![]() Beautiful fall photos submitted by
Joy Luedtke By-Laws (Adopted 2010; Amended 2014, 2018 and 2021)
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Treasurer Reports
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2022 Memberships=25
2021 Memberships=30 2020 Memberships=30 2019 Memberships=30 2018 Memberships=30 2017 Memberships=30 2016 Memberships=27 2015 Memberships=32 2014 Memberships=28 2013 Memberships=26 2012 Memberships=29 2011 Memberships=19 2010 Memberships=23 Membership dues are $20.00 Interested in being a member? Complete the application below. ![]()
Upcoming Events Mission Township NewsMission Township is excited to announce it has been awarded a grant by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Recreation Grant Program to assist the township with improvements to Mission Park. The grant is intended to assist local governments throughout the state with developing or redeveloping recreational areas and facilities. Under the terms of the grant, the township will match the funds provided by the state. Key improvements and additions to the park include dedicated pickleball courts, new playground equipment and surfacing, resurfacing the basketball court, new roof for the pavilion, and several other items. Work will commence in the fall of 2021 and be completed by mid 2023. So watch for more information and join in the fun as our park grows and provides exciting opportunities for all ages! The Mission Township Transfer Station is open every Saturday. New Hours 9am – 3pm Open April until the end of October. The Transfer Station is located on East Horseshoe Lake Road. Monthly township meetings held the second (this is a change for 2023) Monday of the month (unless it is a holiday). Meeting schedule, minutes and agenda can be located on the township website--missiontownship.org Attention Pickleball Players
We are currently setting up a reservation system-Court Reserve. We are currently working on website and hope to have fully functional by mid-July. You can sign up now under: https://courtreserve.com Under Organization look for Mission Park Pickleball. Please fill out all information required. An email will be sent after approval. Once ready, information, playing times, reservations, etc. will be posted on app. Check Mission Township, Horseshoe Lake Property Owners Association, and Bass Lake Association websites for other sign-up options.
Please limit court time to 90 minutes max Fees:
Mission Township Park (Michael Blassey) The shelter is available to Mission Township residents for use by reservation. Contact town clerk, Anna Anderson, at 765-4377 Also, please call Michael if you have questions or issues about the trail system at (612) 240-7985 People spread Aquatic Invasive Species, people are the solution.
BLA Officers
President: Nancy Geiger Vice President: Michael Munos Secretary/Treasurer: Pam Berhow Website Administrator: Martha Steele |
Crow Wing County UpdatesErik Hidalgo
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“Do you fish from a boat? Share your thoughts on invasive species in an online discussion group and get $35. You can help natural resource professionals better understand angler behaviors AND earn $35. How? First, simply complete a 2-minute survey by clicking here (or copying this link into your internet browser: https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ehByG4BqaHPfnNQ ] to see if you are eligible to participate. If selected, the University of Minnesota researchers will contact you and invite you to participate in an 60-90 minute online discussion group about fishing from a boat and invasive species. When you complete the project, you will get $35 through a UMN check. Further information regarding the online discussion will be shared if you are selected to participate. You must complete the short questionnaire to indicate your interest in participating. All the information provided is completely voluntary, and contact information will be removed immediately following the project. We appreciate your time and effort to enhance management and improve your next Minnesota fishing experiences. Contact recresearch@umn.edu with questions.
County AIS Information:
- The County is offering a texting service for decontamination stations in the area. The public can Text CWCDECON to 72345 or call the Decon Hotline at 218-824-1055.
- The County’s mobile decontamination station is located at boat accesses throughout Crow Wing County. You can find its current location by visiting www.crowwing.us/ais and click the interactive map.
- You can also view the MN DNR decontamination stations by clicking this link: www.dnr.state.mn.us/decon

2023_ais_policy.pdf | |
File Size: | 414 kb |
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MAISRC (Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center)
The Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center is dedicated to fighting the spread and impact of aquatic invasive species on Minnesota’s beloved lakes and rivers. Created in 2012 through funds from the Minnesota legislature, our Center has grown into a respected partner and national leader in the fight against aquatic invasive species. MAISRC is a multidisciplinary team that plays a central role for AIS research in Minnesota.
MAISRC's mission is to develop research-based solutions that can reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species in Minnesota by preventing spread, controlling populations, and managing ecosystems; and to advance knowledge to inspire action by others. You can learn more about our plans for the future in our 2015 - 2025 Strategic Plan.
Finding Solutions to Minnesota’s Aquatic Invasive Species Problems. | Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) (umn.edu)
MAISRC's mission is to develop research-based solutions that can reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species in Minnesota by preventing spread, controlling populations, and managing ecosystems; and to advance knowledge to inspire action by others. You can learn more about our plans for the future in our 2015 - 2025 Strategic Plan.
Finding Solutions to Minnesota’s Aquatic Invasive Species Problems. | Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) (umn.edu)

You are invited to join the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) for our special 10th anniversary celebration on Thursday, December 7, 2023! A decade of collaborative partnerships, working towards a solution for the impacts of aquatic invasive species on our Minnesota lakes, calls for a grand celebration.
Thursday, December 7, 2023
McNamara Alumni Center
200 SE Oak St
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Parking: Convenient parking is located in the University Avenue Parking Ramp, next to the McNamara Alumni Center.
Hotel: Out-of-town guests are welcome to stay at the Graduate Hotel, although it's important to note that there is no block on the rooms for this event.
Time: 5:00pm - Interactive cocktail hour
6:30pm - Dinner and program
Connect with researchers and luminaries across Minnesota in the field of aquatic invasive species (AIS), play and learn with interactive exhibits (live fish!), celebrate our collective accomplishments, and hear what's in store for the future of MAISRC! Your ticket includes a cocktail hour, plated dinner, and MAISRC swag. Stick around after dinner to chat with researchers, faculty, and guests!
Register at the button below:
TICKETS
In the News
- White Bear’s largest water body makes A grade for quality, MAISRC mentioned (White Bear Press)
- ECR Water Project, MAISRC's eDNA project (The Timberjay)
- Beltrami Co. Residents Learn How to Identify AIS at ‘Starry Trek’ Training, MAISRC mentioned (Lakeland PBS)
- Common carp control: Minnesota researchers seek method to curb reproduction, Julie Badger interviewed (Outdoor News)
- Help look for invasive species in Minnesota lakes next weekend, Megan Weber interviewed (Kare11)
AIS Detectors Newsletter - October 2023
Just click on link below:
Membership Signs
Are Available

$23.00 for an 8x8 acrylic with aluminum laminate sign. Post it on the road or your dock or both! Contact Martha Steele steeles@brainerd.net to order.
$23.00 for an 8x8 acrylic with aluminum laminate sign. Post it on the road or your dock or both! Contact Martha Steele steeles@brainerd.net to order.
MN Lakes and Rivers Advocates
Joined in 2015.
Mission: To protect Minnesota's lake and river heritage for current and future generations by forging powerful links between lakes, lake advocates, and policy makers.
http://mnlakesandrivers.org/
May 'Water Connects Us All' Newsletter - News You Can Use 6/1/23
Below are articles, invitations and information that will keep you up to date on everything happening out on the lakes.
Minnesota Lakes and Rivers' Lake Steward program featured in Martha Stewart Magazine.
Are Picture-Perfect Grass Lawns on Their Way Out? Why Natural Is the New Beautiful
The American lawn has deep roots in our nation's founding story, but environmental concerns have sparked interest in native plants and a wildlife-friendly landscape.
By Ann Hinga Klein
Published on May 1, 2023
Group advocates for clean lakes, rivers
Waterless cleaning stations are being placed on lakes infested with starry stonewort
by Jeanne Schram for the Aitkin County Aquatic Invasive Species Committee
"There is a group in Minnesota whose sole mission is to keep lake places affordable and protect the ecology and water quality of lakes and rivers.
Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates (MLR), begun in 1993, looks ahead to emerging issues regarding the state’s waters and educates its members and policy makers."
Second CD3 Station on Cedar Lake Provides the Tools Boaters Need to Clean, Drain and Dry, and help prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
by David Glass, President of the Cedar Lake Conservation Club, May 30, 2023
Many AIS programs are struggling to hire AIS Watercraft Inspectors. Installing free, self service watercraft cleaning stations is a good solution.
MN Goes Big on Committing Funds to Protect Natural Resources by Mike Moen, Public News Service
From protecting lakes, the environment bill protects groundwater sources, addresses Chronic Wasting Disease, PFAS - forever chemicals in our waterways, upgrades to watercraft access sites and provides finding for accelerated tree planting.
Angler preferences for management of aquatic invasive species in the USA and Canada: A discrete choice experiment,
Research by University of Illinois in Candada and US Finds Angelrs Want Boat cleaning Equipment to help prevent AIS spread.
MLR Welcomes Lily Carr to the Team
Lily will be the program manager of Lake Steward
as well as a Civic Organizer and advocate for our lakes and rivers.
We are excited Lily chose to work with us and know that you will enjoy working with Lily in the future.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Lily at lily@mnlakesandrivers.org.
Minnesota bans commercial turtle trapping after 20-year effort - About 20 commercial trappers took 10,000 wild turtles a year.
By Greg Stanley Star Tribune -MAY 30, 2023
STUDY SHOWS HIGHER PROFITS FOR AG WATER QUALITY CERTIFIED FARMS FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT YEAR
Farmers also saw other improved financial metrics
"The 101 MAWQCP farms in the study saw 2022 net farm income an average of more than $23,500 or 7.5% higher than non-certified farms. Looking at four years of data, the average income for MAWQCP farms was $16,000 - $40,000 higher. Other key financial metrics are also better for those enrolled in the MAWQCP, such as debt-to-asset ratios and operating expense ratios."
Minnesota Lakes and Rivers' Lake Steward program featured in Martha Stewart Magazine.
Are Picture-Perfect Grass Lawns on Their Way Out? Why Natural Is the New Beautiful
The American lawn has deep roots in our nation's founding story, but environmental concerns have sparked interest in native plants and a wildlife-friendly landscape.
By Ann Hinga Klein
Published on May 1, 2023
Group advocates for clean lakes, rivers
Waterless cleaning stations are being placed on lakes infested with starry stonewort
by Jeanne Schram for the Aitkin County Aquatic Invasive Species Committee
"There is a group in Minnesota whose sole mission is to keep lake places affordable and protect the ecology and water quality of lakes and rivers.
Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates (MLR), begun in 1993, looks ahead to emerging issues regarding the state’s waters and educates its members and policy makers."
Second CD3 Station on Cedar Lake Provides the Tools Boaters Need to Clean, Drain and Dry, and help prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
by David Glass, President of the Cedar Lake Conservation Club, May 30, 2023
Many AIS programs are struggling to hire AIS Watercraft Inspectors. Installing free, self service watercraft cleaning stations is a good solution.
MN Goes Big on Committing Funds to Protect Natural Resources by Mike Moen, Public News Service
From protecting lakes, the environment bill protects groundwater sources, addresses Chronic Wasting Disease, PFAS - forever chemicals in our waterways, upgrades to watercraft access sites and provides finding for accelerated tree planting.
Angler preferences for management of aquatic invasive species in the USA and Canada: A discrete choice experiment,
Research by University of Illinois in Candada and US Finds Angelrs Want Boat cleaning Equipment to help prevent AIS spread.
MLR Welcomes Lily Carr to the Team
Lily will be the program manager of Lake Steward
as well as a Civic Organizer and advocate for our lakes and rivers.
We are excited Lily chose to work with us and know that you will enjoy working with Lily in the future.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Lily at lily@mnlakesandrivers.org.
Minnesota bans commercial turtle trapping after 20-year effort - About 20 commercial trappers took 10,000 wild turtles a year.
By Greg Stanley Star Tribune -MAY 30, 2023
STUDY SHOWS HIGHER PROFITS FOR AG WATER QUALITY CERTIFIED FARMS FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT YEAR
Farmers also saw other improved financial metrics
"The 101 MAWQCP farms in the study saw 2022 net farm income an average of more than $23,500 or 7.5% higher than non-certified farms. Looking at four years of data, the average income for MAWQCP farms was $16,000 - $40,000 higher. Other key financial metrics are also better for those enrolled in the MAWQCP, such as debt-to-asset ratios and operating expense ratios."
Update on Impacts of Prop Wash on Lake Sediments 6/2: Wakes, waves, and propeller wash: Research on the impacts of recreational boating on inland lakes
With the introduction of larger, more powerful watercraft and the increasing popularity of wake surfing, reliable, peer reviewed research into wake energy, the power and depth of prop thrust turbulence and the impact of these forces on lake ecology is both critically important and long overdue. With good best practices we can enjoy our lakes without loving them to death. MLR is proud to have had the opportunity to share the latest research by the Saint Anthony Falls Lab into these issues.
The recording of the "Update on Impacts of Prop Wash on Lake Sediments," here is a link: https://mnlakesandrivers.org/webinars/
The recording of the "Update on Impacts of Prop Wash on Lake Sediments," here is a link: https://mnlakesandrivers.org/webinars/
Crow Wing County Lakes and Rivers Alliance (LARA)
Joined in June 2012.
LARA represents dues-paying lake associations in Crow Wing County.
Check out the latest newsletter! 3/30/21
LARA represents dues-paying lake associations in Crow Wing County.
Check out the latest newsletter! 3/30/21

lara_spring_newsletter_2021_.pdf | |
File Size: | 1000 kb |
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Weather Alerts
Sign up for Crow Wing County ALERT:
https://crowwing.us/1490/Crow-Wing-County-ALERT
Residents can opt in and pick what weather alerts they wish to receive
Sign up for Crow Wing County ALERT:
https://crowwing.us/1490/Crow-Wing-County-ALERT
Residents can opt in and pick what weather alerts they wish to receive
REPORTS
Bass Lake 2021 Summary from AW Research

2021_bass_lake_summary__002_.pdf | |
File Size: | 1788 kb |
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Water Quality (Catherine McGoldrick):
See separate water quality page for more info.
Secchi disk readings (this tells us the clarity of the lake's water by measuring how deep one can see a white disk under the surface at the deepest part of the lake).
Secchi Readings @ 23' lake depth
Read 1/month @mid month
5/16 10'
6/14 13'
7/13 13'
8/16 8'
9/19 12'
Water level gauge set @ 1.20 on 5/9
Read 1/week on Tuesday
5/9 1.20
5/16 1.35
5/23 1.26
5/30 1.20
6/6 1.16
6/13 1.04
6/20 0.98
6/29 1.10
7/4 1.00
7/11 0.92
7/18 0.80
7/26 0.78
8/1 0.68
8/2 0.88
8/8 0.78
8/15 0.80
8/22 0.68
8/29 0.61
9/5 0.56
9/19 0.52
10/1 0.64
10/10 0.58
10/17 0.58
11/15 0.56
11/20 0.52 gauge removed
From it's highest reading on 5/16 to the lowest when I pulled the gauge on 11/20 the level dropped 9.96".
(Each tenth of a foot is equal to a water elevation change of 1 1/5")
Local Rainfall Report:
https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/Station
PrecipSummary.aspx?station=MN-CW-16