Barley straw bags which are used to help combat algae, will again be available in April.  Two bags per pier are provided at no cost to Tri-Lakes property owners.  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.  There is something unique to barley straw (unlike other forms of straw) that helps to control the amount of algae in the water.  As the straw decomposes in the lake, it releases a natural chemical, which inhibits algal growth.  This method is a good alternative to using copper-containing compounds since it is not known to have toxic effects on rooted aquatic plants, zooplankton, insect larvae or fish.  It is a cost-effective and an environmentally acceptable way to control algae in ponds and lakes.

   The decomposition process is temperature-dependent.  The best time to place the barley straw bags under piers is mid-to-late April as it takes approximately six weeks for the decomposing straw to produce enough of the growth inhibiting chemical to be effective.  Once the straw begins to produce sufficient amounts of the chemical, it is likely to control algae for four to six months.

   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.  Any systems installed after this date are monitored by Adams County.

   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, 2007.  The letters will be sent to those properties whose septic systems were installed between September, 1975 and early 1985.  If your system was installed in that timeframe and you have not received a letter by mid-March, please contact our office at 715-325-3250.

   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.  They are available to you – please contact us to get a copy!

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