What can I do to help?
Landowners in the Clear Lake watershed can improve the lake by partnering with the
Clear Lake Enhancement and Restoration Project.
David Knoll, watershed project coordinator, can work with you to evaluate your property and identify
practices that can help both the lake and your property. Knoll can also help find financial assistance to
install those practices. Landowners participating in the watershed project can generally get improved
financial assistance opportunities.
Those interested in helping preserve one of north central Iowa's most important natural resources are encouraged to
join the Association for the Preservation of Clear Lake. Citizens can also join Friends of Clear Lake,
whose goal is to secure funds to clean up Clear Lake.
The Clear Lake Enhancement and Restoration Project has also taken the time to educate students in the
Clear Lake school district. Seventh-grade students at Clear Lake Middle School help each year by holding a
special clean up day at the lake. The CLEAR project also gives class presentations and tips to students on the
importance of keeping the environment clean.
The CLEAR project also encourages local citizens to use zero phosphorous lawn fertilizers,
eliminate pet waste and to not mow grass clippings into the street, which eventually find their way to
the lake through the storm water system.
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What is the future of Clear Lake?
The future of Clear Lake is bright if conservation practices are maintained. An Iowa State University
analysis suggests that a 60 percent reduction in total phosphorous loading to Clear Lake should bring water clarity
to the 2.5 - 4 foot level, once lake conditions equal out. It is likely that such a management scenario could bring
water clarity in Clear Lake back to the pre-1970 levels, a highly desirable outcome for everyone.
Clear Lake holds annual celebrations each year that attract people from all over the state, including the July 4
celebration and Christmas by the Lake. With many of these water quality projects slated to be completed soon, it will
only continue to improve tourism and local businesses.
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