WLA News
WLA Annual Meeting
Our annual meeting will be held September 10th, at 5:30 pm, at the White Lake Community Library. Preliminary data from our recent water testing will be available. We will discuss our current and possibly future grants as well as membership concerns. We welcome the public to attend.
Summer 2024 News
The White Lake Association is pleased to announce that we have received a grant from the Muskegon Community Foundation in the amount of $15,000 for “Ensuring White Lake Health and Community Prosperity.” This money will be used to partially fund the in-depth testing of White Lake 10 years after it has been delisted as an Area of Concern.
The camera at the lighthouse has been replaced this year and the internet at the White River Lighthouse updated. The Whitehall-Montague Masons made a generous donation of $500 toward the camera. We have also received a private donation of $50. We are still hoping for further donations from those who use the camera and are in the process of bringing it onto our YouTube Channel.
White Lake water testing is being performed by our board on a regular schedule. We are currently testing clarity, dissolved oxygen and temperature as well as Chlorophyll A. If anyone would like to participate in the process, we welcome new volunteers.
We have received another grant from the Sea Tow Foundation for our Life Jacket Loaner program. There are stands at the Montague Boat Launch and the Scenic Drive Boat Launch that have a variety of sizes of lifejackets for any lake users to borrow for the day.
Trash Bash 2024
On Sunday April 21 many of our White Lake Association board members joined other community members in participating in the Trash Bash organized by the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. We had some interesting finds!
Click on the photos for larger views.
WLA Open Board Meeting 2024
Minutes & Action Item
On March 25th the White Lake Association held its annual open board meeting at Whitehall City Hall. Click here to download a PDF of the meeting minutes.
Here is one action item that the board would like to highlight:
Lighthouse Camera
The board voted to replace the lighthouse camera given how important it is to the community. WLA is seeking donations specifically for this initiative, given our very small budget. This can be accomplished by check, sent to the White Lake Association at P.O. Box 151, Montague, MI 49437 or via PayPal through the website.
Michigan DNR Fisheries Survey
Michigan DNR performed a comprehensive fisheries survey of White Lake in 2023.
Letter from Robert Smart, President WLA
September 27, 2023
Dear White Lake Advocates,
I hope this letter finds you well. We are excited to announce a significant milestone in our community’s journey – the celebration of the tenth year since White Lake was delisted as an area of concern. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication and collective efforts of our community in preserving and revitalizing our beloved White Lake.
As we commemorate this remarkable milestone, we invite you to join the White Lake Association and be part of the continued success story of our cherished lake. Your involvement and support are crucial to sustaining the positive changes we’ve witnessed over the past decade.
Our organization has undergone a transition in leadership this year. We thank those who have served faithfully previously, and our new leaders are interested in expanding our role and responsibilities in the community. One of our primary goals for the upcoming years is to enhance our K-12 outreach programs. We believe in educating the younger generation about the importance of environmental conservation and the significance of our pristine White Lake. By increasing our engagement with local schools and educational institutions, we can inspire a new generation of environmental stewards who will carry forward our commitment to the lake’s well-being.
Furthermore, we are planning to conduct a follow-up study on the quality of White Lake. This study will serve as a vital tool to measure our progress in maintaining a healthy lake ecosystem. By investing in scientific research and data collection, we can ensure that our efforts are aligned with the best practices for lake preservation and restoration.
It’s essential to recognize that White Lake isn’t just a natural gem; it is also a significant economic driver for our community. Its pristine waters and picturesque surroundings attract tourists, boost property values, and support local businesses. By actively participating in the White Lake Association, you contribute to the continued economic vitality of our community.
Joining the White Lake Association is a tangible way to show your commitment to the future of White Lake and our community. Your membership dues and involvement will directly support our initiatives, ensuring that our lake remains a vibrant and thriving part of our lives for generations to come.
To become a member or renew your membership, please visit the Membership section of our website. Your support is invaluable, and we look forward to welcoming you into our community of passionate individuals dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of White Lake.
Thank you for being a part of this remarkable journey, and here’s to the next ten years of success and sustainability for White Lake. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on our community and the environment we all hold dear. Please consider joining us at our Annual meeting on Monday, October 23 at 7 pm at the Whitehall City Hall, 405 E. Colby Street, Whitehall.
Sincerely,
Robert Smart, President WLA
About our Organization
The White Lake Association (WLA) is comprised of hundreds of area residents who care deeply about White Lake. Our members support WLA activities and actions that preserve the natural amenities of the lake, as well as the public trust.
White Lake is defined geologically as a “drowned river mouth.” The lake extends 5.1 miles from the mouth of White River to the point at which it flows into Lake Michigan. It covers 4 square miles and encompasses 2571 acres. White Lake is known for its scenic beauty, sailing, boating, wildlife and year around fishing. It is a popular tourist destination and summer residence for many.
The White Lake Association is dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of White Lake for the health of its residents and its fish and wildlife through monitoring and education.