Be Considerate of all Lake Users (2005-06-27)
We all love our lakes, especially here in North Central Minnesota. How we
interact with our lakes is different for everyone. Some like viewing a
beautiful sunrise or sunset when it's quiet and peaceful except for the
mesmerizing call of the loon. For others, it's getting together with family
and friends tubing or water skiing on a hot July afternoon. Still others
enjoy fishing, canoeing, swimming, or scuba diving and so on.
Many Minnesotans recreate on our beautiful lakes. To make sure everyone has
a great time, we need to be respectful of all users of the water and of the
lake resource.
Here’s some simple things you can do:
If you are power boating on the lake and see fishing boats, sailors or
kayakers, keep your distance and find an area of the lake to boat.
Conversely, if you are fishing or canoeing and see a part of the lake where
people are tubing, find another fishing spot or route that day.
If you are out on your personal watercraft, be aware of other users of the
water and try not to disrupt their activities. Because you can cover great
distances in a short time, keep aware of your surroundings and don't get too
close to other users for safety reasons.
And please be careful of the loons. Loons are one of the most beloved
species in lakes country. Incidents of loons being harassed troubles many
user groups and it is against the law.
Be respectful of everyone's property. If you pull up at a dock or a sand
bar, make sure your boat doesn't bang up against someone else's. Also make
sure you are aware of what is public property and what is private.
Don't litter, and be careful when filling up gas tanks to make sure that
nothing gets into the lake that shouldn't.
Wave. One of the best good will gestures on the lake is a friendly wave,
which says "Isn't this a Great Day to enjoy the lake."
Do your part to be a good steward of the lake.
For more information about this and other lake topics, send an email to
lakewaves@dnr.state.mn.us.
or contact: Laurel Mezner, MN Pollution Control Agency, 219-828-6068
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