Lake advocates seek weed harvester

WEYAUWEGA – Local advocates are moving forward with plans to purchase a $121,000 weed harvester and are actively applying for a state grant to fund the immediate cleanup of Weyauwega Lake.

While the Weyauwega Lake Restoration group continues the lengthy process of forming a formal lake district, Vice President Jim Tolfa said action is needed now to control the weeds and gain public trust before the district is officially established.

The group’s secretary, Holly Martin, is preparing an application for a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grant to cover the cost of the harvester, which would be purchased from Minnesota company Weeders Digest.

“That’ll generate popular support with the town when they see we’re getting something done,” Tolfa said. “You drive over the bridge, you don’t see nothing new. You got to show the people that you’re getting something done.”

The machinery features a conveyor belt for loading and unloading weeds and comes with a trailer. The purchase also includes two hours of operational training, which Tolfa said he plans to take so he can help operate the equipment.

While the physical cleanup is prioritized, Tolfa said the group’s plan to establish a lake district, which would allow the group to levy taxes, enforce local water ordinances and apply for larger grants, remains about a year away.

The proposed district would cover the lake’s 251 total acres, of which 64% is located in the city and 36% is in the town. Tolfa said the group has already received the informal “blessing” of the town and is currently drafting formal letters of intent to present to both town and city officials.

Tolfa noted the initiative has also secured the backing of the Weyauwega Area Chamber of Commerce and Weyauwega Area Historical Society. There is also a possibility of partnering with neighboring White Lake to form a combined district.

Financially, Tolfa said the group is still struggling to raise early capital. If the DNR grant falls through, the group will have to find another way to generate the $121,000 for the harvester.

However, Tolfa reported a slight uptick in community engagement, noting that four new riparian property owners attended the group’s last meeting. Tolfa also added that the group’s relationship with the DNR is currently “harmonious,” marking a significant improvement from years past when strict regulations prevented basic weed pulling.

The lake group’s next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. July 9 at Weyauwega City Hall.