Join the LoonWatch Program at the Sigurd Olson Institute. For more information contact Cory Counard, 715-682-1220 or loonwatch@northland.edu or see http://www.northland.edu/soei/loonwatch/index.htmI.
back to table of contents
VERMILION FISHING FORECAST
Finally! Spring has made it. 80 degrees in Cook one day and it looks like we'll have open water on May 10.
The early fishing this year will probably be a repeat of the last few years. Cold water is going to force us to slow down our presentation and for some anglers finding a shallow point or flat, 6' to 14', near spawning areas and sitting with a bobber and minnow will work best. Some of the best fishing in the spring is done by cabin owners just sitting on their docks with a bobber. Walleyes tend to travel gravel and rubble shorelines in the spring and waiting them out on your dock can be deadly.
Early crappie fishing should be good this year in the shallow, warmest water you can find. I like to use a small slip bobber rigged with a small jig and minnow and cast in towards shore in 2 to 5 feet of water. REMEMBER! LIMITS ON CRAPPIES HAVE BEEN REDUCED TO 10 FISH AND BLUEGILLS, 20 FISH. Another very important thing to do is put some of those big, slab crappies back in to spawn. It will greatly help our fishery in the future.
Regulations on Vermilion have changed for northern pike also (a slot has been introduced). Be sure to check the regulations before keeping any pike. These regulations will help increase the numbers of larger pike in years to come.
Something else to watch out for this year. "Rocks"!! With Vermilion very low this year be careful boating everywhere on the lake. A lot of the smaller bays, which are great places for early season walleyes, have unmarked rock piles that will cause you some problems if you don't use extra caution and reduced speed this spring.
Last year was very good as soon as the water warmed up. The first few weeks on the lake can be a little slow due to the size of Vermilion. A little patience will pay off though. We should have some good year classes of fish 13" to 16" to catch this year and I'm hoping for a good season for everyone.
Remember, put some back for next time. Respect our lake and enjoy your time on the water.
Doug Knoer, Vermilion Guide Service
back to table of contents
Summary of 2002 Fish Population Assessment for Lake Vermilion
Introduction
Lake Vermilion is part of the statewide Large Lake Program, which provides for intensive
fisheries management of the 10 largest lakes in Minnesota. The program was started in
1984, 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. The Large Lake Program includes annual
population assessments, annual water quality monitoring, and regularly scheduled creel
surveys. Creel surveys are scheduled on Lake Vermilion for two consecutive years out
of every six years. A creel survey was done in 2002 and another is scheduled for 2003.
A variety of sampling gear is used during population assessments to collect the various
fish species and life stages. Gillnets are used to sample cisco, northern pike, yellow
perch, and walleye. Trapnets are used to sample muskie, bluegill and black crappie.
Beach seines are used to sample young-ofthe-year walleye and perch. An electrofishing
boat is used to sample smallmouth bass and young-of-the-year walleye. 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.
The results of the 2002 fish population assessment are presented in the balance of
this report. We encourage anyone with questions or comments to contact the Tower
Fisheries office or stop by our office for a visit. We are located just west of
Tower on Highway 169.
Duane Williams, Large Lake Specialist, 218-753-2580, ext. 224
duane.williams@dnr.state.mn.us
Joe Geis, Area Fisheries Supervisor, 218-753-2580, ext. 222
joe.geis@dnr.state.mn.us
MN Dept. Of Natural Resources
Division of Fisheries
650 Hwy. 169
Tower, MN 55790
Walleye
The walleye gillnet catch in the fall of 2002 was 20.0 fish/net, the highest catch
ever observed on Lake Vermilion. It was the sixth consecutive year walleye gillnet
catches were above the historical average. High walleye catches in recent years were
due to strong year classes produced in 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, and 1999. Walleye
gillnet catches have been especially high in the Big Bay area of East Vermilion
in recent years. East Vermilion usually has higher gillnet catches of walleye
than West Vermilion, although walleye tend to be larger in West Vermilion. The
mean length of walleye sampled by gillnets was 13.3 inches, slightly above the
historical average.
Although the walleye population is currently very high, it is unlikely the lake
will be able to sustain this level of abundance for a long period of time. Fish
populations in lakes are limited by the chemical fertility of the water and the
species composition of fish living in the lake. The current high walleye population
is due to the unusual situation of having strong year classes produced in five
out of six years during the period 1994-1999. Typically strong year classes are
produced about once every three years. It is likely the walleye population will
soon decline to a more normal level of abundance as some of the current strong
year classes diminish in numbers.
Walleye year class strength is represented by indices that are calculated from
gillnet catches of each year class for each year of netting. An index of 100 would
be considered average. The year class strength index for the 1997 year class was
161, the highest index of any recent year class. Year class strength indices were
also well above average for the 1995 and 1998 year classes. Three years of netting
are needed to calculate a year class strength index, therefore indices can not yet
be calculated for the 2000 and 2001 year classes. Two years of netting indicate
the 2000 year class will be weaker than average. One year of netting indicates
the 2001 year class could be much stronger than average.
Angling prospects for walleye in 2003 are very good, with high numbers of walleye
present in the 12-16 inch size range. A moderately strong 1999 year class and the
strong 1998 year class will dominate the walleye harvest. Walleye from the 1999
year class will be primarily 12-15 inches long at the start of the fishing season,
while walleye from the 1998 year class will be primarily 14-17 inches long. Anglers
can also expect to catch large numbers of small walleye from what appears to be a
very strong 2001 year class. Most walleye from the 2001 year class will be only
9-10 inches long at the start of the season, however as these fish grow during
the summer they will become increasingly likely to be caught by anglers.
Fall electrofishing is used to sample young-of-the-year walleye and help determine
reproductive success for the year. The 2002 fall electrofishing catch of
young-of-the year walleye was 231 fish/hour, the second highest catch on Lake
Vermilion since sampling began in 1988. Electrofishing catches had improved in
2001 and 2002 after relatively low catches in 1999 and 2000. Electrofishing
catches have historically varied widely on Lake Vermilion, due in part to
variation in year class strength. East Vermilion usually has higher electrofishing
catches of young-of-the-year walleye than West Vermilion.
The average length of young-of-the-year walleye sampled by electrofishing was 5.4
inches, which is similar to the historical average. Data from our sampling program
indicates growth of young-of-the-year walleye is an important factor in eventual
year class strength, with fast growing young-of-the-year walleye producing strong
year classes and slow growing fish producing weak year classes. It is believed that
large young-of-the-year walleye have better over winter survival than small fish.
The mean length of young-of-the-year walleye can be used with the total number
caught in a predictive model that will give a good indication of how strong a year
class will be. The mean length and total catch indicate the 2002 year class will
probably be average to moderately strong.
Northern Pike
The 2002 gillnet catch of northern pike was 0.6 fish/net, slightly below the historical
average. Gillnet catches of northern pike have been relatively stable over time,
although catches have been slightly below average in recent years. West Vermilion
usually has higher gillnet catches of northern pike than East Vermilion.
Gillnetted northern pike had a mean length of 27.8 inches, slightly above the historical
average. Moderately strong year classes were produced in 1991, 1994, and 1996. Angling
prospects for northern pike in 2003 should be similar to recent years.
A 24-36 inch protected slot limit for northern pike will take effect on Lake Vermilion
on May 10, 2003. All fish 24-36 inches long must immediately be returned to the lake.
The bag limit will remain at three fish, which could include up to three fish under
24 inches or one fish over 36 inches. The new regulation is part of the statewide
initiative to improve the size structure of pike populations in a number of lakes
across the state. Lake Vermilion has a number of characteristics that made it a
good candidate for this regulation including; large lake size, high abundance of
preferred forage, low pike numbers, fast pike growth, and a history of producing
large pike. Support for the regulation was strong among anglers that fish Lake
Vermilion, with 86` of the anglers contacted during the 2002 creel survey expressing
support for the regulation.
Yellow Perch
The 2002 gillnet catch of yellow perch was 14.8 fish/net, the lowest perch catch on Lake
Vermilion since 1988. The 2001 gillnet catch of perch was also well below average. Low
gillnet catches of perch the last two years were due in part to poor reproduction in
1999 and 2000. Gillnet catches of yellow perch are usually similar between East
Vermilion and West Vermilion.
The mean length of gillnetted perch was 8.3 inches, the largest average size since Large
Lake sampling began in 1984. All size classes were well represented in the gillnet catch.
The perch gillnet catch was dominated by age 3 (1999 year class), age 4 (1998 year class),
and age 5 (1997 year class) fish. Average to moderately strong year classes of perch were
produced in 1998, 1997, 1996, and 1995. Anglers may catch fewer perch than usual in 2003,
although the average size will probably be larger than usual. Larger perch are available
in the Big Bay area of the lake, where 73` 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 of the lake.
Bluegill
The 2002 trapnet catch of bluegill was 14.4 fish/net, the lowest bluegill catch since
sampling began in 1987. A strong cold front moved through the area during the trapnet
assessment and probably had a negative affect on the bluegill catch. The 2001 trapnet
catch of bluegill was the highest ever observed and probably more accurately reflects
the bluegill population. Bluegill are much more abundant in West Vermilion and trapnet
catches there are always much higher than catches on East Vermilion.
The mean length of trapnetted bluegill was 5.9 inches, which was near the historical
average. Age 4 bluegill (1998 year class) and age 5 bluegill (1997 year class) dominated
the trapnet catch and both year classes appear to be much stronger than average. A
strong year class of bluegill was also produced in 1995. Anglers can expect good bluegill
fishing in 2003, although small fish will dominate the harvest. Bluegill from the
strong 1997 and 1998 year classes will be mostly 5-7 inches long this spring, while
bluegill from the strong 1995 year class will be 6-8 inches long. The number of bluegill
in the population over 8 inches is currently lower than average.
Black Crappie
The 2002 black crappie trapnet catch was 1.4 fish/net, which is near the historical
average. Trapnet catches of crappie have been relatively stable in recent years. Crappie
numbers have historically been relatively low on Lake Vermilion, although a few areas
of West Vermilion seem to have higher numbers of fish. Crappie trapnet catches are
usually higher on West Vermilion than East Vermilion. Trapnet sampling is done in
early August, which may be a poor time to sample crappie. The trapnet assessment
on Lake Vermilion primarily targets bluegill and time constraints do not allow a
trapnet assessment that specifically targets crappie.
Trapnetted black crappie had a mean length of 8.1 inches, slightly below the historical
average. The crappie catch was evenly distributed throughout a broad range of size classes.
Age 1 (2001 year class), age 3 (1999 year class), age 4 (1998 year class), and age 5
(1997 year class) fish dominated the crappie catch and it appears these year classes
are all average to moderately strong. Fair numbers of crappie 9-11 inches long will
be available to anglers in 2003 from the 1997 and 1998 year classes. Lesser numbers
of large crappie will be available to anglers from the 1994 and 1995 year classes.
Smallmouth Bass
An electrofishing boat is used as the standard sampling gear for smallmouth bass because
they are not often caught in standard assessment nets. The 2002 smallmouth bass catch
was 36.8 fish/hour of electrofishing, slightly above the historical average.
Electrofishing catches of smallmouth bass were well above average in both 1999 and
2001. Sampling was not done in 2000 due to poor weather. West Vermilion usually has
higher electrofishing catches of smallmouth bass than East Vermilion.
Smallmouth bass sampled by electrofishing had a mean length of 9.5 inches, slightly above
the historical average. Electrofishing samples small and medium sized bass quite well,
but does not seem to sample large fish in relation to their abundance. Larger bass may
prefer habitat other than the shoreline areas that are sampled by electrofishing. The
smallmouth bass catch was dominated by age 3 (1999 year class), age 4 (1998 year class),
and age 5 (1997 year class) fish. The 1997 and 1998 year classes are both unusually
strong. Moderately strong year classes were also produced in 1994 and 1995. Angling
prospects for smallmouth bass are good in 2003, although anglers will likely catch
more small fish than usual. Most bass from the strong 1997 and 1998 year classes will
be 8-12 inches long at the beginning of the fishing season. Lesser numbers of large
fish will be available to anglers from the older age classes in the population.
Muskie
Muskie population assessments are done once every four years on Lake Vermilion, although
East Vermilion and West Vermilion are done in different years due to the large size
of the lake. Population assessments were done on East Vermilion in 2001 and on West
Vermilion in 2002. The assessments are done in the spring shortly after ice-out using
specially designed trapnets.
Sixty-five different muskie were caught during the 2002 population assessment on West
Vermilion, or 0.5 fish/net. The muskie catch was higher than previous trapnet catches
of muskie on West Vermilion, but lower than the 2001 catch on East Vermilion. Extended
cool spring weather probably had a negative impact on the 2002 muskie trapnet catch
on West Vermilion.
The average length of muskie caught during the assessment was 43.5 inches. Male muskie
averaged 41.9 inches long while the average length of female muskie was 48.6 inches.
The largest muskie caught during the assessment was 54.4 inches long. Most of the
muskie sampled were 7-12 years old. Because all muskie stocked since 1993 were
fin-clipped, it was possible to tell stocked fish from natural reproduction for
fish younger than age 9. It appeared that just under half of the muskie caught under
age 9 were from natural reproduction. Stocking may be adjusted in the future if
population assessments continue to show significant natural reproduction.
Exotic Species
Rusty crayfish are a non-native species of crayfish that became established
in Lake Vermilion during the 1980's. The source of the introduction was probably
anglers using crayfish for bait. Rusty crayfish have become extremely abundant
in the eastern portion of the lake and have become a major nuisance. Aquatic
vegetation has been greatly reduced in areas of the lake that have been colonized.
Rusty crayfish were sampled for the first time in West Vermilion in 1998, although
the population there is still relatively low. There is no practical method to reduce
the population of rusty crayfish, although the population may eventually decline
without intervention. The process of colonization by an exotic species is usually
an explosive growth in numbers followed by a gradual decline to a more sustainable
population level. The most important strategy for managing rusty crayfish is to
prevent their spread to other lakes.
Heterosporis, a microsporidean fish parasite, was confirmed in one angler
caught walleye from Lake Vermilion in 2000. No other cases have been reported from
Lake Vermilion, although the parasite has been identified in several other Minnesota
and Wisconsin lakes. The parasite causes the flesh of fish to become an opaque
white color. The Center for Disease Control examined infected fish samples and
did not issue any consumption advisories. Research is currently under way on
the distribution and life history of heterosporis.
A small infestation of curly leaf pondweed was discovered in Everett Bay in
2001, the first time it has been observed in Lake Vermilion. Curly leaf pondweed
is an aquatic plant native to Europe, although it has been present in areas of
the United States and southern Minnesota for many years. Curly leaf pondweed
typically grows early in the season and will usually die back by midsummer.
The plant is found in shallow water where it will grow to the surface of the
lake, sometimes forming thick mats.
There is potential for other exotic species to become established in Lake Vermilion.
Lake Vermilion attracts anglers and boaters from all across Minnesota and the Midwest,
providing many possible sources of infestation. The DNR has taken several steps to
prevent the spread of exotic species. It is now illegal to transport exotic species,
infested water, and aquatic vegetation from lake to lake. The DNR has also established
a program to educate the public about exotic species and inspect boats at some public
accesses. These efforts along with cooperation from boaters will hopefully prevent
other exotic species from becoming established in Lake Vermilion.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Area Fisheries Headquarters
650 Hwy. 169
Tower, MN 55790
(218)753-2580
back to table of contents
2002 Walleye Recovery Update by the Red Lake DNR
During the month of September, 2002, the Red Lake DNR fisheries assessment program conducted its annual experimental gillnet survey on reservation waters of the Red Lakes. We have been doing this since 1987, when the Band started its fisheries program. By doing this assessment we are able to determine the status of the fish stocks that historically have been important to the commercial fishery and now, more importantly, we are able to track the progress of the walleye recovery effort.
The walleye recovery effort was started by the Band in 1997, and the State of Minnesota fully joined this effort in 1999. In the Spring of 1999 the Band, State of Minnesota, and Bureau of Indian Affairs signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which is an agreement between these government bodies to jointly recover the walleye stocks of the Red Lakes. The term of the agreement is 10 years, and may be extended if the parties agree it is beneficial. One misconception of this agreement has been that because the agreement has a 10-year time horizon, the moratorium on walleye harvest is 10 years. In fact, the agreement states that the moratorium shall be in effect until Red Lake Band, State, Federal, and University of Minnesota scientists agree that the walleye population has recovered to a sustainable level. So, the length of the moratorium is based on fisheries science, not a defined period of time. Once the walleye population has recovered and fishing for walleye resumes, the harvest of walleye would be allocated based on the ownership acres of the Red Lakes. In other words, about 85 percent of the harvestable walleye population would go to the Band, and about 15 percent would go to the State.
We have come a long way in recovering the walleye population since 1997, but we still have a ways to go. In the spring of 2003, we are planning the third cooperative stocking of approximately 44 million walleye fry, including fry from the Pike River Hatchery. However, stocking is not the only answer. We still need the help of the Red Lake people to support this effort and to educate their children why this happened and how we can prevent it from happening in the future. With the continued support of the Red Lake people, the walleye will come back and the collapse will only be a bad thing of the past.
If you have any questions on the walleye recovery process or any other fisheries related issue on the reservation, please contact Pat Brown-Fisheries Biologist at the Red Lake Department of Natural Resources 218-6793959.
by Pat Brown, Fisheries Biologist
back to table of contents
Creel Survey Scheduled for Lake Vermilion in 2003
The Minnesota Dept of Natural Resources Division of Fisheries will be conducting a creel survey on Lake Vermilion during the summer of 2003. Creel survey is a scientific method of estimating fishing pressure and fish harvest from boat counts and angler interviews. The surveys are a valuable tool for managing fish populations. Creel surveys are conducted on Lake vermilion as part of the statewide Large Lake Program, which includes creel surveys two consecutive years out of every six years. Previous creel surveys were done in 1984-85, 1990-91, 1996-97 and 2002. A DNR aircraf5t will be used to count boats at scheduled times throughout the summer. Two DNR creel survey clerks will be interviewing anglers by boat to gather information on the numbers and sizes of fish caught, time spent fishing, methods of fishing, and other pertinent information. The Sportsmen's Club of Lake Vermilion is participating in the survey by furnishing a boat and outboard motor that will be used for interviewing anglers. The use of the boat and motor is greatly appreciated and will be a major factor in successfully completing the survey.
The creel survey clerks will be contacting anglers while they are fishing on Lake Vermilion this summer. They will ask a series of questiona and may measure fish the angler has cought. They may also take a few scales from some of the fish for age analysis. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lake Vermilion anglers for their cooperation during the survey. The interview process mayu be a little inconvenient, however, the information gained is very valuable. Creel survey clerks who worked during previous surveys were very impressed with how cooperative and friendly Lake Vermilion anglers were. That cooperation is much appreciated.
I encourage anyone who has questions about the creel survey to contact me by phone, e-mail, or stop by our office for a visit. The DNR office located just west of Tower along highway 169.
Duane williams, Large Lake Specialist
Minnesota Dept of Natural Resources
Division of Fisheries
650 Highwqay 169
Tower, MN 55790
Phone: 218-753-2580 ext. 224
Fax: 218-753-2581
e-mail: duane.williams@dnr.state.mn
back to table of contents
Fishing Tournaments On Lake Vermilion In 2003
| Long John Days Walleye Ice Fishing Contest, January 19 |
|
| Open Door Walleye Tournament, May 17 |
12 boats |
| Northern Bassmasters Bass Tournament, May 24 |
15 boats |
| Everstart Bass Tournament, June 4-7 |
175 boats |
| MN Pro Am Bass Tour. June 28 |
110 boats |
| Grand National Walleye Cup, July 20 |
50 boats |
| Lake Vermilion Muskie Challenge, August 8-9 |
75 boats |
| Vermilion Walleye Classic, August 30-31 |
25 boats |
| Gander Mountain Invitational Bass Tour, September 5-6 |
45 boats |
| Fortune Bay Muskie Classic, September 17-21 |
100 boats |
back to table of contents
Suggestions/ideas on future Large Professional Fishing Tournaments
Problem: Large Professional Fishing Tournaments are causing concerns and in some cases resentment from lake home owners, resort owners, fishing guides and local clubs. These concerns have been voiced on fishing message boards, and at club meetings and resort association meetings.
Specific concerns are as follows:
- Increased/heavy boating traffic during tournament periods
- Concern on boating safety/speeds tournament contestants travel at during tournaments
- No regard for lake property owners/contestants casting right up against property owners' docks/swimming areas
- Increased fishing pressure/mortality rates of fish due to fish transfer from boats to tournament weigh-in locations.
- Large Money Tournaments 'use' or take advantage of Lake Vermilion's resources and nothing is 'replenished. Local businesses may prosper from the tournaments, but the lake pays the price in fishing degradation.
- Large Professional Tournaments very seldom help local resorts for tournaments are held in prime summer periods when resorts usually do not have vacancies.
- Large Money Tournaments put heavy pressure on contestants, causing contestants to put low pri' on preserving the lake's tranquility, using fish release techniques and respecting local proper owners during competition.
- Some local professional guides are totally against big money tournaments due to the percentage of fish killed (even in catch and release tournaments).
- Large Money Tournaments usually are nationally televised. Returning visitors/vacationers have voiced concern that the level of publicity will bring on heavy future fishing pressure to Vermilion and degrade fishing quality as we know it today.
- Possible introduction of exotic species.
Facts on Large Professional Tournaments:
- The DNR has the right to issue permits to tournament promoters. Regardless of who protests, tournaments will more than likely continue if the DNR issues permits.
- Fortune Bay is the most likely location to hold large tournaments due to facility size and docking availability. Next to the DNR, Fortune Bay has the most control on future;iarge tournaments on Vermilion.
- In the event large tournaments increase in numbers/per year, resentment from local home owners/resorts/ guides/fishermen will hold Fortune Bay and DNR responsible and turn resentment into bad press for both organizations which spreads and could impact relations and business referrals.
- Large nationally televised tournaments 'can' be good for local business economy. National exposure does increase fishing pressure on the lake, but provides local businesses (food services, lodging, gas, gift shops, bait shops, real estate, etc) increased traffic during the events and future with new visitors vacationing on Vermilion.
- Large Money Tournaments 'can' provide a positive impact on lake resources if the hosting resort of the tournaments ensures 'replenishment' of the lake's resources.
- Tournaments held during non-prime summer season will have the least impact on boating traffic and provide the most benefit to all lodging locations on the lake. In addition, they may provide an off-season injection of local business.
Suggested long-term solution to future Large Professional Tournaments:
Establishment of a partnership between Fortune Bay, DNR, local resorts, Lake Vermilion Sportsmen's Club, local home and cabin owners, local guides, businesses and any other organization or individuals who share the concerns on future tournaments on Vermilion.
The main objective of this partnership is to simply sit down as a group and discuss putting together an outline or guideline of rules for all future Lake Vermilion tournaments. The main objective is to provide any tournament host a list of conditions that would have to be included in the planning of any future tournament on Vermilion.
Here are some examples:
- Establish tournament 'windows' times. These would be the most favorable times of the year to allow events. These windows could be targeted at the best time for businesses to benefit and times in which boating traffic would not be impacted.
- Establish a rule that all tournaments that involve prize money will have to allocate a certain percentage of prize money to 'replenish resources.' Every tournament promoter would have the option to the following possible investment /replenishment choices:
- Local Sportsmen's Club
- Direct restocking of the lake
- Local DNR projects (boat ramp improvements, etc.)
- Local charities
- Local hospitals or EMS support
- Other possible 'partnership suggestions'
- Establish 'Lake' tournament rules in which each tournament promoter would have to adopt into their contestant rules (i.e. distance allowed near docks, swimmers, homeowner's property, boat speeds in channels or areas, number of boats allowed, times of day of events, catch and release guidelines).
These are examples of conditions that if adopted would ensure future Large Professional Tournaments to have a positive impact on Lake Vermilion. It would also demonstrate the commitment of all 'partners'to protect the resources of Lake Vermilion for future generations.
This was provided by a member of the Lake Vermilion ResortAssociation who supports toumaments, but feels strongly that these issues need to be addressed.
back to table of contents
Sportsmen's Club seeks to update bylaws
Over the past several years, the Board of Directo~ has come to realize that the current bylaws do not allow it to adequately address new challenges facing the Club and Lake Vermilion in the 21st century. The Board, therefore, decided to create a committee to re-evaluate them and recommend changes. The committee, consisting of Board members Ray Harris, Dale Lundblad, Walt Moe, Bob Wilson and Steve Towle, has worked diligently over the past 2+ years to draft new language which more clearly defines the mission of the Club and gives it the tools to continue being an effective force for the protection of Lake Vermilion. The Board approved the proposed bylaw changes at its April meeting and voted to present them to the membership for approval. In accordance with current bylaws, the new proposed bylaws will be published in the July issue of the "Vermilion Sportsman" along with a mail-in ballot which gives current Club members the opportunity to vote for or against the proposed changes. The results of the election will then be published in the next issue.
To give our members the opportunity to review both the current bylaws and the proposed by laws, we have published them on the Club's web site: http://www.LakeVermilion.com/SCLV
Questions or comments should be addressed to Dale Lundblad - Vice President; e-mail address: DaleLundblad@LakeVermilion.com
In addition to revising the bylaws, the Board decided that is was desirable for the Club to have a mission statement and instructed the committee to draft appropriate language.
Sportsmen's Club of Lake Vermilion Mission Statement
To promote and enhance the outdoor experience of Lake Vermilion for present and future generations.
To protect and improve the water quality of Lake Vermilion.
To educate Club members and the public regarding issues which impact Lake Vermilion.
back to table of contents
SOURCE WATER PROTECTION
During the summer and fall of 2002, three meetings were-held with several of the resorts on Vermilion Lake in order to collect information that could be used in developing a source water assessment. The resorts that participated in the meeting are considered public water suppliers, because they get their drinking water directly from Vermilion Lake.
A source water assessment is a document intended to provide basic information to public water suppliers and the general public regarding where their drinking water comes from and the degree to which it may be impacted by potential sources of contamination.
The Minnesota Department of Health and the North St. Louis SWCD assisted in facilitating the meetings in order to collect information for preparation of each assessment. The data that was gathered for the assessments provide public water suppliers with information needed to implement management activities that will prevent contaminants from entering their public water supply system. The goal is preventing contaminants from entering the source water, which complements the traditional treatment approach.
Based on a comparison of the sensitivity of the surface water intake to the presence of potential contaminant sources, the susceptibility of the resorts is considered to be low for a surface water based public water supply system. This can be attributed to the size and depth of the lake and the watershed being primarily forested.
A copy of each assessment will be posted on the Minnesota Department of Health web site (www.health.state.mn.us) by May of 2003.
Mark Lindhorst
North St. Louis Soil & Water Conservation District
back to table of contents
When Using Your Dishwasher, You May be Fetilizing the Lake
Most automatic dishwashing detergents have phosphorus added to reduce spotting on glasses and dishes. However, phosphorus is also a nutrient for plant growth. When phosphorus builds up in lakes, it contributes to algae blooms that not only turn lakes green, but consume much of the water's oxygen, which leads to fish kills and other problems. A box of Cascade dishwasher detergent contains enough phosphorus to grow 100 pounds of algae.
Laundry and household cleaning product phosphorus levels were limited to 0.5 percent by weight by the Legislature in 1976; the legislation introduced this year would limit automatic dishwasher detergents to the same level. Phosphorus-free detergents are available. Look for them in your grocery store. If you don't see them, ask your grocer to order them and try it. Call the Minnesota Environmental Partnership (651-290-0154) for grocer information on distributors in Minnesota. Not only will your dishes be just as clean, there will be less etching on your glasses. At minimum, switch to a brand that has lower amounts of phosphorus.
Reprinted from: Minnesota Lakes Association Reporter
back to table of contents
BATS
BAT FACT 1: Bats will not fly into our hair.
BAT FACT 2: Bats are of benefit to humans.
BAT FACT 3: There are ways to get rid of bats without killing them.
How can you control unwanted bats and prevent them from occupying houses or other buildings? These pages discuss how to deal with such situations using non-lethal, non-chemical methods. They also address the fears many people have about bats and what to consider if hiring a pest control company. You may decide after reading this information that what you really need are the services of a good carpenter.
Bats are beneficial and gentle creatures, but occasionally they become a nuisance and get "too close for comfort." If this occurs, DON'T PANIC! All the negative stories and tales you've heard about bats are greatly exaggerated.
Over the years bats have been needlessly persecuted by humans. The enormous quantities of mosquitos and other insects that bats consume each year make summers in Minnesota more livable.
While chasing insects, bats often fly erratically. This has led some people to mistakenly believe they are being "attacked" by the bat. Actually, bats are proficient flyers and can easily catch insects while avoiding people.
Another myth about bats is that they all carry rabies. Actually, the percentage of infected bats is very small, less than 1 percent. Although incidence of rabies in bats is low, a bat with rabies may show no outward sign of infection. Therefore, whenever handling a bat, ALWAYS protect yourself by wearing ieather gloves.
Any bat bite or scratch should be considered serious. If someone has been bitten or scratched, attempt to capture the bat without damaging its head, so that it can be analyzed for rabies. Any wound should be thoroughly washed. Then contact county health officials or your doctor immediately to determine how to have the bat tested and what medical treatment might be needed. The most common baVhuman interactions involve a single bat that has found its way into a house or a colony of bats that has taken up residence in an attic, chimney or other structure.
Removing unwanted bats
Removing a single bat
A bat that unexpectedly appears in your living quarters may have entered through an open door or window. Another possibility is that it entered from the attic, basement or chimney. In order to solve this problem, isolate the animal in one room of the house by closing the doors to adjoining areas. Next, as long as the bat has not bitten or scratched anyone, open any windows or doors that lead to the outside. Remain in the room so that you don't lose track of the bat. Stand or sit quietly to allow the bat a clear flight path and give it a chance to exit by following the air currents to the outside. Turn down any lights in the room so that the bat doesn't hide behind the curtains or furniture to avoid the light.
If the bat doesn't leave on its own, you can try to capture it. Wait until the bat lands. Then, place a net, coffee can or other container over the bat. Slide a piece of stiff cardboard or other material under the container (see figure at right). Take the container outside and release the bat. When attempting to capture, ALWAYS wear leather gloves to protect yourself.
If the bat appears sick or does not fly well, use caution when capturing it. Use the methods described above or pick it up with a shovel or tongs and place it in a box or bag. DO NOT RELEASE A BAT THAT APPEARS TO BE SICK OR INJURED. Call the county health authorities for instructions on how to submit the bat for testing.
Persons who wake up with a bat in the room where they have been sleeping are advised to submit it for testing, especially if it is unable to fly or seems weak. The possibility of an unnoticed bite or scratch is a special concern in situations where a young child, a mentally disabled person, or an individual under the influence of alcohol or drugs is found alone in the same room with a bat. In these situations, post exposure treatment should be considered unless prompt testing of the bat can rule out rabies infection.
After the bat has been removed you should attempt to determine how the bat entered your house. Make sure doors to attics and basements are well sealed and that dampers are kept closed when the chimney is not in use. In spring or summer, noise coming from the chimney, attic or behind walls may indicate the presence of a bird, bat, mouse or other animal.
What if there's more than one?
Although caves and trees are bats' natural roost sites, some species will utilize attics, chimneys and other areas of homes and buildings for maternity roosts. These places provide a warm, dark, secluded environment for the females, which each raise one young a year. You may find bats roosting in exposed areas (ceiling joists and rafters) or in concealed areas (behind boards and between walls). In the winter, buildings provide a protected area for a bat to hibernate and some bats may even find their way into your basement, particularly during hibernation.
Often the first indication that bats inhabit a house is squeaking or scratching noises coming from the ceiling, walls or chimney. Or, you may notice stains on ceilings or walls from the accumulation of bat droppings. Bat droppings can be distinguished from those of other animals in that they easily break apart and contain many small shiny insect parts. Unlike bird droppings, bat droppings do not contain any white matter.
Controlling bats using exterior structures
Aerosol dog and cat repellents are useful at temporary roost site on exterior areas such as porches, carports and behind shutters, if the presence of bats or accumulations of bat droppings become a problem. These repellents are effective for several months. The repellents should NEVER be sprayed at or on the bats. Rather they should be applied to the roost site when the bats have left to feed.
Fiberglass insulation, which irritates bats' skin, can be used to displace them from behind shutters or on porches. The batting should be attached once the bats have left to feed. This can also be used in attics to make the area less attractive in the future.
The reason most methods of bat control fail is because they do not prevent bats from re-entering the structure. Whether tackling the problem yourself or hiring a pest control operator or carpenter, the goal should be the same: non-lethal, non-chemical, permanent, physical exclusion of the bats.
(Reprinted from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources web site: www.dnr.state.mn.us)
back to table of contents
Largemouth bass STATE RECORD
8 pounds, 13 ounces, Tetonka Lake (LeSueur County), 1994
This is one of the scrappiest fish that swims. An increasing number of anglers throughout the state are learning that largemouth bass, with their jolting strikes and wild airborne leaps, are an exciting fish to catch. And increasingly, Minnesota is becoming nationally known for its largemouth bass. Professional bass fishing tournaments are held in state lakes and rivers throughout the summer.
Largemouth bass look similar to their close cousin, the smallmouth. Often they are found in the same waters. To tell the two apart, look at the closed mouth. If it extends back beyond the back of the eye, the fish is a largemouth. If it goes only to the middle of the eye, it's a smallmouth.
back to table of contents
want to go back to the main newsletter directory ?
want to go back to the Sportsmen's Club Home Page ?
