The purpose of the Watershed Management Plan is to reduce external sources of nutrients to support environmental, social and economic values of Elk/Beaver Lake.
External nutrients are carried by water, sediments and dust particles from sources outside of the lake and deposited into the lake. External sources include human activities such as land development, road construction and farming that bring additional nutrients into the lake and alter the movement of nutrients across the landscape.
The Elk/Beaver Lake Watershed Management Plan was completed in 2020, followed by the installation, operation and maintenance of an in-lake remediation system (oxygenator) starting in late 2023.
The aim of this multi-pronged approach is to improve water quality, reduce frequency and duration of blue-green algae, and improve fish habitat. It is anticipated this initiative will address both the immediate and long-term needs for the sustainability and health of the lake ecosystem and its many values.
