REPORT TO THE PALMER TOWNSHIP BOARD

2023 BLCA WATER TESTING PROGRAM

Palmer Township Board Members:

First of all the Briggs Lake Chain Association (BLCA) would like to thank all of you for your interest in the water quality of the lakes in Palmer Township.  The lakes are a very important asset to this township and community as they continue to be a great contributor of the taxes paid in this township.

As you will see in this report, the changes that are taking place are very small, but they are moving in the right direction.  We must remember that it has taken many years for the lakes to deteriorate to the point of being placed on the impaired waters list and it will take many years to get it off of this list.  But with property owners and interested persons such as you, the Town Board Members, working together will make the task easier.

We hope that the information in this report will help you understand what the testing program that has been done by volunteers since 2006, has been used in helping to gain an understanding what is happening to our lakes.

The Secchi Disk readings are important in that they show the clarity of the water.  If the Total Phosphorus increases, the clarity becomes less and we will also have a higher level of Chlorophyll “a” that is the result of algae that gets much of its nutrients from the phosphorus in the water.  By continuing to do different types of conservation projects such as shoreline re-vegetation, rain gardens, upgrading septic systems, non-use of fertilizers on the lawns and other conservation practices, we will slowly improve the quality of our lakes.

BLCA again thanks you for your support in the past and hope you will continue to do so in the future.  Helping with the cost of water testing program has been very helpful in allowing the BLCA to continue with this project.

For previous years’ water quality reports, please see Healthy Lakes Archives.