To our Barron Lake Association members,
WOW. What a year. I feel it started last fall, when, after years of planning, hours of conversations and emails, and every effort that could be made, the new augmentation pump for the well was turned on. It was only to our biggest disappointment to find it ordered to be shut down by EGLE in December 2024. Thinking it would only be down a couple of months, we soon realized the fight we were about to be in.
We were helpless while the Drain Commissioner and EGLE battled it out. Our hands were tied. Then on Oct. 9, permits were issued, and the augmentation pump for the well came back on. The decision was to run the pump one week on and one week off with EGLE watching. I am happy to report that as of Nov. 27, it was turned on with no plans of turning it off. So, as we originally planned, the well will be operational until late spring, pending no interruptions by EGLE. That, with the help of Mother Nature, we are hoping the lake will recover for 2026.
Let there be no confusion about all of this. The Drain Commissioner made an error. EGLE held everyone at bay. And I can’t stress this point hard enough. Had it not been for the diligence of the people who were hired, meaning Todd at Tritium, along with the never-wavering effort of our own Fred Fornell to keep everyone on point, there is no way this would have happened. The requests from EGLE on what information we collected before the well was installed were very specific and detailed. But there was never one thing they wanted that couldn’t be produced. So, to them we owe a huge thank you.
Moving on from that, in March, we reported to the Drain Commissioner that the boat ramp needed repair. Of course, once again, he was dealing with EGLE. From the time the permit was requested until it was issued by EGLE was again a lengthy experience. In mid-July, the repairs were made. Then let’s throw a little fuel on the fire. We had a drought. Thanks to Norbert, we were able to keep track of it, which is great information looking back and moving forward.
STOCKING THE LAKE
The Walleyes were put in on Nov. 11, and as always, I was very impressed with the crew from Laggis Fish Farms. Very professional with both us and the fish. For those of you who have asked why we pay for fish when you read about how the DNR gives fish away. I have a lengthy email from the DNR on why we don’t qualify at this time. We may in the future, and we are in constant contact with the DNR, so if the opportunity arises, we will be there.
ANNUAL REPORT
We have an annual report on the status of our lake from Restorative Lake Sciences, the people who help with weed control and monitor the lake over the entire season. We will get it posted on the website for everyone to view. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a larger-than-normal weed growth in 2026, with the lower water level exposing more surface area. We will be renewing with them for 2026.
LAKE LEVEL MONITOR
There is a lake level monitor that is also up and running. I am told there might be some final tweaks needed yet, but it should be good to go. Information on that will also be on the website.
LAKE ASSOCIATION PICNIC
A good time was had by all at the BLA picnic. And again, we want to thank everyone involved for all of their hard work. If anyone is thinking about another one for next year, don’t be shy, let us know.
Wishing everyone Happy Holidays and a fantastic New Year.
Tom Hable
President
Thank you Tom for all the exceptional work you do on our behalves! Making sure that the lake is as healthy and robust as possible is top of mind for most homeowners – and so I appreciate your comprehensive and straightforward information on the status and plan forward.
When I was at the final summer meeting I really wasn’t joking when I suggested that we hold the Drain Commissioner financially liable in a class action civil lawsuit. Many of us incurred expenses that we otherwise would not have, from boat repairs to expenses getting boats off lifts to loss of use. There is no official way to hold this elected official accountable for not doing his job, but he is not immune from civil penalties. I propose that the lake association seek an attorney and pay for the initial consultation. If a legal case can be made them the lake association can be repaid from the settlement.