2008 Archives

The board met on October 3rd, 2008 and discussed various priority objectives for the 2008 & 2009 year. One major project is the need to get the weed harvester finished and operational for the spring of next year.

Over the years, invasive noxious weeds grew to choke our waterways. Brazilian Elodea was the primary culprit. It was sold as an oxygenator plant for aquariums and may have gotten into the system via someone dumping theirs into the system. The weeds became so dense that in some areas it was impossible to navigate, and so numerous that the grass carp could not mitigate the growth.

Beginning in May, 2007 the City of Ocean Shores began a $380,000 application of herbicides designed to clear the waterways. This treatment was chosen because the noxious weed growth had gotten so dense. The herbicides used are known as diquat and fluridone. There has been a dramatic transformation and the canals are now clear of vegetative mats. Duck Lake has cleared more slowly, having been treated by the slower acting fluridone. Several locations have now received a second treatment in 2008 as planned.

The 2007 Paddle Ocean Shores event was a great success!

A hearty "thank you" to a resident who donated a pontoon craft to the group, even if well-used. When rehabilitated and modified, it will serve as work platform from which to remove snags, overhanging branches, etc.

A work in progress.

Looking better!

Over 100 youth participated in the August 2nd fishing derby. Fishing was slow on the lake, but the trout pond sponsored by IGA and set up by Trout Unlimited compensated for the slow lake action. Along with many local boaters and helpers who volunteered their time and boats to take the children out, the event was sponsored by the following organizations - IGA, ACE Hardware, Ocean Shores Fresh Waterways, KOSW-LP 91.3 FM, Foss Construction, Grays Harbor Plumbing, Breach Realty, Bank of the Pacific, B&P Construction, and Anchor Bank. Thanks to all of the volunteers and sponsors who made the event possible. A special thanks to IGA management and staff for the pond and lunch, and to ACE for the tackle and prizes.

The meeting was called to order at 10:05am by President Bob Rhoades. Major Dean Bunker lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Current Board members present were Bob Rhoades, President, Carol Rhoades, Treasurer, Lee Schuster, Grant Shaffer, Ernie Nelson and Don McConnaughey. Bob read the minutes of the November 11, 2007 annual meeting which were approved as read by members present. Carol Rhoades gave the treasurer report as $630.99 balance in the Grass Carp fund and $$2,372.92 in the general fund. It was moved and seconded to approve the treasurer report as reported. Bob then announced that three board member positions were up for re-election : Al Gamble, Don McConnaughey and Lee Schuster. Bob asked each to state whether they would like to run for re-election. Al Gamble had submitted his request to be re-elected to the board by written documentation in his absence. This was read to the members by Bob Rhoades. Don McConnaughey stated to the members that he would like to continue his position on the Board. Lee Schuster announced that he did not want to be re-elected to the board as he felt having new members join the board was a good policy. Bob Rhoades then asked if there was any member present who would like to be considered for the open board position. Jerry Mergler stated he would like to serve on the Board to help maintain and improve our waterways. Bob then asked for a vote from the members present for re-election of Al Gamble and Don McConnaughey and election of Jerry Mergler. A motion was made to elect the three to the Board and the motion was approved by a unanimous vote of those present. The meeting was then adjourned at 10:25am.

Cardboard Boat Race

Paddlers preparing for start of race!