Loon Lake Wood Debris Study
Since early 2007, we have overseen a study at Loon Lake in eastern Washington to examine organic accumulations, mostly in the northeast portion of the lake. The study was initiated by state Senator Bob Morton after Loon Lake residents expressed a desire to learn about the material in the lake, and possible long-term options to address it. Our staff at the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) hired Hart Crowser, an engineering firm, to complete the sampling and analysis.
Following is the information from this sampling and analysis, beginning with the most recent findings and continuing back through the process.
Phase III Study Results
Our staff at DNR and Hart Crowser have finished Phase III of the study regarding the nature of the "muck" in the lake. During the past four months, rigourous sediment sampling and analysis has taken place, mostly using sediment from the northeastern portion of the lake. Hart Crowser discovered that the "muck" is not wood debris but appears to be decaying aquatic vegetation and micro-organisms, both living and dead, potentially resulting from high concentrations of nutrients in the sediment.
DNR held a meeting at Loon Lake School to inform the community about the final results of the study.
Materials shared at the January 7, 2009 public meeting
Phase II Sampling and Analysis Plan
Phase II included developing a sampling and analysis plan which outlines the protocols and methodology for collecting and analyzing sediment samples, mostly from the northeastern portion of Loon Lake. DNR received many comments from agencies and the public during the comment period from April 1 to May 15, 2008, and incorporated this feedback into the plan. Special consideration was taken to determine the reference sampling locations as well as the general sampling locations, which took place in September and October 2008.
Phase 1 Historical Report
The Phase I Historical Report provided information about historical surveys at Loon Lake, land transaction records, scientific report reviews, and in-person interviews with Loon Lake residents. The goal of the Phase I report was to collect existing information relating to sediment issues to guide the work plan for sediment studies at the lake.
Loon Lake Sediment Study, Phase 1 Report — November 2007
Public Involvement
During Phase II, in addition to the public comment period on the draft sampling and analysis plan, a public meeting was held on April 15, 2008 at the Loon Lake School to gather community input. Those who attended the meeting learned more about the plan and provided insight on potential sampling locations. A summary report, including a letter from Commissioner Sutherland, addressed community questions and comments.
Materials shared at the April 15, 2008 public meeting
The following provides a general overview of DNR’s management of state-owned aquatic lands.
DNR's Management of State Aquatic Lands