LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear LLA Members,
As we reflect on this past summer, I want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks for the incredible support you’ve shown to the Lake Lanier Association Your generous contributions of both time and money have been vital in helping us advance our mission of keeping Lake Lanier Clean, Full, and Safe. Because of your dedication, we’ve made remarkable progress in preserving and protecting this cherished natural resource, and I am very proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
One of our flagship programs under the “Clean” initiative is Shore Sweep, and this year marked the 36th anniversary of this important lake and shoreline cleanup effort. Thanks to the tireless efforts of hundreds of volunteers like you, we removed more than 80 tons of trash and debris from Lake Lanier! The results were nothing short of amazing.
Program Updates: Shore Sweep, ADDV, Adopt-a-Lake Water Testing
Project Armor - we bring you updates and exciting news!
A very unique Shore Sweep 2024 discussion
Business Sponsor Features: Laurel Alexander Interiors and Marine
Specialties
A Sailboat Removal Story
LLA Board Member Spotlight: Kirby Scheimann
Upcoming Shoreline Management Plan
Survey
Mystery Snail Update
Lately with LLA
Vote LLA the “Best of Hall 2025”
For example, on one day alone, a dedicated team in Hall County cleared several large, rusting pieces of an old dock that had been abandoned for years, helping to ensure that our waters are safe and clean for everyone to enjoy And there are countless other stories of incredible clean-up efforts around the lake. It’s inspiring, as it is this kind of hard work that makes a lasting difference. I want to personally thank each one of you who participated in another incredible Shore Sweep.
Looking ahead to 2025, I’m thrilled to share that we have even more exciting plans in store Not only will our current Clean, Full, and Safe programs continue to thrive and grow, but we are also embarking on a new effort to protect 16 additional islands through our Project Armor riprap initiative This will result in the preservation of over one mile of currently unprotected shoreline This initiative is a significant step forward in safeguarding the beauty and ecological health of the lake, and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together
In addition, we have a “Safe” initiative underway that focuses on the safety of those who are fortunate enough to have personal docks on the lake. Although I can’t reveal all the details just yet, I can promise you that it’s designed to enhance both the safety and enjoyment of lake living for many of our members. Stay tuned over the coming months for more information.
Lastly, we’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be soliciting member-only feedback on the Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) We will share our collective voice with the USACE, with whom we have a good working relationship Our numbers speak volumes, and your input is invaluable, so we want to ensure that the voice of our membership is heard as we advocate for policies that benefit everyone who enjoys the benefits of Lake Lanier
Once again, I want to thank all of you for your unwavering support Whether you contributed financially, volunteered for Shore Sweep, worked tirelessly on one of our other programs, or helped spread the word in some way, you’ve played an essential role in our success. As we move into 2025, we’ll be counting on your continued involvement to help us expand these critical initiatives and keep Lake Lanier a very special place for generations to come.
With sincere gratitude,
ToddBaxter
Todd Baxter, LLA President
President
ToddBaxter VicePresident,Secretary
ClydeMorris
VicePresident,Treasurer
JimBailey
VicePresident
BillyPowell
VicePresident
BonnyPutney
KellyMarlowe
GlennMartin
TerryMorrisey
BevNicholls
DanOhman
KirbyScheimann
TomShillock
SkipShort
MattWilliams
DanYoungblood
Executive Director
Victoria Clevenger
Communications and Membership
Coordinator
Jacquelyn Guhl
Lake Lanier Association 821 Dawsonville Hwy Suite 110 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 744 - 4547 | lakelanier.org lakeinfo@lakelanier.org
If you’d like to stop by the office, please be sure to make an appointment to ensure we don’t miss you.
SHORE SWEEP RECAP BY BONNY PUTNEY, VICE PRESIDENT
Shore Sweep 2024 was a complete success, by any measurement 85 tons of trash, 1,200 volunteers, and no injuries - it was a great day for Lake Lanier
I usually use this space I am given to thank all the people who make Shore Sweep happen. This year I am just going to say, thank you. You know who you are, and you know we can’t do Shore Sweep without your support The LLA staff, Victoria Clevenger and Jacquelyn Guhl, did an excellent job of making sure we thanked everyone properly
I want to use this space to discuss the elephant in the room - why should a small non-profit have to deal with hundreds of loose dock floats in the first place? Why is this such a big issue, and is there any way to stop it? With more than 10,600 private docks, not to mention all the marinas, community docks and others, you are talking about thousands of floats In the universe of private docks alone, we are looking at around 20,000 floats The LLA removes on average 1,000 floats at Shore Sweep each year, and I can guarantee there are 3 times that many still floating around in the lake Shore Sweep is an extremely expensive event even with the amount of donated services and volunteers. I would love to see that money going into derelict docks, abandoned boats and other issues that we have no control over.
This is not a COE problem; this is one issue we cannot point at them for answers This is a self-made problem by dock owners, dock manufacturers, and dock companies We are the problem Dock float manufactures say if the floats are attached to the dock correctly, they will never come off - not in a storm, not by surf boats,
not even a tropical storm could do it
They have pictures to prove it My big question to all of you reading this, then why are there so many floats everywhere? The answer is pretty simple - if you were to work a Shore Sweep site you would know Many of the floats are found in perfect condition, not a scratch on them until someone
pounds a stake into them to move to a Shore Sweep collection site. We see floats with holes, and a lot of the time, they’re not in the section of the float meant to attach to the dock. We see destroyed floats, but they are uncommon. Most of the floats that arrive at the collection sites are full of water. Once breached and full of water they will not drain or dry out. Trust me on this, the water is not coming out This is why they weigh so much and are so full of water that nothing can be done with them except to send them to the landfill I get asked a lot, why can’t the floats be numbered or have some sort of marking so they can be returned? I want you to think about this, logistically - I have many times. Someone must gather the floats and then take them to a location off the lake. Next, you must figure out who each float belongs to, contact that person, and somehow that person must get that float back home and attached to their dock. What if they never respond? Then what? I have talked through every scenario and we, the Lake Lanier Association, know this is not practical or something that makes sense
What makes sense is not having hundreds of floats loose in Lake Lanier How do we stop this? We need to make sure dock companies are doing their job and attaching the floats properly and disposing of floats when they are trash. How many times have you seen a pod of floats traveling down the lake like it’s a flotilla of sorts? Floats don’t seek out other abandoned floats, this was done by someone who thinks it’s okay to just let them go I’m sure they think LLA will handle it, or it’s only a few floats, what’s a few more in the lake? It’s up to everyone who owns a dock, works on docks and cares about this lake to stop this problem The problem is only getting worse, and disposal is expensive if not almost impossible Hall County bans floats from their landfill. Guess where the Hall County Shore Sweep floats go? Banks County - Hall County takes them there and pays for the disposal. This is not a sustainable solution and at some point, drastic measures might be required.
Dock owners need to look at their docks and floats. A dock is a huge investment, and you need to make sure you are getting your money’s worth. You should know your dock as well as you know your car. Docks today cost more than most cars, and just like a car, docks require regular maintenance. Flotation should be attached and disposed of properly when you need new flotation. I have been told that many dock companies use the weight of the dock to hold a float in place with no bolts or attachments at all! How is this supposed to work? It is an unacceptable business model to shove a float under a dock, and when it pops out, you just sell another float. Then, who must clean it up? LLA, of course. We recently posted a podcast about dock maintenance on our YouTube channel. If you are new to
dock ownership or need a refresher, please watch it When you require new flotation, always ask how the floats will be attached, where are the old floats are going, and for a picture taking them off the lake You can also ask them where they take the floats for disposal It’s not to the Hall County landfills, that I can guarantee
The dock maintenance community needs to step up and help make this problem a thing of the past. We have outstanding dock partners who help not only at Shore Sweep but all year long by taking care of what needs to be done on the lake Yes, sometimes they are paid, but a lot of the time they do it because it the right thing to do, and they care about Lanier Only you, dock owners can demand we accept nothing but proper handling of dock waste on the lake You can easily see the dock companies who step up at Shore Sweep and help us all year
This year, we hope to get all the stakeholders in the float universe into a room to discuss how we can stop the flow of floats, and what else we can do with them besides the landfill Water in the styrofoam is the main issue, and a big one to try and solve It would be a much easier solution to stop the floats from appearing in our lake Do we have the counties impose a dock disposal tax on each float purchased? Does the COE require all floats have belly bands to hold them in place? We are inching that way I really believe that if we understand the problem, we can fix it.
I personally have been doing this cleanup a long time Yes, it’s nice to crow about 85 tons of trash off the lake, but it should not be this way I would be much happier if we got 5 tons of trash off the lake, and it’s done by individuals cleaning up actual lake trash like bottles, cans and the occasional grill left on an island We should not have to use heavy, dangerous equipment, multiple dumpsters at every site and people spending their Saturday morning pulling hundreds of pounds of dock floats to a location on the lake. Congratulations to everyone who helped at Shore Sweep, it’s a labor of love. We can, as a community do better.
SPONSOREDBY:
PROGRAM UPDATE BY SKIP SHORT, DIRECTOR
I trust you had an enjoyable summer and were able to spend a lot of time on the lake. Shore Sweep was a big success and LLA is now enhancing our focus on Project Armor for the remainder of 2024 and into the New Year We are excited to announce that the first of 16 locations is underway, with riprap expected to be in place by the end of October
The area kicking off Project Armor is the north side of the entrance to Bald Ridge Creek off the main lake. If you are able to drive by in your boat, there is a large sign visible where we identify the efforts of LLA and all the support from our valued partners This sign will follow the project efforts of the other 15 areas, so be on the lookout for it since it is with your generous support that this project is even possible
In summary, Project Armor will provide riprap to 16 areas with over 8,000 tons of stone. To put that in perspective, that is around 500 large dump trucks worth of material that would fill an entire football field with two and half feet of stone. Protecting our shoreline is a high priority of LLA. The LLA has the funding for a portion of this project thus far, but we will need additional funding to finish Project Armor Did you know that $100 helps LLA install one linear foot of rip rap? We truly can't do it without the support of the community and our business sponsors and personal members Please consider donating to LLA or Project Armor, which will greatly assist us with our efforts in this and other endeavors.
efficient removal. Your financial support can help us continue to remove abandoned and trashed boats and docks.
DesigningwithLakeLanierinMind
InteriorDesignTrendsfor2025
Lake Lanier is not just a beautiful escape it’s the perfect muse for creating serene, inspired living spaces. Whether you’re a homeowner or managing a vacation rental, the lake’s natural beauty offers endless inspiration for design choices that bring tranquility into your home As a local interior design firm with roots in the community (we recently designed the new headquarters for LLA), we know how to make lake living luxurious and comfortable.
NatureasYourPalette:DesignInspiredbyLakeLanier
In 2025, one of the biggest trends in interior design is biophilic design that’s a fancy word for bringing elements of nature inside. The perfect approach for homes around Lake Lanier, where calm blue waters and vibrant green landscapes set the tone. Soft blues, sandy beiges, and natural materials like reclaimed wood or stone can transform any living space into a lakeside retreat. Adding a large window that showcases your view or strategically placing mirrors to reflect the lake’s beauty can create a deeper connection with nature right from your living room.
2025InteriorTrendsPerfectforLakeHomes
The interior design forecast for 2025 emphasizes creating cozy, personalized spaces that blend luxury with simplicity Around Lake Lanier, this means embracing sustainable, ecofriendly materials think organic fabrics, reclaimed wood, and upcycled furnishings. Colors like deep blues and rich greens, paired with neutral tones, are trending and perfect for reflecting the area’s natural beauty Plus, open-plan living spaces and convertible furniture are must-haves for flexible indoor-outdoor living, ideal for lake homes and vacation properties.
MakeYourVRBOorAirBnBShine
If you own a short-term vacation rental around Lake Lanier, thoughtful interior design can be the difference between a fully booked calendar and an empty house. Our firm has a special certification in designing vacation homes that are both stunning and functional. With durable yet stylish furniture, cozy reading nooks, and luxurious bedding, your property will stand out in the crowded VRBO or AirBnB market Well-designed spaces don’t just attract guests they keep them coming back year after year.
Let’sTransformYourLakeHomeTogether
Ready to refresh your lakeside retreat or design a standout vacation rental? Let Lake Lanier’s natural beauty be your inspiration. As local interior design experts, we’re here to bring your vision to life with functional, beautiful designs that reflect the tranquility of the lake Contact us today to get started, and let’s create a space that you’ll love for years to come
Board Member Spotlight
Kirby Cay Scheimann joined the LLA Board of Directors with a background in Marina Management and Radio Entertainment He first came to Lake Lanier in 2000, as General Manager of Aqualand Marina. While at Aqualand, he was a founding officer of the Marina Operators of Lake Lanier (MOAA); MOAA went on to win multiple National Marina Day awards and hosted the National Event of the Year in 2004. His marina experience is extensive, in addition to being a Certified Marina Manager, he also served as a Board Member and Officer of the Metro Atlanta Marine Trade Association, on the faculty of the International Marina Institute, presenter for the Association of Marina Industries, and as a Committee Member and
Chairperson of the National Marina Day Committee Kirby has also been recognized for his work in the Radio and Entertainment Industry While working in the Florida Keys, he received multiple broadcaster of the year awards, acoustic entertainer, MC’d multiple community events and earned multiple Hurricane Coverage awards. The water is in his roots, as he was born into a boating family and raised in Northeast Indiana. His entire family was involved in all levels of competition and show waterskiing for decades, winning multiple state championships. Since settling in the Yellow Creek area of Lake Lanier, his family has participated in every Shore Sweep since 2014. Since 2019, Kirby has helped Co-Captain the Shore Sweep site, War Hill Park. Kirby also oversees the Lake Lanier Association podcast, Live On Lanier. He recently stated, “My goal with the LLA Podcast is to help increase the value of LLA Membership by providing timely and interesting topics specific to Lake Lanker. Hopefully, they are a little entertaining as well."
Learn more about the LLA Board of Directors at www.lakelanier.org/our-story/our-board/
The Lake Lanier Association’s newest program, Live on Lanier, features monthly releases of new podcast and webinar episodes! Each episode features LLA’s on-lake programs, local heroes, and helpful information for everyone who loves Lake Lanier.
Each episode is uploaded to our YouTube channel and promoted on social media. If you see an episode you love, please subscribe, like, comment and share it with your friends This series is intended for everyone and we need your help to spread the word about it!
A new Live on Lanier episode will be released monthly, so stay tuned for more fun and interesting guests from around Lake Lanier. Do you have a suggestion for an upcoming episode topic or guest? Email it to the LLA Team at lakeinfo@lakelanier.org!
WATER TESTING PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
BY BEV NICHOLLS, DIRECTOR
The Lake Lanier Association water testing program began in 2000 under Georgia Lake Society guidelines It’s lovingly known as our “Adopt-a-Lake” monthly water quality testing program Weather and water observations include using a weighted disk (Secchi) for clarity as well as filtering a water sample for chlorophyll analysis. 25 stations from north of the Olympic Venue to the dam and over to Dawson County have been sampled monthly during summer, winter, rain or snow by dedicated volunteers. In 2002, AMPRO equipped a lab to do chlorophyll analysis and in 2013
Gwinnett Water Lab took over the analysis using current methodology. Over the years lake and environmental scientists from GLS and now GWL have been available to help with our volunteer program. We initiated a Lake Lanier Index in 2008 to share our monthly information. The monthly Lake Lanier Index is available on our website as well as an informative video on Lake Lanier Association’s YouTube channel. Pictured Left: LLA’s Water Testing Locations
To learn more about the Adopt-a-Lake program, visit www.lakelanier.org/adopt-a-lake/
INVASIVE MYSTERY SNAIL UPDATE
BY TOM SHILLOCK, DIRECTOR
Chinese/Japanese Mystery Snails continue to be found in several waterbodies around the state A member of the genus Cipangopaludina, Chinese/Japanese Mystery Snails have been found to cause significant ecological impacts by out-competing native snail species while also posing a
threat to human health with the many intestinal parasites they may carry While these snails have historically been popular as both a food source and aquarium pet in the U S , recent regulatory changes prohibit individuals from possessing live mystery snails within the state of Georgia, regardless of their intended use Anyone discovering Chinese/Japanese Mystery Snails is asked to take a picture of the snail and report it to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Anthony Rabern; Anthony.Rabern@dnr.ga.gov
Pictured Above: Lake Lanier Water Testing Locations
While there are currently no effective control measures for mystery snails, experts have outlined several ways people can mitigate their spread. “Prevention continues to be our best tool in fighting the war on invasive species, and prevention is only achieved with the help of the public,” said Jim Page, aquatic nuisance species coordinator for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “Whether it’s taking time to thoroughly wash down your boat, trailer, and fishing gear after each outing on the water; choosing to not dump aquariums; or simply not intentionally releasing non-native species into waterbodies where they did not previously occur are just a few ways you can help Let’s protect our waters!”
BY CLYDE MORRIS, VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY
For the first time ever, LLA is going to poll all its members for input on changes they want to see in the Shoreline Management Plan (SMP). This is your big chance to have some meaningful input into the Corps’ decision-making on this vital document.
The SMP is the official document the Corps follows in many of its operations on Lake Lanier It contains the rules that govern whether you can have a dock, what size and configuration and placement you must adhere to for that dock, and many of the details about how you must maintain the dock But it goes way beyond that – it also governs what you can and can’t do to the shoreline itself, such as whether you can install steps to your dock, what types of shrubberies you’re allowed to plant, whether you can remove standing or fallen trees from the Corps land adjacent to your property, and what penalties the Corps can impose if you violate those rules (like revoking your dock permit for cutting down trees on Corps property without a permit)
Many of us have had questions about the Corps’ rules from time to time. For instance, maybe you’d like a color other than black, brown, or aluminum for your dock. Or maybe you’d like to put up some decorative lights during the holidays. Maybe you feel you need a security camera to protect your valuable property stored in and on your dock, or the Corps has told you to block off a narrow walkway or to remove the covering you installed for shade on your party deck. Perhaps you’ve had issues with the dock permitting process. Maybe you mailed in a check and signed permit, only to be told months or even years later that your permit was never issued or has expired. Or maybe you wonder why a developer is suddenly allowed to install a community dock with dozens of slips while you wither on a wait list that may take 10 or 15 years before the Corps makes a decision on whether you can get a single-slip dock.
All of these issues and more are controlled by the SMP. And until now, those of us who are regulated by the SMP have had little or no input into the rules. Well, LLA is going to change that. We are going to solicit your input and present to the Corps a comprehensive report of recommended changes. And then we’re going to advocate for those changes – because getting the U. S. Army to change its rules is rarely accomplished just by asking politely.
We plan to kick off the process in early 2025 through an online system that will facilitate our tabulating all the suggestions and counting how many people are in favor of each And yes, only LLA members will be able to submit their input
EVERY DOLLAR MAKES A DIFFERENCE EVERY DOLLAR MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Donating to the LLA goes well beyond knowing you are part of a group of concerned constituents who partner together to keep Lake Lanier Clean Full and Safe. Your generosity directly supports our programs which protect and preserve Lake Lanier for generations to come!
The LLA is proud to offer many easy ways to support our mission and on-lake programs. In addition to your yearly membership, donations can be made through employer match platforms like Benevity and YourCause. LLA is also set up for easy EFT transfer through Fidelity for donor advised funds and special accounts When making plans for your yearly giving, please consider using one of these platforms for easy processing and to ensure your donation directly supports LLA’s mission.
All donations are considered tax-deductible under IRS 501(c)3 tax code. If you're interested in supporting the LLA as a Business Sponsor, please contact LLA at lakeinfo@lakelanier.org.
LLA recently earned a “Gold Transparency” seal with Candid, also known as Guidestar! This platform helps donors research nonprofit partners and efficiently find organizations that meet your giving goals and align with your giving values. View LLA’s profile on Candid today by visiting www.guidestar.org and searching “Lake Lanier Association” or our EIN (58-1264797).
SHOP&SUPPORTLLA SHOP&SUPPORTLLA
Made to order and shipped directly to you! LLA has launched an online merch shop! You’ll find everything from hoodies to tank tops to duffels, hats and coolers Customize LLA gear from brands you know and love - Nike, Eddie Bauer, Comfort Colors, PFG, the North Face AND MORE Items have been carefully curated with the lake lifestyle in mind, so you can rep LLA wherever you go, all year long!
Your purchase helps support a clean, full, and safe Lake Lanier! There’s an option for everyone on your holiday gift list Please consider shopping custom LLA gear this joliday season Don’t forget to post and tag LLA in your photos of your new LLA gear We love to see how you rep the LLA!
LLA DONATES TO CITIES DEVASTATED BY HURRICANE HELENE
The LLA team paused their work day to help out a community in need After catching wind of a local opportunity to donate some remaining Shore Sweep supplies, we hopped into action. LLA donated trash bags, gloves, first aid kits, wipes, tarps, and t-shirts towards disaster relief from Hurricane Helene Our hearts continue to go out to the communities, families, and cities affected by this tragedy
ATLANTA MARINE BOAT SHOW LLA NAMED RAFFLE BENEFICIARY
We continue to be grateful towards the businesses who help find ways for LLA to be involved in the community. Thank you, Atlanta Marine, for having us out for a fun weekend by the lake and for naming LLA the beneficiary of the boat show raffle. Your support of a Clean, Full, and Safe lake mission helps make our on-lake programs possible.
OUR PARTNER KEEP FORSYTH COUNTY BEAUTIFUL’S 30TH ANNIVERSARY!
On Saturday, October 5th, LLA Board Member, Bonny Putney and Executive Director, Victoria Clevenger, attended Keep Forsyth County Beautiful’s (KFCB) 30th anniversary breakfast. The event gathered local leaders, teachers, likeminded organizations to celebrate the impact of KFCB over the last 30 years. KFCB is a wonderful community partner to LLA, as they support Shore Sweep sites in Forsyth County and with lake-based cleanups all year long. LLA SUPPORTS
You can vote for the Lake Lanier Association as the “Best of Hall 2025” in not one - but two categories! Vote for Lake Lanier Association in the Non-Profit category AND vote for Shore Sweep in the Charity Event category!
Anyone and everyone can vote for LLA! Please cast your *VOTE DAILY* between November 1st and November 30th.
ANNIVERSARY RIBBON CUTTING ANNIVERSARY RIBBON CUTTING
Thursday, November 14th
Ribbon Cutting at 3:45pm Open House to Follow, 4:00-6:00pm
821 Dawsonville Hwy. Suite 110 Gainesville, GA 30501
THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL CHAMBERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT!
Mark your calendar and join the LLA to celebrate one year at the new LLA office space. The ribbon cutting will take place on November 14th at 3:45pm with an open house to follow, from 4pm to 6pm This is a great time to learn about the Lake Lanier Association programs, meet LLA staff and board members, and celebrate one year in our new office!
This event is open to the public. The LLA Office is located at 821 Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 110, Gainesville, GA 30501 (below Starbucks, next to Chick-fil-A and across from the Shoe Carnival).
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE MEMBERS
MAKE OUR MISSION
Did you know? LLA’s newsletter, the Lanier Outlook, is a member exclusive publication! LLA is pleased to offer our members an inside look at our work on Lake Lanier and exclusive information for home-owners, businesses and our donors
Donating to the LLA goes well beyond knowing you are a part of a group of concerned constituents who partner together to keep Lake Lanier Clean, Full, and Safe. Your generosity directly supports LLA’s programs in measurable ways. Our goal in publishing the Lanier Outlook is to provide our members an inside look at our accomplishments and the work we’re achieving together on Lake Lanier.
We invite you to encourage your friends, family and neighbors to become a member to gain access to this exclusive publication! Print this page and cut along the dotted line to share our mission with someone who should join the Lake Lanier Association!
CLEAN | FULL | SAFE | TOGETHER
