Community rallies to save Lone Lake from algae crisis

November 06, 2024 | Island County, Washington


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Community rallies to save Lone Lake from algae crisis
Residents of Lone Lake are raising urgent concerns about the health of their local waterway, citing issues with algae blooms and recent fish kills. During a recent government meeting, a long-time resident detailed the ongoing challenges faced by the community, which has been actively organizing to address these environmental issues.

The resident highlighted that while recent water tests indicated the lake is not toxic, the presence of algae during the summer months poses a significant problem. Additionally, the community has witnessed a troubling trend of fish kills, with one major incident occurring approximately a decade ago. The situation has led to a decline in recreational activities, with local fishing and paddleboarding groups moving to nearby Goss Lake due to the deteriorating conditions.

The resident also mentioned a previous cannabis farm near the lake, which raised concerns about water runoff and resource consumption, but noted that the farm has since ceased operations. The community is now seeking collaboration with local authorities to explore solutions for improving the lake's health. They have engaged experts, including an algae specialist from the University of Michigan, to assist in their efforts.

Past initiatives have included neighborhood clean-up efforts and securing grants for managing invasive carp populations. The resident emphasized the lake's importance not only for local recreation but also for tourism, recalling past community events that celebrated the lake's natural beauty.

In response, a commissioner acknowledged the concerns regarding algae blooms and expressed a commitment to attend the community meeting scheduled for December 7th, indicating a willingness to work with residents to find solutions. The meeting aims to foster collaboration between the community and local government to restore the lake's health and vitality.

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