Van Norman Lake Program
In order to maintain the quality of the lake, residents who have access voted for a Lake Improvement Board. This Board is made up of representatives from the following groups;
- An Independence Township Trustee
- A Waterford Township Trustee
- An Oakland County Commissioner
- Oakland County Water Resource Commission, and
- Resident lakefront representative from both Waterford & Independence Townships.
A lake management consultant, currently Progressive AE, supports the Lake Board and supervises the management of the lake.
The Lake Board typically authorizes 2 actions to manage the lake. The first is to periodically apply chemicals targeting specific lake weeds. A licensed contractor under the supervision of Progressive AE applies these chemicals. Any lake restrictions are posted at the beach and in the backyards of lakefront and canal residents whenever the chemicals are applied.
The second action is to harvest lake weeds along the lakeshore with mechanical harvesters. This harvesting occurs at least twice a year, usually in late June or early July and the second in md to late August.
We are fortunate to have access to a private lake, but we must do our part to maintain the quality of our lake and its water. Below are some of the things you can do:
- Follow the State of Michigan fertilizer law b not using any fertilizers with phosphates (second number on the bag) and not fertilizing within 15 feet of any waterway.
- Maintain your septic tank and field. Be aware of what goes in your tank. Try to use low phosphate soaps. Do not dispose of toxins in your septic system. Everything that goes down your drain eventually ends up in the ground water system and lake.
- Do not put anything in the lake. By Michigan Law, you are nit allowed to put anything in the lake or canals without approval of the DNR. This includes chemicals, sand, yard waste, grave, etc.
If you have any questions do not hesitate in contacting your Lake Board Representative.
Kevin Bates: (248) 623-0449
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