Why Your Membership Matters
First and foremost, we want all property owners to be members so that we can effectively communicate with everyone concerning matters that affect all of us. In addition, we want to hear from folks like you who have ideas for other projects. The more members we have, the more ideas we can consider. The Lake Association conducts projects that benefit all lake property owners.
A Stronger Voice Together
Most importantly, the Association carries “clout” when approaching government agencies such as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Pollution Control Agency (PCA). When one individual goes in, the chances of having an impact and getting desired action is much less than if you can say, “I represent the Upper Hay Lake Association. Seventy percent of our property owners are members and we would like your assistance with a project we have in mind.” That gets action. We have a very good rapport with the DNR and PCA today, and they are quick to lend us assistance and cooperate with us on projects we wish to carry out. The greater the number of members we have, the greater our voice.
Aquatic Vegetation Management
We continue to monitor the vegetation situation. In the spring of 2007, after more than a year of work, the DNR approved our “Aquatic Vegetation Management Plan”. We are permitted to control vegetation near our docks and swimming areas in a 40-ft. wide by 150-ft. out from shore area for nuisance vegetation.
Water Quality & Lake Monitoring
We have members who volunteer to monitor water quality. Each month, from May through September, the volunteers go out onto the lake and collect water samples which are sent to labs for analysis. Each week, Secchi disc readings are taken and recorded. (A test for water clarity.) In this way we keep track of Upper Hay and are able to see when and if changes in water quality occur. We are also monitoring the lake level. Readings are taken on a regular basis and forwarded to the DNR for compilation.
Events & Social Activities
In June, we host the Annual Membership meeting. We meet at the VFW in Jenkins at 5:00 p.m. A social mixer is planned in early August at the Snarky Loon.
Loon Nesting Platforms
Each year we put out two loon nesting platforms just after “ice out” and bring them in after the nesting period. Every year we have had at least one new chick, some years have produced two.
Nonprofit Status & Fundraising
In 2007 we began working on 501(C)3 status for the Association. Approval was received from the IRS in January 2009. This will enable individuals donating money to us to claim those donations on their taxes. We will be soliciting funds from many sources, which will enable us to continue our work to ensure the viability of Upper Hay Lake for generations to come.
Shoreline Restoration Incentives
We currently are offering $600 to members who engage in a shoreline restoration project up to a maximum of 10 applicants per year. The association will also reimburse lakeshore owners for the site inspection fee.
Have a Say – Become a Board Member
Of course, membership allows you to vote for Board members and/or become a Board member and have a personal impact on what the Association does.
Please join us!!
Brad Schulz, President
