Hi, I’m Grand Lake St. Marys, but you may know me simply as “the lake”. I’m having this letter written for me because I’m in trouble and need your help. You see, I’ve reached a pollution level that I cannot live with plus my shores and islands have eroded so extensively that I’m on the verge of simply being filled in–to be not a lake, but rather the marsh that was this area 200 years ago. In short, I’m dying.
I need help. And many people and groups have been trying to help me. And, I think, many more, like you, would like to, you just need to know how.
Authorities and individuals are helping by protecting roadside and field ditches with grass filter strips, and utilizing field tile plugs to keep nutrients from ‘poisoning’ my system. The State of Ohio tries to keep up with erosion by dredging the shallowest spots of my bottom and they add rip-rap to my shores to prevent further erosion, but the need is far greater than the money they have allotted for these purposes—and, of course, dredging is a losing battle without shoreline protection plus sediment traps, perhaps, to stop all the silt from the watershed from reaching my body. I already have dead zones in many channels and places that experience still waters and lots of sun—that blue-green algae has consumed all the oxygen and is creating a hostile environment for other plant life and wildlife (fish).
Franklin Township is putting some land “in perpetuity”. I like that term, “in perpetuity”. It shows great forethought on their part and I know that someone really cares about me.
Many farmers in my watershed are helping by not allowing runoff from their operations to reach my arteries (creeks and ditches). Despite their help, this type of runoff is the major contributor to my ills. So, I know that more must be done.
Many people (over 600 families) have joined the Lake Improvement Association, who is looking out for my welfare. And, if you have an interest in helping me, I recommend that you join them. Start by visiting their website, www.LakeImprovement.com, or just show up at their next meeting.
One of best things that can be done for me is to get the word out about my problem so that the power of numbers can work in my favor and restore my health. An online blog is available to all—all who live in my watershed, recreate in my waters, use me as a drinking water resource, or are merely part of my neighborhood and enjoy being able to gaze upon me as a serene and relaxing view—you’re invited to not only visit www.SavingGrandLake.com, but also to participate in the discussion regarding my future. If you have questions, you can ask them. If you have information or suggestions to share, you can share them.
Recently (August 13), a panel discussion (live) was held in my honor. Ideas were flying and more will be coming. If you are already a part of the solution, Thank You for your help! And, if not, now is the time! I may not have much time left if not for you.
Thank you,
Grand Lake St. Marys
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