January 29, 2026 Minutes

ESLA Board Meeting January 29, 2026 - Special Meeting on Carp Management & Lake Water Quality

Meeting Minutes Summary

Date: January 29 7pm- 8pm
Topic: Carp Management & Lake Water Quality
Attendees: All Board Members present

Purpose of Meeting

Key Discussion Points

Carp Solutions Findings

Harvest yielded 7 carp, which was lower than expected.
Testing confirmed a breeding population (mix of young and old carp).
Estimated population: approximately 400–500 carp across the lakes.
Carp Solutions concluded the population is not currently a severe problem, based on their methodology.
Board Members expressed disappointment in harvest size but acknowledged the report provided useful data.
Carp Solutions agreed to lower their cost findings to $7,000 from their initial cost of $13,000.

Carp Population & Migration

Evidence suggests carp are actively breeding and include young breeders.
Likely migration between lakes, particularly from Kimball Lake, which is believed to have a significant carp population.
Stopping migration (e.g., via electric barriers) was discussed but noted as costly, requiring DNR approval, and potentially impacting all fish and possible wildlife.

DNR & Alternative Management Options

Laura contacted the Michigan DNR, which has been providing advice.
An ecological management company (Reed City, MI) was recommended by the DNR:
- Will provide guidance at little or no cost unless field work is required.
- Can assist with netting strategies, timing, and equipment.
Best opportunity for carp removal identified as spring spawning season, particularly in shallow areas and Penoyer Creek.
Time sensitivity noted: approximately 2–3 months before spawning begins.

Subcommittee Proposal

Proposal to form a carp management subcommittee:
- Include Board Members and interested community members.
- Research costs, methods, and coordination with DNR and experts.
- Report recommendations back to the board.
Broad agreement that community involvement is important.

Water Clarity & Wake Boats

Observations shared that water clarity has declined in Emerald and Sylvan Lakes from Community and Board Members.
A Board Member reports visibility in Pickerel Lake seems to have improved clarity this past summer.
Succhi disk reports are finding declining visibility in both lakes with Emerald at less than 8’ and Sylvan 10’.
Discussion around growing concern with declining water clarity of our lakes and the contributing factors, including shallow depth, sediment disturbance, weed decline, shoreline loss, low fish count and increased boating and carp activity.
Additional testing was discussed and approved for PLM regarding water clarity, see previous board meeting notes from January 10, 2026.
No formal action taken on wake boats during this meeting.
Laura is arranging a DNR speaker to attend the June Annual Meeting to address current laws and recommendations in regards to wake boats.
Jay is working on a topographical map of the depths of the lakes to provide wake boat owners to assist in educating them on areas safe to use their boats.

Motions & Decisions

Motion: Create Lake Clarity subcommittee to work with the DNR, pursue lower-cost carp management options, review PLM test results, and communicate findings and next steps to the community.
- Motion by: Ashley
- Seconded by: Kevin
- Vote: Passed unanimously

Action Items

Laura to draft a community communication summarizing:
- Carp Solutions findings
- DNR involvement
- Next steps and potential options
Tim to assist with drafting and review.
Carp Solutions report to be shared with the community.
Begin outreach for subcommittee formation.
Continue coordination with DNR and ecological management experts.