The west side of Lake Carlos has had a recurrent problem with tent caterpillars. To help alleviate the problem, LCAA coordinated spot spraying to reduce annual infestations. Fortunately, it has been many years since we have experienced a lake wide blight that can defoliate trees and make a mess of lakeshore living.
The aerial spraying coordinated by LCAA did not go without objections by some lakeshore owners. LCAA received numerous complaints. Even though the spraying made use of an environmentally friendly insecticide, it understandably caused concern to some. As a result, LCAA has adopted a new policy. LCAA will facilitate the spraying so that affected homeowners can hire the work done on an as needed basis.
Post-911 FAA policy requires the application for and issuance of a permit for any aerial spraying. As a result, LCAA will apply for and be issued a permit for spraying on Lake Carlos. However, due primarily to the environmental concerns noted above, the LCAA Board has decided to take a less direct role in the spraying.
In the future, if homeowners on a portion of the lake experience an infestation serious enough for spraying, it may use the LCAA permit and move forward with the spraying on an individual or group basis. LCAA will not be responsible for conducting the spraying. Rather, it will help accommodate landowners who wish to spray by providing the FAA required permit.
Fortunately, though the cool and wet spring gave lakeshore owners a slow start to the season, it also limited the spread of the tent caterpillars in 2008. This issue will be reviewed annually by the LCAA.