Initiatives

Lake Modeling

The PLIA has been working on a mathematical model of Platte Lake for some time. It is one of our principal efforts. Early versions of the model were used to understand and quantify the gross effects of excess phosphorous on lake water clarity, and their use was instrumental in the PLIA's ability to prevail in the court case. Higher-resolution models of the lake, used together with a valid model of the watershed, will allow us to understand the impact on the lake of things that occur in the entire watershed, in addition to just those within the lake's immediate area. In turn, this knowledge will give us the ability to quickly develop rational, supportable positions on proposed changes to the watershed, such as changes in land use and proposed land development. The Implementation Coordinator Annual Reports provide the details of lake modeling efforts to date. Some of these results were presented in July, 2004 in Dearborn, MI at Watershed 2004, a conference sponsored by the Water Environment Federation. A link to a copy of the manuscript can be found by clicking this link.

Lake and River Data Acquisition

One of the PLIA's major activities is the gathering and analysis of lake, river and hatchery data. Currently, data is gathered by the PLIA, the MDNR, and supporting contractors under the supervision of the Implementation Coordinator. Water samples are analyzed at Central Michigan University. We have spent much time and energy developing accurate and reliable sampling and analysis procedures to insure high quality data. Data collected include flow rates, phosphate concentration, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, visibility, pH, temperature, and plant and animal info. This data not only provides a good picture of the state of the lake, both past and present, but also provides a basis for validating lake and watershed models which will allow prediction of the future. Since 1978, we have accumulated over 30,000 data points; so much data that it has become difficult to handle and use it. Accordingly, one of our highest priority initiatives is the development of a computer-based database which will allow easy entry of collected data and greatly facilitate access to it. This body of data is one of the PLIA's major resources.

Watershed Modeling

Watershed modeling is similar to lake modeling, but on a larger scale. One principal output of a model of the Platte River Watershed would be the characterization of the Platte River water that flows into Platte Lake; how much, how fast, its composition, and how these things change in response to events in the watershed. This information, used as input for a lake model, will allow us to determine the net effect on the lake of things that occur in the watershed. The PLIA is actively supporting the development of a Platte River watershed model.

Watershed Signs

This is one of several general watershed projects funded by the MDNR in accordance with the Settlement Agreement (The complete list of current projects is at the bottom of this page). The PLIA has taken the initiative to develop, procure and erect informational road signs within the Platte River Watershed, similar to those used in other watersheds. These signs help identify the surprisingly wide extent of the watershed and help maintain awareness of the watershed's existence. We worked with the Benzie Conservation District and Benzie County Road Commission on this project and the installation of these signs has been completed.

The Fish Ladder

Several years ago, the PLIA proposed that a "fish ladder" be installed at the Deadstream Dam to make it easier for northern pike to enter the Deadstream to spawn. A fish ladder is a structure that allows fish passage upstream over a dam without affecting the dam's function (More about fish ladders). It has been known for some time that the Deadstream, north of Deadstream Road, is a prime spawning area for Platte Lake pike, and that the Deadstream Road dam seriously impedes the ability of these fishes to get into this area. It is believed that this has had a direct and negative impact on the pike population of Platte Lake. Via a cooperative effort of the PLIA, MDNR and the Benzie County Drain Commission, a fish ladder was fabricated and installed at the Deadstream Dam in early October, 2003. (Picture).

Side Scan Sonar Lake Profile Mapping

In order to develop a viable model of the lake, it's necessary to know the shape of the lake and its bottom profile to relatively high accuracy. The lake was mapped several years ago using conventional sonar to get depth data and a global positioning system was used to keep track of the locations associated with the depth readings. This data was useful, but not totally satisfactory. Fortunately, both measurement technologies have improved significantly in recent years, and much higher accuracy is now available. Accordingly, we commissioned a re-mapping of the lake using an improved GPS system and side-scanning sonar. The mapping was done in September 2003, and the data is being used by the Implementation Coordinator to upgrade the lake model. This data also will be used to produce arguably the most accurate bottom profile map of Platte Lake ever made. (First Imagery). For additional info on this, contact the PLIA.

Macrophyte Studies

In 2003 the PLIA and MDNR sponsored a detailed study of the plankton and related organisms in Platte Lake. The study was conducted by Dr. Scott McNaught's group at CMU under the direction of our Implementation Coordinator, Dr. Ray Canale, and has been on-going over the last couple of years. A link to the latest update on this study is available on the Latest Info page of this site.

Lake Bottom Sediment Analysis

In 2003 the PLIA and MDNR also sponsored an analysis of the sediment present at the bottom of Platte Lake. It was conducted by Michael Holmes, a member of Dr. Scott McNaught's group at CMU in coordination with our Implementation Coordinator, Dr. Ray Canale. A link to the latest report on this study is available on the Latest Info page of this site.