articles from May, 2001 newsletter:
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Vice President's Message
Since our President, Willis Irons, chose to spend the winter in a warmer climate, I have had the honor and privilege of presiding over the board of directors during the first half of the year. I would, therefore, like to take this opportunity to send greetings to all of the Club's members as we begin this most exciting of seasons on beautiful Lake Vermilion. If you are like me, you can hardly wait to put the boat in the water, get some new line on the fishing reel and head out in search of some hungry Walleye. I am also looking forward to using the Club's five shore lunch/ picnic sites. They are located in scenic locations and offer safe dockage for your boat and picnic tables, fire rings and latrines for you. A map of their locations and GPS coordinates can be found on the Club's web site which has a link from www.LakeVermilion.com.
Although the long winter is a quiet time on the lake, it is the time when your board of directors is most busy setting goals, organizing various committees and starting projects which will benefit our members and the lake. Among the new projects slated for this year, is an intensive education and lake monitoring effort aimed at keeping exotic species such as Zebra Mussels and Eurasian Watermilfoil from getting into Lake Vermilion. New board member, Steve Towle, will chair that committee. Our other new board member, Paul Hanson, will be heading up a major membership drive. Your board feels that it is of vital importance to increase the membership of the Club, especially among the lake's 5000+ property owners, in order to promote the Club's goals. Other projects include the initiation of a shoreline revegetation program and production of a new Catch and Release informational poster which will be distributed to resorts and other public places. Ray Harris, chair of the Navigation Lights / Boating Safety committee will be placing four new solar powered night navigation lights into service, in an ongoing effort to upgrade the entire system.
D.N.R. Fisheries and other agencies such as the M.P.C.A. to keep a close watch on the health of the fishery and the quality of the water in Lake Vermilion. Exciting new scientific studies wlil provide a wealth of data on the lake and enable the Club to take steps to effectively protect it.
As chair of the Newsletter committee, I'd like to call your attention to some of the additions we have made to this issue, including interesting original articles written by Club members. I encourage anyone who likes to write to contribute to future issues. You can expect more improvements, intended to add to your reading pleasure, in upcoming issues of The Vermilion Sportsman.
Finally, I encourage you to plan to attend the Sportsmen's Club's Annual Meeting and Dinner. This year it will be held at Fortune Bay Resort on Lake Vermilion on Friday, August 1 0th. We are working on a new format for this year's meeting and I am sure our members will enjoy the surprises we have planned.
Respect and Protect the lake!
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Annual Meeting
SPORTSMEN'S CLUB OF LAKE VERMILION, INC.
33rd ANNUAL MEETING and DINNER
Friday, August 10 - Fortune Bay Resort
"Please mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Watch for more information in the July issue of the newsletter."
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Catch-And-Release Reminder
Improved fishing technology and increasing fishing pressure have caused fishing quality to decline in many waters. Catch-and-release fishing offers anglers a way to enjoy their sport with less harm to the resource. Each year, more anglers discover the satisfaction of watching a fish they've caught swim away. Here are some tips for proper catch-and-release:
- Don't place fish you plan to release on a stringer or in a livewell, because they have less chance of surviving. Make the decision to release a fish when you catch it.
- Play and land the fish quickly. A prolonged struggle places too much stress on a fish and causes a buildup of harmful lactic acids.
- Handle the fish gently and keep it in the water as much as possible. If possible, unhook the fish without lifting it from the water.
- When lifting fish for a photograph or just to admire it, don't hold it by the eye sockets or gills. You can damage the internal organs of fish, especially larger ones, by lifting them from the water. Use both hands to evenly support the fish's weight.
- Use a pliers to remove hooks.
- If a hook is deeply imbedded, cut the line. Fish have strong digestive acids which will dissolve metal. Studies have shown that fish released in this manner have a higher survival rate than do fish that have had hooks torn from their throat or stomach.
- A fish that can be legally kept should not be released if it is bleeding heavily, which indicates its chance of survival is poor.
- You cannot intentionally fish for any species during its closed season.
- In streams, release fish into calm water. A tired fish placed in fast water can die by tumbling downstream into rocks.
- Gently slide the fish back into the water.
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FISHING ETHICS
Fishing in Minnesota has become so popular that many lakes are now overcrowded. As fishing pressure continues to grow, the DNR offers these suggestions to make fishing safe and enjoyable for all anglers:
- Don't litter monofilament fishing line, styrofoam, plastic bags, six-pack holders, and other plastics, which can kill fish and wildlife that eat or get tangled up in these products.
- Prepare your boat and trailer before you are on the ramp so that you can launch quickly.
- Ask for permission before entering private land.
- Keep only the amount of fish you can use.
- Release some medium-sized fish so they can grow larger and be caught in the future.
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Status of Fish Populations in Lake Vermilion
By Duane Williams, Large Lake Specialist for Lake Vermilion,
Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources, Division of Fisheries.
Phone No. 218-365-7280
Lake Vermilion is part of the statewide Large Lake Program, which includes annual fish population assessmeets on the 10 largest lakes in Minnesota. A variety of sampling gear including gillnets, trapnets, seines, and an electrofishing boat are used to sample the various fish species and life stages. Sampling for each gear type is conducted at the same time and place each year in order to determine population trends for the major species. Data is also collected on length, weight, age, and growth for each of the major species. A summary of the 2000 fish population assessment on Lake Vermilion is presented in the balance of this report. l encourage anyone with questions about fish populations in Lake Vermilion to call me or stop by our Ely office for a visit.
The assessment gillnet catch of walleye in the fall of 2000 was 18.2 fish per net, the highest catch ever observed on Lake Vermilion. It was the fourth consecutive year of above average walleye catches. High walleye catches in recent years were due to strong year classes produced in 1994,1995, and 1997. Fishing prospects for walleye in 2001 are very good, with high numbers of walleye present in the 12-15 inch size range. The harvest will be dominated by an average 1996 year class and the strong 1997 year class. Most walleye from the 1996 year class will be 14-17 inches long at the start of the season. Walleye from the 1997 year class will be primarily 12-15 inches long at the start of the season. Anglers can also expect to start catching small walleye from the 1998 year class. These fish will be too small for many anglers to keep at the beginning of the season, however as these fish grow during the summer they will become increasingly acceptable to anglers.
The 2000 gillnet catch of northern pike was 0.6 fish/ net, slightly below the historical average. The northern pike population has historically been relatively stable without much annual fluctuation. The total northern pike catch was 12 fish, too small of a sample size to make strong conclusions about the size and age structure of the population. Seven of the 12 northern pike sampled were over 28 inches long, which is larger than the usual size range of pike sampled. The catch was comprised primarily of fish age 6 and older. Past netting indicated strong year classes were produced in 1991 and 1994. Angling prospects for northern pike in 2001 should be similar to recent years, although there may be more large fish than usual in the population.
The 2000 gillnet catch of yellow perch was 36.6 fish/ net, well above the historical average. It was the highest perch catch since 1993. Perch catches had been relatively stable in recent years at a level near the historical average. Average to strong year classes of perch were produced in 1998, 1997, 1996, and 1995. Anglers that are seeking perch should find good fishing in 2001. Larger perch are available in the Big Bay area of the lake, where 55% of the perch sampled were 9 inches or longer. Perch in the Big Bay area tend to be larger than those in other areas of the lake, probably because they feed extensively on rusty crayfish that are abundant in that area. Perch in the Big Bay area are also less likely to be infested with yellow grub.
The 2000 trapnet catch of bluegill was 27.0 fish/net, which is near the historical average. The bluegill catch was much higher on West Vermilion than on East Vermilion, which is usually the case. Strong year classes of bluegill were produced in 1995 and 1997. Anglers can expect good bluegill fishing in 2001, although small fish will dominate the harvest. Bluegill from the strong 1995 year class will be mostly 5-7 inches long in the spring of 2001 while bluegill from the strong 1997 year class will be 4-6 inches long. Anglers will probably catch fewer large bluegill than usual, as the number of bluegill in the population over eight inches is relatively low.
The black crappie trapnet catch was 1.4 fish/net, slightly below the historical average. Lake Vermilion has a relatively low crappie popuiation which is usually dominated by one or two strong year classes. A strong year class of crappie was produced in 1997 and moderately strong year classes were produced in 1994 and 1995. Fair numbers of crappie 8-10 inches long will be available to anglers in 2001 from the 1997 year class. Lesser num bers of large crappie will be available to anglers from the 1994 and 1995 year classes.
An electrofishing boat is used as the standard sampling gear for smallmouth bass because they are not often caught in the test nets used for population assessments. Electrofishing for smallmouth bass was not done in 2000, due to poor weather during the normal sampling period in mid June. The 1999 assessment indicated the smallmouth bass population was at a high level and dominated by a strong 1997 year class.
Muskie population assessments are done once every four years for both East Vermilion and West Vermilion. The last muskie population assessments were done in 1997 on East Vermilion and 1998 on West Vermilion. Most of the muskie sampled were 34-47 inches long with the largest muskie measuring 49 inches. Muskie were not present in Lake Vermilion until they were first stocked in 1969. An intensive stocking program using Leech Lake strain fingerlings began in 1987. Previous assessments and angler reports indicate the muskie population is doing well with the larger fish now exceeding 50 inches. The next muskie population assessments are scheduled for this spring on East Vermilion and 2002 on West Vermilion.
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Walleye Management on Lake Vermilion
By Duane Williams, Large Lake Specialist for Lake Vermilion,
Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources, Division of Fisheries.
Phone No. 218-365-7280
Lake Vermilion is part of the statewide Large Lake Program, which involves intensive management of the 10 largest walleye lakes in Minnesota. The program was started in 1983 when it became apparent that more detailed biological information was needed to properly manage these important lakes. A Large Lake Specialist was assigned to each lake to manage the program at the area level. On Lake Vermilion, the Large Lake Program includes annual population assessments and creel surveys two consecutive years out of every six years.
To ensure that walleye are not over harvested on the Large Lakes, safe harvest targets were established in 1997. Individual harvest targets were developed for each lake based on the unique limnological and biological characteristics of that lake. The harvest targets can then be compared to walleye harvest estimates developed from creel surveys to determine if over harvest is an issue. The safe harvest target for Lake Vermilion walleye was set at 76,000 pounds, which means that the average annual walleye harvest should not exceed 76,000 pounds. Of that total harvest target, 65,000 pounds were allocated to the summer boat fishery that is documented by creel survey. The remaining 11,000 pounds of the harvest target were allocated to undocumented harvest such as dock fishing, fall fishing, winter fishing, and subsistence netting. Safe harvest targets were also established for the other major species present in Lake Vermilion.
Creel surveys were conducted on Lake Vermilion in 1984-1985, 1990-1 991, and 1996-1 997. The average walleye harvest for those six years was 64,800 pounds, which is near the harvest target of 65,000 pounds for the summer boat fishery. Only in 1990 was the walleye harvest substantially above the harvest target. On average, the walleye harvest since 1984 appears to be near the maximum level that can be sustained over time, although over harvest may have occurred in a few individual years. The next cycle of creel surveys will be conducted in 2002 and 2003. If the walleye harvest is substantially over the harvest target, more restrictive regulations would be considered to reduce the harvest to a more sustainable level.
The walleye population on Lake Vermilion is monitored by annual assessment netting done as part of the Large Lake Program. Detailed information is collected on walleye abundance, size structure, age structure, growth rate, sex, and maturity schedule. A graduate student at the University of Minnesota recently analyzed much of this data as part of his masters thesis, with the goal of identifying key biological indicators that could be used to identify over harvest. Some of these indicators may be incorporated into the Large Lake Program and used to help identify when over harvest is occurring. If over harvest was occurring, a regulation could be designed to reduce harvest to a more sustainable level. A major advantage of using these biological indicators to manage harvest is that the necessary data is collected every year during annual population assessments.
In 1997 the Lake Vermilion Resort Association and the Sportsmen's Club of Lake Vermilion approached the DNR about using a slot limit to improve the size structure of the walleye population. The DNR agreed to look at possible regulation changes with the goal of increasing the number of walleye over 15 inches in the population. The DNR would not support a regulation change unless it had a good chance of making a measurable change in the walleye population. Biologists from the Fisheries Research Unit used a computer model of the walleye population to predict the effects of various potential regulations. The modeling indicated a regulation would need to be very restrictive to meet the goal, due primarily to slow growth of Lake Vermilion walleye. It was decided to not pursue a regulation change at the time, although that does not preclude possible regulation changes in the future
The DNR operates a walleye egg take station and hatchery on Lake Vermilion each spring at the mouth of the Pike River. The eggs and walleye fry produced at the hatchery are used for stocking lakes in northeastern Minnesota and other areas of the state. About 10-20 million fry are stocked into Lake Vermilion each spring, in accordance with DNR policy of returning at least 10% of fry produced at walleye hatcheries back into the parent lake. It is not known if this stocking actually contributes to the walleye population in Lake Vermilion, because it is not possible to use the standard stocking evaluation methodology of comparing stocked year classes to non-stocked year classes. It is unlikely that stocking has a major impact on the walleye population in Lake Vermilion, since natural reproduction is usually sufficient on large natural walleye lakes to maintain the population. Most of the adult walleye in Lake Vermilion spawn along rocky shorelines and are not affected by operations at the Pike River Hatchery. Walleye are prolific spawners and usually produce many more eggs than necessary to sustain the population. This allows surplus eggs to be taken from large lakes and used in other areas without affecting the walleye population in the parent lake.
A major misconception exists that more walleye can always be produced in a lake if more walleye are stocked. In fact, walleye production in any lake is limited by the fertility and species composition of that lake, regardless of how many fish are stocked. There is a threshold amount of natural reproduction or stocking needed to reach the full productive potential of a lake. Additional walleye stocked beyond that threshold amount will not increase the walleye population. Most of the large walleye lakes in northern Minnesota have sufficient natural reproduction to maintain the walleye population near their productive potential.
Protection of aquatic habitat and water quality is another important aspect of managing walleye and other species on Lake Vermilion. Shallow near shore areas of the lake provide critical habitat to many species and life stages of fish, including walleye. Degradation of aquatic habitat is often related to lakeshore development and poor land use practices within the watershed. The DNR protects aquatic habitat through two major programs; the Division of Waters Protected Waters Permit process and the Division of Ecological Services Aquatic Plant Management Program. Both programs require permits for projects that are beyond the scope of a few clearly defined activities allowed without a permit. Various federal, state, and local regulations are also used to minimize negative impacts to the lake and watershed. Aquatic habitat on Lake Vermilion can also be protected by retaining publicly owned lakeshore. Undeveloped shorelines of public lands provide habitat refuges that benefit many fish species, including walleye.
Angler attitudes and values can also play a role in maintaining the walleye fishery on Lake Vermilion. Catch and release fishing has become popular in recent years, particularly for large fish. Anglers can also advocate for laws and policies that will benefit the walleye population. A healthy walleye population can be maintained on Lake Vermilion for many years to come if harvest is regulated at a sustainable level, habitat is protected, and anglers place a high value on the walleye population.
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Sportsmen's Club of Lake Vermilion and Lake Vermilion Conservation Association Competition, Duplication or Symbiosis?
Over the last few months we have been hearing about a new group calling themselves The Lake Vermilion Conservation Association. Your board decided to approach these folks to gather some information so that we can strive to avoid any competition, or duplication. We also hope to clear any confusion because of similar names.
Dale Lundblad and myself invited their principles to join us in a meeting, which was held on Tuesday, April 10, 2001, in Cook. We met with Tom Morrow, Al Mazion and Wayne Suoja, and enjoyed a frank and cordial exchange.
We learned that their central mission is to "promote good land use practices to enhance enjoyment of the lake....while protecting the lake's natural resources." They explained they oppose high density development projects and prefer promoting residential single family dwellings. They further stated "our emphasis will be on land use issues." We also learned that an initial major project of this group,will be to promote the rewriting of the Land Use
Plan of Lake Vermilion, last revised in 1984. They are also actively opposed to the proposed Pike Bay Condominium Project. They are planning an appeal of the recent approval of this project by Planning and Zoning.
Dale and I came away from this meeting feeling that we had experienced a good exchange of information. It does not appear that the two organizations are in any competition at this time. Your Lake Vermilion Sportsmen' s Club will continue to concentrate on issues involving the lake and its shore. We plan to continue our work with water quality, boating safety, fishery issues, and wildlife protection. The new group is primarily interested in land development. We don't see any significant duplication of efforts, at least initially.
If you wish to contact the Lake Vermilion Conservation Association, drop them a note to Box 393, Tower, MN 55790.
Steve Towle, board member
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C.P.R.
Did you catch a big fish last year? Was he/she big enough to end up on your den wall as a trophy? Did you put it in a livewell on the boat and then haul him/her around all afternoon and then decide to release it? THIS YEAR PLEASE TRY ...
Catch Photograph Release
You know you can buy a throw-away camera for about $10you could keep it on the boat, in your tackle box, whatever
and if you do get a biggie that you are maybe NOT going to mounttry a little CPR. The survival rate for the fish is going
to be much higheruse the graph below as a guide and the camera as proof ... TRY IT ... YOU'LL LIKE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Weigh Your Fish With a Ruler
Fish are sometimes damaged when weighed. With this chart, you can quickly determine the approximate weight of your fish using a ruler or tape measure. (Note: These figures are rough estimates only. Actual weights vary slightly by lake and stream.)
|
Crappie
|
Largemouth
|
Walleye
|
Northern
|
length
(inches)
|
weight
(lbs.)
|
length
(inches)
|
weight
(lbs.)
|
length
(inches)
|
weight
(lbs.)
|
length
(inches)
|
weight
(lbs.)
|
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
|
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.1
1.4
1.8
2.2
2.8
3.4
4.1
|
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
|
1.0
1.3
1.7
2.1
2.5
3.0
3.6
4.2
5.0
5.7
6.6
7.6
|
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
|
1.0
1.2
1.5
1.8
2.2
2.5
3.0
3.4
3.9
4.5
5.1
5.7
6.5
7.2
8.1
9.0
|
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
|
3.9
4.4
5.0
5.6
6.2
7.0
7.7
8.5
9.3
10.2
11.2
12.2
13.3
14.5
15.7
16.9
18.3
19.6
21.2
|
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Spotlight on Vermilion Legends ...
The first in a series of articles featuring our more colorful and memorable lake friends.
JACK SPARKS
If Lake Vermilion had a Hall of Fame, Jack Sparks would be elected on the first ballot. He's been a top-notch fisherman and guide, managed a resort, and was a good enough golfer to play in some professional tournaments. But most of all he's contributed generously of that most valuable asset - his time - to help people enjoy the lake.
Jack's dad, Carl, was General Manager of General Motors' Dynafiow transmission plant in Bedford, Indiana, a great job in the heyday of the American auto industry. During a fishing trip in 1950, Jack and his dad ventured into the back country on what is now Highway 169. After a few twists and turns they came upon Birchwood Resort on Everett Bay, and the next thing Jack knew his dad had bought the resort and given his notice at GM. After Jack graduated from high school in 1951, he moved north to help his parents, and he's been here ever since.
One of Jack's early memories at the resort is of his dad trying to get in a little fishing before tourist season swung into high gear. Like all resorters, his love of fishing took a back seat to the needs of the resort, so he had to get his fishing in early. Unfortunately, in this case he was too early - fishing season hadn't opened yet. When a neighbor saw Carl out on the end of the dock fishing, the neighbor snuck out to the dock, then jumped up and yelled, "You're under arrest for fishing out of season!" Carl jumped into the icy waters, and surfaced to find his neighbor doubled over in laughter.
Jack started guiding when guests at the resort asked for help finding good spots to fish. As Jack learned the craft, guests from other resorts and even some residents hired him to guide, and helping a few resort guests turned into a career. Between the mid-fifties and the end of his guiding days in 1995, Jack's daily fee climbed from $50 to $300, and he was busy almost every day of the season. When asked to compare fishing today with his early days on the lake, Jack says that fishing pressure is five times what it was then, but he says the fishing is still pretty good if you know where to look. Although he fought the introduction of muskies to Lake Vermilion, he now believes that they don't hurt the wa'leye population at all. "Muskies eat a lot of rough fish that prey on walleye fingerlings, and in the long run muskies probably help the walleyes."
One of Jack's favorite customers was a young boy whose trip was arranged by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Terminally ill with cancer, the boy had asked to go fishing with the famous guide and fisherman Al Lindner. When that didn't work out, they called Jack. After a slow first day, the boy's dad asked Jack to take them into Trout Lake. It was a hard trip for the boy, but Jack made it as easy as possible, and the hard work paid off when the boy limited out, including a 9 lb. walleye. Back on Vermilion at the end of the day, while TV and newspaper reporters quizzed the boy, Jack got in his boat, ready to slip quietly away. The boy saw him and ran over to Jack. "Thanks, Jack, I'll see you next yearI hope." The boy died over the winter.
Jack did his part for the lake and the community in many other ways. When the truck portages into the Boundary Waters were closed, he became president of "Conservationists with Common Sense," a group that worked to re-open the portages. After driving at least 10,000 miles and spending hundreds of hours in meetings arguing the group's case, Jack's efforts were rewarded when a compromise was reached and the Trout Lake truck portage re-opened. For several years Jack also helped run a snowmobile race on Big Bay, but he paid a price for it. While driving a snowmobile to lay out the race course in December, 1978, he went through the ice in the area between Ely Island and Stuntz Bay. He finally got out of the water and tried to run to shore for help, but collapsed halfway. Luckily for Jack, a couple of other volunteers saw him, and rushed him to a hospital, where he spent six weeks recovering from hypothermia. The shock triggered diabetes, and a few years ago put Jack in a wheelchair.
After Carl Sparks died in 1974, Jack and his mother, Mable, ran the resort for another six years. In 1980 Jack's mother was ready to retire and dreamed of traveling. The only way to make it happen was to sell the resort, so they sold off most of the land and cabins, keeping only a few. Jack still lives at what was once Birchwood Resort. His daughter, Machelle Loudon, and her family live in Florida. But this isn't a story of an embittered man, alone and tied to a wheelchair. To meet Jack Sparks is to tap into an endless vein of laughter and stories and friendship. You can't help but wish you'd known him for the last 30 or 40 years, and it's a treat to share some time with him now.
Tom Morrow, club member
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Minnesota Zebra Mussel Watch 1
Volunteer Monitor Instruction Guide
Zebra mussels are spreading to lakes and rivers in the Midwest! These small invasive clams attach to hard surfaces in lakes and rivers killing native mussels, limiting recreational activities, clogging water supply pipes, and competing with larval fish for food. In Minnesota, zebra mussels have been found in the Mississippi River, the St. Louis River, and Lake Superior. You can provide important help tracking their distribution in Minnesota by spending a few minutes monitoring the lake or river where you live without any specialized equipment. Early detection for zebra mussels is important in protecting your property and Minnesota's water resources.
How can you monitor for zebra mussels?
In the fall when removing equipment from lakes or rivers:
- Visualy inspect hard surfaces for zebra mussels such as docks, dock floats and-supports, swimming platforms, boats, motors, anchors, and any objects that have been in the lake or river for the summer. Check areas that zebra mussels are especially attracted to like trim tabs, rubber gaskets, grooves along the keel of pontoon boats, and sailboat centerboards. During early infestations, zebra mussels are likely to be small (1/4-1/2 inch lo and the number attached on any object are likely to be low. You can also examine rocks and other hard surface along the shoreline and in shallow water, especially near water accesses.
- Complete and send the attached Zebra Mussel Watch report form bv November 1st each year. Always report whether or not you found zebra mussels.
What else can you do? (OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES)
- Make your own monitoring device. Hang a PVC pipe (2 feet long, 4-inch diameter) vertically under a shady spot of your dock (zebra mussels tend to avoid direct sunlight) in the summer to monitor for zebra mussels. Drill two opposite holes near the top of the pipe and attach it to a rope. Suspend the PVC pipe as deep as possible toward the end of your dock, keeping it at least one foot above the bottom. Examine the PVC pipe, especially in the fall as discussed above, and complete the Zebra Mussel Watch report form. You may also use a brick or cinder block for this monitoring activity.
- Water sampling for veligers. Contact Minnesota Sea Grant to learn more about taking water samples from your lake or river two times during the summer to test for microscopic zebra mussel larvae (veligers) using a Zebra Mussel Citizen Monitoring Kit.
How can you get more information?
Contact:
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources www.dnr.state.mn.us
Minnesota Sea Grant Program www.seagrant.umn.edu
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Minnesota Zebra Mussel Watch 2
Volunteer Monitor Frequently-Asked Questions
What are zebra mussels?
Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are small (usually under 1 inch), invasive freshwater mussels often found in clusters. Their "D"-shaped, bivalve shells are usually banded with dark brown and white stripes, earning them the name "zebra." Native to an area in Russia near the Caspian Sea, these musse1s were most likely transported to the Great Lakes during the 1980s in the freshwater ballast of transoceanic ships.
Where are zebra mussels?
Since their discovery in North America in Lake St. Clair near Detroit in 1988, zebra mussels have spread rapidly to all ofthe Great Lakes, over 175 inland lakes, and 8 major river systems in the United States. In Minnesota, zebra mussels have been found in the Mississippi River, the St. Louis River, and Lake Superior.
Why are zebra mussels a concern?
Zebra mussels are a problem because they can damage the ecology of lakes and rivers, limit recreational activities, and have devastating economic effects. They use sticky, threadlike fibers to attach to surfaces such as docks, boats, motors, and submerged rocks. Zebra mussels can even attach to native freshwater mussels, killing many native mussel populations that are vital to healthy lake ecosystems. They may also foul beaches with their sharp, stinky shells. Zebra mussels filter tremendous volumes of particles (plankton) from the water, which removes the food available for young fish. They can also clog all sizes of water supply pipes and boat engine cooling systems.
How might zebra mussels get into lakes?
Probably the main way zebra mussels are unintentionally spread to new lakes and rivers is by hitching a ride on boat hulls, engines, aquatic plants, and equipment moved by recreational boaters and anglers. Depending on the air temperature and humidity, these adult zebra mussels can survive for days out of the water and may detach and cause new infestations. Microscopic zebra mussel larvae (called veligers) may even be transported in the water of bait containers, motors, and live wells. The good news, based on a recent Minnesota Sea Grant survey, is that an overwhelming number of boaters get the message about zebra mussel prevention and take action at water accesses.
How can you help prevent the spread of zebra mussels?
Before leaving a lake or river:
1. INSPECT and REMOVE all aquatic plants, animals, and mud from boats, trailers, and equipment
2. DRAIN water from motors, live wells and bait containers and DISPOSE of unwanted live bait on land
Before moving to a different lake or river do one or more of the following. especially if moored for more than one dav in infested waters:
3. RINSE your boat and equipment with hot (104 F) tap water
4. SPRAY your boat and trailer with high-pressure water
S. DRY your boat and equipment for at least 5 days
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EXOTIC SPECIES REPORT
The Minnesota DNR's Exotic Species Program recently released its annual report reviewing management activities in 2000. "Harmful Exotic Species of Aquatic Plants and Wild Animal Species in Minnesota" details the program's public awareness efforts, watercraft inspections, enforcement, management and research efforts. Individual chapters examine the management of specific species, such as Eurasian watermilfoil, purple loosestrife, flowering rush and zebra mussels. Several highlights from the report are listed below.
Monitoring Population Spread
Eurasian watermilfoil was discovered in 15 additional Minnesota waters, the largest number of waters discovered with milfoil in a single year since 1989 (eight of the newly infested are connected to waters already known to be infested with milfoil). There are now 121 waters known to have Eurasian watermilfoil.
Divers discovered numerous small mussels on rocks and other natural substrate in the St. Croix River from several separate locations. The presence of abundant mussels led to the designation of the St. Croix River downstream of river mile 25.4 (near the Boomsite Recreation Area north of Stillwater) as infested. Zebra mussels were reported by lake residents and confirmed by DNR to be in Lake Zumbro and the Zumbro River downstream of Lake Zumbro (north of Rochester).
Management Actions
The DNR Exotic Species and Aquatic Plant Management programs worked with cooperators to manage Eurasian watermilfoil on 33 lakes and the DNR initiated control efforts on 12 other "high-intensity management" lakes.
Approximately 1.5 million purple loosestrife eating beetles were released at more than 250 sites. Beetles have now been released on 567 sites, one-quarter of the known purple loosestrife infestations in Minnesota. A survey of sites where biological control beetles had previously been released found that the insects were causing sign)ficant damage to purple loosestrife on 30% (88 of 289) ofthe sites.
The DNR encouraged the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to designate black carp as an injurious wildlife species because the escape of black carp into the Mississippi River system would harm native mussel populations.
The DNR Exotic Species Program staffremoved flowers from flowering rush in Forest Lake, the only known population in Minnesota which produces fertile seeds.
Research and Cooperation
Exotic Species Staff assisted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in studying the effectiveness of using endothall herbicide to control curly-leaf pondweed in spring when water temperatures are low.
A cooperative study involving the DNR, Minnesota Sea Grant and the University of Minnesota was initiated to better understand which exotic aquatic plants are being sold in the state and which plants can survive Minnesota winters.
Over 200 lakeshore residents joined a new volunteer monitoring program this fall, checking their docks, rafts, boats, and other objects for zebra mussels.
Public Awareness Efforts
The DNR developed and used two new television and two new radio spots to encourage boaters to clean vegetation and exotics from their boats.
Watercraft inspectors contacted 51,508 boaters about harmful exotics species and how to clean boats and trailers. About 9% of the inspections were at uninfested waters.
Weekend-long exotic species awareness events were conducted in the communities of Alexandria, Spicer, and Lake of the Woods.
Four road checks were held by DNR conservation officers. Aquatic vegetation was found in, or on, an average of 17% of all watercraft/trailers inspected. Warnings and citations were issued to all violators.
For more information
Call the DNR Exotic Species Program at 1-(800) 657-3929 or visit our web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ecological_services/exotics/
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TurtIes in Minnesota
Minnesota turtles have an identity problem. Many people think there are only two types of turtles in the state. Not so! (There are actually nine species.) The following information is excerpted from "Turtles in Minnesota," a Natural History Leaflet published by the James Ford Bell Museum of Natural History.
When we think of the "wilds" of our lakes, we usually think of creatures like fish and waterfowl. But have you ever stopped to ponder the existence of turtles?
Turtles definitely have an identity problem. Think about it: When we think of turtles, what comes to mind? Probably mud turtles and snapping turtles. Actually, there are 7 additional species in Minnesota (and over 240 species of turtles worldwide).
Turtles have a shell formed by the fusion of the spine, ribs, and dermal bones. This outer shell covering, called the "scutes," provides housing and protection for this reptile. The scutes are composed of material similar to our toenails.
Turtles are "slow" because they are ectothermic (coldblooded). They need to absorb their heat from the environment. If turtles get caught in places below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, they will die. Their dependence on external heat explains why we see turtles basking in the sun around lakes and streams during the summertime. By basking, turtles raise their body temperatures above the surrounding air temperature. This helps them move faster and aids digestion. Minnesota turtles hibernate for six months at the bottom of lakes and rivers to avoid freezing. Hibernating turtles move around in the winter, but are very lethargic.
Long hibernations and slow lifestyles add up to long lifespans. Some Minnesota turtles live up to 75 years. Three Minnesota turtles, the snapping, wood, and Blanding's can be "aged" by counting the growth rings on their shells.
Mature turtles breed every year. Nesting females are commonly seen crossing roads in late spring, traveling to nesting beaches to lay their eggs. These are usually the same beaches where they were born. When the female finds a place to dig her nest she uses her hind legs to make a shallow bowl in the soil. She urinates in the bowl to moisten the soil and keep it from collapsing on the egg cha,nber. Nest building usually takes three to four hours; the eggs incubate for about 60 days and hatch in late summer. Hatchling painted turtles overwinter in their nest.
The nine turtle species found in Minnesota can be separated into three groups: pond, river, and marsh turtles.
Pond turtles are the two most common in the state and include the painted turtle and common snapping turtle. They are found in just about every pond or lake in the state.
The painted, sometimes called "mud" turtle, is often seen basking on rocks and logs on lake edges. The bottom of its shell, or"plastron" is a bright brick red.
Minnesota's largest turtle, the snapper, can reach 75 pounds. It spends most of its time on the bottom of lakes, ponds, or rivers. Except to nest, they rarely come out of the water, but are regularly caught by anglers.
River turtles include the map, softshell, and wood turtles.
There are three species of map turtles in Minnesota, all of them similar in color and size. Their name comes from the yellow stripes on the head and neck and the circular marks on the plastron, resembling contour lines on a map. They arespecialized feeders, with snails and other mollusks making up the majority of their diet. Map turtles are found in the large rivers of the Mississippi Drainage.
Softshell, or "pancake" turtles, are found in the shallows of medium to large rivers. Not ever far from water, they have a reduced bony shell with a leathery cover that replaces the scutes. They bury themselves in the sandy river bottoms with only their heads exposed, waiting for a fish meal to swim by.
Wood turtles are listed as "threatened" in Minnesota. The woody is found along small clear rivers and spends a lot of time in adjoining woodlands. It is the only Minnesota turtle that can swallow its food above water. Strawberries and raspberries are favorite foods. It also likes worms. Wood turtles have been seen "stomping" wet ground in order to drive up the wigglers.
Minnesota's marsh turtle, the Blanding's turtle, is also a threatened species in Minnesota. It is the only species that spends most of its time in marshes. In some areas of the state, spring migrations are spectacular, with over 50 turtles crossing a short stretch of road in an hour. The Blanding's turtle is distinguished by its long bright yellow neck and domed shell.
Turtles are less common now than before settlement. The major cause of their increasing scarcity is loss of habitat, especially nesting habitat. In many places, a lake or marsh may be intact, but surrounding areas are developed. Other threats include domestic pets and road kills.
As you are enjoying Minnesota's lakes and rivers this summer, keep a lookout for turtles. Avoid hitting them as they cross the road, or better yet, help them get across. The folks in the car behind you may not be as caring. When you do see a turtle, think about the uniqueness and splendor of a creature with a home on his back.
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Wastewater information on the web . . .
University of Minnesota Extension Service www.extension.umn.edu
The University of Minnesota's Extension Service is the school's major educational outreach arm and has offices in every county of the state. Its new Web site has a lot to offer to local officials and homeowners wanting information about onsite wastewater systems. Click on "Environment & Natural Resources" on the home page to search the entire site. Or choose "Sewage Treatment" for links to news about alternative sewage treatment systems and fact sheets such as "How Often to Pump Your Septic Tank," "How Septic Systems Work," "Detergents, Cleaners, and Garbage in Septics," and "How to Run a Percolation Test." The "Environment & Natural Resources" page also includes links to related Minnesota Extension Service Web sites, such as its Onsite Sewage Treatment and Water Quality Programs. The Onsite Sewage Treatment Program page provides information about onsite system options, regulations, and research and development for homeowners, professionals, commercial establishments, and residents of cluster developments.
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New Vermilion website to benefit SCLV
A new Lake Vermilion website has chosen the SCLV to be the recipient of a percent of its online store's sales.
The website also features: news and information about the Lake Vermilion area; current and long range weather reports; a business directory; things to do in the area; a current events bulletin board; fishing section with weekly updates by area guides; nature page; trail conditions; an email discussion list; featured area artists; an interactive map of the lake; permitting information; free classified ads; and the eStore.
The website's owner and developer, Jean Cole, decided to donate a percent of the store's sales to the SCLV because of the good work the club does for the lake. "I believe in the mission of the SCLV and hope that my website, in time, will be successful enough, so that my percent-of-sales donation becomes significant. I know that with the club, it will be put to good use."
You may visit the website at: www.LakeVermilionOnline.com.
Lake Vermilion Online is a member of the Cook Chamber of Commerce and the Lake Vermilion Area Chamber of Commerce in Tower.
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Lake VermiIion weather recap data
While analyzing the data from my reports to the North St. Louis SWCD this year, I realized that our winters are really five months long as opposed to the three months long of the Equinox Calendar. The cold winter set in on November 12, 2000. We had only two days in November after that date in which the temp went above freezing point. The lake froze over on November 22, 2000. We have had snow covering the ground now for 139 consecutive days and we had 14.5 inches on the ground as of this writing.
Based on this observation of the length of our winters, I have gone back and added the November data (where available) to last year's recap and updated that report to include this year's data. The following weather recap includes the last five years.
|
Month/yr
|
Ave. T
|
Max T.
|
Min. T
|
In. H2O
|
In. Snow
|
Max. Snow Depth In.
|
Nov. '96
Nov. '97
Nov. '98
Nov. '99
Nov. '00
Dec. '96
Dec. '97
Dec. '98
Dec. '99
Dec. '00
Jan. '97
Jan. '98
Jan. '99
Jan. '00
Jan. '01
Feb. '97
Feb. '98
Feb. '99
Feb. '00
Feb. '01
Mar. '97
Mar. '98
Mar. '99
Mar. '00
Mar. '01
|
na
23.8
28.9
34.9
27.7
11.9
20.96
13.74
16.40
1.50
3.39
14.48
19.70
5.74
15.60
13.00
27.70
19.70
19.74
6.40
23.90
27.20
29.33
33.90
25.30
|
na
41
50
69
58
35
41
40
38
30
37
36
41
36
36
40
52
44
50
29
58
52
56
63
50
|
na
-15
+10
+16
-2
-22
-22
-23
-17
-24
-40
-25
-32
-30
-11
-30
-12
-11
-18
-29
-17
-8
-5
-2
-11
|
2.77
1.18
2.14
.09
2.42
1.58
.33
1.20
.39
.77
1.51
.58
.71
.70
.83
.16
1.63
.75
.56
1.78
1.93
1.36
1.51
1.40
.62
|
14.80
15.50
15.37
.52
7.90
21.20
6.00
10.90
5.62
10.90
24.45
6.00
9.57
10.50
11.07
4.00
3.25
10.75
4.10
24.12
21.05
5.70
6.25
2.30
6.77
|
na
8.50
10.50
trace
5.50
15.5
6.00
7.00
3.00
9.00
23.00
9.00
12.00
8.50
12.00
23.00
10.00
11.00
10.00
27.00
28.00
2.50
8.50
.75
26.50
|
Total Snowfall for the winter in inches was:
'96/'97 - 85.5, '97/'98 - 36.45, '98/'99 - 52.84, '99/'00 - 23.04, '00/'01 - 60.76
|
This winter's month of December had the coldest average temperature of the five years recapped and February had the coldest average temperature for the month of February of the five years, plus the fact that the snowfall in February was second highest of any month in the five years recapped.
The ice thickness was measured on the following dates: Dec. 56.5 inches, Dec. 1312 inches, March 5 27 inches, April 128 inches.
Conclusion:
The total moisture for winter has been in excess of 6.25 inches for each of the five years except for the winter of 99/ 00, which had only 3.14 inches. I expect to see a late ice-out this year and the water level should be about normal. This observation is based on the fact there is still snow on the ice and normal runoff should be sufficient to bring the water level up to normal.
Respectfully submitted, P.K. Edwards
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Summary of Public Input Process to Review Fish Limits in Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Fisheries is currently undergoing an extensive public input process to review statewide fish limits. As part of this process, the Division of
Fisheries has compiled information on the potential effects of limit changes for some of our major game fish species. The agency will not decide if changes should be made until it goes through the entire process outlined below and carefully considers public comments and other information.
What's Occurred Already
- Fish limits were discussed at annual Fishing Roundtables in January 1999 and January 2000. (The Fishing Roundtable is made up of a cross section of anglers, fishing groups, guides, resort owners, outdoor writers, and legislators.)
- An advisory committee made up of Fishing Roundtable volunteers and other interested members of the public was formed, January 2000. DNR publicized the start of the public review process and began taking initial input in May 2000.
- DNR had first meeting with advisory committee in July 2000. DNR started a formal "request for comments" on fish limit changes in October 2000. The comment period lasted for 60 days and is the initial stage of the rulemaking process. The request for comments process does not obligate the DNR to make any changes.
- DNR solicited a broad range of public input through area and regional fisheries offices from September through December 2000.
- DNR contracted the University of Minnesota to do an in-depth survey of a randomly chosen group of resident anglers, non-resident anglers, and resort owners.
- DNR compiled and summarized biological information and public input for fish limit changes.
- DNR held a second meeting with the advisory committee on November 30, 2000. The advisory committee made initial recommendations on fish limit changes.
- Recommendations from the advisory committee were discussed at the Fishing Roundtable in January 2001. Some recommendations were modified as a result of the discussion. The Fishing Roundtable did not endorse the recommendations, but gave approval to take them to regional public input meetings.
The advisory committee recommendations are:
Walleye: The committee was split between recommending a daily limit of 4 and possession limit of 6 with only 1 over 21 inches, and recommending no change. There was also some discussion about having a limit of 5 or 6 with only 1 over 19 inches. Al1 of the options will be presented at the regional public meetings.
Crappie: The committee was split between recommending a daily and possession limit of 10 and a daily and possession limit of 6.
Sunfish: Daily and possession limit of 10.
Northern pike: Daily and-possession limit of 4, all fish from 24 to 40 inches must be released and only one over 40 inches.
Largemouth & smallmouth bass: Daily and possession limit of 4.
Stream trout (streams only): Daily and possession limit of 5 with only one over 16 inches. All fish from 12 to 16 inches must be released.
Lake trout: Daily and possession limit of 2.
What Will Happen Now
- The proposed changes were discussed at regional input meetings that were held around the state from February - April 2001.
- Based on comments from the regional roundtables, the DNR and advisory committee will finalize a proposal in May 2001.
- The final proposal will then go through the remaining steps of the rulemaking process from June - December 2001. The rulemaking process includes an additional 30-day comment period and requires public hearings if they are requested by 25 or more people.
- If any limit changes are made, they will go into effect in May 2002.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fisheries
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Membership Dues Reminder
Since we do not send out reminder notices - If you haven't paid your 2001 dues, please do so now. The Club needs your support and memberships to help us continue to work together for the benefit of this beautiful lake. Thank you.
THANK YOU THANK YOU
To those of you who have been so generous with extra donations to the Club along with your dues...our thanks...we are truly grateful. Some of the donations were earmarked for specific activities such as the Scholarship Fund, Water Quality Monitoring, Picnic Sites, etc. Other donations were just to be added to the general operating fund to further ongoing projects. We just want you to know we appreciate your continued interest and we as a Board will spend your money wisely... Thank you again.
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