News on Torch - Friday March 20, 2020
It's Friday, March 20, 2020 at beautiful Torch Lake. We thought it was spring for the last week with sunny skies and temperatures in the high 40's. People were out walking their dogs, joggers and bikes passing by and landscapers firing up their equipment. Today it's 28 degrees, winds up to 25 mph and a light covering of snow.
The community overall is very quiet with precautions for the corona virus. The Village Market remains open and gas is down to $1.79 per gallon. Area restaurants are getting creative with take out menus and free delivery. Bars and dine-in restaurants are closed. Some retail stores are open on a limited basis. Everyone is trying to patronize small businesses, even encouraging the purchase of gift certificates for future use. DeWitt's went with a virtual new boat tour since the TC Boat Show was cancelled and we heard the Riveria has new owners. The Antrim Review has some pictures of anglers with a hugh brown trout and a burbot caught recently.
The lake continues to have white caps but the water level looks about normal so far. The ice and slush on the south end have finally disappeared with the warmer weather. However, the geese, deer, birds and squirrels are very present.
All the township offices are closed so meetings in the area are cancelled until further notice, as are the schools. We have not heard anything new about the renovations of DNR launch at the south end. Life at Torch Lake is cold, windy and beautiful as ever. Next week looks brighter. We will keep you informed of any changes and count the days until we can all celebrate spring and summer. For official Covid-19 updates, we suggest you visit mlive.com. Until then, stay safe and healthy. Your TLPA Board members.
WELCOME
Torch Lake Protection Alliance (TLPA) was established in 1994 to provide a unifying voice for people who regard the preservation of Torch Lake as a top priority, enabling current and future generations to enjoy the responsible use of this geological jewel. Please click on the ABOUT US tab in the menu for more information about our mission.
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WHAT's NEW
Winter 2020 Newsletter is Out
The newsletter can be read by clicking the link below. Previous issues of the newsletter can be found at About Us-Documents-Newsletters. Newsletters are the third item in the list of Document Types.
Winter 2020 Newsletter
Shoreline Stewardship
The Torch Lake Protection Alliance is urging all riparian owners to practice effective shoreline management to protect the lake. Here are three ways you can help:
1) Find out if your shoreline practices are harmful for the lake. Take a brief survey at mishorelandstewards.org/rate.asp. (see link below)
2) Maintain a no-mow zone between your lawn and the lake. Let the grass grow high to filter pollutants or plant a buffer strip of native plants to keep unwanted nutrients out of the lake.
3) Instead of using chemical fertilizers, let your grass clippings fertilize naturally. Chemical fertilizers promote algae growth. If you irrigate your lawn with lake water, it already has all the nutrients your grass will need.
You can benefit from taking the survey by learning lake-friendly land practices to keep excess nutrients and toxins from reaching the water. Find out what you can do on your property to help improve both the bottom and waters of Torch Lake. TLPA urges you to take the survey today.