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The purpose of the Duck Lake Riparians’ Association is to improve, conserve and safeguard the overall welfare of the air, water and shorelines of Duck Lake in the county of Gogebic, State of Michigan. The association aims to assist local governments in the development and administration of regulations for the protection of the environment in the subject area. Additionally, the association seeks to promote social and recreational activities in the subject area through its various committees, focusing on water quality, fisheries, loon protection, welcoming, grant investigation and application, website management, and Milfoil control.
Milfoil was first discovered on Duck Lake in June 2005 by a biologist conducting a survey of the lake. A group of residents got together and drafted an informal plan to deal with this new invasive species. This included soliciting donations for the professional chemical treatments and other eradication methods that would be needed. The group carried out the first of the treatments, organized manual activities such as diving and shoreline watch, and also pursued possible grants.
The informal Nuisance Aquatics Committee communicated with the lake residents periodically via regular mail and e-mail. One of these communications asked whether a formal association should be re-started. There had been an association previously which had been disbanded. Residents were asked if they favored the idea and whether they would be willing to serve. The response was overwhelmingly YES, and the new Duck Lake Riparians’ Association was born.
The Stouts held a lake party on August 8, 2009, to further explain the challenges presented by the milfoil infestation, and to gain support for a new association. On September 5, 2009, a meeting was held at St. Albert’s church and all lake residents were invited. Several ideas and costs were presented, and from the group attending it was agreed that a new association would be formed. Several residents formed an organizing committee and volunteered time toward the writing of by-laws, retaining an attorney, incorporating with the State of Michigan, and more. On December 6, 2009, the Articles of Incorporation were filed with the State. On December 23, 2009, a federal Tax ID number (FEIN) was established and the Duck Lake Riparians’ Association was made official.
On March 19, 2010, the new board of directors sent a letter to all of the lake residents announcing that the association had been formed, and included the first membership application. The response was good with about 50% of the lake residents joining during the first year. An application for tax-exempt status under article 501(C)(3) of the IRS code was made and approved on May 11, 2010.
Are you passionate about conserving and safeguarding the natural resources of Duck Lake? Join the Duck Lake Riparians’ Association today and make a difference. As a member of our association, you will have the opportunity to participate in various committees that focus on important environmental issues such as water quality, fisheries, loon protection, and Milfoil control. You can also participate in social and recreational activities organized by our committees. By working together, we can ensure that we protect and conserve the beauty of Duck Lake for generations to come. Join us today and let's join hands to safeguard our precious natural resources!