1.1 Abstract

In response to growing concerns over water quality, and the concern of environmental impacts many organizations have contributed time and resources into studying and evaluating the Pelican group of lakes and adjoining watersheds. The results have been compiled into this comprehensive report. These reports, on the different aspects of the lakes and watersheds, conclude that the environment surrounding the Pelican group of Lakes, and the lake its self is very healthy. Water quality of the streams and lakes is high and well suited for recreation. No major sources of pollutants have been identified. Aquatic wildlife contributes to a balanced ecosystem. Only one species of exotic aquatic vascular plants has been identified in limited areas. Steps are being taken to control this exotic plant. There are a healthy variety and population of fish species. Shoreline consideration has limited erosion. Septic impacts are estimated to be low. The limited and controlled use of pesticides has added to the out doors enjoyment of the area. Continued stream and lake monitoring is essential to the continued water quality diagnosis, identifying hazardous changes, and predicting environmental changes. From this data projects can be implemented to continue to keep the environment healthy and educate the community.

1.2 Technical Abstract

In response to growing concerns over water quality, and the concern of environmental impacts many organizations have contributed time and resources into studying and evaluating the Pelican group of lakes and adjoining watersheds. The results have been compiled into this comprehensive report. These reports, on the different aspects of the lakes and watersheds, conclude that the environment surrounding the Pelican group of Lakes, and the lake itself is very healthy. Phosphorous levels in the lakes average 18.2±6.5 ug/L and 31±2 ug/L in streams. Secchi disk averages 12.5±3.7 feet and in trending positively about 1 inch per year in Big pelican with 99% certainty. Water quality of the streams and lakes is high and well suited for recreation. No major sources of pollutants have been identified from ground truthing in any of the minor watersheds. Aquatic wildlife contributes to a balanced ecosystem including 20 species of aquatic vascular plants and over 20 species of fish. Only one species of exotic aquatic vascular plants, curlyleaf pondweed, has been identified in limited areas. The highest concentration is around Strom's bridge between Little and Big Pelican Lakes . A 5 year chemical control plan has been implemented in 2006 to control these exotic plants. As of yet, Eurasian milfoil has not been identified on any of the lakes. Shoreline consideration has limited erosion. 84% of shoreline is natural or rip rapped. Septic impacts have been estimated to be 150 lbs of phosphorus per year. The limited and controlled use of pesticides has added to the outdoor enjoyment of the area. Continued stream and lake monitoring is essential to the continued water quality diagnosis, identifying hazardous changes, and predicting environmental changes. From these data, projects can be implemented to continue to keep the environment healthy and educate the community.