Restoring Lake of the Woods: A Community Effort to Combat Algae Blooms

January 2025

By: Ashlee Haviland, Technical Specialist for Water Quality, EutroPHIX

Lake of the Woods, a picturesque 416-acre glacial lake nestled in northern Indiana near Bremen, has long been a

cherished natural resource for residents and visitors alike. However, the lake has faced significant environmental

challenges for decades. These challenges were first identified by the EPA in the early 1970s. It was determined that the lake was suffering from excessive nutrient pollution. Over the years, the lake has been plagued by recurring harmful

algae blooms and excessive vegetation growth. These blooms and excessive vegetation growth impair the lake's beneficial uses and pose threats to pets, wildlife, and human health.

The primary culprit behind these algal blooms and excessive vegetation growth is phosphorus. A nutrient that promotes the rapid growth of algae and vegetation. The lake’s vast watershed, approximately 70% of which is cultivated agriculture, contributes significantly to this problem. Runoff from agricultural lands carries phosphorus into the lake, fueling the cycle of algal and vegetation overgrowth.

Recognizing the need for a solution, EutroPHIX began developing an adaptive lake management plan for the lake in 2021. Their approach focuses on two main objectives: mitigating the internal phosphorus load by inactivating lake

sediment phosphorus and reducing the external phosphorus load from ditches discharging into the lake.

To support these efforts, the Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association (LOWPOA) embarked on an initiative to form a Conservancy District. This would generate tax revenue to fund water quality improvements projects and continue ongoing lake management activities. This new Conservancy District would ensure a sustainable and

community-backed approach to improving and restoring water quality.

A significant milestone in these restoration efforts occurred in June 2023 with the launch of a project on Stephie Ditch, a key tributary to the lake and contributes higher amounts of Phosphorus. Funded by the Bremen Conservation Club, this project showcased a novel filtration technology designed to rapidly remove phosphorus from flowing water. The technology, known as EutroSORB F, utilizes a highly specific phosphorus-binding media contained within a permeable mesh bag.

The EutroSORB F filters are user-friendly and durable, capable of lasting over a year depending on the system's flow. Importantly, the phosphorus captured by the filters is permanently bound and cannot be released back into the environment. The exhausted media is non-toxic and can be repurposed as a soil amendment or safely disposed of in a landfill, offering a sustainable solution to phosphorus management.

To assess the effectiveness of the demonstration, water quality samples were collected upstream (pre-treatment) and downstream (post-treatment) of the filters. The results have been promising, with up to 82% removal of soluble reactive phosphorus in Stephie Ditch and an average removal rate of 74% over the first four months.

These notable results have spurred plans to expand the project in 2024, further reducing the phosphorus load entering the lake. LOWPOA is making significant strides in forming the Conservancy District, with the process expected to be completed by late 2024 or early 2025.

The community’s involvement and support have been integral to the progress made thus far. The formation of the

Conservancy District will not only provide necessary funding, but also ensure that lake management remains a

priority for years to come. As the community rallies behind the Lake of the Woods Conservancy initiative, residents have renewed hope that the Phosphorus can be removed from the lake making the water cleaner and better for everyone.

The collaboration between local organizations, environmental experts, and community members exemplifies the

power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. As Lake of the Woods undergoes this transformative journey, it serves as a beacon of hope for other communities facing similar issues.

By continuing to innovate and expand these efforts, Lake of the Woods can once again become a thriving ecosystem, free from the blight of harmful algae blooms and excessive vegetation growth. The success of this project underscores the importance of sustainable lake management practices and the vital role of community involvement in preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Call to Action

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and get involved in ongoing restoration efforts. For more information on how to support the formation of the Conservancy District or to participate in future initiatives, please contact the Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association or visit their website.

Together, we can ensure that Lake of the Woods remains a beautiful and healthy part of our community.