Big Bass Lake residents voice concerns over Northern Township wastewater treatment plant plans

Residents of Big Bass Lake are raising significant concerns regarding the proposed wastewater treatment plant in Northern Township, which they fear could jeopardize their lake's water quality and property values. During a recent Beltrami County Board meeting, community member Annette expressed alarm over the potential environmental impact of effluent from the treatment facility, located just 1,500 feet from their shoreline.

The wastewater treatment plant is designed to protect Lake Bemidji, but residents argue that it poses a direct threat to Big Bass Lake, which is spring-fed and closely linked to the local aquifer. Annette highlighted that any increase in effluent could lead to detrimental changes in water quality, potentially pushing the lake from a mesotrophic state to eutrophic, which would be irreversible.

Concerns were also raised about odor from the facility, with residents noting that officials could not adequately address the potential smell, comparing it to the noticeable odor from the city of Bemidji's treatment plant. Furthermore, the community is worried that the economic benefits touted by Northern Township, such as increased property values for Lake Bemidji residents, would not extend to Big Bass Lake, where property values could decline due to compromised water quality.

Residents are calling for a public hearing to voice their concerns and seek more transparency regarding the project. They emphasize the need for monitoring beyond the treatment site to ensure that Big Bass Lake remains protected. The Big Bass Lake Association is advocating for community input before any decisions are finalized regarding the sale of property for the wastewater treatment plant.

As discussions continue, the implications of this project will be closely watched by both Northern Township and Big Bass Lake residents, who are determined to safeguard their cherished lake.