Local lake districts report weed control, equipment purchases and explore costly restoration options

Representatives reported updates from multiple lake districts: Squash Lake continues Eurasian watermilfoil removal, plans to apply for its annual DNR grant and approved a trailer to carry dive‑team oxygen tanks; Thunder Lake plans a community lunch and district updates; Mid Lake is considering buying a truck to replace a leased vehicle; Horsehead Lake’s aeration system appears to have improved water quality and fish health; Nokomis Lake is exploring adding about 120 off‑water property owners pending a public hearing; and Bear Lake is evaluating oxygenation and restoration technologies with preliminary cost estimates nearing $1 million.

Chris Schultz and other district representatives described administrative steps and next meetings: Squash Lake’s annual meeting on Aug. 8, Bear Lake’s next meeting the following evening, and further work to identify affected property owners for Nokomis before any formal boundary or funding changes. Bear Lake officials noted the project could be costly based on similar projects elsewhere in Wisconsin; the district will pursue further evaluation.