Big Lake Twp. heard some good news at their recent meeting regarding Birch Lake. In 2009, the lake was declared an “impaired waterbody.” The lake had too much phosphorus in the water, which caused algae species to thrive. This resulted in an excess of algae and reduced water clarity. Many lakes facing this situation never improve. 

However, Birch Lake is a happy example of a successful restoration effort. In 2014, the Sherburne Soil and Water Conservation District completed a sub-watershed analysis to determine from where the phosphorus was coming. The state then awarded a Clean Water Funds Grant. SWCD and shoreline landowners collaborated to use the funding towards shoreline restoration and stormwater improvements. The township helped by installing stormwater infiltration basins on the west side of the lake. 

The phosphorus level was lowered significantly by these efforts, and the state recommended removing Birch Lake from the “impaired waterbody” list this year. Hopefully, the county will be able to replicate this success with other area lakes. 

In Other Business, the Board:

• Discussed the proposed county parking ordinance (this was sent back for review at the recent commissioners’ meeting);

• Approved CUP and variance requests;

• Discussed collecting quotes for future winter road maintenance.