Dear Neighbor,

Take a moment, walk outdoors, take a deep breath and look around you – then, read this letter.

As residents and property owners of Watersmeet Township, we are very fortunate to be able to enjoy an area that has maintained its natural beauty, charm and serenity. In our own backyard, we can fish, hunt, ski, snowshoe, swim and do so much more.

These wonderful treasures that we take for granted are the very economic life-blood of our community. Whether we work or are retired, we all benefit from the influx of capital that these resources bring to the township. We see new homes being built for permanent residents as well as part-time residents. We see visitors sharing a week or two, or a month or more in our area. Residents and visitors alike are contributing to an economy that continues to grow.

Now we are in danger of losing a large part of the attraction that brings this economic growth to us. Our lakes are in trouble! I know that you have been reading and hearing about Wisconsin’s lake problems. Well, those problems have been creeping into Watersmeet Township’s lakes. There are just a few now – but – if we don’t control it, it will begin to destroy the lakes that are the backbone of our recreation economy.

Eurasian Water-Milfoil, Curly-Leaf Pondweed, Zebra Mussels, and the Spiny Waterflea are just some of the invasive species attacking our waters.

Three years ago several concerned citizens began a program to locate, identify, and control these invasive species. They wanted to increase public awareness and educate boaters on how to avoid spreading the problem. I am pleased to report that we have had some success. This year we have formed a new, permanent organization to be the township’s watchdog – an organization comprised of many of your friends and neighbors, who have come together to save our lakes. This group is known as the ISCCW (Invasive Species Control Coalition of Watersmeet) Lakeguards.

Now I’ll get to what you expected all along. Yes, this is a plea for your support. We need workers – we need you! However, we know that everyone cannot afford the time to participate, but you can still help us. Besides new volunteers we need additional funds, and this is why.

We must buy education materials and lake survey equipment. For example, one underwater camera costs $1,400 and a GPS recording device (for locating and mapping the affected areas) is many thousands more. A portable boat washing system, capable of going from lake to lake as it is needed, is over $50,000. Eurasian Water-Milfoil, which is the most prominent invasive species thus far, has an average treatment cost of $500 per acre and will require several treatments over several years. As an example, a 25 acre infestation could require three or more treatments at $12,500 each.

I sincerely hope that you will decide to join us by completing the enclosed membership application form. If not, will you at least support us with a donation? Please, join with your neighbors and other concerned citizens of Watersmeet Township and help preserve the beautiful resources that God has given us.

I believe in Watersmeet. I hope you do too. Thank You!

Sincerely,

Will Buergey, President