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Cedar Lake Improvement District meeting

October 6, 2025

New Prague Public Library

Attending:

Scott Sosek, Larry Vollmer, Jim Paulson and John Tuschner

Meeting notes

• Curly Leaf Pondweed Management Strategies: Discussion with Scott Sosek, Larry Vollmer, Jim Paulson, and John on the ongoing challenges with curly leaf pondweed, evaluating the effectiveness of current sonar treatments, and proposing a switch to under-ice treatment with the chemical Galleon, supported by DNR recommendations and cost considerations.
  • Proposal for Under-Ice Treatment: Discussion around switching from sonar to an under-ice treatment using Galleon, citing its greater effectiveness, a larger application window, and reduced stress on native plants, as well as alignment with DNR mandates for such treatments.
  • Cost and Implementation Considerations: The group discussed the increased cost of under-ice treatment, estimating it to be about 20-25% higher than current methods, and considered leveraging levy resources to cover the additional expense while ensuring transparency with stakeholders.
• Phosphorus Load Assessment and Mitigation Plan: Larry, with input from Keegan and Pat at PLM, outlined a plan to assess and mitigate phosphorus levels in the lake, including sediment sampling, analysis, and a multi-year chemical treatment strategy to improve water quality and reduce algae blooms.
  • Baseline Phosphorus Sampling: Larry proposed conducting 10 sediment samples around the lake, with PLM assisting in collection at no labor cost and each sample costing $537 for analysis, to establish a current phosphorus baseline.
  • Engagement of Consultant for Dosing Plan: James Johnson was identified as the consultant to analyze the phosphorus data and develop a three- to five-page dosing plan for a one-time fee of $2,500, recommending a three-year mitigation strategy.
  • Chemical Treatment Options: The team discussed using lanthanum-modified bentonite, which binds phosphorus at a rate of 1 lb per 100 lb bag (costing $100 per bag), targeting a 20% phosphorus reduction per year over three years, with an estimated total removal of 200 lbs of free phosphorus.
  • Expected Outcomes and Monitoring: The plan includes annual follow-up sampling to measure progress, with the expectation that reduced phosphorus will lead to less algae, improved water clarity, and better fish health, and results will be used to justify future grant applications.
  • Board Approval and Funding: A formal motion was made, seconded, and approved to allocate approximately $8,000 for the sediment analysis and dosing plan, with the intention to seek grant funding for ongoing mitigation efforts.

• Lake Levy Structure and Potential Increases: The group reviewed the current lake levy structure, discussed the process for increasing the levy to support new initiatives, and considered strategies for fair taxation and stakeholder communication.
  • Current Levy Calculation: The current levy is set at $40,000, distributed proportionally based on property value among approximately 420-465 parcels, with individual contributions varying according to assessed value.
  • Process for Levy Increase: To raise the levy, the board must approve a recommendation, which is then submitted to the county for final approval, with justification required for the increase, such as rising chemical costs or new projects.
  • Future Levy Planning: Suggestions included a one-time increase to $60,000 followed by annual 5% adjustments, and the possibility of special levies for specific projects like phosphorus mitigation, with plans to present these options at the annual meeting.

• Grant Application Strategy for Lake Improvement Projects: Larry described the upcoming grant application process, identifying potential funding sources and outlining a thematic approach to secure support for invasive species management, phosphorus mitigation, and equipment acquisition.
  • Identified Grant Sources: Potential grants include the LCCMR (lottery funds), the DNR's AIS control grant, and the Clean Water Fund, with plans to collaborate with Melissa and other stakeholders for application preparation.
  • Application Timeline and Budgeting: The next grant cycle begins in January, with the intention to request $400,000 to $600,000 over three years, learning from previous applications to ensure adequate funding.
  • Proposal Content and Framing: The grant proposal will emphasize a comprehensive invasive species management plan, including phosphorus analysis, mitigation, and possibly equipment like a weed harvester, rather than focusing solely on machinery.

• Zebra Mussel Prevention and Boat Cleaning Initiatives:  Reviewed the issue of zebra mussel infestation and described the CD3 boat cleaning station as a potential solution, discussing its features, costs, and possible implementation at the lake launch to prevent further spread.
  • CD3 Cleaning Station Features: The CD3 station includes an air compressor, tongs for weed removal, and a wet/dry vacuum, with options for electric or solar power, and is already in use at Lake Riley.
  • Implementation Considerations: The group discussed the logistics of installing a cleaning station, its potential effectiveness, and the importance of having a plan to address zebra mussels, including possible use of hot water for decontamination.

• Muck and Oxygenation Management: The team discussed strategies for managing lake muck and improving oxygenation, including the use of aerators, under-ice weed treatments, and potential spot treatments or experimental technologies.
  • Muck Reduction Approaches: Options considered include oxygenation to accelerate decomposition, mechanical removal, and the use of under-ice treatments to limit weed growth and subsequent muck accumulation.
  • Experimental Technologies: The group expressed interest in trialing new technologies such as solar-powered aerators and nano bubblers, as well as conducting spot treatments in targeted areas like the Saint Patrick's boat launch.
• Set next meeting for Nov 3,2025 at 6pm at the New Prague Library