Barley straw bags, which are used to help combat algae, will again be available in April.  You can pick them up at the Tri-Lakes office located at 1555 Apache Avenue. Hours for pick-up in April will be Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. and on Saturdays from 8:00 A.M. – Noon.  While the barley straw does aid in the prevention of algae, everyone should do their part in trying to maintain good water quality in our lakes.  This would include not using fertilizers to the water edge, having a buffer zone along the lake and pumping septic systems every three years.

Sanitary District: Failing or improperly functioning septic systems can add pollutants to lakes increasing weed and algae growth.  Additionally, an improperly sited, overloaded, or poorly maintained septic system can add nutrients, bacteria, viruses and hazardous chemicals to groundwater.  These pollutants can then be drawn into your well and come out the tap in your drinking, cooking and bathing water.

 In an attempt to reduce the occurrence of these problems, in a meeting on July 3, 2004, the electors of the Tri-Lakes Management District adopted Resolution #2004-1 authorizing certain sanitary district powers.  This resolution authorized the Tri-Lakes Management District to require all sewage systems installed prior to July 1, 1992 to be inspected and/or pumped once every three years.  Adams County monitors any systems installed after this date.

Approximately 440 property owners in the Tri-Lakes District will be notified by letter in early March that they need to have their septic system inspected and/or pumped this year.  The letters will include a post card, which needs to be signed by the licensed septic inspector and returned to Tri-Lakes by July 31, 2006.

 We have several informational articles on maintaining your septic system which contain helpful reminders and suggestions that can be used to maximize the life and function of your system. Please contact us to get a copy!

Water Levels:  Water levels will begin to be brought back up to summer levels in April as soon as the ice is out.  This may be earlier than April 15^th.  As of this date, this is the last winter drawdown that will be allowed by the DNR.  The lakes will not be drawn down next fall unless there is a ruling change from DNR (efforts to negotiate and modify this stance are still being pursued).

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Tri-Lakes Office at 715-325-3250.  

                                                                                                                       By: Barb Herreid