LAKE HEALTH: Lessen impact of humans

When the EPA wanted to classify Lake Coeur d’Alene as a Superfund site it was rejected because it would stigmatize the area. Since then the can has been kicked down the road and, little has been done about the lake’s health. The steps needed to be taken will pose a threat to tourism and the economy therefore, they will be rejected out of hand.

Boats speed up the river all summer-long. The boat wakes erode the dikes sending more toxic sediments into the lake. The 25-foot set back has largely been disregarded with lawns to the shore line. Upslope logging has added to the sediment and nutrient levels in streams and rivers.

The changing climate has created warmer water and abundant plant growth adding to oxygen depletion on the lake bed. Green slime algae now forms on the rocks in shallow water. To be honest with ourselves we need to lessen the human impact on Lake Coeur d’Alene as unpleasant as it may be.

GREGORY TORLINE

Harrison