Invasive Weed Treatment
Following GLPA annual meeting last August member concerns were expressed regarding effects of copper retention in lake sediment from invasive weed treatment with copper sulfate based products. GLPA had prior discussions with Gun Lake Improvement Board on this matter. GLIB is the sole invasive weed treatment assessment authority, funder, and treatment executor. GLIB was sympathetic to concerns and agreed with the need for testing to determine the extent to which concerns were legitimate based on data. However, they pointed out their yearly budget did not include any funds for testing. GLPA recognized the need for immediate testing in line with our mission to protect the lake. GLPA also had concern about public trust in GLIB hiring the same company treating the lake to test effects being a conflict of interest. GLPA felt a third party without an agenda would be an important and objective authority to bring legitimacy to the results of any testing and subsequent decisions regarding invasive lweed treatment. GLPA made the decision to fund and monitor sediment testing using an independent lab and testing firm in line with our mission to protect the lake. The GL PA undertook this project to avoid any appearance of non-data driven influence or agenda in gathering, analyzing, and sharing results.
GLPA are sharing these test results with GLIB to inform future treatment decisions and posts them for public view.
Who We Are
Our Mission
For 100 years the GLPA has worked to protect and promote the health and responsible usage of Gun Lake and the interests of its property owners. By preserving and protecting this amazing resource and the riparian interests of property owners on and around the lake, the GLPA acts as an environmental steward and also safeguards resident property values.
While the GLPA is perhaps best known for the annual July 4 weekend fireworks display it puts on, the GLPA is much more. It is a voice and participant in many matters affecting the lake including legal issues, safety, environment, information sharing, community building, and more.
The GLPA partners with the DNR, EGLE (formerly DEQ), township and zoning officials, the Gun Lake Tribe, the Gun Lake Improvement Board (GLIB), local law enforcement, Gun Lake Sewer and Water Authority, and community businesses and residents to accomplish its mission.
GLPA in Action - A Sampling of What We Do |
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Fireworks show every July 4 weekend 100% paid for through resident donations to the GLPA. Without these donations fireworks would not happen.
Annual Directory of all property owners given to members funded by local business ads.
Boat cleaning stations installed and maintained at our public launches to help prevent spread of invasive species through a grant and partnership with the Gun Lake Tribe, GLIB, DNR, and Allegan Parks and Recreation. |
Invasive species weed control - monitored and treated through partnership with Gun Lake Improvement Board, on which GLPA has a standing membership. |
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Water quality testing - is monitored and responses coordinated through partnership with DNR.
Fish stocking - Tens of thousands of walleye stocked annually through partnership with the DNR and local volunteers maintaining fish ponds, funded by GLPA.
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Legal representation - when it is necessary to promote the good or oppose actions contrary to the interests of Gun Lake and its residents.
GLPA has been h
Tornado siren installed on state park point through funding from Gun Lake Tribe and the four Townships, maintained by GLPA. |  Local government participation - GLPA Board members regularly attend Township meetings to stay aware of local issues affecting Gun Lake and give input during public comment as well as written communication. |
