In an effort to keep everyone aware of what is going on, I'd like to report on a couple of things.

First of all, thanks in large part to the activism of concerned citizen, and now BSLA Board member Rand Willhite, both sirens in Birchdale township have been taken over and reactivated by Birchdale township.

Secondly, the final version of the 2019-2023 Big Sauk Lake Management Plan has been published and you can find it under the RESOURCES navigation tab in the header of our website.  Another thank you to all those involved in getting this document to where it needs to be.

Please help me welcome our other new Board members, Rusty Rohde and Matt Wessel.  Along with Randy Willhite, these three have all jumped in and attended the first regular board meeting and gotten involved in one project or another.

Before I close, please check out the Big Sauk Lake Association booth in the Conservation Club building at the Stearns County Fair July 31-August 3.  There will be lots of information available, and as schedules permit, we'll try to have a representative present to help field any questions or concerns you may have.

Remember, too, that if you wish to become involved, and we certainly encourage this, drop us a note on our Contact Us page, or by direct email to bigsauk@gmail.com.

​Enjoy your Summer! 

The 2019 BSLA Annual Meeting is now in the books, and by my estimation, it was a success.

A very large turnout listened as Eric Altena, DNR Area Fisheries Manager, talked with us about Big Sauk Lake fishery, including some of the results of recent electrofishing surveys, some of the facts concerning the walleye stocking program, what effect the presence of zebra mussels may have on the fishery, and lots more.  Lots of folks had questions for Eric, so his time was very much appreciated.

Deputy Breth of the Stearns County Sheriff's Water Patrol was also on hand to talk about what exactly the water patrol does, what they look for, etc.  We also asked questions concerning the NO WAKE ZONE signs...some of which may be posted on Big Sauk especially during the current high-water period.

Like most annual meetings we reviewed and approved minutes, treasurer's reports and budget.  There was an update on the carp removal, the invasive week control, as well as information regarding the association's efforts to get out into the public through some new trifold flyers that are being placed in various locations, meeting with various organizations such as the Sauk Centre Chamber of Commerce, and the hats that we have available for a short time. 

As usual, we closed the meeting with elections and then handed out some door prizes.  Thanks to the following who donated prizes:
Minnesota National Bank
Saukinac Resort
The Cove at Greystone
Birchwood Resort
Jitters

Lastly, I'd like to say thank you to three members who stepped up to be on your board of directors.  So thank you to:
Rand Willhite
Rusty Rohde
Matt Wessel

We are excited to have some new young energy joining the group, and for the things to come in 2019-2020.

In my most recent (at this time also my first!) President's Letter in the BSLA Informer, I mentioned that BSLA is no longer paying for or maintaining the sirens.  As I said, this is not a business that we and many other lake associations feel we should be in, and the cost is prohibitive, especially given the current options available with today's technology.

If you have relied on those in the past, don't be alarmed.  (forgive the pun, please!)  There are alternatives.

For those with smartphones first know your address and visit the appropriate link below to sign up for alerts that will come to your phone.  Note that you WILL need to set up an account.  At the time of this writing there is no charge for either.

STEARNS COUNTY
Everbridge Alerts

TODD COUNTY
Code Red Alerts

Now if you DO NOT HAVE A SMARTPHONE, don't despair - for you can easily just purchase a weather radio (here's a place to order from), or you can still monitor local radio and TV stations. I personally like this one because its solar powered, or AA batteries or Lithium Ion...which means it will still work if the power goes out!

If none of these options work for you, please ask your neighbors to notify you.  And also, if you have elderly, or perhaps technology challenged, neighbors...remember how little effort it takes to be kind and concerned and notify them when you know of an impending weather condition.