkhart Lake has achieved, it is a place of aquatic ecological education and serves as a model for surrounding lakes when it comes to managing invasive species. This work is a long game effort and something that we can all continue to stay informed about and pass on from generation to generation.

For those interested in learning more about how to identify Wisconsin aquatic invasive species, UW Stevens Point has an excellent, easily accessible online handbook. If you would like to become involved with managing invasive species in Elkhart Lake, please consider becoming an Elkhart Lake Improvement Association member and visit keepelkhartblue.com or email contact@keepelkhartblue.org. All current members are invited to attend the annual meeting on June 13 at the Osthoff Resort. (Social hour 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. , Presentations 6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m., Business meeting to follow)

Wake Surfing survey results

Your ELIA Board has been closely following the discussions in the Village of Elkhart Lake and the Town of Rhine concerning potential legislation on wake surfing. To gather our membership's perspective, we conducted an email survey. We appreciate the robust response, which also included input from non-members.

The survey results indicate a strong sentiment regarding wake surfing. Across all participants, 80.76% (105 individuals) recommended a complete ban, while 7.69% (10 individuals) suggested restrictions, and 11.53% (15 individuals) favored maintaining the existing regulations.

Among ELIA members specifically, the support for a complete ban was even stronger, with 86.73% (85 members) in favor. Additionally, 6.12% (6 members) suggested restrictions, and 7.14% (7 members) preferred no change.

Many survey participants shared their specific concerns about wake surfing on Elkhart Lake and offered valuable suggestions. You can review these comments in detail by clicking on this link.

Addressing phosphorus runoff in Elkhart Lake

Spring in Wisconsin is officially here! Some days summer feels out of reach. Other days, the sun is just warm enough to remind us of returning to the beach or paddling a kayak. While we all patiently wait for our days at the lake to return, the Elkhart Lake Improvement Association (ELIA) takes advantage of the quieter months to study and make plans for keeping the water healthy. When it comes to maintaining crystal clear water, there is a lot of year-round data collection and data analysis.

Since 2022, scientists at ELIA have been keeping a close eye on the different nutrient levels in the lake that can disturb water quality. The surrounding topography, soils, and land use in the Elkhart Lake watershed are all being carefully considered as contributors to nutrient accumulation. After studying nutrient levels for several years, managing the amount of phosphorus entering Elkhart Lake has become a crucial goal for ELIA.

Although phosphorus plays an important role in fertilizing lawns and agricultural lands, when it is used in large quantities, it can become a serious pollutant as rainstorms and springtime snowmelt wash it into freshwater sources. Once phosphorus reaches the lake, it can be absorbed in different ways. One way is through the uptake by weeds and algae. We’ve all experienced those pesky blooms in the summertime. Phosphorus fuels these blooms and a little goes a long way. It takes only 1 lb. of phosphorus to fuel the growth of 500 lbs. of weeds and algae! Another way phosphorus accumulates in the lake is by dissolving into water molecules or becoming trapped inside sediments. When phosphorus levels increase in the lake, oxygen levels deplete which can lead to a declining fish population. Overall, high levels of phosphorus can lead to unpleasant and unhealthy lake conditions for wildlife and humans.

Given the problems that phosphorus can create in freshwater environments, ELIA has been working with a limnologist (lake scientist) to evaluate accumulating phosphorus levels in the lake’s sediments. This form of phosphorus is what scientists call legacy phosphorus. The ongoing study of the legacy phosphorus is expected to wrap up by this spring. Preliminary results are already showing that only a small amount of the total phosphorus in Elkhart Lake is residing in lake bottom sediments. With this new data, ELIA is now able to narrow down the primary sources of phosphorus in the lake and focus on the most effective ways to reduce it. Going forward, the organization will be placing an even stronger emphasis on reducing runoff that carries phosphorus into the lake. Restoring native prairie land, restoring wetlands, and improving farming practices in the Elkhart Lake watershed all helps reduce polluted runoff and are the priority projects for 2025. ELIA could not do this important work on land without the wonderful partnerships with landowners. ELIA will also be relying on local community residents to help reduce water pollutants in 2025 and beyond.

Here are several tips for landowners to join in on reducing polluted runoff:

• Use phosphorus-free fertilizers – Many lawns don’t need added phosphorus. Check labels and choose a phosphorus-free option.

• Create buffer zones – Planting native vegetation along shorelines and waterways helps absorb excess nutrients before they reach the lake.

• Properly manage animal waste – Ensure manure is stored and spread correctly to prevent runoff into nearby streams.

• Reduce soil erosion – Farmers can adopt conservation practices like implementing cover crops and no-till farming to minimize soil loss.

• Limit stormwater runoff – Installing rain gardens and permeable surfaces can help reduce the amount of phosphorus flowing into the lake.

Elkhart Lake is renowned for the quality of its water and the quality of life its recreational opportunities provide. By making small changes, the Elkhart Lake community can be stewards in keeping the lake sparkling this summer and for many years to come.

ELIA 2025 projects update

While the lake takes a little rest in the frozen winter months, the Elkhart Lake Improvement Association (ELIA) is preparing for when the water wakes up again. 2025is stacking up to be another exciting year for the local non-profit. May through August will be particularly busy with continued field work. With the help of volunteers, the water scientists at ELIA will continue collecting water samples to measure levels of nitrogen, nitrates, phosphorus, chlorophyll, dissolved oxygen, and total suspended solids.  

Measuring these components will strengthen ELIA’s ongoing data collection. The more water quality data, the better informed the organization becomes on the best ways to support the water’s vitality. Further research on algae blooms is high on the priority list this year. Last fall, the group gathered sediment samples from the lakebed to investigate nutrient releases that may be contributing to algae production. ELIA suspects that the main culprit is phosphorus. As a result, they will continue evaluating ways to mitigate phosphorus accumulation in the lake. Stay tuned for more updates on ELIA’s algae project in future issues of the Depot Dispatch!

In addition to monitoring the chemical components of the lake, ELIA will monitor aquatic invasive species in 2025. With the help of the wonderful DNR Clean Boats, Clean Water program the organization has been able to install signage at the boat launch to educate boaters before they head out onto the water. The program will also continue providing support for boat inspectors who distribute brochures and help educate boaters.  The boat launch projects help prevent the spread of invasive species and encourage conversations around the topic with visitors. Beyond the boat launch, weed-heavy areas will be zeroed in on for diver assisted suction harvesting and chemical control treatment. 

 Keeping a close eye on the water chemistry and invasive species has long been at the core of ELIA’s work. Each year the organization learns a little more about how to best monitor the lake and keep it clean. While historically the focus has been on the water itself, ELIA has increasingly become more holistic in their preservation work. Projects focusing on restoring native habitats on the shoreline, surrounding prairie land, and nearby gullies will continue to be implemented this year.

When the board members are not interpreting chemistry data from the lab or removing pesky invasives they will be focusing on how to create a safe environment for everyone who recreates on the water, whether that’s by way of motor or with a swim cap. Before many others are brave enough to wade into the chilly lake, you can count on “Slow No Wake” buoys being anchored by some hearty ELIA volunteers.

Although summer days of swimming, sailing, fishing and paddling may seem far away, ELIA is already planning for their annual summer event. Mark your calendars for Friday, June 13, 2025! It’s a once-a-year opportunity for the public to gather and learn about what challenges the lake faces and how ELIA is stepping up to address them. The event is free for members, or you can become a member at the door.  Can’t make it to the June event? Not to worry. You can swing by the ELIA booth at the village Downtown Night in August or stay up to date by visiting https://www.keepelkhartblue.org/

ELIA is always excited to welcome new members! If you’re a water quality enthusiast and want to become more involved, you can conveniently become a member online. For current members, remember that it’s best to pay dues for 2025 early in the year. Please renew your annual membership online or send a check to: E.L.I.A., P.O. Box 715, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020-0715. Membership dues of $50 go directly toward initiatives that benefit the lake and surrounding community. 

ELIA is currently seeking one candidate who is interested in converting 350 sq. feet of their shoreline property into native garden areas that will help reduce erosion and runoff. The garden project will receive up to $1,000 through the DNR Healthy Lakes Grant. Please contact contact@keepelkhartblue.org to learn more.