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News from the Lakes Committee
With Spring upon us, the volunteers on the Lakes Committee have been busy inspecting all 27 of our beautiful lakes. Overall, our lakes look pretty good with some exceptions and we are addressing one of our concerns with our lakes vendor. In this regard, Aquagenix has recently commenced the removal of an overgrowth of torpedo grass in Lakes 7 and 21.
Also of note, a recent clam (corbicula fluminea) kill occurred in Lake 8, the big lake... The EPC was contacted and made a site visit to evaluate the situation. Some of their findings follow:
“These clams are restricted to well oxygenated habitats and it is intolerant of hypoxic (low oxygen) waters that receive organic wastes.”
“Corbicula fluminea is more susceptible to environmental stress such as temperature extremes, hypoxia, drying and low pH than most other clams.”
“Mortalities in which all age classes are affected are probably the result of toxic substances, excessive, high temperatures and low dissolved oxygen, or some other environmental factor.”
In short, their comments related to the scarcity of plants in relation to the size and depth of this lake, which, when added to the effect of lawn fertilizers that make their way into the lake, contributes to decreased oxygen levels, algae and overall not the most desirable habitat.
One of the main foci of our inspections was evaluation and prioritization of Lakes which will require ongoing maintenance and bank remediation. Monies have been appropriated in our budget for some of these projects. The Committee is in the process of selecting the appropriate vendors and, once selected, they will be asked to submit their proposals for this work which is to be completed in the near future.
On a final note, we remind all homeowners that the storm drains along our streets drain into our lakes or wetland areas. As such, any loose trash, soda/water bottles, trash can lids, plastic bags, etc. will ultimately end up in our lakes. We ask that all homeowners please secure trash so that we can avoid this situation. It makes the lakes look unsightly and places the wildlife which surround our community in peril. Let’s all pitch in to maintain the beauty of Westwood Lakes!
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