Huron River Chain of Lakes

The Washtenaw County Public Works Division has been requested by lake communities in northern Washtenaw and southern Livingston Counties to undertake a lake management program to control invasive weeds.

This project will provide improvements to the Chain of Lakes by controlling invasive and nuisance weeds through the application of herbicides to the water and mechanical weed harvesting.

Landscape of a lake during sunrise

Get Involved

Protect your lake by becoming a Shoreland Steward. The Michigan Shoreland Steward Program recognizes homeowners who protect inland lakes through best management practices on their own property. 

Not sure what to do? 

Reach out to us to schedule a consultation at your home. Our certified staff can help you create a plan to protect your lake and preserve the natural beauty surrounding your home. Small changes have big results!

Contact Susan Bryan to schedule a time to visit your property. 

Stay Informed

Click here to view the 2020 application schedule for Aquatic Services

Click here to see answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. 

Visit the Lake Management Resources page for information on lake management, aquatic plants, and natural shorelines.

Close up of the edge of dock against blue water

Map of the chain of lakes with roads

Background

Aquatic Plants

Aquatic plants are an important part of any lake or pond. They provide food and protection for fish, waterfowl, insects, and mammals. These plants also help replenish oxygen to the water. This process is critical for the survival of fish and other wildlife.

Some aquatic plants can also become a nuisance. Invasive plants are not native to Michigan. These plants can grow rapidly out of control, choking out other plants and organisms and limiting recreational activities. 

Starry Stonewort

Starry stonewort is one example of an invasive plant seen in Michigan waters. Click here to learn more about starry stonewort from the Huron River Watershed Council. 

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) oversees the permits that are required to chemically control nuisance aquatic plants. To learn more about their Aquatic Nuisance Control Program, visit their website.

Project Details

Project Timeline

The Chain of Lakes Improvement Project is a five (5) year project to control non-native invasive weeds including Eurasian Milfoil and Starry Stonewort. The project may use spot treatments in problem areas and support other activities that would enhance the recreational enjoyment and overall health of the water. 

Additionally, all necessary regulatory approvals and scientific studies for the chemical treatments as well as the creation of a lake management plan are included in the project.

Cost

Visit the Archive Center to view the most recent financial reports. 

The total estimated cost for the five (5) year project is $1,952,530. A Special Assessment District consisting of benefiting parcels in Washtenaw and Livingston Counties will cover the total estimated cost of the project. 

The parcels that receive benefit from the project will become part of the special assessment district. Both commercial and residential waterfront parcels along with lake access parcels form the project special assessment district. 

The cost of the project will be distributed using the formula reflecting the varying benefit provided to each type of property.

Included Bodies of Water

The following lakes are included in this Chain of Lakes assessment and management project. 
  • Little Portage Lake
  • Portage Lake
  • Portage Lake Canals
  • Baseline-Portage Connector
  • Baseline Lake
  • Tamarack Connector
  • Tamarack Lake
  • Whitewood Lake
  • Gallagher Lake
  • Gallagher Island Canals
  • Long (Loon) Lake
  • Strawberry-Gallagher-Long (Loon) Lake Connector
  • Strawberry Lake
  • Zukey Lake