Lake Users Committee Minutes

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION MEETING MINUTES
of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
June 16, 2008, Locust Grove, VA

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met June 16, 2008 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.
Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Melinda Wallace, Ed Hoffman, Carl Murray, Fred Wellman, Sue Ericksen,
Voting Members absent: Dan McFarland
Assistant GM: Ted Wessel (absent)
Acting Lake Manager: Ken Rouse
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn (absent)
Guests: Curt Abel, Joe and Kay Hockman,Warren Reeves,

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Move approval of agenda –Ericksen, second, Hoffman. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL OF April 21, 2008 MEETING MINUTES
Move approval of the April 21, 2008 minutes –Ericksen, second –Murray. Unanimous approval.

3. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Nomination for Chair – Julie Wilson – Ericksen, second Murray. Unanimous.
Nomination for Vice-Chair – Melinda Wallace – unanimous
Nomination for Secretary – Julie Wilson -- unanimous

4. OLD BUSINESS
A. Report of Rules Revision Subcommittee – Hoffman
The Subcommittee has not met, but will do so in the near future. Hoffman presented idea to rearrange lake use rules so as to cluster topics more logically/consistently. Wilson will call Rules Committee Chair to get RC input.

B. Lake Manager’s Report – Rouse           

1. Gas dock flag – has been moved so as to be more visible.

2. As per the Finance Committee/BOD, gas prices at the marina will continue to incorporate a 25% markup over purchase price. Current LOW price is $3.96/gallon, so with 25% markup goes beyond what pump can display (only goes up to $3.99/gal). Gas dock will provide printed receipt of calculated cost of purchase. Gas at the dock is 89 octane, and continues to be non-ethanol containing.

Wellman will provide data needed to submit road tax rebate form for boat gas usage to Rouse so gas dock receipts can be formatted so as to provide all required information.

3. Swimming from Clubhouse dock --- not allowed according to Lake Rules, but no signage.

Motion: LUC recommends sign be placed stating “No Swimming” at CH dock (Murray, second Wallace).

Reeves protested that Ski Club participants (under adult supervision) enter the water at CH dock to “cool off”, but do not swim. Alternatives discussed include: entry at the CH side of the dock, running a hose to the dock to cool off the skiers, or entry at the north extreme of CH dock.

Rouse will investigate the feasibility of running a hose to CH dock; Reeves will look into using the north end of CH dock for bather entry into the lake.

4. Clubhouse dock – due for rebuild in 2018. Currently, docks moored at CH dock take a beating from boat wakes. Management options include better fendering, the placement of a wake dissipator to protect CH dock, or moving CH dock to the other side of CH Point. Apparently there was some fendering (has been removed – question where located) at the north end of CH dock last year. If it were installed vertically rather than horizontally, it would protect moored boats; similarly, the north area of CH dock (where the ski jump is now moored) has a canvas type covering which also adequately protects moored boats.

Rouse will look for the fenders. Ski Club volunteers to help place on CH dock.

            5. Ski Jump – The LOW ski club jump is moored at the north end of CH dock, and there is concern re the adequacy of its mooring. Reeves indicated that Ski Club intends to move the jump out into the lake in 2 weeks, once repairs to it are completed, and at that time the mooring will be enhanced. Marker buoys are being considered by Ski Club, and Ski Club wonders if the jump could be left in position over the winter, with perhaps an agitator pump to prevent freezing, rather than dragging it out towards shore.

Reeves and Rouse volunteer to work together on ski jump mooring/marker buoy/signage issues – unanimous concurrence by LUC.

            6. Slalom course – has been placed by the LOW Ski Club, raising the issues of who is responsible for repair (safety issue of PVC pipes protruding from the water) and timing of its placement and removal. Ski Club will develop a list of individuals who will be available to repair the course in a timely manner and give it to the Lakes Manager.

In the course of its discussion re the jump and the slalom course, LUC referred to the utility of the “Sporting Event LOWA Lake/Beach Use Request” form that it had developed in 2006. Wilson provided background re the form. The purpose of the form is to identify what activities are planned on the lakes/beaches, to consider potential safety issues and steps taken to mitigate them, and to have on record responsible individuals, so that all can enjoy the lakes and beaches. LUC review is considered important in the review of such requests. Despite approval by LUC and the GM, current use of the form is haphazard and LUC is not consulted.

MOTION: Proposed by Hoffman seconded by Wellman. LUC encourages the use of the “Sporting Event LOWA Lake/Beach Use Request” form and that this form should be available through the Lakes Manager’s Office. The Lakes Manager should be responsible for initial review of such requests, which then are to be submitted to LUC for further review in a timely manner. Unanimous in favor.

7. “Rogue” buoys – there are a number of buoys placed by LOWers off their waterfront property, and in many cases the intent of such buoys is not clear. These buoys can be problematic in causing confusion with the “no wake” marker buoys placed by LOWA. Current Lake Use Rules are silent on this issue. Hoffman will further explore the matter when his Lake Use Rules Revision Subcommittee (Hoffman, McFarland, Murray, Wilson) meets.

            8. Spar buoy placement – the first 20 of the new spar-type “no wake” marker buoys have been received. Rouse presented two ideas for placement of these buoys (the remainder will be budgeted for next year): 1. At the major coves – but there are not enough to do this and 2. Start at the south end of the lake i.e., roughly at and south of the small marina cove. Rouse presented a map marking out initial buoy placement as per option 2, which has the advantage of routing boat traffic in the most constricted part of the lake so as to enhance safety.

MOTION: Proposed by Hoffman, seconded by Murray – LUC recommends that Rouse place the new spar buoys as depicted on the map (option 2). Unanimous approval.

Rouse will place buoys over the next month and will discuss the spar buoys in an upcoming Lake Currents article. Placement of the buoys will be assessed for appropriateness and modified as necessary. Similarly, LUC will need to consider how many additional buoys will be necessary to mark the remainder of the lake.

LUC then discussed numbering the buoys. Current numbering, spotty at best, starts at the north end of the lake. As the final number and position of the buoys is uncertain at this point in time, placing numbers on the first 20 is problematic. Ideally buoys should be numbered, to aid in boat localization.

MOTION: Proposed by Hoffman, seconded by Wallace. No numbering on the new buoys this year. Unanimous approval.

Rouse indicated that “danger” spar buoys had also been purchased, and will be placed (sluice way of big lake and Keaton’s run, at Turtle Island, Flat Run entrance area).

9. High Water management – The heavy rains several weeks ago raised the lake level 15” above full pool (276.5”). Survey of the lake revealed 98 properties with submerged bulkheads. With the current spillway, there is no way to effectively lower the lake, either in advance of or in response to heavy rain. The small sluice gate provides 1” per week drainage, and serves the purpose of allowing clearing of debris from the spillway. Accordingly, the lake was closed to greater than “no wake” speed. Once the new Obermeyer gate is placed, LOWA will have the ability to modulate lake level, so a recurrence of such lake closure is unlikely.

10. Beach closures – all beaches are tested monthly for bacterial contamination. Water with levels >200 is not recommended for swimming. In May, all beaches were ok. June testing results, received in the afternoon of 6/13, indicated excessive contamination at Edgemont and Pleasant Grove beaches, which were subsequently closed. (LOWA procedure entails immediate retesting, but this was not possible, as the results were received only late Friday afternoon. The problematic beaches were retested 6/16 and results should be available in a few days. Most likely the contamination reflects excess goose droppings. LOWA has been actively working to minimize its non-migratory Canada goose population (eg., addling eggs), but more must be done to make LOW undesirable to the geese (eg., stop feeding them).

6. NEW BUSINESS
            1. Gas for LOW Ski Club – Wellman/Reeves
            The ski club boat drivers donate the use of their boats and their time for the use of the ski club, which comprises some 50 children. Typical gas consumption approximates 2-3 gallons per hour in the two boats and the soaring gas prices are problematic. Ski Club has already added a “fuel cost” surcharge to their participation fee, but that has turned out to be inadequate. Ski Club asks that they be allowed to purchase gas at LOWA cost (i.e., not paying the 25% markup). LUC queried as to how much gas is needed, as well as the details of the logistics (eg., how identify who is granted this special pricing and how to assure that the gas is used for ski club purposes.

Reeves and Wellman will develop a “white paper” detailing the Ski Club proposal by one week from today. LUC unanimously volunteered to have a special meeting, in about 10 days (to expedite the request in view of the short ski season), to review the Ski Club information and further consider their request .

7. ADJOURNMENT
Moved -- Ericksen. Unanimous approval. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, Secretary, LUC

MEETING MINUTES of the
LOWA LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
July 21, 2008,  Locust Grove, VA

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met July 21, 2008 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Ed Hoffman, Dan McFarland, Fred Wellman, Sue Ericksen. Voting Members absent: Melinda Wallace, Carl Murray
Assistant GM: Ted Wessel
Acting Lake Manager: Ken Rouse
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn
Guests: Bernie Patton
Liaisons: Des Flanigan (Planning), Boggs Wright (Finance)

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Move approval of agenda –Ericksen, second, Wellman. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL OF June 16, 2008 (revised) MEETING MINUTES
Move approval of the April 21, 2008 minutes –Ericksen, second –Wellman. Unanimous approval.

3. OLD BUSINESS
A. Report of Rules Revision Subcommittee – Hoffman
The Subcommittee has not met.

Motion: Hoffman moved that the committee be suspended at this time; Wellman seconded.

The discussion re the rationale for suspension of the committee at this time revolved about the appearance of inconsistent enforcement of existing rules; thus, there appears to be little sense in refining or developing additional rules.

Unanimous vote in favor – motion carried.

B. Lake Manager’s Report – Rouse
            1. 10% ethanol gas – gas at the dock is now ethanol-containing. Boaters will need to contact their boat manufacturer to ascertain compatibility with their particular boat. It was noted that it is now virtually impossible to buy non-ethanol-containing gas.
            2. Spar buoys – Only positive comments have been received re the new buoys.
            3. Vegetation survey – has been done, but not yet mapped. There is virtually no vegetation at Flat Run (just a thin rim) and very little at Edgemont Cove (previous trouble spots).
            4. Lake visibility – seems diminished this year in contrast to prior years. It is not known if this reduced visibility persists below the thermocline. The cause of this apparent reduction in clarity is not known – hypotheses include rain washout of surrounding ground (the particles settle out when bottled, this eliminating algae). In addition, bulkhead erosion has been noted, perhaps due to wave action, that is rendering the structures susceptible to muskrats.
            5. The new Lakes Manager (April Hughes) started work today; she likely will attend the August lake users meeting.

C. Ski Club Gas Request – Welman
Wellman presented the ski club’s “white paper” (previously circulated) justifying the request that ski club be allowed to purchase gas at the gas dock at LOWA price (i.e., not pay the 25% markup).

Motion: McFarland moved that LUC forward to the GM a positive recommendation to grant the request of ski club; this recommendation of LUC suggests that ski club be reimbursed $2600 for the money spent on the gas markup over the course of the practice season for practices and shows in 2008. Second: Wellman.

Discussion – The ski club shows (e.g., at 4th of July) entertain LOWers and guests, while the regular practices in addition teach children how to ski. The ski club season is roughly 20 weeks. Ski club calculates that roughly 180 gallons are consumed per week (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday practices) – totaling some 3600 gallons. In addition, the shows are estimated to consume some 100 gallons. The gas markup went into effect sometime in June (roughly 1/3 of the way through the ski club season), roughly after 1100 gallons had been purchased/used. The amount of $2600 would thus go to reimbursing the ski club for the mark up on the gas that it is expected that it will use in the remainder of the season. Ski Club has already collected a $50 “gas surcharge” from its membership, but that is not enough. The “chit” system discussed at the June LUC meeting (give ski club boats a chit allowing purchase of gas at LOWA cost after practice/show participation) imposes a paperwork burden. A direct donation to ski club would allow ski club to distribute the funds to the boats drivers whose needed participation is most likely to be adversely impacted by the burden of the high cost of gas. Concern was raised re such a donation opening “Pandora’s box” of other groups (e.g., 4th of July pontoon boat ride drivers) asking for a similar break; however, that activity is only once a year, and in general the pontoon boats consume little gas in that activity.

At the conclusion of discussion, LUC voted 3 to 1 in favor of the motion. Thus the motion carried.
           
4. NEW BUSINESS
            1. Dangerous dock – Rouse
A complaints has been received re unsupervised children not wearing life vests playing on/near the dock at Harper’s Ferry mail station. The dock itself is in good condition and in and of itself is not a hazard. LUC noted that children are not required to wear life vests when on LOWA beaches. LUC concluded it had no basis on which to take action re this complaint.
            2. LUC Charter – All
The LUC charter (as circulated via email), last reviewed in 2005, underwent initial review. Much of the material originally considered “boilerplate” is now held to be up for review in face of the QMC activities. Accordingly, all LUC members will review the charter, and send their comments to Wilson by August 15. Wilson will collect the comments into one document and distribute to LUC for use in its August meeting discussions.
            3. 2009 Budget Development – Wessel/Wilson
The 2009 budget process is underway. Wessel noted that relevant dates are:

1st draft due to the GM – 8/11 draft will be discussed at the 8/18 LUC meeting*
2nd draft due – 9/8, 2nd draft will be discussed at the 9/15 LUC meeting*
*The GM plans to attend these meetings

Wessel indicated that all items are to be scrutinized carefully. Wellman volunteered to work with Wilson and Hughes in initial budget development. Wright indicated that the “fee simplification” task is an integral part of the budget process. Wilson informed LUC that the boat registration spreadsheet had been requested from LOWA Administration and will be distributed for review at the August 2008 meeting.

            4. Storm Water Management – Wilson/Wessel
Storm water management has emerged as a concern at LOW. The formation of a committee to address these concerns is currently under consideration, and this topic is to be discussed at the upcoming BOD Workshop. In the event a committee is formed, LUC input is integral as the storm runoff impacts the lake as an amenity, and a volunteer is needed to serve. For the time being, Wilson will represent LUC if such a committee is formed.

            5. Other – Rouse
Keatons Run and the Entrance Pond may not receive as much LUC attention as perhaps they warrant. In an attempt to heighten awareness of and assure due attention is paid to these amenities, Wilson will ask the Lakes Manager to report on the Big lake, Keaton’s Run, and the Entrance Pond as individual entities, not “lumped” together.

5. ADJOURNMENT
Moved -- Hoffman. Unanimous approval. Meeting adjourned at 8:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, Secretary, LUC

LOWA MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
September 15, 2008

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met September 15, 2008 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Ed Hoffman, Fred Wellman, Sue Ericksen, Melinda Wallace, Carl Murray
Voting Members absent: Dan McFarland
Lakes Manager: April Hughes
GM: John Bailey
Assistant GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Peter Williams
Guests: Ken Rouse
Liaisons: Boggs Wright (Finance)

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –Ericksen, second, Wellman. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL OF July 21, 2008 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the July21, 2008 minutes –Wellman, second –Murray. Unanimous approval.

3. OLD BUSINESS
A. Lakes Manager Report – Hughes
The LM reported that coliform testing at the major lake inlets has been completed – results are pending.

The completed vegetation survey showed that there was no emergent vegetation this year. There were two complaints of excessive vegetation, and no reports of boats being immobilized by weeds. However, Hydrilla has spread horizontally in the lake, displacing Nytilla. In response to questioning, the LM stated that placement of the final 125 carp for 2008 will be determined upon completion of analysis of the vegetation survey.

The LM has spoken with Odenkirke, who will determine the ages of 10 carp heads that will be collected by the LM. In addition, Odenkirke will come to LOW in the spring to complete a fish survey.

The main lake level rose 8.4” in response to tropical storm Hanna, but by now has receded by to full pool level.

There are very few resident geese at this time; perhaps due to the use of grape-scented deterrent as well as flight control agents on the beaches.
Dredging has been completed in cove 27 and is moving to Edgemont Cove. The LM has reordered the sequence of cove dredging to focus on problem areas rather than conforming to previously used schedules.

The LM has completed sediment/erosion training and will complete additional training re Storm Water Management.

The gas dock will be open weekends from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM through 10/5.

The entrance pond has some algae growth, but no sign of clogging of the aerator.
Keaton’s Run rose 4.8” in response to tropical storm Hanna. There have no complaints re the condition of the little lake, although anoxic conditions persist. The LM plans to obtain and deploy sludge-eating bacteria in an attempt to ameliorate this anoxia.

B. 2009 Budget Development
The 2nd draft of the proposed 2009 Lakes budget was reviewed (see attached). The anticipated revenue from gas sales ($101,833) incorporates a 15% markup on cost. Gas expenses (up $30,000) incorporate an anticipated 5% price increase (according to DOE). Under “contractual services”, “building/maintenance” was downward revised to $15,929, and “equipment/maintenance” was downward revised to $4293, resulting in a revised “subtotal contractual services” of $65,112. However, there was a substantial increase (from $44,861 to $67,038) in CTR; this increase is largely attributed to the clam shell/dredger.

Action Item: The GM will confirm the validity of this recalculated CTR.

Bottom line, as it stands in the second draft, the lakes budget is projected to run a $33,909 deficit (as compared to $8868 last year).

Considerable discussion ensued re the stance LUC should take re this budget deficit – should boating fees be increased to close this gap entirely, partially, or not at all? On the one hand, boaters do enjoy the lakes, enabled by the services that maintain the lakes. On the other hand, non-boaters also use the lakes (e.g., the beaches, walking on the dam). In another line of thought, parsing of budget line items into “lakes” vs. what should be covered by the assessment has some element of judgment. For example, the lakes budget, according to some, does not cover enough of the costs related to the dams. On the other hand, the lakes budget does cover a substantial portion of the cost of mowing the dam – not benefitting the typical boater. With these considerations, LUC determined to develop a budget that closed some, but not all, of the budget shortfall.

C. Boat Fee Simplification
The FC liaison refreshed LUC on the genesis of the simplification mandate. The LOWA BOD tasked the FC to compress the LOWA fee schedule, and the FC Chair deemed that the fee schedule for each amenity could be best altered by the relevant LOWA committee.
The simplification proposals developed by committee members were distributed (via email) and reviewed. All proposals (see attached) involve some element of price increase, even though revenue neutral, most often due to collapsing of categories. Figures provided by the GM indicated 1889 boats registered through 8/18/08, with decreases across all categories in comparison to 2007 figures, perhaps representing softening demand related to increased fees. On the other hand, there continues to be a long waiting list for boat slips, suggesting continued upward elasticity in pricing.

Motion by Murray, seconded by Wellman: keep fee structure as it is, and aim for a 5% increase in overall revenue for lakes, with a 2% increase in boat registration fees and a 7% increase in boat slip rental, dry sail rental, and canoe/kayak rack fees. Unanimous approval.

D.  LUC Charter Review
The LUC charter was distributed via email (obtained from the LOWA website). Review by LUC raised a question re the responsibilities of LUC, in particular item VIIC:  to “Insure that all special interest lake user groups conducting sporting events on the lakes or beaches shall review their plans with this committee before seeking approval of the General Manager.” The purpose of this review is to assure that the interests of LOWA are maintained, that all appropriate safety precautions are taken, and to ascertain the responsible LOWA member. A form was developed by LUC for streamlining the process, yet LUC is seldom consulted re sporting events. LUC affirmed the importance of such a review by LUC. The GM has the authority to approve such events.

Action items: The GM will develop policies and procedures for initial review of sporting events by LUC. LUC Chair will write an article for Lake Currents re the process and the role of LUC.

5. ADJOURNMENT
Moved – Hoffman, Ericksen. Unanimous approval. Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, Secretary, LUC

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES
of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
November 17, 2008

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met November 17, 2008 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Ed Hoffman, Fred Wellman, Sue Ericksen, Melinda Wallace, Carl Murray, Dan McFarland
Alternate Member Present: Joe Quimper
Lakes Manager: April Hughes
Assistant GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn
Guests: Ken Rouse, George Dodson
Liaisons: Boggs Wright (Finance), Des Flanagan (Planning)

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve amended agenda (added discussion of gas tank thefts at the marinas) –Ericksen, second, Murray. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL of September 15, 2008 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the September 15, 2008 minutes –McFarland, second –Wellman. Unanimous approval.

3. Chair Notification:
The Chair welcomed Joe Quimper as the new Alternate Member. The Chair notified LUC that her term ends effective March 2009. LUC needs to start considering its options for leadership.

4. NEW BUSINESS
a. PWC Regulations – see below, item 5.
b. Gas tank thefts – McFarland
There are a least 3 instances of fuel tank theft from boats moored at LOWA marinas (both the main marina and the small marina). In addition, there have been a number of instances of vandalism to moored boats.

MOTION: McFarland moved (Wellman seconded) that LUC recommend to the GM that he consider expediting installation of security cameras at the main and small marinas to help control theft and vandalism of property. Unanimous approval.

5. OLD BUSINESS
A. Consideration of Virginia Boating Safety Education Requirement – ALL
In 2007, the Virginia General Assembly enacted a law to establish a boating safety education compliance requirement, which is phased in over several years, beginning July 1, 2009 for PWC operators 20 years of age or younger and by 2016 including all powerboat operators (for additional information, see http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/boating/education/boating-safety-education-requirement.asp). Briefly, powerboat operators on Virginia public waterways are required to successfully complete a Virginia-approved boating safety course, pass the exam, and carry on board certification of this. At the time of LUC’s previous consideration of this regulation, many details were still in flux. As the details of the implementation of this requirement have gelled, LUC believed reconsideration appropriate. George Dodson kindly attended this LUC meeting to add the perspective of the individuals responsible for enforcing boating safety on LOWA lakes.

Dodson presented the experience of security on the lakes over the past two years (see attached); he believes adoption of the Virginia requirement is a good idea and sees no problem with enforcing it.

LUC discussion began with an acknowledgement that compliance with Virginia boating regulations already is part of LOWA use of lakes regulations, and in point of fact, the Virginia Game Warden can, and has, issued summonses for failure to comply with these regulations. There are several Virginia-approved courses, both classroom based and on line. The fees involved are minimal (~$25 for issuance of a certificate upon successful completion of the course and passing the test). Further discussion raised the issue of LOWA liability (e.g., in case of boating accident) and the likelihood that adopting the Virginia boating safety education regulations would help LOWA in this regard. If LOWA does voluntarily adopt these regulations, there will need to be an extensive education effort; property owners, as in the past, will be responsible for educating their guests as to LOWA regulations.

MOTION: McFarland moved (Ericksen seconded) that LUC recommend adoption of the Virginia Boating Safety Education Requirement at LOWA. Motion passed with a 3-1 vote.

Consideration of PWC regulations – ALL
The additional PWC regulations proposed by Grogan were reviewed (see attached). Wilson reported the results of her internet search of PWC-specific regulations in Virginia, as well as MD, MI, CO, NC, NE, GA, CA, FL, and NY. The various state regulations do have some variations, but in general all require that all occupants wear USCG-approved PFDs, use a kill-switch lanyard if so equipped, ban PWC use after sunset/before sunrise, ban reckless driving (e.g., weaving through areas of congested traffic) and have special boating safety education requirements for younger teenage operators. Only NY (of the states reviewed) required that the PWC be equipped with a horn or whistle. LUC considered that the adoption of the Virginia Boating Safety Regulations, in conjunction with enforcement of Virginia boating regulations in general, should suffice to maximize the safety of these vehicles on the lake. No motion was made to adopt the Grogan regulations.

B. Boat Fee Simplification (Finance Committee Proposal) - ALL
The simplified boat fee schedule proposed by the Finance Committee (see below) was reviewed by LUC. 

            a.  Manpowered and sailboats 14’ and under less 4/6/8 man shells. -- $25 (825)
            b. 4/6/8 man shells, sailboats over 14’ and power boat 10Hp or less -- $50 (100)
            c.  Power boats 11 to 100 Hp -- $105 (500)
            d.  Power boats over 100 Hp -- $220 (550)
            e.  Registration after 1 Sept – 50% of annual
            f.   Canoe rack stowage -- $50/year

Each member of LUC was queried as to their opinion re the schedule. LUC overwhelmingly was in favor of the schedule, as it was simpler and less prone to cheating re horsepower. However, some concerns were raised – 1) the plan as presented is not budget neutral, so fees would need to be bumped up; 2) with the current fee schedule, we “know” what kind of income will be generated – with the new schedule, there is less certainty re the revenue; and, 3) with all the current economic difficulty, this may not be the best year to adopt this schedule. LUC tasked Wilson to report to the Finance Committee that LUC in general agrees with the simplified fee schedule, but has concerns re the lack of budget neutrality and recommends that the figures be adjusted to reach neutrality.

C. Lake Manager’s Report – Hughes
In October, the LM completed the 10% mortality restocking of carp with the addition of 125 fish to the main lake. She is still collecting dead carp heads for age analysis by DGIF; she has 5 so far, but needs 10.

The LM has completed vegetative mapping of the main lake with GIS. Hydrilla has spread horizontally (32.6 acres now vs. 8.9 acres in 2007) whereas nytilla has diminished (117 in 2007 to 47.9 now). The decrease in nytilla likely relates to both the increased turbidity of the lake water this past summer as well as the more aggressively invasive nature of hydrilla.

All the spar buoys have been numbered; the LM is repairing damage resulting from boat collisions with the buoys.

Dredging has been completed at Edgemont Cove (#20) and has moved on to Flat Run Cove (#18).

The LM, storm water manager, and maintenance head recently completed a shoreline inspection, and found no major concerns.

Physical and chemical sampling has been completed for the main lake and Keaton’s run. Keaton’s run has both reduced oxygenation and increased total suspended particles likely owing to the low aeration of the lake and its lack of vegetation. The LM has a restoration plan for Keaton’s run that comprises use of sludge eating bacteria, adding back native vegetation, and aeration tactics. The first of these tactics is in the proposed 2009 budget.
Mayflies were seen in abundance on the main lake – a good sign, as mayflies are exquisitely sensitive to pollution. There was a spirogyra (algae) bloom, an annual occurrence, that has resolved itself and did not present any threat to humans.

5. ADJOURNMENT
Moved – Ericksen. Unanimous approval. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, Secretary, LUC

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
January 19, 2009, Locust Grove, VA

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met January 19, 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:15 PM.

Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Fred Wellman, Carl Murray, Dan McFarland
Voting Members Absent: Sue Ericksen, Ed Hoffman
Alternate Members Absent: Joe Quimper, Vic Shook
Lakes Manager: April Hughes (Absent)
Assistant GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn
Guest: Jim Drabant
Liaison: Boggs Wright (Finance)

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda -- McFarland second -- Murray. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of November 17, 2008 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the November 17, 2008 (not December as incorrectly indicated in agenda) minutes –Wellman, second –McFarland. Unanimous approval.

3. Lake Manager Report:
The Lake Manager’s written report for December/January as circulated to LUC (see attached) was reviewed. There were no questions.

4. OLD BUSINESS

A. Virginia Boating Safety Education Regulation – Wessel
Wessel reported that the GM agrees with LUC recommendation that LOWA voluntarily comply with the Virginia Boating Safety Education regulation. The GM will present this proposal to the LOWA Board of Directors at its February meeting. Subsequently, language will need to be developed for LOWA Use of the Lakes rules, Rules Committee approval, BOD first and second readings with LOWA member comments, and adoption or rejection. LUC will then need to consider whether or not to maintain a separate LOW boating examination and how to amend the Use of the Lakes rules accordingly.

B. Use of the Lakes for Sporting Events – Wessel
The GM has tasked Sylvia with developing policies and procedures for applying for sporting use of LOWA lakes/beaches. The Lake Currents article draft by Wilson has been approved, but still needs insertion of the policies and procedures prior to publication.

5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Committee Yahoo (or Google) Group Page -- Wilson
The Communications Committee has proposed (see attached) that LOWA Committees use Yahoo (or Google) Group capability for committee emails/reference document storage. LUC believes that its committee business is served well by ordinary email communication. LUC also expressed concern re the apparent discord between the requirement that LOWA committee meetings be “public” and the perception of conduct of committee business via a closed, password protected web page. In addition, there are “glitches” in the availability/function of the Yahoo-based group page. There was no support by LUC for using the Yahoo Group Page at this time.

B. Maintenance Request for Two New Staff Positions – Wilson
The memo sent by M&E Chair Ernie Meier (see attached) was reviewed. In brief, the Maintenance Department is asking for two new staff positions (one in Grounds and one in Roads) for FY 2009. The justification presented for the new Grounds position is the proliferation of landscaping enhancements at LOW, all of which require maintenance time for upkeep. The justification for the new Roads position is the transfer of the dredge manager to the Lakes Manager; this individual, when not engaged in dredging, had been used in road maintenance projects.

LUC considered and discussed these two positions separately; however, common to the discussion of both was the sentiment that LUC had made questions about them, none of which could be answered in the absence of anyone from maintenance (or M&E) to address them. The state of the nation’s economy, with jurisdictions large and small contracting their workforces rather than expanding them was a focus of discussion. By the same token, LUC expressed concern that excessive budgetary restraint could lead to deterioration in LOWA grounds and roads. LUC recalled that 90% of the dredge operator’s salary had been paid by the Lakes budget, and wondered why a full-time position was necessary to replace a 10% effort.

Motion: Murray proposed the motion, seconded by Wellman, that LUC not support the FY2009 Grounds Maintenance Laborer position, based on insufficient information. Unanimous approval.

Motion: McFarland proposed the motion, seconded by Wellman, that LUC support the FY2009 budget request for a Road Maintenance Laborer. The motion failed by a 1-2 vote.

5. ADJOURNMENT
Moved –Wellman. Unanimous approval. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
April 20, 2009, Locust Grove, VA

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met April 20, 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.
Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Dan McFarland, Sue Ericksen, Ed Hoffman, Melinda Wallace
Alternate Member Present: Joe Quimper      Alternate Member Absent: Vic Shook
Lakes Manager: April Hughes
BOD Liaison: Neil Buttimer                         Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan  
Guests: Alice Drabant, Ken Rouse, Bernie Patton

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda – Wallace; second -- Hoffman. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of March 16, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the March 16, 2009 minutes –Ericksen, second –Wallace. Unanimous approval.

3. Lake Manager’s Report – Hughes

The Lake Manager reported that the Marina opened for weekend business April 18; daily hours of business will be added for the Memorial Day weekend.
The goose population is very low (9). Perhaps the grape-scented goose deterrent applied to the beaches can be credited for this low number

Water quality testing (nitrate, TKN, and phosphorous) was completed last week; results are pending. Testing for fecal coliforms will begin this week, weather permitting. Testing results will be posted on the LOWA web site, and will be updated periodically.

The fish survey was prematurely aborted owing to VaDGIF equipment failure. The limited sample appeared to confirm the predator-heavy (e.g., large mouth bass) nature of the LOW fish population; also, the fish seem to be underweight for their size. VaDGIF will return when their equipment has been repaired to complete the survey of LOW and will also survey Keaton’s Run at that time.

Forage fish will soon be placed into LOW, as per budget. Threadfin shad, with golden shiners as a good second choice, were recommended by VaDGIF. As golden shiners are more readily available, they will be ordered and placed in the near future.

Trials of the optical brightness test for human coliforms, but did not work well, perhaps due to sunlight which tends to degrade optical brightness. Hughes will continue to evaluate this test.

Regarding carp and weeds, Hughes addressed the variance in carp replacement schedules that exists in published articles on the subject. In the final analysis, a specific mortality rate as determined for a particular lake and its particular environment is what should ideally drive carp replacement. Hughes plans to continue collecting dead carp for otolith analysis through the summer to obtain sufficient data to accurately determine the LOW mortality rate, and replace carp accordingly. Also, “carp-exclusion cages” will be placed in order to determine the efficacy of carp in controlling vegetation.

The LM stated that she had initiated investigation into the most appropriate native vegetation to place into Keaton’s run in order to alleviate that lake’s high turbidity and low oxygenation problems. Water willow was recommended, but that is an emergent vegetation, so not a good choice for KR. A second choice is Southern Nyad, a non-emergent vegetation, and Hughes will look into this option further.
  
4. OLD BUSINESS

A. Virginia Boating Safety Education Regulation – Wilson

Wilson presented the Rules Committee edited version of the language regarding LOWA voluntary compliance with the VA Boating Safety Education Requirement (“Requirement) (see attached).  The RC requested that a rationale for the rule be added. The RC insisted on the insertion of “independently” before operate in the first sentence. As the RC objected to the lengthy implementation schedule promulgated by Virginia, and they unilaterally decided that only PWCs were problematic, they truncated the implementation schedule for LOWA to encompass only the steps applying the Requirement to PWCs. The RC selected the fine of $50 as appropriate for violation of the Requirement. The RC opined that LOWA’s adopting the Requirement was useless, as it would not stop all instances of inappropriate boating operation and that enforcement would be necessary.

LUC believes that the RC failed to act in a manner consistent with the LOWA BOD request that “the Rules Committee work in conjunction with the Lake Users Committee to formulate an amendment to the LOWA Regulations adopting the Virginia Boating Safety Requirement” (from approved February BOD minutes, item 15.2 Consideration of the Adoption of Virginia Boating Safety Education Requirement as part of the Regulations).
Moreover, LUC takes exception to the concept that PWCs are the only ones evidencing unsafe boating behavior; they may be the most visible, but are not the sole problem. In addition, LUC considers selecting only one group that is must meet the Requirement is unfair; if the Requirement is to be heeded at LOW, it is to be heeded by all boaters on LOW.

LUC refuted the concept that education is futile. It is only through education that one can hope to have boaters behave more safely on the lake. Enforcement of the Requirement, in LUC discussion with Mr. Dodson, was determined to be a straightforward task, and one that Lake Patrol could perform without difficulty.

LUC considered alternative, less wordy implementation schedules, but believes the potential for confusion, especially for those LOWers who boat on Virginia Lakes other than LOW’s, outweighs any advantage gained.

LUC does not agree with the need to modify “operate” with the word “independently”.  There are a number of conditions detailed by the Commonwealth of Virginia as exceptions to the requirement, above and beyond the concept of operating a boat under the guidance of a qualified boater.

Motion: Proposed by McFarland, seconded by Ericksen – LUC respond to the RC in writing to indicate LUC’s disagreement, and reasons for its disagreement, with the RC’s version of the amendment to LOWA regulations re the Requirement. Unanimous approval.

McFarland and Wilson will collaborate to draft the LUC written response to RC, and circulate to LUC for their input.

LUC took up the issue of the need for a rationale for adopting the Requirement. Language circulated by Wilson was reviewed – “To enhance safety on Lake of the Woods by assuring that all powerboat operators have a basic knowledge of boating and its rules”. LUC unanimously agreed with this rationale.

B. United States Security Associates (USSA) and Lake Patrol (LP) Issues – Wilson
Wilson reported that she had met with the GM and representatives from USSA, including Mr. Brad Montague (the regional Branch Manager for USSA) for the purpose of relaying LUC’s concerns re LP (hours of patrol, enforcement of LOWA rules, validation of boat registration information). USSA evidenced great willingness to work on these issues. LUC reaffirmed its willingness to assist USSA LP efforts.

5. NEW BUSINESS

A. Request for Use of the Lakes Application – Hughes
Hughes presented the application for the Sailing Club to host a Regatta on LOW April 18, 2009. Regrettably, the application was presented to Hughes already approved by the AGM, in contradiction to LUC charter (VII.C. “Insure that all special interest lake user groups conducting sporting events on the lakes or beaches shall review their plans with this committee before seeking approval of the General Manager.”). Wilson will meet with the AGM to resolve the issue. There was some discussion as to the appropriate home for this approval, with Patton suggesting that it entailed an Activities and Wellness function. LUC disagreed, considering the LM, as the individual with responsibility for the lakes and beaches, should be an integral part of the approval of process.

B. Volunteers to Grade the LOWA Boating Exam – Wilson
Wilson asked for LUC volunteers to grade the LOWA Boating Exam. Dan McFarland volunteered to assist.

6. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn – McFarland. Unanimous agreement. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION MEETING MINUTES
of the  LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
May 18, 2009
Locust Grove, VA

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met May 18, 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:0 PM.

Voting Members present: Julie Wilson, Ed Hoffman, Fred Wellman

Absent: Sue Erickson, Dan McFarland, Carl Moray, Melinda Wallace
Alternate Member Present: Joe Quimper           Alternate Member Absent: Vic Shook
Lakes Manager: April Hughes, AGM: Ted Wessel, BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn, Finance Committee Liaison: Boggs Wright, Guests: Ken Rouse, Don Walters

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –Wellman; second -- Hoffman. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL of April 20, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the April 20, 2009 minutes, version 2 –Wellman, second –Quimper. Unanimous approval.

3. COMMITTEE RECONSTITUTION
In view of the absence of the majority of the membership of the “new” LUC, reconstitution was deferred to the June meeting.

4. Lake Manager’s Report – Hughes

The Lake Manager reported that the Marina will start its summer schedule this weekend (Memorial Day holiday weekend).

The LM will have the assistance of a volunteer intern over the summer. The intern is a junior at Virginia Tech and will work for VT course credit in lieu of a salary.

Water quality testing (nitrate, TKN, and phosphorous) last month showed very high nitrogen, especially TKN (i.e., organic nitrogen, e.g., NH3)  and very low phosphorous concentrations; these results are along the lines of those obtained last year, and are different from what is generally seen in the lakes of Virginia. The LM suspects fertilizer runoff as the cause for these findings.  Testing for fecal coliforms showed high levels at Edgemont and Ramsey beaches, which turned out to be related to overflowing sewers. RSA was contacted and corrected the situation; coliform retesting was conducted May 18, and results will be posted on the LOWA web site.

The LM contacted the Fishing Club President. Creel reports will be made available to the LM to supplement the data obtained from the prematurely aborted fish survey.
Additional spar buoys will be placed soon, completing the transition from the old round buoys. The spar type buoys seem to hold up better and are less liable to displacement.

The LM explained the appearance of dead Asian clams in the main lake. The etiology of such a large die off is usually summer heat, but the reason for this kill is not so clear. The LM wonders if the large amounts of rainfall stirred up lake sediment, releasing ammonia. Since the clams filter water, they would be highly sensitive to chemical imbalance in the water. In addition, there has been a relatively minor fish kill, as one would expect. Fortunately, there is a healthy muskrat population at the lake that is scavenging the clams, averting a larger fish kill. The LM will be serially sampling lake water for ammonia to further assess the situation.

Keatons Run has had no such clam die off.

5. OLD BUSINESS

A. Virginia Boating Safety Education Regulation – Wilson
The Rules Committee failed to reach a quorum at its May meeting and elected to defer deliberation on the Regulation to its June meeting. This action may be moot, as the LOWA Board of Directors has elected to have a workshop regarding the Regulation (in June or July).

6. NEW BUSINESS

A. Request for Use of the Lakes Application – Hughes, Wilson
Hughes presented the application for the Sailing Club to sponsor (for the 9th year) a Junior Sailing Program on LOW June 22-July 10, 2009. No issues were found in her initial review, nor on subsequent review by LUC.

Motion to approve the request of the LOW Sailing Club to use the main lake for its Junior Sailing Program – Wellman. Second –Hoffman. Unanimous approval.

Hoffman raised the question of whether the Model Boat Regatta scheduled for October 2009 should complete the event request for use of the lakes. This question led to a far-ranging discussion re the plusses of so doing and minuses of so doing, and of the benefits of the form (although it could use a few tweaks) in general. Hoffman agreed to submit an application for use of the lakes for LUC review re the model boat regatta.

In relation to the form, the recent Fishing Tournament was raised as an example of where its completion could be helpful. Firstly, there is a designated responsible individual to whom complaints regarding the behavior of participants can be directed for adjudication and self policing (e.g., for speeding). In addition, and this points out one tweak needed in the form, waiver of specified LOWA use of the lakes rules could be obtained for specific events. In the case of the fishing tournament, waiver could be obtained re the 6 AM use of greater than no wake speed. The application for event use of the lake “protects” event participants from the ire of LOWers, as permission for specific activities would be obtained through a fair and open process.

To educate the LOW community re this process, the Lake Currents article re the use of the lakes request written by Wilson and submitted to the GM/AGM will be published. Also, a brief letter requesting application submission will be sent to the Presidents of the main LOW clubs using the lake (The LOW Sailing Club, the LOW Fishing Club, and the LOW Ski Club). Wilson will draft up this letter for co-signature by the GM/AGM.

6. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn –Hoffman. Unanimous agreement. Meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES of the  LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
June 15, 2009

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met June 15, 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.
Voting Members present: Fred Wellman, Carl Murray, Melina Wallace, Dan McFarland
Alternate Member Present: Joe Quimper     
Lakes Manager: April Hughes        AGM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn                         Finance Committee Liaison: Boggs Wright  
Guests: Sue Erickson, Jack & Barbara Spadaro, Margaret Darby, Bob Schwartz, John Kline, Bill & Millie Nowers, Alice Drabant

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –Wallace; second --Wellman. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of May 18, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the May 18, 2009 minutes–Murray; second –Wellman. Unanimous approval.

3. COMMITTEE RECONSTITUTION
Wilson called for nominations/volunteers for 2009-2010 officers. There were no volunteers or any nominations. Wilson will continue as acting Chair in the interim.

4. Lake Manager’s Report – Hughes
Marina hours have been extended to 6:30 pm.
Fecal coliform testing had revealed high (>200) counts at Harper’s Ferry and Cumberland Beaches (see May minutes). The high count at HFB was related to a sewer overflow, and the high counts at both beaches declined to acceptable limits at retest. RSA has agreed to inform LOWA when they deal with a sewer overflow so that coliform counts can be assessed with that information. Next testing will be about June 23 (depending on the weather) and results should be available on the web by about June 26. This time the samples will be sent to a different lab, one that can (for $11 per sample) distinguish human vs. non-human coliforms.
The spar buoys should be arriving any day now and will be placed soon.
Total nitrogen is still high in the big lake, but has decreased, and the fish kill seems to be resolving.

Beach inspections have been completed and repairs are underway.
Physico-chemical testing (e.g., dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, etc.) has been completed at the main lake (results are pending); Keaton’s Run will be tested soon.
Biological assessment has been completed at Keaton’s Run and shows predominance of pollution-resistant organisms, related to the suboptimal water quality. The big lake will be tested next.
The temporary fish barrier set up across the main dam spillway was washed out with a recent heavy rain.
The carp exclusion barriers will be placed in the main lake soon.

Sludge-eating bacteria (non-pathogenic) were placed in the main lake at Castle Hill cove; they also will be placed at the extreme northern end of Keaton’s run. The activity of the bacteria in the low-oxygen environment of KR will be compared to that in the rich-oxygen environment of the big lake.
Dredging is proceeding well.
  
5. OLD BUSINESS

A. Virginia Boating Safety Education Regulation – Wilson
The LOWA BOD will discuss the Regulation at its Workshop meeting this Wednesday (June 17).

6. NEW BUSINESS
A.  Ramsey Beach Safety Issues – Spadaro and Kline
Spadaro and Kline, accompanied by a number of LOWers residing at the coves west of Ramsey Beach, briefed LUC re safety issues of concern at RB (see attached). The access to these coves from the main lake is very narrow. Problems arise over the weekends (see photos in attachment), when, owing to the popularity of RB, the coves become virtually blockaded by moored/anchored powerboats/PWCs. PWCs mooring to the bulkheads of RB pose a safety issue to the toddlers that tend to gravitate to the western, sandy side of RB. One homeowner swimming off her dock narrowly missed being struck by a boat propeller as it was backing up, and concern exists regarding an anchor striking a submerged swimmer (swimmers are not constrained by the beach demarcation lines). Anchored boats are left unattended as their passengers go to enjoy RB and present an obstruction to the cove residents attempting to exit their docks and coves (analogous to parking a car in front of someone’s driveway). Lake Patrol has been contacted, and has responded, but violators return despite being warned.  In addition, cars are driven beyond the parking area down onto the grassy areas by the beach.
There are two relevant “use of the lakes” rules.

X.E.6. Landing any watercraft on any LOWA beach shall NOT be permitted without the authorization of the General Manager. Sail boats may be beached at the clubhouse cove Sailing Beach as marked.

X.E.6. Watercraft shall be moored at the owner’s property, piers, bulkheads or at the marinas. Anchoring of unattended watercraft shall NOT be permitted except in an emergency.
Spadaro and Kline presented two suggestions, as well as more aggressive enforcement by LP, to alleviate these problems:

1. A rule change – i.e., “no craft shall anchor within 100 yards of: another member’s dock, a beach, or swim ropes”
2. A rule modification – i.e., redefine “beach” in X.E.6. to include not only the sandy area, but the bulkheads, grass, picnic area, etc.

Considerable discussion followed the completion of the presentation. LUC questioned the derivation of the 100-yard distance in the proposed rule, and worried that this could effectively eliminate mooring at RB, and in a substantial number of other coves, thus adversely impacting the ability of those boat owners who do not live on the lake to enjoy this amenity. LUC debated the intent of the wording of rule X.E.6., particularly whether the intent of the rule is to prohibit mooring of watercraft at the bulkheads associated with the beach, or whether it solely relates to dragging a boat up onto the beach. Re rule X.E.7, does the modifier “owner’s” apply to only “property” or also to “piers” and “bulkheads”? That is, can boats be moored also at LOWA piers and bulkheads? Should a rule be promulgated just in reference to RB (very popular beach, unusual, perhaps unique, geography) or should a rule be developed to apply uniformly to all beaches? Grassy area parking at RB is facilitated by the absence of any effective barrier as exists at other beaches (plain post with no intervening railing/chain).

Motion: Wallace proposed, second by Wellman, that Management request enhanced enforcement of rules X.E.6. and 7. by Lake Patrol with special attention to RB, and that LOWA mark the bulkhead at RB “LOWA Property, No Watercraft Mooring”. Motion carried 3 to 1.

Motion: McFarland proposed, seconded by Wellman, that chains (or similar barrier) be placed between the posts at RB in such a way as to not interfere with necessary maintenance access. Motion carried by unanimous vote.

As a homework assignment, LUC will survey LOWA beaches on the big lake to assess the impact of a 100-yard rule on cove utilization. Further discussion re this proposed rule will occur at its July meeting.

6. OTHER
A. “Request to use the lakes” – draft letter to club presidents has been written by Wilson and received by the AGM.
B. Violation of the “no wake speed” rule in the coves is perceived as ubiquitous. LUC requested heightened LP vigilance re this violation.

7. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn –Wallace. Unanimous agreement. Meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, LUC Acting Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
July 20, 2009

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met July 20, 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Dr. Julie Wilson presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Voting Members present: Carl Murray, Dan McFarland
Alternate Member Present Joe Quimper (served as voting member) 
Lakes Manager April Hughes
GM John Bailey; AGM Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison Jeff Flynn; Finance Committee Liaison Boggs Wright
Planning Committee Liaison Mary Nolan
Security Chief Danny Dobson  

Guests: LOWA BOD (Bill Wilson, Neil Buttimer, Margaret Darby, Bruce Kay, Tom Sheridan, Peter Williams), and Treasurer Olive Kelly; Sue Erickson, Jack & Barbara Spadaro, , Bob Schwartz, John & Pat Kline, Bill & Millie Nowers, Mike Duyer, Allan Berry, Dan Ferguson, Helen Marhart, Ralph Gardner, Joan Quimper, Tim Grant, Gary Schwartz, Wade Hardman, Gary Bounds, Dorothy Gooding, Kimberly Estep, John & Debbie Devine, Larry Balda, Ralph Hancock, Ken Rouse, Don Walters, Suzie Takacs.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –McFarland; second --Murray. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of June 15, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to approve the June 15, 2009 minutes–McFarland; second –Murray. Unanimous approval.

3. Lake Manager’s Report – Hughes
The rip-rap replacement has been completed. The front entrance fountain is being repaired.
With increasing water temperatures, vegetation is starting to grow, but not as much as last year.
The carp exclusion traps have been placed.
Otolith collection is ongoing (for carp aging to determine mortality rate).
All the old round buoys have been replaced by the spar-type buoys, which have been positioned with GPS assistance.
Clubhouse Beach was closed temporarily because of high fecal coliform counts, as was Flat Run. Further testing is being performed on the samples to determine human vs. animal source.
Dredging is ongoing at Hillside.

5. OLD BUSINESS

A. Ramsey Beach Safety Issues – LUC Homework Assignment
LUC considered the proposal from the Ramsey Beach residents re prohibiting anchoring of boats within 100 yards from beaches/docks (see June 15, 2009 LUC meeting minutes for rationale). A scale map of LOW was provided to LUC for this purpose and a scale map of LOW was displayed in the Holcomb Building Conference Room during the meeting. As the 100-yard distance would eliminate anchoring in the vast majority of LOW coves, LUC believed that this rule would be unworkable. It next considered alternate distances (e.g., 100/150 feet from shore). LUC was split on the wisdom/need for such a regulation. The lake is a common area, and lake front property owners do not have rights into the water. However, anchored boats block access to the lake by the lake front owner; similar blockage of one’s driveway is not tolerated. The desire to separate swimmers and boats may be a laudable one, but boats underway are allowed within 75 feet from shore, and hence in the same area as swimmers, who are restricted to 75 from shore. From the audience came the suggestion that swimmers venturing out beyond the swim ropes at beaches or far beyond docks/piers should be required to wear a floatation device/use a “noodle”/or have some other indication that a swimmer is about (like a diver’s flag). Dobson reported that 15 citations have been issued thus far in July (e.g., decal, no wake zone violations). Some in the audience contended that since no accidents have occurred at Ramsey Beach, the current situation is sufficiently safe. Counterarguments recalled a fatal drowning at Ramsey Beach some years ago, and the desire to avoid accidents.
In conclusion, LUC did not recommend defining any limit on boat anchoring.

6. NEW BUSINESS
A.  Ramsey Beach Safety Issues – All
Extensive discussion took place covering a broad range of issues related to Ramsey Beach (RB). The issues and discussion revolving about these issues are summarized below.

1. Parking of vehicles on the side of Ramsay (? Ramsey) Road (RR).

The parking lot at RB apparently fills to capacity, especially over the weekends. Persons desiring to use the beach have utilized the side of RR, and on occasion both sides of the road, for overflow parking. RB residents note that RR is very narrow and thus such parking compromises traffic on the road as well as egress of property owners from their driveways. The BOD expressed concern that emergency vehicle access could be compromised by such on-the-street parking. RB users contended that there is no rule prohibiting such parking.

1. Mooring of PWCs at RB bulkhead (sandy side). An RB resident indicated that he had placed an extra cleat at the RB bulkhead (recently removed by LOWA). The RB users contended that they need mooring for their PWCs to be able to access RB and its restroom facility, as is their right as LOWA members. They further contended that no rule prohibited such mooring and as the bulkhead constituted community LOWA property, they had a right to such mooring. They said that such mooring kept the PWCs out of the way of RB cove traffic. Anchoring of PWCs in the cove is problematic due to the prohibition against leaving anchored watercraft unattended (X.E.7. -- “Watercraft shall be moored at the owner’s property, piers, bulkheads or at the marinas. Anchoring of unattended watercraft shall NOT be permitted except in an emergency.”). RB residents related their concern re such PWC mooring as being hazardous to toddlers (tend to favor the sandy side of the beach sand rather than the rocky side, and hence are in the immediate vicinity of PWCs), and there are more children than ever on the beach. RB users contend that beach use in any case is at one’s own risk.

At its June meeting, LUC by majority vote declared that rule X. E.7. was intended to ban mooring at LOWA piers and bulkheads. The GM concurred with this interpretation; historically no such mooring has been allowed at LOW. Alternative temporary mooring sites were explored – e.g., Sailboat Beach (SB) at which swimming is prohibited (LOWA web material re the lake and extant signage); swimming IS allowed at adjacent Clubhouse Beach. PCWers rejected this option as they want to keep both their children and watercraft monitored simultaneously. Another idea revolved about building a pier/dock off RB for temporary mooring.

1. Concern was expressed re alcohol consumption at RB. Trusting responsible behavior on the part of boaters/swimmers was preferred by some. Others believe rules are needed because not everyone is responsible. Dobson elaborated re the technical details of alcohol breath testing. Reporting of apparent drunken behavior will be responded to by LOWA Security.
2. Both residents and users expressed feeling intimidated – the residents fearing retribution by the RB users for calling in violations of LOWA rules, and the RB users perceiving intimidation by LOWA Security. Dobson indicated that security procedure does NOT include identification of the individual calling in the complaint.
3. RB undergoes “claim-staking” as early as 5 AM, with picnic tables being clustered and possessions laid out. According to LOWA rules (X.K.1.), beaches and their associated parking areas shall be closed from 10 pm to 7 am daily.

With all having been given an opportunity to state their opinion, LOWA President Bill Wilson pointed out that the presence of all BOD members indicated the seriousness with which the BOD viewed the RB situation. He expressed the intent of leadership to derive a solution fair and acceptable to both sides.

Motion: Proposed by Murray, seconded by Quimper: LOW should investigate the possibility of expanding parking for automobiles with/without trailers, at RB. Motion carried: 2 yes, 1 abstain.

Motion: Proposed by Quimper, seconded by Murray: LOW should investigate the feasibility of putting a pier/dock at the rocky side of RB. Motion carried: 2 yes, 1 abstain.

Motion: Proposed by Quimper, seconded by Murray: LOW should investigate the use of Sailboat Beach for temporary boat mooring. Motion carried: 2 yes, 1 no.
Homework assignment for next meeting – prepare to discuss the definition of “unattended” as used in X.e.7.

7. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn –Murray. Unanimous agreement. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Julie Wilson, LUC Acting Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
21 September 2009

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 21 September 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.

Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Carl Murray, Dan McFarland, Melinda Wallace.
Alternate Members Present: Jack Spadaro, Alan Berry, Jim Wyant.
LUC Advisor:  Dr. Julie Wilson   
Lakes Manager: April Hughes was not available but forwarded her written report.             
GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn
BOD Representatives:  Bruce Kay, Margaret Darby.                    
Finance Committee Liaison: Boggs Wright
Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan
Guests: Mike Balzano, Joan Quimper, Ken Rouse, Jan Moore, John Kline, David Blackistone, John & Debbie Devine, Bernie Patton, Ed Hoffman.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –Wallace; second --McFarland. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL of August 17, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion to revise the August 17, 2009 minutes to reflect that the newly elected Chair, Joe Quimper presided over the remainder of the August meeting.–Wilson; second –McFarland. Unanimous approval. 

3. Lake Manager’s Report – Written report read by Mr. Quimper.
- E.Coli testing at all beaches are within state recommendations for safe recreational use. Bacterial source at Flat Run revealed human contamination originating from outside of LOW property.  DEQ has been notified and will attempt to locate the source to resolve this situation.
- Seven (7) bubblers are installed in Keaton’s Lake.  A proposal for a new permanent aeration system is being considered; however, this system is costly to install and maintain and should be located at the beach and dam to avoid private property issues.  Installation of such a permanent system would be accomplished by boat and would NOT require draining the lake.  The Lake Manager will continue to work closely with Rappahannock Electric and Virginia Lake Management for a site visit to observe a system in action.  This visit will clarify many details and serve as a basis to forward a proposal to the General Manager. 
- Annual vegetation survey is underway and all buoys have been gps recorded.
- Carp exclusion study is complete and indicates that the hydrilla growth inside the cages is significantly greater despite any difference in water depth.  This indicates that the carp are “mowing the lawn” outside the cages.
- Samples from expired carp will be sent to the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries soon to determine a more accurate mortality rate.  This will provide LOW with a more suitable restocking rate.
- The pilot study of using Plantskydd to repel beaver in the main lake was successful.
- LOW Marina is now open on weekends only through 11 October.
- Current water temperature is 88 degrees (F); 30.9 (C).
- Dredging is ongoing in cove #30.

Subsequent discussion revolved about the purchase of a small dredging machine capable of eliminating excess vegetation around individual docks; it revealed that an estimated initial cost ranged from $5K-8K. The labor involved is an additional cost and the majority of work must be done from the water and not a boat.  Additionally, there is no location to dump the dredged material once it is removed from the lake.  A suggestion was made that individual homeowners may have to remove the vegetation themselves or hire someone to perform the task.  It was agreed that chemicals should not be added to the lake as the contamination by those using lake water for irrigation may be problematic.  It was suggested that this issue needs further exploration in relation to the Water Resource Management Plan and the LOW Storm Water Management Plan.  Therefore, it will be added to the October agenda of the LUC.

4.  LUC Status Reports:
            A.- Lake Patrol – Mr. Quimper.  The LUC will be involved in both the future scheduling and budget for the Lake Patrols. A group discussion followed that suggested the possibility of having a US Coast Guard Auxiliary or US Power Squadron to assist  Lake Patrol in conducting inspections and towing incapacitated watercraft.  It was clearly indicated that any of the aforementioned groups would NOT be performing lake enforcement. The GM stated that he would look into this issue.

            B.- VA Boating Safety Educational Requirement – Dr. Wilson. A detailed synopsis was provided that outlined previous discussions with LOW Security as well as the LOW Rules Committee. This educational requirement is for watercraft operators on public waters throughout Virginia and similar requirements have been adopted by many other states. If not implemented at LOW, there may be implications regarding boating safety on LOW’s lakes and involving financial liability from accidents on our lakes. The course is available through the internet at a minimal cost or for free if taken at a Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) class. There are a number of ways to meet this educational requirement; for example if you already have a completion certificate from a Power Squadron or USCG Boater Educational Course. This issue was addressed at a June BOD Workshop with the Board considering adoption of this requirement for LOW in May 2010. A comment from an attending guest stated that this requirement would affect some 1400 watercraft owners here in the lake and be difficult for weekenders to obtain the certification. A response indicated that internet courses are available 24/7 and that LOWA could explore VDGIIF presenting courses here at LOW. The GM suggested that procedures and rules for publicizing this issue need to be revisited.

5.  OLD BUSINESS
            A.  Rules Revision – Spadaro
            - Revisions were limited to current rules X.E.6.and X.E.7.  Clarification was provided why the latter was focused directly at Ramsay Beach stating that the distances cited were measured and currently provide the maximum safety zone for swimmers as well as watercraft operators.  Mr. Spadaro suggested that a designated mooring location be established at Ramsay Cove and any other heavily utilized beach area.  Furthermore, mooring locations could be identified by old round buoys that would enable any watercraft to moor without an on-board operator.  Mr. Spadaro stated that many of the existing rules involving use of the lakes need modifications and/or new rules need to be established due to the large increase in the number of registered watercraft in LOW.  Minor revisions were suggested from LUC members and Mr. Quimper recommended that this item be carried over to the October meeting.

6.  ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn –McFarland.   Seconded by Murray.  Unanimous agreement.  Meeting was adjourned at 8:58PM.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION, LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
19 October 2009

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 19 October 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.
Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Carl Murray, Dan McFarland.
Alternate Members Present: Jack Spadaro, Alan Berry, Jim Wyant, Dale Kadlec.
LUC Advisor:  Dr. Julie Wilson   
GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn
Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan
Guests: Alice Drabant, John Kline, Sue Erickson, Ralph Hancock, Joe & Jean Pennell, Bob and Ellen Schwartz, Laura Desimone, David Blackistone.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve agenda –McFarland; second --Murray. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of August 17, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Murray to revise the September 21, 2009 minutes to change page 2, line 8 in the Lake Manager’s Report to reflect “marina” vs “marine”.  Second – McFarland.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments:  
A.- Mr. Quimper announced that Mr. Fred Wellman has resigned his voting membership from LUC but will be retained as an Advisor.  Additionally, recommendations were made to change the membership of the LUC  from 5 to 7  members; and that 3 Alternate members be converted to Voting members (Kadlec, Spadaro and Berry) and when Mr. McFarland’s tenure is up in January 2010, Mr. Wyant (alternate member) will become a Voting Member.
            B.- Mr. Quimper announced that the Lake Manager, Ms. April Hughes would not be attending future LUC meetings as directed by the GM.  Mr. Quimper requested clarification on this issue as it is currently under consideration to have all committees answer directly to the BOD versus the GM.  The BOD Liaison, Mr. Jeff Flynn recommended continuation of current status until final BOD approval. 
 
4.  Lake Manager’s Report – Prior to the discussion of this report, Mr. Quimper requested from the GM that future Lake Manager’s Reports be received prior to scheduled LUC meetings to allow for clarifying questions by the committee members.  The GM assured the LUC that future reports will be provided in sufficient time to allow for questions.  The GM reiterated that requests for “staff time” that require additional time and/or research be approved by his office. Individual questions by homeowners or committee members will always be addressed but not if they require addition research time. (See Appendix A for the Committee Report: October 2009 (Lakes).
            Subsequent to the reading of the Water Resource Manager’s report, a discussion among committee members addressed carp mortality rates and that prior estimates of 10% were a guesstimate.  It was agreed that the carp were keeping the level of vegetation down in the main lake; however, vegetation problems in many areas may required additional methods of control.  A suggestion was made that the BOD also consider the option of using chemicals in the lake to continue the vegetation battle.
            The GM agreed that the Lake Manager would attend the next LUC meeting and have a better idea of the carp mortality rate as well as additional information on various dredging equipment to better formulate vegetation management.
            A generalized discussion of the LOW budget process followed in which the GM invited the LUC Chairman to a lake budget meeting the following day.  Mr. Quimper stated that he would obtain input and circulate it among committee members.
            Mr. Berry asked if a permanent aeration system would be installed in Keaton’s Lake this calendar year.  The GM suggested that the BOD could approve such a request but it was not likely for this calendar year as it would have to appear in the Capital Expense portion of the budget.  This fact was confirmed by the BOD Liaison, Mr. Jeff Flynn.
            Mr. Berry requested that the LUC be provided with actual numbers of phosphorus and nitrogen content in both lakes as it was suggested that runoff from the golf course has an adverse impact on both lakes.  It was pointed out that the M&E committee charter was focused with the ecology of the lake water whereas the LUC charter was focused on above the water level.  It was suggested by Ms. Sue Erickson that it was difficult to separate the cause and effect.  A recommendation was made that there should be only one Lake Committee, meaning that Ecology should move from the M&E to the LUC Committee.  This recommendation did not meet with disapproval.  Accordingly, Mr. Quimper tasked the LUC members to review the committee charter and responsibilities and be prepared for a discussion at the next scheduled meeting and a possible letter to the BOD recommending creation of a single Lake Committee to include the Ecology function.

5.  LUC Status Reports:
            A.- The General Manager provided information regarding the possible establishment of a Coast Guard Flotilla or Power Squadron at LOW.  If established, these organizations could provide courses in leadership, Safe Boating education, vessel inspection and actual lake cruising (without police power) that would be funded by Homeland Security.  The GM provided a contact point and phone number and authorized direct contact to invite a representative to the next LUC meeting.
            B.- VA Boating Safety Educational Requirement – Dr. Wilson stated that a series of articles were planned for publication in forthcoming Lake Currents that would provide additional information, LUC recommendations and a general overview of program implementation throughout the nation.
 
6.  OLD BUSINESS
            A.  Rules Revision – Kadlec.  Revisions were limited to current rules X.E.6.and X.E.7.  Proposed changes to X.E.6. provided amplification to the existing regulation and was generally accepted. Conversely, proposed changes to X.E.7. triggered numerous suggestions that ranged from the use of additional buoys that designate buffer areas to approach various beaches throughout LOW to additional articles regarding lake safety in LOW communication avenues. It was generally agreed that defining buffer zones in terms of feet is extremely difficult and that one solution may not be applicable to all beaches in LOW. As Ramsay Cove appears to have become a hot spot during this boating season, Ms. Wilson recommended that we make recommendations to the GM to experiment with various efforts in the interest of safety rather than attempt to revise current lake regulations.  Successful efforts used at Ramsay Cove could then serve as possible solutions to other future beach issues as they become known.  Mr. Quimper requested that this issue be reviewed again at the November meeting.
            B. Lake Patrol Schedule – The GM requested input from the LUC regarding the best usage of lake patrols during the next year. Recommendations should be limited to a total of 750 hours, range from  Memorial Day to Labor Day, include specific days of the week and length of time and  the number of boats required for patrols. This information will be used for budget purposes. Mr. Kadlec volunteered to develop a recommended patrol schedule for review at the next LUC meeting. 

7.  ADJOURN           
Motion to adjourn –McFarland.   Seconded by Murray.  Unanimous agreement.  Meeting was adjourned at 9:09PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 16 November 2009.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
16 November 2009

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 16 November 2009 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro, Dale Kadlec, Melinda Wallace, Dan McFarland and Allen Berry.
Alternate Members Present:  Jim Wyant.
LUC Advisors:  Dr. Julie Wilson and Fred Wellman.   
GM: Ted Wessel
BOD Liaison: Jeff Flynn.
BOD Members:  Bruce Kay, Tom Sheridan and Margaret Darby.
Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan.
Finance Committee Liaison:  Boggs Wright
Guests:  Sue Ericksen, Ken Rouse, Dave Blackistone, LCDR (USCG Aux) David Adams and Commodore (USCG Aux) Albert DeJean.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
The Chairman proposed a change to the Agenda to include a discussion of a proposed Draft Charter for the Lakes Committee under the category of New Business.  Motion to approve the amended agenda –Murray; second --Spadaro. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL of October 16, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Wallace to approve the October LUC minutes. Second – Murray.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments:  Mr. Quimper introduced two members from the Fredericksburg Coast Guard Auxiliary, LCDR Dave Adams and Commodore Albert DeJean, the Regional Commander of the USCG Auxiliary 5th District to include the states of Virginia, DC, Maryland and North Carolina.

4.  US Coast Guard Auxiliary Presentation and Q&A’s.  LCDR Dave Adams and Commodore Albert DeJean provided a slide show detailing the organizational structure of their organization through the Department of Homeland Security. Details of Auxiliary functional responsibilities include watercraft inspections, testing to meet the new VA Boating Safety Education Requirement and accreditation of Auxiliary volunteers to possibly establish a Flotilla at LOW. The presentation was followed by a lengthy question and answer period. Testing can be accomplished at LOW either on 1 day sessions or over several evening hours with a minimum of 5 participants. Watercraft inspections can be accomplished as requested with stickers provided to successful inspections. Lake patrols can be scheduled using USCG Auxiliary uniformed personnel as well as LOW volunteers. When private watercraft is used, CG will reimburse for wear/tear on the craft, food for crew and fuel. The LUC will continue to assess the need and draft recommendations to the GM for USCG Auxiliary involvement at LOW during 2010.

5.  WATER RESOURCE MANAGER’S REPORT– Hughes.  (See Appendix A).
            The Water Resource Manager stated that she would rewrite the carp restocking policy in LOW during the winter months. A spirited discussion followed regarding placing additional carp in the lake since the majority of the existing carp have yet to mature and reach their maximum consumption rate. Furthermore, the carp that have died this past year were on the average of 17 years old. The Water Resource Manager will continue to gather information and include her recommendations in the forthcoming policy revision. It was generally agreed that adding chemicals to the lake to reduce the vegetation should be a last resort.  

            The Water Resource Manager also outlined a variety of products available to individual lakefront owners to help reduce the vegetation around docks. The most reasonable is a Water Blanket ranging in various size and costing approximately $125 (plus shipping) for a 10X20 feet blanket. These blankets have rebar sewn into the material which allows for placement under water but should not be left in position permanently.

            The chairman of the LUC again expressed interest in having input to the Lake Budget for BY 2010. The GM stated that the operating Budget was scheduled to go to the Finance Committee in early December and assured Mr. Quimper that he would be able to have his concerns heard before that deadline.  

6.  LUC Status Reports - VA Boating Safety Educational Requirement Update – Wilson. The Friday, 20 November 2009 edition of the Lake Currents will contain several articles concerning the LUC’s recommendation to the BOD and a general overview of program requirements for the implementation of the State approved requirement at LOW. 
 
7.  OLD BUSINESS
            A.  Proposed Lake Patrol Schedule for CY 2010 – Kadlec. A draft schedule was presented that proposed lake patrols focus primarily on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day holidays yet allowing for periodic weekday patrols while staying within the 750 hours allotted by the current Security Contract. 

            B.  Rules Revision – Spadaro.  Previous proposed revisions to current rule X.E.6.that were not controversial were generally accepted. Similarly, proposed changes to X.E.7., including the specific recommendation for all watercraft to remain a minimum of 75 feet from the designated swim area in Ramsay Cove encountered little opposition. Suggestions regarding the current and revised rule regarding no anchoring on the main lake did receive a recommendation to check with the LOW Fishing Club to see the potential impact on their members.

8.  NEW BUSINESS
            A. LUC members reviewed the draft “Lakes Committee” charter and provided several editorial comments. Essentially, the Lake Committee would have broader functional responsibilities over the lake ecology of both the main and Keaton’s lake. Motion made by Berry; seconded by Kadlec that a revised charter be forwarded to the Chairman, M&E Committee for their review prior to formal submission to the General Manager. The LUC Secretary was tasked to make appropriate changes as approved.

            B.  It was recommended and agreed that a formal letter of appreciation to the USCG Personnel would be drafted for their visit and presentation to the LUC Meeting. The LUC Secretary was tasked to draft a letter for the General Manager’s signature.

9. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn –Spadaro.  Seconded by McFarland. Unanimous agreement. Meeting was adjourned at 9:45PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 21 December 2009.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

MEETING MINUTES Of The LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
18 January 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 18 January 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Carl Murray presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:12 PM.

Voting Members present: Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro, Dan McFarland and Allen Berry.
Alternate Members Present:  None.
LUC Advisors:  None.
BOD Members:  Margaret Darby.
Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan.
Guests:  Dave Blackistone.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve the recently revised agenda –McFarland; second --Berry. Unanimous approval.

2. APPROVAL of November 16, 2009 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by McFarland to approve the minutes. Second – Berry.  Unanimous approval. 

3. VICE CHAIR’S Comments:  Mr. Murray stated that this meeting would conclude Mr.  McFarland’s tenure with the LUC.  Mr. Murray thanked Mr. McFarland for his service to the community and wished him well in his future endeavors.

4.  WATER RESOURCE MANAGER’S REPORT– Hughes.  Due to the observance of the MLK Holiday, The Water Resource Manager was unavailable; however, her report is provided at Appendix A. 

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS –
A. Rules Update – Spadaro.  Mr. Spadaro mentioned that he had discussed the potential impact of restricting the anchoring on the main lake (exclusive of the coves and/or “No Wake” areas) for fishing purposes with the President of the LOW Fishing Club, Mr. Tony Kennon.  Mr. Kennon stated that the Fishing Club members do not anchor but rather troll around the main lake.  Mr. Spadaro further recommended that any further action by the LUC be held in abeyance until the LOW BOD votes on whether to adopt the VA Boating Safety Educational Requirement as other possible LOW Lake rules may require revision.

B. Revised LUC Charter – Murray.  Mr. Murray stated that the proposed revised LUC Charter had been forwarded to the Chairman, M&E Committee for comments.  All comments and/or recommendations were subsequently forwarded to the GM for consideration and approval.

6.  NEW BUSINESS
A.  Enhanced/Augmented Lake Patrols Discussion.  The proposed Lake Patrol Schedule for CY 2010 previously presented by Mr. Kadlec to the LUC was used as a discussion basis by BOD Vice President ( Jeff Flynn) last week in a meeting with the LOW Security Officer.  The recommendation proposed lake patrols focus primarily on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day holidays with periodic weekday patrols while staying within the 750 hours allotted by the current contract.   

B.  Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Discussion.  A general discussion among all attendees included various questions regarding enforcement sources and procedures.  The general consensus was that there should be a “Zero Tolerance” for BUI’s within the lake with improved enforcement regardless of source (local, state or LOW Security).  Mr. Murray stated that he would check with the LOW GM regarding legal enforcement.

C.  Availability of VA Boating Safety Education Classes – Spadaro.  VA Boating Safety Educational Classes are currently being scheduled in both Fredericksburg and the town of Orange.  Orange County Parks and Recreation Department is currently accepting names to attend a March 2010 class by Mr. Aikens from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDIGF). The telephone number to place your name on a list is (540) 672-5435.  The US Coast Guard Auxiliary has scheduled classes on 6 February, 13 March and 10 April.  These CG classes will be conducted by Mr. Carol Moore (540) 786-8588) at the Sheriff’s Sub Station Office in the Spotsylvania Town Center.  Currently there are no classes scheduled at LOW until The VA Boating Safety Educational Requirement is favorably approved by the BOD and authorized by the GM.

D.  Cardboard Boat Regatta Request – The LUC reviewed the request from the LOW Lake Youth Foundation to conduct its annual regatta on 24 July 2010.  Motion by McFarland to favorably endorse this request to the GM for approval; seconded by Berry.  The Secretary will forward the request to the GM recommending approval.

7. ADJOURN
Prior to Adjournment, a brief discussion among attendees involved the forthcoming vote by the LOW BOD on the VA Safe Boating Educational Requirement.  It was pointed out to Mr. Blackistone (representing the LOW Boating Club) that both the ad as well as Mr. Blackistone’s letter appearing in the current edition of the Lake Currents incorrectly implies that if approved at LOW, in addition to the owner and operator of a watercraft, all family members would be required to successfully pass this test.  Mr. Blackistone stated that his club was attempting to take their position to the public as they felt they were not adequately supported by the LUC.  Mr. Blackistone suggested that portions of the Safe Boating Educational Requirement could be integrated into LOW regulations rather than require LOW residents to take the complete VA approved test and bear the cost.  Mr. McFarland outlined various methods that would not require individuals to take the test and incur the cost.  Mr. Spadaro suggested that regardless of whether the VASBER is implemented at LOW or LOW’s regulations are dramatically revised, the key to safety will require stricter enforcement.  Mrs. Darby asked if the LUC had changed their position on supporting the VASBER at LOW.  Mr. Spadaro stated that the LUC continues to support the VASBER; however, if not approved by the LOW BOD, then significant effort will be required to revise current regulations to ensure safety on LOW lakes after an exponential increase in watercraft registration.  Mr. Spadaro compared LOW with Lake Monticello where the VASBER is required by all owners and operators of pontoon, deck and ski boats (PWC’s are not allowed on Lake Monticello).  Mr. Berry suggested closer coordination between the LUC and the LOW Boating Club should have prevented the dissention over implementation of the VASBER at LOW.           

Motion to adjourn –McFarland.   Seconded by Berry.   Meeting was adjourned at 9:17 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 15 February 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTESof The LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
15 March 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 15 March 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Carl Murray presided as Chair and called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Voting Members present: Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro, Melinda Wallace, Dale Kadlec,
                                               Alan Berry & Jim Wyant.
Alternate Members Present:  Bob Halstead
LUC Advisors:  Dr. Julie Wilson.   
BOD Members:  None.
Planning Committee Liaison: Mary Nolan.
M&E Committee Liaison: DougCrain.
Guests:  Ted Wessel, General Manager & Dan McFarland.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve the recently revised agenda –Berry; second --Wallace. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of January 2010 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Berry to approve the minutes. Second – Wallace.  Unanimous approval. 

3. VICE CHAIR’S Comments: Mr. Murray:
A.Stated that the Virginia Boating Safety Educational Requirement had been disapproved by the LOW BOD and that an “Ad-Hoc” committee will be established by the BOD to address the next steps to improve the overall safety on LOWA Lakes.
B. Congratulated Jim Wyant on his being appointed by the BOD as a voting member, and
C. Congratulated Bob Halstead on his appointment to the LUC as an alternate member.

 4.  WATER RESOURCE MANAGER’S REPORT–  The Water Resource Manager was unavailable; however, her reports for both February and March were read into the record and are provided at Appendix A and B, respectively.

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS –
A.  Revised LUC Charter – Mr. Murray stated that the Lakes Charter provided by the LUC Chairman has been revised to reflect the correct format.  Once approved by the LUC Chairman, this draft will be circulated among the LUC members.
 
6.  NEW BUSINESS
            A.  Availability of VA Boating Safety Education Classes – Spadaro.  VA Boating Safety Educational Classes are currently being scheduled in both Fredericksburg and the town of Orange.  Orange County Parks and Recreation Department is currently accepting names to attend a March 2010 class by Mr. Aikens from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDIGF). To date, no class is scheduled; however, the telephone number to place your name on a list is (540) 672-5435. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary has scheduled another class on 10 April.  These CG classes will be conducted by Mr. Carol Moore (540) 786-8588) at the Sheriff’s Sub Station Office in the Spotsylvania Town Center. 
            B.  Next Steps to Implement Improved Boating Safety at LOW – Murray.  Mr. Murray.  (See item 3.A. above). 

7. ADJOURN Motion to adjourn –Wallace.   Seconded by Wyant.   Meeting was adjourned at 7:20 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 19 April 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION, LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
19 April 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 19 April 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper, Chairman  called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Voting Members present: Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro,  Alan Berry & Jim Wyant.
Alternate Members Present:  Bob Halstead
LUC Advisors:  Dr. Julie Wilson.   
BOD Members:  None.
M&E Committee Liaison: Doug Crain.
Finance Committee Liaison:  Boggs Wright
Safety & Security Committee Liaison:  Tim Grant
Guests:  Ted Wessel, General Manager, Dan McFarland & Sue Erickson.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve the recently agenda –Murray; second --Wyant. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of March 2010 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Berry to approve the minutes. Second – Murray.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments: Mr. Quimper:
A. Introduced Mr. Bob Schwartz as a potential alternate member to the committee;
B. Outlined that the revised Lakes charter had been forwarded to the General Manager and BOD for consideration.  However, at this date no final word regarding acceptance/rejection of the submission has been received; and
C. Congratulated Bob Halstead on his appointment to the LUC as an alternate member.

 4.  WATER RESOURCE MANAGER’S REPORT– The Water Resource Manager was unavailable; however, her report for the month of April was read into the record and is provided at Appendix A. It was noted that in this monthly report, that a copy of “regulation changes and new vegetation management policy” had been previously forwarded to the LUC and is now being considered by the BOD.   The Chairman commented that he had not received a copy of the new vegetation management policy that the Water Resource Manager stated had been sent.  After no other LUC member had remembered seeing such a document, the Chairman asked the committee Secretary to request an additional copy.
The subject of the use of “Weed Blankets” in the lake was discussed.  Mr. Wright stated that the Water Resource Manager is in the process of developing a recommendation to the BOD which will then be formulated by the Rules Committee and then outlined as a first reading in the Lake Currents.  The Chairman expressed concern that the delay in providing this information to the LUC and the Community will result in many members not being able to control the vegetation this summer.  The Chairman also felt that this was not adequate for the community and will result in unnecessary grief for members and the BOD.  Finally, the topic of continued use of Phosphorus chemicals that may bleed into the lake may be authorized if a permit is approved by the association.

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None.

6.  NEW BUSINESS
            A.  LOW Ad-Hoc Committee Update  – Berry/Spadaro.   Mr. Spadaro provided the current status of the BOD appointed committee exploring potential problem areas and/or solutions to safety and enforcement issues on LOW lakes.  It was pointed out that the committee has a timeline to provide recommendations back to the BOD by mid-May and currently uses a Blog to outline issues, solutions and progress.  A forthcoming article in the Lake Currents will provide the general public the Blog address so that people can review as well as comment on various topics for exploration.  Mr. Halstead questioned why this function was not assigned to the LUC.  Mr. Quimper stated that this committee was formed by the BOD and appointed by the President and that the BOD had taken ownership.  Dr. Wilson stated that previous attempts to rewrite LOW Lake Regulations had been attempted previously and suggested the Ad-Hoc Committee discuss this matter with Mr. Ed Hoffman.  Mr. Crain offered that his previous experience with this effort was centered on enforcement issues and to that extent, a Lake Patrol Manual as well as a radar gun capable of determining speed on water was purchased for the Security Force.  Mr. Wessel stated that the current Security Force was considered the allocation of 750 hours of lake patrol for the forthcoming season.  Dr. Wilson suggested that if adequate enforcement watercraft cannot be maintained to perform the 750 allotted hours of lake patrol, the current Security Force may fail to fulfill their contractual obligations. 
            B.  Location of additional Mooring sites – (Group Discussion). It was stated that the Planning Committee had previously explored additional mooring sites for various watercraft.  Mr. Crain stated that7-8 years ago a waiting list of over 100 names existed and the Lake Users Committee considered various lake sites to construct new mooring sites.  The committee settled on a plan to create a floating dockage adjacent to the clubhouse and anchored by the dam walkway.  This site was selected as it provided adequate parking and easy access to the lake as well as the Clubhouse.  Mr. Quimper suggested the Sailboat Beach site and noted that boaters might be reluctant to moor their boats in an area not protected, such as adjacent to the dam, since the wave action in this major turning area would be significant.  Potential problems may be expected when docking at this location as well as possible debris could block the spillway as a result of strong storms.  Conversely, additional mooring at Sailboat Beach would provide a sheltered location away from significant wave action; however, this location may not be acceptable to residents within the same cove.   Mr. Crain did not elaborate on why Sailboat Beach fell from consideration; still the overall feeling of the committee is that additional mooring should be explored.  Finally, Mr. Crain stated that the suggested company that could provide the floating dock with metal flooring has provided adequate payment alternatives and these plans are still available. The dam issue surfaced and accordingly, the floating dock issue took a back seat.  Mr. Wright stated that there is a considerable waiting list of over 85 names for a mooring site which may take up to 5 years to clear. A statement was made that the number of boats has decreased over the past few years to which Dr. Wilson stated that additional information was needed to check out the waiting list as well as watercraft registered for the previous years.

7. ADJOURN Motion to adjourn –Murray. Meeting was adjourned at 8:09 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 17 May 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
17 May 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 17 May 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper, Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.
Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro & Alan Berry.
Alternate Members Present:  None.
LUC Advisors:  Dr. Julie Wilson.   
BOD Members:  Jeff Flynn
Planning Committee Liaison: Dan Greene
M&E Committee Liaison: Doug Crain.
Finance Committee Liaison:  Harry Walsh
Safety & Security Committee Liaison:  Tim Grant
Guests:  Dan McFarland, Ed Hoffman, Dave McKee and Bob Shope.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve the recently agenda –Berry; second --Murray. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of March 2010 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Spadaro to approve the minutes. Second – Murray.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments: Mr. Quimper:
A. Announcement that Mr. Bob Schwartz is a newly appointed Alternate member to the LUC;
B. Introduced Mr. Dan Greene, new Planning Committee Liaison;
C. Introduced Mr. Harry Walsh, new Finance Committee Liaison;
D. Encouraged additional committee members to assist in the grading of Lake Boating tests each Thursday;
E. Stated that the newly revised Lake Charter was again planning to be revised in order to shorten the length to only a single page (endorsed by Mr. Jeff Flynn);
F. Encouraged the LUC members to closely review the new Vegetation Management Plan as well as the monthly report forwarded by the Water Resource Manager and forward comments to the LUC Chair prior to the next meeting;
G. Mr. Quimper asked Mr. Flynn to address the Quality Management System currently being implemented.  Mr. Flynn stated that several personnel changes have been effected to include realigning the Water Resource Manager under the Head of Maintenance (Mr. Rupe) as Mr. Rupe has experience in this field; and
H. The Dock Identification Initiative has been cancelled.  It was stated that this was initiated by the Security Department as it was extremely difficult to identify house locations from the water.   

 4.  WATER RESOURCE MANAGER’S REPORT– The Water Resource Manager was unavailable; however, her report for the month of April was read into the record and is provided at Appendix A. Again, the LUC Chairman asked the Secretary to forward future reports to the committee members and that comments be returned to the Chairman prior to future LUC scheduled meetings

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. LOW Ad-Hoc Committee Update – Berry/Spadaro.  Mr. Berry reported that the committee had completed its business and a final report has been forwarded to the BOD for their approval and implementation.  Mr. Berry summarized and read into the record from the report’s Executive Summary.  A copy of this report is provided at Appendix B.
            B. Additional Mooring Site Plan – A group discussion grew from the Water Resource Manager’s e-mail outlining that there are currently 83 people on the marina wait list of which 53 have pontoon boats and the remainder have speed boats.  The wait list time is >3 years for pontoons and >2 years for other boats.  One resident mentioned that he has been on the wait list for more than 5 years; this resident also stated that, owing to the chop and boat traffic, he would not want to moor his boat at the north end of the lake, by the Clubhouse.  It was concluded that this waiting period represented lost revenue for the Association.  Mr. Greene offered the cost of a mooring slip for pontoon boats was $685 and $550 for powerboats per year.  Dr. Wilson stated that Lake Anna’s Christopher Run Campground offered seasonal slips for approximately $500 per season; commercial rates at Lake Anna are higher than those at LOW.  Mr. Crain stated that in 2003, the waiting list contained 77 people, each of whom had paid a $50 deposit.  Mr. Crain added that at this time.  Mr. Crain added that at that time, LUC had investigated creating 74 additional slips under a lease purchase for $225k (2003 prices).  It was agreed that the current wait list needed validation as some people may no longer be interested in a LOWA boat slip for various reasons.
 
6.  NEW BUSINESS
            A.  New Capital Requests – Mr. Dan Greene, Liaison from the Planning Committee provided a copy of New Capital Request Form and defined the process for any new initiatives over $3500 suggested by the LUC.  Mr. Greene offered to assist the LUC to meet any future objectives.  The discussion continued to define the process and the distinct roles of the Planning Committee, the General Manager and the BOD.   The LUC Chairman suggested a physical tour of all LOWA Marinas, Beaches, and lake access areas to make recommendations for replacement or new initiatives to the GM by increasing the mooring locations and numbers throughout LOW’s lakes.
 
            B.  Additional Docking Initiatives – Mr. Spadaro stated that the President of the LOW Boat Club, Mr. Mike Balzano had offered a new pier off Ramsay Park by the summer of 2010.  Mr. Balzano stated that if the Association would not fund this project, that the LOW Boat club would.  Mr. Quimper agreed that additional docking spaces may be identified as a result of the planned physical tour of marinas, beaches and access areas around both lakes.  Discussion continued providing various recommendations on a number of locations and subjects including suggestions to enhance the docks at the Clubhouse to ensuring F&R has access to a boat in case of an emergency on either lake similar to the one last winter when a resident was located in the water  after his watercraft over turned.

7. ADJOURN  Motion to adjourn –Murray. Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 21 June 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION, LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
21 June 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 21 June 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper, Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.
Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Carl Murray, Jack Spadaro, Alan Berry, Jim Wyant and Bob Halstead.
Alternate Members Present:  Bob Schwartz and Dr Julie Wilson.   
BOD Members:  Jeff Flynn
Planning Committee Liaison: Dan Greene
M&E Committee Liaison: Doug Crain.
Finance Committee Liaison:  Harry Walsh
Guests:  Ed Hoffman, Dave McKee, Bob Shope, Bruce Kay, Sue Richards, Dan Greene Jr., Lee Frame and Ken Rouse.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion to approve the recently agenda –Berry; second --Wyant. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of March 2010 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Halstead to approve the minutes. Second – Murray.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments: Mr. Quimper:
A. Recognized Ms. Wallace’s service to the LUC;
B. Welcomed Mr. Bob Halstead as a newly appointed voting member;
C. Welcomed Dr. Julie Wilson as a newly appointed Alternate Member;
D. Announced that the BOD Appointed Ad-Hoc Committee had presented their final report and that now the BOD must decide what steps should be taken to ensure lake safety in lieu of implementing the Virginia Boating Safety Educational Requirement (VBSER) at LOW.

4.  LAKE REPORT– Mr. Berry motioned that the Water Resource Manager provide values of organic nitrogen/ammonium currently in Keaton’s Lake.  The motion was amended by Dr. Wilson to reflect a range or definition of normal levels as well as current and average values for last year and recommended norms for a lake of this size.  The amended motion was restated, seconded by Mr. Halstead and passed unanimously. Mr. Greene asked for an update on the aeration system planned for Keaton’s Lake.  Mr. Berry responded that the tubing and pump were installed but were not operating on June 20, possibly because electrical connections needed to be completed.  He would check with the Lake Manager on this status. The Lake Report was previously circulated via e-mail and is provided at Appendix A.

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Mr. Quimper thanked Mr. Harry Walsh and Mr. Bob Shope for assisting the LUC in their efforts to complete the LUC Assessment Report.  Mr. Quimper stated that some of the items outlined in the Report may result in new Capital Requests and provided an example of additional mooring needed at Ramsay Park.  Mr. Quimper continued that previously, there was a dock at this location and that the docking system utilized at Fawn Lake would serve this park well.  Mr. Schwartz outlined the weekend congestion at Ramsay Beach and stated that parking is an ongoing problem at this beach and that during heavy use of the lake, waves can easily break over the lakeside bulkhead.  Mr. Flynn stated that if a docking system were to be installed at Ramsay Park, it would be for day use mooring only.  Mr. Dan Greene Jr. asked who would complete the analysis of such a system.  Mr. Doug Crain responded that the BOD previously approved and funded this type of docking system when originally planned for installation near Veteran’s Dam.  Mr. Bruce Kay stated that Ramsay Beach parking area will establish a designated parking spot for emergency vehicles.  Additionally, signs will be posted along Ramsay Road eliminating non-resident parking to ensure access in emergency situations.
            B. Additional Mooring Sites – A group discussion grew from the previous topic to include the possible need for additional mooring sites to provide relief from a large waiting list.  It was agreed that the first step will be to validate the existing waiting list.  Suggestions ranged from allocating the slips in a more efficient manner (larger boats to larger spaces) to withholding 1/3 of the slips to create a lottery.  Mr. Quimper mentioned that a motion would be forthcoming later in the meeting concerning a recommendation that the LUC manage the Watercraft Wait List.  Mr. Murray asked Mr. Flynn on how the committee should proceed.  Mr. Flynn  responded that the LUC could forward their request to the GM.  At this point, Mr. Spadaro motioned that the LUC be delegated authority to manage the Watercraft Wait List.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Murray and Mr. Spadaro stated that the formal request recommended that the LUC establish policies and procedures within 30 days.  The motion was unanimously approved.  Mr. Wessel stated that he liked the idea that committees cooperate/assist the staff to manage areas within their respective purview.  Mr. Halstead asked if New Capital Funds were still available since additional mooring slips had previously been approved by the BOD or would new funding need to be approved.  Mr. Crain reminded the group that the financial arrangements previously arranged and could be considerably different in this economic environment.  Mr. Frame stated that New Capital Funds are viewed with an expected 3-4 year pay back.  Mr. Quimper stated that any pay back timeframe would be secondary to safety concerns such as a water rescue.  Mr. Berry asked if the LOW F&R had access to a watercraft for such emergencies.  Mr. Halstead stated that F&R had a john boat which would not be suitable for a water rescue.  Rather, Mr. Halstead suggested a platform boat.  Mr. Quimper suggested “deputizing” individuals at strategic locations on both lakes that would provide such watercrafts in emergencies.  Mr. Halstead suggested that this issue should be referred to the F&R and offered to discuss this matter with F&R leadership and provide feedback at the next LUC meeting.  Mr. Berry stated that an emergency telephone listing for emergencies is already in place on the small lake.   Mr. Greene Jr. stated that there may be a concern from individual insurance companies for participating in such an endeavor.  Mr. Frame stated that a telephone list for water emergencies may be the most expeditious but recommended that such a listing be established at both lakes. 
           C. Mr. Quimper stated that the LOW Vegetation Policy has been developed in consonance with the LOW Quality Management System (QMS) but it has not yet been formally approved.  Accordingly, a vegetation survey will occur later this summer.  Copies of this policy were circulated to all LUC members prior to the meeting.

6.  NEW BUSINESS
            A.  LUC Assessment Report – Mr. Quimper stated that the complete report has been forwarded to the GM with copies to all applicable liaisons. Additionally, each item outlined in the report is now contained in an Excel spreadsheet which will be used to track items through to completion or provide a basis for New Capital Requests.  Finally, Mr. Quimper asked members of the LUC to form teams to inspect selected areas and report progress to the LUC Secretary by 5 July as well as all future LUC meetings.  Accordingly, the following teams were established for the following areas:

Team Members          Areas
Schwartz/Spadaro       Ramsay Park, Small Marina, Flat Run Access Area
Murray/Wilson           Birchside and Stables Access Areas, Edgemont
                                    and Pleasant Grove Beaches
Quimper/Halstead      Large Marina, Fuel Storage area, W/R Bldg, Sailboat Beach
Wyant/Berry               Keaton’s Lake launch and beach areas, Harper’s Ferry Beach,
                                    Mail Station between Harper’s Ferry and Hillside Drive, and
                                    Cornwallis Beach
Halstead/Murray        Mt Pleasant Beach, Edge Hill Lake Access, Skyline Beach

Each team is to categorize each item on the listing as Safety, Utility or Aesthetic issues.           
             B. Reserve Study Objectives – Mr. Quimper stated that copies of the Reserve Study had been previously circulated among LUC members by E-Mail prior to the meeting.  Individual teams were instructed to review the LUC Assessment Report against the Reserve Study Objectives in order to eliminate duplications and establish priorities for new Capital Requests.  Mr. Greene asked how he could assist the LUC with their follow up process.  Mr. Quimper suggested that Mr. Greene may want to forward a copy to the Chairman of the Planning Committee and that the BOD needs to establish a system to follow through on similar Committee actions.  Mr. Wessel stated that a copy of the LUC Assessment Report had already been provided to the Assistant GM for Maintenance for action.  Mr. Flynn stated “…don’t be bashful- ask for New Capital”.  
            C. LUC Budget Schedule – Mr. Wessel stated that the LOW staff is now involved with the 5 year plan and attempting to include input from all committees no later than July.  Furthermore, Mr. Wessel stated that this plan was not a “wish list” but documented and justified needs would be addressed. 
            D. Comments from Attendees – Mr. Ken Rouse stated that numerous vehicles were showing up at Harper’s Ferry beach on weekends without stickers or visitor placards.  Mr. Wessel stated that residents can assist Security personnel by jotting down license plate numbers and vehicles descriptions so that tickets can be then issued.  However, situations such as that may require the individual resident to appear at a Legal and Compliance Committee hearing as a witness as Security Personnel did not see the infraction.  Mr. Quimper stated that a suggestion was made that LUC members visit the marinas on weekends to check if watercraft launching/recovering from the lake have valid stickers.  Mr. Wessel stated that he frequents the marinas each weekend checking for decals.  Mr. Quimper also addresses a previous suggestion of establishing a “Courtesy Patrol” but relayed a personal unpleasant occurrence.   Mr. Quimper stated that he was shocked to see the large increase in the number of registered watercraft from last year (less than 1700 last year to over 2700 for this year).

7. ADJOURN  Motion to adjourn –Murray; seconded - Halstead. Meeting was adjourned at 8:38 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 19 July 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary

LAKE OF THE WOODS ASSOCIATION
LOCUST GROVE, VA
MEETING MINUTES of the LAKE USERS COMMITTEE
19 July 2010

The Lake of the Woods Association (LOWA) Lake Users Committee (LUC) met 19 July 2010 in the Holcomb Building Conference Room. Mr. Joe Quimper, Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.

Voting Members present: Joe Quimper, Jack Spadaro, Alan Berry, Jim Wyant, Dale Kadlec and Bob Halstead.
Alternate Members Present:  Bob Schwartz and Dr Julie Wilson.   
BOD Members:  Jeff Flynn
Planning Committee Liaison: Dan Greene
M&E Committee Liaison: Doug Crain.
Finance Committee Liaison:  Harry Walsh
Guests:  Bob Shope, Sue Richards, Dan Greene Jr., Sue Erickson, Ken Rouse and Olive Kelly.

1. APPROVAL of AGENDA
Motion by Spadaro to amend the agenda to approve a rain date of 31 July for the Cardboard Boat Regatta; second --Halstead. Unanimous approval.

 2. APPROVAL of March 2010 MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Berry to amend the draft minutes to substitute “organic nitrogen/ammonium” for “ammonium nitrates” contained in the 2nd sentence of paragraph 4. Lake Report; seconded by Halstead.  Unanimous approval. 

3. CHAIR’S Comments: Mr. Quimper:
A.  Announced a meeting planned for 4 August with the GM concerning the previous motion from the LUC concerning the LOW Watercraft Slip Wait List.  Mr. Quimper stated that the GM seemed receptive to the concept proposed by the LUC and that validation of the current Wait list was the first obstacle to address.  Ken Rouse stated that a slip need not have a craft in it as long as the association had previously received rental fees.  Mr. Rouse asked if people on the list would be notified of changes to policies and/or procedures to which Mr. Quimper stated that the existing list needed to be validated before any new changes to either policy or procedures.  Doug Crain stated that free rent for an unspecified timeframe was previously afforded to those individuals who helped build the boat racks at Sailboat Beach;

B. Thanked members of the individual LUC teams that created the Assessment of LOW’s beaches and lake access areas.  Mr. Quimper stated that he had received numerous comments from LOW management as well as other committees regarding the proactive efforts of the LUC.;

C. Mr. Quimper asked that each member of the LUC send him a note stating whether they are willing to continue to serve on the LUC.  Mr. Quimper also stated that the Vice Chairman, Mr. Carl Murray had submitted his resignation but would like to remain on the committee as an Advisor.  Mr. Quimper stated  that Mr. Bob Schwartz’s nomination is now before the BOD for confirmation as a voting member of the LUC.  Mr. Quimper stated that election of new committee officers is required by the association bylaws each September.  Therefore, he asked each member to consider acceptance of these key positions;

D. Announced that the Safety and Security Committee have unanimously approved and forwarded a motion to request that the LOW BOD reconsider their previous decision not to implement the Virginia Boating Safety Educational Requirement (VBSER) at LOW.  Mr. Dan Greene stated that the information he received was that all personnel involved in the recent lake incident had previously taken and passed the LOW Safe Boating Test.  Mr. Quimper stated that the community should know the details of the accident rather than it being ignored.  Mr. Jeff Flynn stated that the Virginia Department of Inland Game and Fisheries (VDGIF) were conducting an investigation of the accident but the information would not be made available to the association.  Rather, the information was available on the VDIGF website and releasable under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).  Dr Wilson volunteered to attempt to gain access to the information.  In response to queries regarding Lake Patrol actions, she stated that the LOW Security Force does not have the ability to investigate accidents.  In addition, an accident involving injury requiring more that first aid and/or causing more than $2000 property damage must be reported to the Virginia Dept of Game and Inland Fisheries.

4.  LAKE REPORT– The Lake Report was previously circulated via e-mail and is provided at Appendix A.  Mr. Berry Stated that phosphorus controls algae growth but high nitrogen further enhances algae growth; limiting the use of phosphorus is good for the lakes but if high amounts of nitrogen continue to leak into the lakes, Algae growth will blossom.  Mr. Berry stated that the high amounts of nitrogen could be a result of the type fertilizer used on the Golf Course.  Mr. Dan Greene Jr. asked if commercial companies that have customers here at LOW are using non-phosphorus/low nitrogen chemicals to keep lake front lawns green.  It was agreed to refer the questions(s) to the Water Resource Manager for clarification.  Mr. Ken Rouse stated that if the lake front lawns are green, so are the plants in the water due to runoff.  Mr. Flynn asked if the dredge was operational at the small lake and Mr. Berry outlined the dredging work schedule.  Mr. Quimper asked Mr. Berry to provide a brief paragraph concerning the operational dredging schedule.  This brought up the subject of Lake Patrols and the contractual limitation of 750 hours included in the current contract.  Mr. Quimper stated that safety continues to be the major concern of the LUC and that if additional resources to include the number of patrol hours, the number of watercraft and personnel should be increased, then the committee should forward such recommendations to the GM and BOD without reservation.  Mr. Quimper suggested that the Lake Patrols should make frequent runs up and down the lake with blue lights flashing and an occasional siren to provide a deterrent to those boaters who may be in violation of LOW rules/regulations.  Finally, Mr. Quimper stated that he,  Dr. Julie Wilson and Alan Berry had met with the representatives of the LOW Anglers Club regarding fishing matters in the lake and that a VDGIF report would be forth coming.  Copies of this report will be circulated to the LUC and the Water Resources Manager to track fishery statistics.

5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. New Capital Requests: Possible Docking Initiatives (Sailboat and Ramsay Beaches).  A brief discussion with an explanation from Mr. Jeff Flynn concerning the process used for New Capital Requests was held.  In summation, committees complete the Planning Committee form, which is forwarded to the GM to develop cost estimates and then to the BOD for approval.  Mr. Quimper asked Mr. Dan Greene (Planning Committee Liaison) to provide a timeline of new initiatives through the entire process from concept to BOD approval.  Ramsay Beach/Park is a favorite gathering location with ample grills and tables but complicated by the lack of sufficient parking and/or mooring locations.  A docking system comparable to the ones used at Fawn Lake could be erected on the south end of the park towards the dam that could accommodate a few boats that could dock daily instead of driving and parking in the limited and over-crowded parking lot.  Mr. Rouse stated that the wave action from the lake would necessitate placing any docked watercraft on the park side.  Mr. Quimper suggested that possibly a vacant lot within ½ mile of the beach might be leased for additional parking.  Ms. Erickson suggested that the park and beach be eliminated and relocate the equipment to Sailboat Beach.  Mr. Flynn stated that the attraction to Ramsay Beach is the park.  Mr. Kadlec stated that establishing a docking system at the Park would result in similar problems encountered at Ramsay where people would capitalize the dock from 6 AM each day just as they currently do with beach and park areas each weekend.  Mr. Quimper stated that an additional docking system at Sailboat Beach would not be explored as a Capital Request until the current Watercraft Slip Wait List is validated.

            B. Follow-up on watercraft emergencies at either lake.  Mr. Halstead reported that water rescue training is planned for 22 July 2010 at 7 PM at Sweetbriar Pool.  This training is available to any interested resident.  Additionally, Mr. Halstead stated that a telephone “tree” has been developed by the residents of Keaton’s Lake and has been delivered to the F&R and Security Department in case of a water emergency.  Mr. Halstead outlined that the F&R did have a small jon-boat with motor for water rescue; however, this size craft was not capable of providing emergency CPR or EMT services.  Mr. Ken Rouse suggested that the list provide names available during winter months too as many residents remove their boats and/or batteries during winter months.  Mr. Halstead stated that the Large Lake had many F&R personnel located on the lake who would respond to a water emergency if necessary.  

6.  NEW BUSINESS
            A.  Lake issues arising from the Holiday Weekend:  Mr. Quimper outlined his concerns regarding the safety of pulling multiple tubes with multiple persons during heavy weekend traffic.  Mr. Quimper stated that if one person fell from a tube, the craft would take an immediate turn which may throw another person off the tube.  Mr. Kadlec stated that this problem was complicated since the majority of tubers seem to leave tubes at narrow turn around areas such as Ramsay Cove.  Mr. Kadlec stated that a PWC could respond to a fallen skier or tuber much quicker than a boat.  The issue of an observer was briefly discussed and pointed out that boats do not need an observer during the week if the craft is equipped with a mirror.  However, that same craft is required to have an observer on the weekend.  Conversely, PWC operators who pull a tube or skier must always have an observer.  Mr. Harry Walsh suggested that LUC personnel should talk to other LOW residents to spread this concern and recommend modification to existing LOW rules.

B. Comments from Liaisons: Mr. Harry Walsh stated that he was appalled at the condition of the Large Marina.  The steps leading from the parking lot need replacement as does the huge concrete walls.  Mr. Walsh further recommended that the LUC get together with the Planning Committee to get a new Capital Request in to accomplish the aforementioned.  Mr. Dan Greene from the Planning Committee agreed to provide the LUC Chairman with a detailed schedule and timeline for Capital Request submission to meet the budget deadline.  Mr. Doug Crain stated that the M&E Committee had worked with the Maintenance Department to obtain a new 6 year certification of Keaton’s Lake.  Similarly, his committee’s immediate focus was not on completing the necessary paperwork to achieve the same certification for the Veteran’s Dam.  Additionally, Mr. Crain stated that his committee was working on an annual report for the Building Survey and that they too had met with the LOW Angler’s Club to discuss the fishery and ways to reduce the vegetation in the lake. 

C. Group Discussion of the Pros/Cons of the Virginia Boating Safety Educational Requirement:  A brief discussion was held by both LUC members and guests regarding the advantages and disadvantages of implementing the VBSER.  Mr. Kadlec stated that the VBSER could not have prevented the recent lake accident.  Mr. Jeff Flynn suggested that the LUC could volunteer to supplement lake patrols and eventually take over the annual registration and certification of both watercraft and operators.  Mr. Quimper stated that the 750 hours currently allocated in the Security Contract should be validated and if the Security Department is not meeting contract obligations, then the association should be reimbursed.  Mr. Flynn suggested that the LUC lobby for both time and attention on this subject.

D. Final Chairman Tasking:  Mr. Quimper asked the LUC members to update their respective portion of the Beach and Lake Access Report monthly by the end of each month to the Committee Secretary

7. ADJOURN  Motion to adjourn –Halstead; seconded - Wyant. Meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM. The next LUC meeting is scheduled for 16 August 2010.

Respectfully submitted, Jack Spadaro, LUC Secretary