Spring 2024

Annual Membership Renewal

Have you renewed your Fairmont Lakes Foundation membership for 2024?
It is easy to do so-either online or by sending a check. Simply click the link below:
fairmontlakesfoundation.com/product/become-a-member/

Curly Leaf Pondweed

To help remove Curly Leaf Pondweed on your lakeshore, FLF has purchased aquatic rakes for use by our members. The DNR allows limited vegetation removal without a permit. Make sure you check their website for details. If you would like to borrow one, simply contact us at:
info@fairmontlakesfoundation.com

Recent Activities

In early May the FLF released 6,000 Yellow Perch fingerlings. The selection of Yellow Perch was based on our discussions with the MN DNR.  Martin County Conservation contributed $2,500 and FLF contributed $5,000.

Also in early May, we opened the Kayak Kiosk. Rentals have been brisk, and we have noticed numerous people enjoying the lakes while kayaking.

On May 5th we conducted our annual Lakes Cleanup. We were joined by a large group of volunteers from Grace Lutheran Church. Our efforts were concentrated on Sylvania Park and George Lake. The Fairmont Fire Department helped out by bringing their Dive Boat and the Fairmont Parks Department again volunteered to dispose of the debris we collected!

You may have also noticed the messages that were painted on numerous storm drains around town reminding people that the storm drains flow directly into our lakes. Please help our lakes by remembering not to leave grass clippings near the street gutters and pick up debris when you see it.

Our current project is planting Native Vegetation along the west sides of Sisseton and Hall Lakes. This is a unique project the will be supported by the Fairmont High School. FLF has received a permit for the activity from the MN DNR. We are in the process of purchasing plants and seeds. The High School is going to grow plants from the seeds in their greenhouses-which is a great way to get youth involved in the betterment of our lakes. The plants will be placed by our volunteers later this summer. Be on the lookout for an opportunity to help us out!

Blue Earth River
One Watershed One Plan

The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (MN BWSR) has funded the preparation of a One Water One Plan for the Blue Earth River Watershed-that includes the Fairmont Chain of Lakes.
 
The purpose of the One Watershed, One Plan program is to develop comprehensive watershed management plans. According to the MN BWSR, it is important for all communities to take part in managing their watersheds through goal setting, monitoring, restoring and protecting water resources and local habitats and ensuring a good quality of life for all who live, work, and recreate in those spaces.
 
In an effort to engage the public in the goal setting, an online survey is available. The Fairmont Lakes Foundation encourages residents to complete the survey-the link is below:
 
Blue Earth River Watershed Public Survey | Faribault County MN
 
Additional opportunity for public engagement will be at the 1Water 1 Plan upcoming Kickoff Meeting.
 
Kickoff Meeting
Blue Earth 1W1P Kickoff Meeting
Thursday, May 23, 2024 – 5pm-7pm
 Chain of Lakes Yacht Club – 
405 Interlaken Rd. Fairmont, MN 56031