Big Cormorant Lake Association Annual Meeting June 18, 2011 The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. by President Joe Lightowler at the Cormorant Community Center.

Board members present: Sam Blattenbauer, Jim Colbert, Rhonda Wilson, Sharon Olson, Tom Riedman, Reuben Tschritter, Randy Christianson, Carol Anhorn, Darlene Hammond, Joe Lightowler, and Lyle Hansen.

The minutes were read by Sharon Olson. Bob Hoss moved to approve. Tom Riedman seconded. Minutes approved.

Treasurers report was read by Randy Christianson and filed.

Sam explained that buoy placement was delayed this year due to various difficulties.

Superior Lakeside will automatically take charge of placement and removal in the future.

Warren Wilson provided information on the Cormorant-Pelican Sailing Club. Anyone interested in sailing or joining can contact members as provided on a handout.

Jim Walters, DNR Fisheries provided handouts regarding historical catch rates from 1954 to 2008. He will present results of the August survey at next year�s annual meeting.

Tim Gordon, Becker County Sheriff, explained use of the new recycling bins and urged anyone observing garbage or items not allowed to report the sheriff�s department. He also discussed the high water issues and importance of observing the no wake rules. Handouts are available regarding invasive species and new boating guides. Stickers are available to stick on trailer winches to remind people to put plugs back in boats before entering water.

Bruce Anspach, DNR, Aquatic Invasive Species and Inspectors, reported that Big Cormorant has 1000 hours for boat inspection this season. He said that Big Cormorant is considered a threatened lake because Pelican Lake is infested and located next to us. The list of infested lakes is available on the internet. Questions were addressed.

Barry Nelson, Becker County Commissioner, reported on use of the new recycling bins. All plastics can now be recycled and aluminums and tins now go in the same bin.

Becker County will require septic inspections in the future. The Commission is also looking into an ordinance to disallow pump and dump heating systems.

The size of buildings allowed in bluff areas will possibly be reduced.

Ellis Peterson, Watershed Commission, informed the Association that information can be obtained online at Cormorantlakeswatershed.org. It is the 3rd year of curley leaf treatment of Upper Cormorant Lake. It appears to be working but is and ongoing process. Buying boats, lifts, etc. from Marine dealers is safe in preventing invasive species infestation as they are educated on prevention measures.

The Watershed Commission is now a 5 member board. They are presently working on a 10 year plan and would like all Boards in the Cormorant chain to work together. BCLA members Joe Lightowler, Lyle Hansen, and Merle Zimmerman have attended most meetings.

He reminded members that it is against policy to remove rip rap once it is placed.

The Watershed Commission has given $5,000.00 to help defray costs of inspections on Big Cormorant.

President Joe reported on The Foundation and that the purpose is to provide a better lifestyle for Big Cormorant residents.

Merle Zimmerman will monitor culverts from Leaf Lake and Middle Cormorant for Zebra Mussels. If anyone observes the mussels please immediately notify a Board member or the DNR.

Carla Blattenbauer was recognized for the excellent job done on our new directory.

Carol Anhorn introduced Beach Captains and encouraged them to get directories to paid residents and collect dues from unpaid residents.

Bob Hoss moved to re-elect present Board Members. Ed Schafer seconded. Motion passed.

Paula Wilson was elected Board member to replace Dennis Erdle, who resigned this year.

Butch Antone is unable to do the fireworks this year.

Tom Riedman thanked Butch for his help in updating old buoys and purchasing new.

Sherwood Peterson moved to adjourn the meeting. Dennis Marotsky seconded.

Meeting adjourned.

Submitted by:

Sharon Olson, Secretary