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.

EL-Glen Middle school state winner of national competition with floating trash robot idea

On February 4th, WTMJ in Milwaukee featured an article on their website about a group of 10 Elkhart Lake-Glenbulah middle schoolers who earned a major title in the Sumsung STEM competition, Solve For Tomorrow competition. This group of students came up with an idea to help keep the waters of Elkhart lake pristine clean.  To read the whole article, "click here".

In October, the Elkhart Lake Improvement Association hosted its inaugural Watershed stakeholder meeting inside the rustic confines of Farm 1847. This event brought together a diverse group, including farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and representatives from several local organizations and government bodies, all focused on improving and preserving our watershed.

Attendees enjoyed an evening of dialogue and exchange over Sheboygan’s finest beers from Three Sheeps Brewing and Wisconsin’s best brats cooked by Three Guys and a Grill. The meeting started with rapid-fire, five-minute presentations by local stakeholders, offering insights into ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities to enhance the watershed.

Key speakers included Tyler Betry from Sheboygan County, Miriam Headrick from the Glacial Lakes Conservancy, Derek Sippel from the Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers & Airy Point Farms, Michael Patin from USDA NRCS, Amy Lentz from Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership, Steve Klock from Sheboygan County Conservation Association & Pheasants Forever, and Star Gerk from the Sheboygan River Basin Partnership.  Their discussions set the stage for an evening filled with shared ideas on sustainable practices and upcoming initiatives aimed at fostering a safe and resilient watershed.

The event underscored the power of community engagement in environmental stewardship, showcasing a collective commitment to learning from each other and enjoying the natural beauty our region has to offer. As the night concluded, the atmosphere was filled with optimism, leaving participants eager for future gatherings that promise to continue this vital conversation around a healthy watershed.