CLIA Sponsored Algae Treatment

Each year the CLIA Sponsors Algae Treatments on the main areas of Crystal Lake. Check the below information for updates on the status of treatments.

2020 CLIA Funded Algae Treatment Update

Coming Soon

2019 CLIA Funded Algae Treatment Update

June Study

On June 6, 2019 a representative from Lake Management visited Crystal Lake to study the algae levels. Based on the findings of this study, algaecide treatments were not applied due to insufficient algae levels to warrant treatment. (However, individual homeowners may have contracted with Lake Management on their own to receive treatments that day for submerged weeds which has the additional benefit of reducing algae levels.) As required by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), a permit is required to be obtained to apply algaecide treatments lakewide which must be supported by sufficient algae levels.

July Study

On July 16, 2019 a representative from Lake Management again visited Crystal Lake to study the algae levels. Based on the findings of this study, algaecide treatments were applied in Bluebill Bay, Maple Island Bay, and Mystic Bay (see map below).

August Study

On August 19, 2019 (or potentially in the days following) Lake Management will be returning to Crystal Lake to study the algae levels in Mystic Bay and to treat this area based on their findings. This date is subject to change based on the weather conditions as algaecides can’t be applied if wind speeds are 10 miles per hour or greater.

Additional Algae Details

The water quality of Crystal Lake has become more clear in recent years which has increased the amount of sunlight filtering through the water thereby encouraging weed growth. Additionally, one of the challenges of combating algae is that it can adhere to existing plant life and one of the aims of the DNR, which issues permits, is to protect native plants. The DNR may authorize up to 2 algae treatments for the same area per year. Once treated, results of the application are expected to be seen as early as within 24-48 hours. Water movement, such as boat traffic, is another way to try to limit growth.