PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ROYAL OAK, MI 48068 PERMIT #792
BOAT WINTERIZED ❏ PATIO FURNITURE STORED ❏ GO TO ❏
WINTER WILL SOON BE HERE… TIME TO ENTERTAIN INSIDE… Shuffleboards from
99900
$
Bar Stools Solid Wood from Contructed $ 00 Bars 149 $ 00 from 999 Foosball, Air Hockey Solid Wood & Bubble Hockey Pool Tables From
129900
$
Not all water fun is in the lake… HOT TUBS from
2,999
$
ALREADY SALE PRICE ON SUNHEATER 2
OCTOBER 2012
248-674-9689 4130 Dixie Highway Waterford, MI 48329
www.viscountpools.com
Hatchery Rd. Crescent Lk. Rd.
50 Off
$
Loon Lake
Dixie Hwy. Scott Lake
Scott Lk. Rd.
BRING IN THIS AD FOR
Sashabaw
W. Walton Blvd. M24
www.oaklandlakefront.com
www.oaklandlakefront.com
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
3
One Call Does It All!!
O
A
K
L
A
N
D
LAKEFRONT www.oaklandlakefront.com Publisher
SUSAN FANCY
Business Manager
DENNIS BOGGS
Executive Assistant
CAROL BARR
Editor Assistant Editor Staff Writers
TIMOTHY S. DMOCH KIRK PINHO KEVIN ELLIOTT, LESLIE SHEPARD, MICHAEL SHELTON
Staff Photographer
• • • • • • • •
INDOOR & OUTDOOR BOAT STORAGE BOAT & JET SKI WINTERIZATION BOAT & JET SKI SHRINKWRAPPING PONTOON & TRI-TOON HAULING DOCK & HOIST REMOVAL ACID WASH BOAT BOTTOM BOAT & JET SKI REPAIRS PONTOON CARPET REPLACEMENT
SPRING LAUNCH… DELIVERY DATE
IS AT
YOUR REQUEST!
Contributors
MIKE SCOTT, MARK H. STOWERS
Advertising Sales Representatives
CINDIE AUDIA, MINA BEAUMONT, JOE LEACH, CHERYL RAK
Sales Assistant/Proofreader Inside Sales Manager Inside Sales Representatives Graphics Assistants
SAVE $50 ON YOUR
WINTER SERVICES
JUSTINA VARGAS LORI SNYDER CINDY STAWICK, LESLIE TIMKO DENISE JUNGJOHAN, MARCIA REIMER
IT Manager
JOEL STICKNEY
Circulation
DAN GRIFFIN
Accounts Receivable Manager Assistant Phone Address/Street Address/Mail
CALL NOW
AMY K. LOCKARD DAMON TANG - INTERN
CAROLYN PETHERBRIDGE MABLE McCULLOUGH 248.360.6397 / 248.360.7355 7196 Cooley Lake Road Waterford, Michigan 48327 P.O. Box 14 Union Lake, MI, 48387-0014
Subscriptions: Paid subscriptions are available for $15 for 6 issues. Subscriptions can be placed by phoning the SCN Communications Group at 248.360.6397 or mailing payment to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Editorial: All editorial matter fully protected. All rights reserved. No portion, whole or part, may be reproduced without prior written permission. The name Oakland Lakefront is protected property. Advertising: Copy closing/space reservation deadline generally three weeks in advance of publication. Specific issue closing dates/editorial calendar available by phoning 248.360.6397.
248-894-0086 5421 Perry Drive • Waterford
www.dslmarine.com 4
OCTOBER 2012
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY OAKLAND LAKEFRONT • OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER • WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY
www.oaklandlakefront.com
October 2012 • Volume 21 • Number 7
contents
8
Race for the WRC office Incumbent Republican Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch is being challenged by Democrat Jim Nash in the Nov. 6 general election for a four-year term paying $138,999 annually.
19 In jeopardy
Michigan lawmakers have introduced legislation in order to preserve the state’s authority over wetland protection regulations and permitting, after an EPA review found deficiencies in the state’s current regulatory program and processes.
26 Bad approach 29 ‘Good fences’ Some people living on Oxford Township’s Squaw Lake are questioning a resident’s practice of trimming nuisance Eurasian watermilfoil and leaving the clippings in the water to drift about and eventually take root, causing the exotic weed to spread.
A dock dispute on Whipple Lake in Independence Township has pitted one neighbor against another, and one of those riparians against the township government that is insisting that he apply for and obtain a local permit before installing his dock.
— Oakland Lakefront photos/Amy K. Lockard and Damon Tang
in every issue
:
24 – Port of Call: Lake Sherwood
45 – Waterway Levels
Remember, it ALL drains to our lakes and rivers
Help keep pollution out of storm drains
Our Water. Our Future.
Only rain in the drain! Ours to Protect
7KDWÂśV EHFDXVH VWRUP GUDLQV DQG URDGVLGH GLWFKHV OHDG GLUHFWO\ WR RXU ODNHV DQG ULYHUV 6R DQ\ RLO SHW ZDVWH OHDYHV WUDVK RU GLUW\ ZDWHU IURP ZDVKLQJ \RXU FDU WKDW HQWHUV D VWRUP GUDLQ JHWV LQWR RXU ODNHV DQG ULYHUV :LWK DOPRVW ÂżYH PLOOLRQ SHRSOH OLYLQJ LQ 6RXWKHDVW 0LFKLJDQ ZH DOO QHHG WR EH DZDUH RI ZKDW JRHV LQWR RXU VWRUP GUDLQV
What can you do? Simple. ‡ 6ZHHS IHUWLOL]HU RII RI GULYHZD\V DQG VLGHZDONV EDFN RQWR \RXU ODZQ • .HHS OHDYHV JUDVV FOLSSLQJV WUDVK DQG IHUWLOL]HUV RXW RI VWRUP GUDLQV ‡ 'R QRW GXPS PRWRU RLO FKHPLFDOV SHW ZDVWH GLUW\ VRDS\ ZDWHU RU DQ\WKLQJ HOVH GRZQ WKH VWRUP GUDLQ ‡ 9ROXQWHHU WR ODEHO WKH VWRUP GUDLQV LQ \RXU QHLJKERUKRRG WR LQIRUP \RXU QHLJKERUV WKDW VWRUP GUDLQV ÀRZ GLUHFWO\ WR RXU ODNHV DQG ULYHUV
Keep our water clean! 7R ÂżQG PRUH WLSV RQ KRZ WR SURWHFW RXU ZDWHU UHVRXUFHV SOHDVH YLVLW www.oakgov.com/riparian
Find out more at www.semcog.org
Brought to you by the Southeast Michigan Partners for Clean Water
WE WE TREAT TREAT COMPLETE COMPLETE EXTERIOR EXTERIOR OF OF THE THE HOME HOME FROM FROM EAVES EAVES TO TO GROUND GROUND
NEW CUSTOMERS RECEIVE
10% off First Treatment CALL: 248-820-1577 or 586-783-1577
We also control:
ANTS - SPIDER/CLOVER MITES BEES - WASPS - AND NEST REMOVAL
www.spidercontrolinc.com
™
SPIDER CONTROL INC MICHIGAN'S OLDEST AND LARGEST SPIDER CONTROL FIRM
“The Original Spider Control�
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1949
Licensed & Insured • Owner Operated Since 1949 • Residential & Commercial 6
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
index of advertisers October 2012 • Volume 21 • Number 7 Advanced Lakefront Services . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Land Art Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Aerial Graphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Michigan Rockscapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Aggressive Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Native Landscapes LLC/Lowrie’s Landscape .10
American Marine Shore Control . . . . . . . . . .32
Nick Page Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
American Soft Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Oak Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Anderson Boat Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Oakland County
Bev's Canvas Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Water Resource Commission . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Blackbox Surf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Scotty Lee’s Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Colony Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Scrimshaw Aerial Photography . . . . . . . . . . .10
Dave's Mobile Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Skier's Pier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
DSL Marine Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Spider Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Freeride Marine Komponents . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Stanz Custom Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Freeway Sports Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Sunset Boats & Marine Services . . . . . . . . . . .16
Goddard Talmay Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Tom’s Pontoon & Marine Services . . . . . . . . .22
Gold Star Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Viscount Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Internet Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Walt's Point Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
K&W Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Wonderland Marine West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
lakefront real estate Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Karen Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Real Estate One – Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Cyndi Robinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Keller Williams - Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Steve/Janet Stockton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
RE/MAX New Trend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Michael Hermiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Morgan & Milzow Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
SKBK Sotheby's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Lee Embrey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
National Realty Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Denise Simmons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Prudential HWWB Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 John & Gayle Hannett . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
SKBK Sotheby's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 RW Watson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
John McCulloch
Jim Nash
John McCulloch has served as Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner since 2001. He is a former chairman of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, served for eight years on the Drainage Board, and was employed as an attorney and certified public accountant prior to being elected water resources commissioner. McCulloch is a member of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. He is also president of the Michigan Association of Counties Service Corp. McCulloch is the immediate past chairman of the Southeast District of the Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners. He also has authored numerous articles on water quality that have appeared in both national and international journals and publications, and he hosts the award winning cable television show entitled H2Oakland.
Jim Nash has been an Oakland County commissioner since 2004. He has a bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in peace studies from Florida State University. While living in Florida, he worked for the Florida Democratic Party doing communications work and research, as well as the Florida Legislative Library. He and his wife have owned a small outdoor furniture manufacturing company and a flower shop in Southfield. Nash has served on the Sierra Club Southeast Michigan Group Political and Executive committees. He was the chairman of the Southeast Michigan Group from 20032005 and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and the Engineering Society of Detroit. Nash currently serves on the National Association of Counties' Green Government Committee and was a presenter at a National Conference on the economic impact of Oakland County's water resources.
www.aggressivemarine.com
4158 Pioneer Drive Commerce Twp., MI 48390
248-360-7225 (rack)
Sales, Service & Storage
SAME LOW PRICES AS LAST YEAR!
DOOR OUTtin g at star
$
150
for the season
• Full Winterization • Major/Minor Repairs • Bottom Cleaning • Cover Repair • Hull Rubouts and Waxing • Full Boating Store
BOA T&
TRA ILER RAC KED TOG ETH ER!
INarDtinOgOatR st
$
500
we make boating simple
AGGRESSIVE MARINE HAS PROUDLY SERVED OAKLAND COUNTY FOR 18 YEARS! •Open 7 days a week for your convenience •Water skis, toys and tubes • We sell used boats •Mercury oils and parts •Let us sell your boat •Bentley Pontoon dealer
Natural Shoreline Restoration
Michigan Certified Natural Shoreline Professional
Serving Oakland County for over 33 Years
T W O G R E AT C O M PA N I E S W O R K I N G T O G E T H E R
HOLIDAY SALE Walled Lake
Aerial Photography Quality Products & Professional Service
www.nativelakescapes.com
248-736-3014
10
OCTOBER 2012
www.lowrieslandscape.com
248-625-8844
248-705-2527
scrimshawaerialphotography.com www.oaklandlakefront.com
I
ncumbent Republican John P. McCulloch and Democrat Jim Nash will square off in the Nov. 6 general election for the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner position. Formerly known as the county drain commissioner, the position name was changed to water resources commissioner in November 2008 to reflect the increased duties and responsibilities of the office. The county's water resources commissioner is responsible for designated surface water drainage systems, sewage disposal and drinking water systems, lake level control structures, and soil erosion and sedimentation control. The Drain Code — Act 40 of 1956, as amended — gives the county water resources commissioner powers and responsibilities to govern legally established drainage systems within the county. The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner also has additional statutory responsibilities (Act 342, etc.), along with other responsibilities delegated by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. The water resources commissioner serves a four-year term and is currently paid an annual salary of $138,999. The following are questions our staff recently posed to McCulloch and Nash, and their responses to those questions. OL: What’s your take on the condition of the dams and augmentation wells that help control some county lake levels? Do you anticipate the need to replace or upgrade existing structures or facilities? What changes, if any, are needed in the way the Water Resources Commissioner’s Office handles lake level monitoring and control? NASH: They're very well maintained. I don't have anything that gives me the whole view of the whole county. There's issues with some of them, but overall it's fairly well done. It's all done on the basis of charging people who live on the lakes for the levels. Absolutely, infrastructure has to be kept up and replaced from time to time. In a lot of areas in especially the southern part of the county, there's complaints about the way the local governments are treated by the Water Resources Commissioner's Office. They've kind of — at least in several communities that I know of — (the office) treats them not very well. They just leave them out of the process and tell them what they're going to do and that's about it. In terms of countywide, it varies depending on where you are. As we're expanding the suburbs out and doing much more out here, we're ending up taking money from the inner-ring suburbs and spending it on the outer-ring suburbs, which is really not fair at all, and a lot of people are upset about that. www.oaklandlakefront.com
McCULLOCH: Certainly, for those augmentation wells and dams that we have jurisdiction over, we're continually monitoring their condition. As with any aging infrastructure, there's always challenges and limited funds. But I think, overall, those structures are in pretty decent shape. We inspect those lake level control structures on a regular basis, and there's always at some point a need to potentially either refurbish or to replace them. But I would say there's not an emergency situation that would prompt us to say these structures need to be replaced immediately or are past due. In recent years we've added certain remote technology that allows us to monitor the levels, as opposed to having somebody manually go out and gauge that. Our response time or reaction time is much better given that technology. Secondly, in certain cases where historically only one (legal lake) level was established by the court, we have gone in and provided for basically two (legal lake) levels, depending on the season. That provides us a better management tool and some flexibility in managing these particular lakes. If you look at this year, which was a drought year, for the most part we were able to deal with that challenge much quicker, so our complaint levels and concerns were far less than what they had been historically. I compare that to the last drought that we went through in 2002, where we had major, major challenges. We just didn't see that this year as we have in the past. OL: Which county drains should be a priority for the water resources commissioner, and what needs to be done there? Where do you anticipate having to replace entire existing drains, or construct new infrastructure where none currently exists? NASH: A lot of it is, again, how the system is aging. One of things I really want to focus on in this campaign is stormwater issues. There are a lot of cities across the country that are changing the way we charge for stormwater runoff and allowing companies and landowners to change the way they've set up their drainage off their properties to lessen their impact. So that means they can, over time, save money on the stormwater costs. Wherever there are impervious surfaces, whether they be roofs or parking lots or roads, you have runoff. And if you can change the perviousness of both roofs through green roofs and bioswales and all the things you can do for parking lots, you can eliminate the runoff from those surfaces. If you can do that, that starts to eliminate the stormwater problem. We can work on that effort through changing facilities, through landscaping, and through all the different things that can be done. OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
11
SURF
Custom Paddle Boards and Surfcraft Made in Oxford, Michigan
Est. 2006
CUSTOM MADE PADDLE BOARDS FROM ENTRY LEVEL TO ELITE RACE THAT FIT YOU LIKE A GLOVE
WE DO BOARD REPAIRS “Like Us”
at Blkbox Surf
Made specific for you… Our boards are made stronger and lighter than massed produced pop-outs.
•Planing Hulls •Touring •Custom Art •Displacement Hulls •Surf •Greener/Stronger/Lighter •Race •Trade-ins & Used Equipment Welcome
Made with
www.blkboxsurf.com / campbellscoatings@gmail.com
OPEN YEAR ROUND FOR CUSTOM COVERS TO PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENTS
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
BEV’S CANVAS COVERS (248) 674-4492
2260 Scott Lake Rd • Waterford www.bevscanvascovers.com
12
OCTOBER 2012
248.830.4122
Working with Mother Nature to Bring You Living Art
•Landscape Construction •Landscape Maintenance •Water Artists •Heavy Construction •Expert Tree Care/Trimming & Removal Email us a photo of your property & in 5 days we will create a custom landscape plan for you
248-747-7456 mark@michlandscaping.com www.michlandscaping.com www.oaklandlakefront.com
Lawrence Tech a few years ago put in a student center where they have basically eliminated runoff in that whole area. They store that water and use it for gray water. There's several cost paybacks on that. You have water that you don't have to pull out of the system for things like watering landscape and things, and you would save money on what you are paying for stormwater runoff control. This would be a program I would be starting. We would look for ways through regional efforts through SEMCOG (the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments), which is doing a lot of work on that. It's called low-impact development, and we would be able to start to eliminate that stormwater problem. This is something that's going to take a long time to do, but we can get the ball rolling and start moving on it much better than it's been done in the past. There's a lot of cost to that. Infrastructure, where it's not been before, is generally speaking the issue of sprawl — where you're sending more and more development out farther into the county into the rural areas. To build that stuff from scratch is very expensive, and the people who are doing the development should be responsible for paying for that cost. They shouldn't have the rest of the county subsidizing growth in outer areas of the county because, in the long run, that's not sustainable. Sustainability is a very important issue to me. I've been talking about sustainability since I first ran (for office) in 2002. We have to do things now and make the planning now to make sure that what we are doing today is not going to cost our future generations something they're going to have to make up in the future. What we have to do is make sure the drains that are now being used are kept up. We have to have maintenance on our infrastructure, and we have to make sure that we do things long-term that are going to make sure our infrastructure stays in the shape it needs to be in. But again, this is something that varies all across the county. We have issues in Walled Lake about weed control, and we have issues along the western part of the county about both drains and how the water is affected by runoff from either impervious surfaces or people using phosphorus lawn chemicals, which causes algae blooms and a lot of problems in our recreational and our drinking water. McCULLOCH: We have a couple hundred drains throughout the county that the Water Resources Commissioner's Office and the water resources commissioner has jurisdiction over. There isn't one specific one that I would point to to say that takes No. 1 www.oaklandlakefront.com
priority. We regularly inspect all our drains and put them on a maintenance cycle. But I would tell you that with the old agricultural drains, those that typically are over 100-years-old that were originally built to drain farm land as opposed to developed areas — which, of course, today we have a lot of those areas that have been developed — we are limited by the Drain Code in terms of how much we can spend to maintain those. Those are the ones that provide the biggest challenge because of the limitation as to how much we can spend in order to maintain these old drains. These old Chapter 4 drains that are the agricultural drains and we're limited to spending $5,000 per mile (for annual maintenance and repairs). In today's environment, that probably wouldn't cover three or four hours of major machinery and personnel time to go out there and deal with that, let alone an entire mile. And the challenge is the issue doesn't stop and start every mile, so if you're going to go in and improve or clean out a drain, you typically have to do it for the entire section of drain or you're wasting your money. So, the only way to overcome that limitation is through working with the local municipalities to see if there are additional sources of revenue or funding that would allow us to go in and address the issue. We're always looking for those opportunities and other funding sources to try to address these issues. There's no specific drain that I would point to in terms of maintenance priority. In terms of actual new construction, in light of the current economic situation and where we have been since 2008, there literally has been a halt in the need for new infrastructure. So most of our emphasis and focus is on repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure. Again, whether it be drains or some of these combined systems, their useful life is typically 40 to 60 years. In a lot of cases we're at 80 years-plus, so we are primarily focusing in on refurbishing or maintaining those as opposed to building new infrastructure. OL: Many of the county's lakes are vulnerable to contamination either through combined sewer overflows (CSOs) or sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), depending on how sanitary sewer infrastructure is in place across the county. What, if anything, would you do to address this threat if elected water resources commissioner? NASH: As I've said in the previous question, it's learning and adjusting to properties to avoid the runoff in the first place. In my city of Farmington Hills, we put in pervious pavement on several of our properties, otherwise before that the runoff in a storm would have gone into the storm sewers and contributed to the OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
13
ONDERL AND
W WHERE PERFORMANCE COUNTS MA T RINE WES
SERVICING MICHIGAN AND BEYOND SINCE 1984
SouthBay *OUTSIDE STORAGE JUST $150 WITH ANY ADDITIONAL SERVICE PURCHASE * SHRINK WRAP ONLY $7.50 PER FOOT WITH ANY ADDITIONAL SERVICE PURCHASE * DISCOUNTED RATES FOR PICK-UP OR DELIVERY FOR ALL INSIDE & OUTSIDE BOAT STORAGE
-INSIDE STORAGE -OUTSIDE STORAGE -WINTERIZATION -PICK-UP & DELIVERY -OUTBOARD SERVICE -I/O SERVICE -JET DRIVE SERVICE -BROKERAGE SERVICE -NEW BOAT SALES -NEW PWC SALES -USED BOAT SALES -OUTBOARD MOTOR SALES -NEW AND USED BOAT/PWC FINANCING -FIBERGLASS SERVICE PLAY IT SAFE, DON’T BE SORRY! HAVE YOUR BOAT/PWC SERVICED AND MAINTAINED BY OUR FACTORY TRAINED MASTER TECHNICIANS.
5796 E. GRAND RIVER - HOWELL, MI 48843
1-800-226-3050
WWW.WONDERLANDMARINEWEST.COM
BOAT COVERS & UPHOLSTERY CUSTOM & REPAIRS Before
After
REPAIRS AVAILA WALL BLE A E scottylees.com S • • • • •
Boulder/Limestone/Wood/Vinyl/Steel Seawalls Retaining Walls/Pavers • Established 1990 • Quality Workmanship Waterfalls • Satisfaction Guaranteed Lawn Service Grounds Maintenance • Fully Insured Before
After
OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE Complete re-upholstery and repair of: • Marine Vinyl Boat & Canvas Covers • Damaged Interiors • Individual Custom-Fit Seat Covers • Marine Carpet & Flooring Replacement
FREE ESTIMATES Wide selection of Marine-Treated Vinyl, Naugahyde & Polymatic Thread used.
STANZ CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY Marine • Commercial • Residential 782 Sunset Drive • White Lake, MI 48383
FRANK STANZIONE 248.887.3745 14
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
overflow. What we're doing by putting pervious pavement on these surfaces is the water is not making it off the surfaces into the stormwater system. And as we have low-impact development, we can use those in new developments or when people are doing landscaping, when they are doing new parking lots, because again, you have to replace parking lots over time. We can do things like have bioswales either within the parking lot or around the parking lot. So whatever runoff comes off them is collected there and then slowly goes into the ground. Only 100-year storms would have stormwater overflow, so it's all in how we plan for the future and how we help companies or developments plan their pervious pavement, pervious surfaces to make sure we don't have runoff from them in the first place. You know we've been keeping up with it with stormwater fees and trying to control it when it happens, but we need to do so before it happens. McCULLOCH: With the combined sewer overflows, Oakland County has actually been ahead of the curve in addressing those issues by either the expansion or improvement of the old 12 Towns Drain, which is the George W. Kuhn Drain, and then the building of the three new basis in the Rouge Watershed that were constructed in the latter part of the 1990s. I'm pleased to report that we're in full compliance with the Clean Water Act by the construction and maintaining and operating of those four basins. As far as sanitary sewer overflow issues, we have been fortunate enough not to experience a significant number of those. Unfortunately they still do exist. We continue to work with the state agency in identifying those areas that have to be addressed, or those areas that are potentially vulnerable to create sanitary sewer overflows to avoid them from occurring in the future. That's been my focus is on the SSO side of the equation, given the fact that on the CSOs we've already addressed those. I think the readers have to understand the CSOs typically about 25 times a year will capture flow and retain it in that basin. But there are three or four times a year where it does overflow — it is treated and it is screened and it does meet water quality standards under the Clean Water Act, but they do occur. You can't build a facility large enough that would accommodate those types of occurrences. We just don't have a control over Mother Nature. So what we want to do is minimize them and obviously treat them to comply with the Clean Water Act. OL: Should the Water Resources Commissioner's Office have a broader role relative to general lake issues, such www.oaklandlakefront.com
as water quality monitoring, for example, given both the importance of these waterways to the quality of life in Oakland and the the ongoing decreases in state commitment of funds to help protect the waterways? NASH: One of the big issues right now to me — and the more I talk to people about it, people are upset, especially in the lakes region of the county — is the fracking leases that have been released and the water quality issues around that. And I want to make sure we do testing of groundwater and of lake water all around these areas because several of these leases are right near the water on Orchard Lake and Cass Lake. That can have serious infiltration underground; or if a well had blown out or something like that, which also does happen, we have to make sure we have really good systems. I would call for a moratorium on actually starting this exploration until we have top-of-the-line resources available to us in case there is a leak or in case there is a blowout, to stop any kind of infiltration into the water systems and to make sure if there is any kind of problem that the people responsible, the people doing the drilling are in fact going to be able to cover any costs to bring our water quality back. So we need serious testing around these areas where the fracking will be, in addition to what has already been done. We must make sure we have a system in place to stop anything in case there is a blowout or in case there is a serious accident. We had the name (of the job) changed to Water Resources Commissioner and these are the water resources we have. The recreational water we have with all these very large lakes and expensive properties around them, if we had a serious problem in one of these lakes, if we had a large fish kill or a large infusion of some of these fracking chemicals into the lake, it could affect property values, it could affect the ability of people to get on these lakes. That would hurt our economy a lot. Our county government takes a lot of pride in our recreational waters, and several years ago we did a study on the impact of our recreational waters on our county economy. It found it's very strong in terms of just having the recreation available to us and as a recruiting tool for companies when they are looking for employees. They can say we have fantastic parks and some of the best lakes in Michigan. So if we really value that, we have to make sure we protect it long-term. And that involves all the levels of protection for the lakes — lake levels, algae, invasive species, and the potential of chemicals coming in through runoff or from fracking. These are our water resources, and I think that’s the most important thing the office does besides regulating drains and sewers. OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
15
• Licensed • Insured
Financing Available • Full Service Electrical Contractor Service Electrical Contractor • Solar Panel Systems Full – Save up to 70% • Automatic Backup Generator Systems – $ Sales, $ Service, Installation, Maintenance
150 OFF 150 OFF Solar Panels or Wind Turbine
30 OFF $
Services With this ad
•Automatic Backup Generator Systems Sales, Service, Installation, Maintenance
With this ad Services of $150 or more
•Repair •Remodel •Reenergize •Backup Generators •Solar Panel Systems •Wind Turbines
800-964-7070
248-623-4900
Family Owned & Operated with Over 30 Years of Experience
SEAWALLS, DOCKS, MARINE CONSTRUCTION NEW INSTALLATION and REPAIRS “WE PROCESS ALL PERMITS” VINYL, STEEL, WOOD, BOULDERS, LIMESTONE, CONCRETE RIP-RAP, BIO-ENGINEERING, BOAT RAMPS, DAMS, SPILLWAYS, BOAT HOUSE RENOVATION
Previous Awards 2009, 2008, 2007
1400 Crescent Lake Rd. Waterford, MI 48327 248-673-4705 www.sunsetboats.com
Boat Winterizing Supplies Anti-freeze, Oils, Filters, Gear Lube, Fuel Stabilizers, Cleaners, Waxes, Mildew Remover, Hull Cleaners, Marine Accessories and much more.
248-884-4078 www.AdvancedLakefrontServcies.com 16
OCTOBER 2012
Shop our boating store for DIY supplies. Small maintenance items that are neglected now can lead to larger, more expensive repairs later. Schedule your service work today.
For Sale Brand New Bennington and Harris Pontoons Free Storage with your new boat purchase. Trade-ins welcome. Financing available. www.oaklandlakefront.com
McCULLOCH: I do believe there is the opportunity for a greater role. I've always indicated there's certain overlap between local jurisdiction as well as state jurisdiction on these water quality issues. It follows my thinking that water doesn't stop and start at jurisdictional boundaries. So I really believe that by allowing the Water Resources Office to have oversight on these issues that there would be better coordination and more resources allocated to those areas of concern. I've always felt that the state agencies should have more of an oversight or audit function, as opposed to a regulatory function. They can certainly set the standard, and then in terms of implementation in monitoring on a regular basis, that's something that I think can appropriately be done at the county level. Given the number of lakes, rivers and streams in our county, I think that's certainly a critical approach in order to maintain the water quality. OL: What are the three most important issues for the Water Resources Commissioner's Office at this time, and how do you propose to address them? NASH: Collaboration within the county and local governments and regionally with Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe — all the counties in southeast Michigan really have to be working together on this, and this is something I absolutely will be pushing. In terms of mitigating stormwater, that's what I talked about earlier, finding a way to help communities and businesses and even developments control that water before it gets into the system. We need to have the things in place that we aren't doing yet. There's another program that I've been working on and I will make it as much as I can a part of what the Water Resources Commissioner's Office would do. There's a company in Oakland County that has come up with a program that has the technology and everything available to them to start putting in power generating systems along our sewer main. And what this does is it would have little pulloffs along the sewer mains that would bring the wastewater flow through turbines to create power. And this could be done along large sewer lines where you would always have flow. There's constant flow, so there would be the availability of a truly non-environmentally disturbing power source where you could generate power from sewage flow over long periods of time on a regional basis. This has been something I've been working on for quite some time. Again, I've been very involved with sustainability and alternative energy sources. This is something that the water resources commissioner could do in the long-term that would really have an effect on our ability to generate clean power in this region. www.oaklandlakefront.com
McCULLOCH: As we just talked about, certainly maintaining the current infrastructure and striving to identify adequate funding to ensure we meet water quality standards here in the county. I think that's why people are attracted to this county, is because of the natural amenities. Secondly, continue to strive to address the Detroit water and sewer issues, since a majority of our communities do buy water or sewer services from Detroit. Given escalating water and sewer rates in recent years, obviously we must ensure that they are running that facility efficiently, and minimize those increases going forward. Thirdly, I would say striving to put into place permanent funding to deal with these infrastructure challenges. Most of this infrastructure was built with federal funds. In a lot of cases, 80 percent was funded by federal funds. Those programs do not exist today. So, one of the main reasons rate-payers are seeing such tremendous increases in their rates is because now the financial burden to replace or refurbish this infrastructure solely rests on the rate-payers. I believe it should be a formula whereby the rate-payers kick in one-third, there should be a permanent federal program to assist in funding some of this replacement and refurbishment, and then I think the state has a role to continue to provide low-interest loans for the other third of the equation. So funding would be the third issue of importance that I feel we need to continue to work on. OL: Why, specifically, should voters choose you over your general election opponent? NASH: I've been involved in politics and government here in Oakland County for many years. This is something that I've been working on for a very long time — sustainability, and collaboration regionally and among local governments. So it's something I think I've got experience doing. I've got a fairly good reputation in this area as somebody who is really always ready to work with whoever I can. McCULLOCH: I believe I've proven myself over the last 12 years in terms of how I've operated the office, really instilled continuous improvement in our operation and customer satisfaction. I truly view our operation as a service-provider to the 61 communities in Oakland County. Because of the challenges that we just talked about, I'd really like to be given an opportunity to serve four more years to see if we can put into place an improved (Detroit Water and Sewerage Department), a better funding source, and obviously enhance water quality throughout the county. â?? OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
17
GODDARD-TALMAY AGENCY 347 N. Pontiac Trail • Walled Lake, MI 48390
248-624-1531 18
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
YOUR NEIGHBOR FOR 37 YEARS MANUFACTURER CERTIFIED MECHANICS for your brand motor INSURED FOR YOUR PROTECTION
Dependable • Affordable • Service and Sales
Check Out Our Deals on Leftover Mod els! Everything Mus t Go… Make an Offer! EVERYTHIN MUST GO S G ALE!!
ACROSS FROM PONTIAC AIRPORT
6477 Highland Road (M-59) • Waterford, MI 48327
(248) 666-9922
www.andersonsboatsales.com
OAKLAND COUNTY’S LARGEST BOAT PARTS INVENTORY OVER $1 MILLION PARTS IN STOCK! Calabria, Alumacraft, Stingray and Award Winning Manitou Pontoons, Biscayne Bay, Yamaha, Volvo, Mercruiser, Johnson, Force, Mercury, Suzuki, Evinrude, Nissan, Honda, OMC
WINTERIZATION SPECIAL $
9999 SternMostDrives
Plus Parts
$
7999 Outboards
Plus Parts
SHRINK WRAP SPECIALS
Acid Wash
12999
$
Plus Acid
STORAGE
20000
$
For Winter Season
PICK-UP & DELIVERY WITH OTHER SERVICES (Up to 24 Ft.) Do-It-Yourself Winterization Products In Stock
Exclusive Images of
Every Michigan Lake Walled Lake Pictured
UTICA, MI (586) 731-5959 WWW.KWCYCLE.COM
With This Ad
Let Us Assist You with The WINTERIZING Storage and/or Shrink Wrapping Starting at $30 Month
DAVE’S MOBILE MARINE, INC. •WE BUY AND SELL MOTORS• Pontoon Hauling IO & Outboard Repair Lower Unit Repair Tune-ups
Order Today! (616) 956-0419 | AerialGRAPHICS.COM 20
OCTOBER 2012
WE C O M E TO Winterizing Y OU Service Calls
Shrink Wrapping
DAVE (248) 666-9248 www.oaklandlakefront.com
A
federal review of the state's water protection measures has spurred several proposed changes in how wetlands are regulated in the state under the guidance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The proposed changes — which include revamping some of the rules regarding wetland protection and permitting processes under Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act — are necessary for the state to retain its ability to oversee wetland permitting under the federal Clean Water Act. However, some environmentalists are concerned that the proposed changes could jeopardize some of the state's most vulnerable land. "The EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) conducted an audit of our (state wetland regulation) program and found that we have deficiencies," said Jennifer McKay, a policy specialist for the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council. "Some (proposed) changes are included that we support. Unfortunately, other provisions (we don't support) were included." McKay said the greatest concerns raised by the EPA regarded the state's wetland protection program and its permit exemptions available under that program. "Basically, Michigan is one of two states that administer the Section 404 (wetland protection) program for the federal government," McKay said. "There are lots of benefits that come with that … and it's more effective and efficient for the state (to regulate wetlands). In order to maintain the program, it has to be equivalent to the federal program. Some of this (newly introduced reform legislation) is broader than the federal government requires." The EPA found 22 instances where the state's wetland regulations fall short of those required under the Clean Water Act. Internal changes by the DEQ addressed 19 issues, with the remaining deficiencies requiring changes being enacted by Michigan lawmakers. Those changes relate to permit exemptions for utility work near wetlands, drains and agriculture practices regulated under the state's environmental protection laws. Failure to address the EPA's concerns would require wetland permit applicants to apply to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the DEQ, rather than allowing applicants to submit only one wetland permit application to the DEQ, as is currently the case. In an effort to meet the federal requirements and maintain the state's administration of all wetland regulation in Michigan, state Rep. Jim Stamas (RMidland) introduced legislation on Sept. 12 to establish uniform application fees and change current exemptions from wetland permitting requirements. His proposal, House Bill (HB) 5897, also would expand the Strategic Water Fund to provide assistance to local governments to increase oversight rainwater, sewage, and septic systems to improve water quality. An identical bill, Senate Bill (SB) 1311, was introduced in the states upper legislative chamber on Sept. 25 by state Sen. Michael Green (R-Mayville).
www.oaklandlakefront.com
"We are embracing mitigation banks," said Maggie Cox, legislative director for the DEQ. "It allows (permit applicants) to buy into wetland areas that are already created. Under current law, if you impact more than a third of an acre of wetland, you have to create two times the size impacted … you can't preserve it, you actually have to create it, which is expensive and not very successful." Wetland mitigation banks would include sites where wetlands are restored, created or — in exceptional circumstances — preserved expressly for the purpose of providing compensatory mitigation in accordance the state's wetland protection laws, in advance of authorized, unavoidable impacts to wetlands, according to a House Fiscal Analysis Agency review of the recently introduced HB 5897. The Wetland Mitigation Bank Funding Program would provide grants and loans of up to $10 million to eligible municipalities. Up to $500,000 could be used for grants, and funding could be used as long as it's available, according to a House Fiscal Agency analysis of the bill. The program would allow those destroying wetlands to buy into preservation of an existing wetland in the same watershed, according to the EPA. Furthermore, HB 5673, which is tied to the Stamas bill, would establish the Wetland Mitigation Bank Funding Program. cKay said the watershed council supports mitigation banks, but questions language regarding where watershed banking projects would be conducted in relation to those wetlands destroyed and those being created. Ecoregions — of which the state is divided into four — are regional landscape ecosystems that are classified by their ecological needs and land use patterns. McKay said the council would like to see banking projects done in the same watershed as those lost, rather than allowing created wetland locations to fall under broader ecoregions as provided for currently. Additionally, she said the council opposes changes to the ratio at which lost wetlands are replaced under state law. "Some wetlands are very rare and have more public benefits," McKay said. "Coastal wetlands, for instance, if you destroy those, the ratio (for replacement) is higher because we've had so many lost. They (lawmakers supporting the proposal) want to be able to reduce that ratio and have flexibility with it." Cox said the DEQ supports changing rules to address issues with replacement ratios. "It would provide more flexibility in mitigation ratios," Cox said of the recent reform legislation. "Right now, it's very prescribed … what we are proposing to do is to look at impacts of use, and then do mitigation and provide for some flexibility on how much of an impact the use will have. For instance, a farm going in will provide for wetland benefits, while a parking lot takes away use. This legislation directs us to do that." Portions of the Stamas bill regarding changes to drains maintained by county drain commissioners — or in Oakland County's case the county Water Resources
M
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
21
Before
Call Tom 248-681-4250
WOOD • BOULDERS • STEEL • VINYL
Tom’s Pontoon & Marine Services
Call Tom 248-681-4250
SEAWALL SPECIALIST
✓ Winter Storage $199.99 ✓ Summer Storage $59.99 Special 5 Services Package $499.99
After
NICK PAGE LANDSCAPING
248-887-8500
•COMPLETE LAKEFRONT RESTORATION •BRICK PAVERS •SPRINKLER SYSTEMS •WATERFALLS •RETAINING WALLS •TREE REMOVAL •TREES AND SHRUBS email: npage@seawallinst.com
1) Pick up and hauling from your boat ramp to our facility. 2) The full winterizing of your Outboard Motor (io’s could be extra). 3) Full end to end shrink wrapping with a min. of three (3) hanging damp rids in your boat and all proper ventilation. 4) Storage in our secure and lighted storage yard. 5) Spring time start up ... we will make sure your battery(s) are charged and check that your motor starts. * We can also price individual services separately if needed – Just ask!
✓ All types of Pontoon Hauling ✓ Local & Long distance ✓ Tri-Tube hauling specialist
Lighted and Secured storage yard in area of M-59 & Cass Lake Rd. Waterford, MI.
✓ Campers, trailers and other items welcome for storage LET US SELL YOUR PONTOON
Call Tom 248-681-4250 www.TomsPontoonService.com
Same Location Since 1930 Located on M-59 on Pontiac Lake
P•O•I•N•T
M A R I N A
WE WRAP 7 MIL
in Blue or Marine Parts and Accessories White Mechanical and Electrical Repairs Winterizing & Outside Storage Shrink-Wrapping - Tall & Tight with No Flat Spots Pontoon Hauling - Low Rates, Licensed & Insured Boat Cleaning & Acid Washing
The ONLY “Critter-Proof” Shrink-Wrapping For more informtion Visit us at Waltspointmarine.com
8226 Highland Rd. • White Lake MI 48386
248.666.2854 22
OCTOBER 2012
BOAT & JET SKI WINTERIZING, SHRINK WRAPPING, STORAGE • Pontoon Hauling • Jet Skis • Boats - Full Service • Major & Minor Repairs • Maintenance • Boat Detailing
FREERIDE MARINE KOMPONENTS
248-343-4888
www.oaklandlakefront.com
Commissioner's Office — has been met with overall support by the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner's Office, according to Joe Colainne, an attorney for the office. "One of the things I've been monitoring in respect to drains has been what kind of activities can be done within legally established drains — those that have been established under the Drain Code — and what kind of activities can take place without a permit," Colainne said. istorically, he said, projects involving general maintenance of drains established before 1973 weren't required to first obtain a permit from the DEQ. "The issue here has to do with what is required to maintain a drain if you need to pull a permit," Colainne said. "It takes time to do that, and that raises the cost to the drainage district and essentially the taxpayers. "We are monitoring this because we want to make sure we aren't adding additional costs to consumers for essentially doing what we are supposed to do." The house legislation is tied to additional bills, including HB 5673, sponsored by state Rep. Al Pscholka (R-Stevensville); HB 5674, sponsored by state Rep. Paul Opsommer (R-DeWitt); HB 5675, sponsored by state Rep. Peter MacGregor (R-Rockford); and HB 5676, sponsored by state Rep. Eileen Kowall (R-White Lake), all which would amend the state's Strategic Water Quality Initiatives Fund and State Revolving Fund Grant and Loan programs. Together, the bills would expand the current state Strategic Water Quality Initiatives Loan Program and establish a new state grant program. Additionally, they would expand the pool of eligible communities to allow for more access to funding for disadvantaged communities. Kowall's bill would change the amount that could be transferred from the Great Lakes Water Quality Bond Fund to other funds. Specifically, $90 million — down from $710 million — could be transferred to the State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund, which provides loans to local governments to finance the construction of sewage and storm water treatment facilities; and increase the amount transferred to the Strategic Water Quality Initiatives Fund from $290 million to $910 million. A fiscal analysis of the bills states: • The state Legislature has already budgeted $725,000 more in restricted funding from the Strategic Water Quality Initiative Fund and authorized five full-time employees to the DEQ to cover an anticipated increase in administrative costs under HB 5673; and • The Strategic Water Quality Initiative Fund would receive less funding in the future, as grant programs funded from the fund don't require repayment. Grants include individual grants of up to $2 million to municipalities for investments in sewage collection treatment systems and improvements in water quality and pollution prevention programs. The state Wetland Advisory Council, which is tasked
H
www.oaklandlakefront.com
with examining existing wetland regulations, was set up in large part in response to the EPA's review of Michigan's wetland program. The advisory council also worked with legislators, the EPA and DEQ officials, the Michigan Association of Drain Commissioners and other stakeholders to offer recommendations for changes to the wetlands program. Many of the proposed changes introduced in the Stamas bill have been in the works since 2009, when the advisory council was first created. While advisory council members have agreed that Michigan should retain authority over its wetland regulation program and not let that authority lapse in favor of federal oversight, council members in their final report of 2012 to the state Legislature stated that funding for the program will be challenging in the future. Council members looked at several long-term funding options to continue the program in the future, with the majority of funds continuing to come from the state's Unclaimed Bottle Deposit Fund. Additional revenue the council recommended seeking were moderate fee increases for permits and continued federal funding, as well as that from the Michigan Department of Transportation. "The program has made significant efficiency strides in the last several years, and additional streamlining and efficiencies will be gained by some of the initial recommendations of the council," the council stated in its final report for 2012. "Whichever funding methods are recommended by the council, these benefits will have to be strongly articulated so that all the beneficiaries (regulated community and general public) understand why the relatively modest amount of funding that the wetland program requires is so essential for resource protection and efficient economic development." Michigan's wetland statute defines a wetland as "land characterized by the presence of water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances does support, wetland vegetation or aquatic life, and is commonly referred to as a bog, swamp, or marsh." The definition applies to public and private lands regardless of zoning or ownership. etlands are a significant factor in the health and existence of other natural resources of the state, such as inland lakes, groundwater, fisheries, wildlife, and the Great Lakes. Wetlands provide flood and storm control through hydrologic absorption and storage capacity; wildlife habitat by providing breeding, nesting, and feeding grounds and cover for many forms of wildlife, waterfowl, migratory waterfowl, and rare, threatened, or endangered wildlife species; protection of subsurface water resources and provision of valuable watersheds and recharging groundwater supplies; pollution treatment by serving as a biological and chemical oxidation basin; erosion control by serving as a sedimentation area and filtering basin, absorbing silt and organic matter; and sources of nutrients in water food cycles and nursery grounds and sanctuaries for fish. ❏
W
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
23
LAKE SHERWOOD
Photo courtesy of Aerial Graphics - Exclusive Images of Every Michigan Lake - 1.616.956.0419 - AerialGRAPHICS.COM
P
ORT OF CALL
Location: Commerce Township Total Water Acres: 181 Lake Type: Artificial Lake Character: Warm water — stratified, shallow Total Shore Length: 5 miles Best Fishing: Panfish Islands: One Public Access: No
Lake Sherwood
C
ommon sense would tell you that if the lawn is long, it's time to cut it, so it should follow that tall aquatic weeds need to be removed. Why then is Oxford Township resident Gary Ohlgart asking neighbors on Squaw Lake to stop pulling water weeds from their property? "Just because you own property on the lake, it doesn't mean your property stops right there," Ohlgart said, gesturing to the lake from his beach on the northwest side of the lake. "You have to think of everyone else." There is an expectation among waterfront residents like Ohlgart that neighbors will coexist for the benefit of their lake — a belief that what damages your lake, damages everyone's lake. That's the way it had been since the 1980s, when Ohlgart was an up-and-coming beef jerky industry expert and moved his family to the once pristine shore off Harwood Drive. Then the weeds came. Eurasian watermilfoil — or myriophyllum spicatum by its Latin name — has been creeping through North American lakes since Gilligan's Island first aired on television. It may arrive by boats, birds or water currents, but controlling the aquatic invader after it takes root is more like a horror movie for Squaw Lake residents than a shipwreck sitcom. Steve Arb said he started seeing more weeds about two years ago, almost a decade after moving to shore of Squaw Lake. Thick beds of Eurasian watermilfoil now blanket most of the lake's bottomland, with the exception of two 50-foot holes near the center of the lake that provide scarce swimming locations free from weedy entanglements. "It's shrinking the lake because you can't go close to the shore because the weeds are so thick," Arb said, steering his pontoon boat away from a patch of Eurasian watermilfoil poking up through the water. "We used to water ski here and drop the kids off to swim. There used to be a rope swing there on the shore that they would swim to. They don't swim to the rope swing now." "It has spread like wildfire," Ohlgart said of Eurasian watermilfoil from the bow of his boat. "It's ruined the lake." A closer look at the lake from Arb's boat provided more perspective on the spread of Eurasian watermilfoil in the lake. Along the shoreline, under docks, dangling from boat propellers and floating freely in open water, mats of cut and raked Eurasian watermilfoil fragments were abundant. Considering also the weed's ability to root and form new colonies www.oaklandlakefront.com
from just a single fragment, Arb and Ohlgart said any efforts to rid their own lakefronts of Eurasian watermilfoil is futile unless all the residents agree to work together. Perusing the edges of the lake, Ohlgart and Arb point out a pontoon boat equipped with a hydraulic lift system attached to a raking grate on the underside of the deck. They said one of the residents they hope to get on board with the Eurasian watermilfoil mitigation effort uses the rig to pull up the weed from shallow lakefront areas and push it out into the deeper parts of the lake, eventually drifting along the bottom or floating along the top to all parts of the lake until they take root or wash up on the shoreline. They said they believe he is offering a service to property owners to clear their weeds, but it is ultimately helping spread more Eurasian watermilfoil at new locations or properties that have been harvested or treated with herbicides by a licensed applicator. Dick Pinagel, president of the Michigan Aquatic Managers Association and owner of Aqua-Weed Control, said raking or pulling Eurasian watermilfoil and then dumping it back into the lake would definitely contribute to the spread of the weed throughout the lake. Ohlgart said he acquired an herbicide applicator's license from the state in order to learn more about the Eurasian watermilfoil problem. However, efforts to speak to the person doing the raking in Squaw Lake haven't been successful. "He rammed into my paddle boat," Ohlgart claimed, recounting his story of trying to block the man's pontoon boat in a canal so that he would stop to speak. "So, I jumped into the water in front of his boat so he would have to talk." Ohlgart said he wasn't able to convince the resident to stop dropping the trimmed Eurasian watermilfoil back into the lake after it's cut. Likewise, Ohlgart said OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
27
the man doing all the cutting insists he isn't doing anything illegal or anything that isn't permitted under the state's environmental laws because he isn't adding or removing anything from the lake. "The guy cut about a week ago and there are stems still washing up," Arb said of the weed debris. "All the beaches were clean a few weeks ago." "It's like taking a dandelion and blowing it everywhere," Ohlgart added. Inspecting the shallow water in front of each resident's shoreline, it was easy to tell where raking had been done. At some homes the thick, green beds of Eurasian watermilfoil that ring most of the lake stop and start in relation to property lines; others have mostly clear bottoms that are sprouting new weeds. With other vegetation, such as the celery grass that's found in Squaw Lake, subsequently pulled out during the raking process, new Eurasian watermilfoil returns and crowds out the native aquatic plants. "It's a very destructive process," Pinagel said of clearing bottoms of weeds and leaving large amounts of fragments behind. "Many times, it does more harm than the use of a selective herbicide that is made to go in." According to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality's (DEQ) Water Bureau, which regulates weed control actions in Michigan's public waters, mechanical harvesting of weeds — such as cutting plants above the lake bottom without soil disturbance — doesn't require a permit from the state. Likewise, insignificant removal of vegetation done by hand via pulling, raking or cutting, doesn't require a permit. However, larger scale removal of plants may require a 28
OCTOBER 2012
permit from the DEQ's Land and Water Management Division, according to the DEQ Water Bureau. The DEQ's website also states that the "disposal of harvested material within inland lakes, on Great Lakes bottomlands, or in wetlands isn't allowed without prior written approval" from the Land and Water Management Division. Back at Arb's dock, Ohlgart reached into the water and pulled up a handful of loose, floating Eurasian watermilfoil. While Arb said he had his waterfront property treated in June and July for the exotic weed, new roots spawned by fragments washing ashore had already been established by mid-September. "I used to rake it up. When you get the roots out, you think that is going to help out, but…" he said, gesturing to the mats of Eurasian watermilfoil that surrounded the docks. Pinagel, with Aqua-Weed Control, said while he wasn't familiar first-hand with the issues at Squaw Lake, individual property treatments probably wouldn't do much to control new Eurasian watermilfoil from taking root if fragments are routinely left in the lake water. "If the whole lake was infected, we would approach the DEQ and try to get a permit and treat the whole lake with a Sonar application … and take out all the milfoil for them," Pinagel said. "We do that all the time … those are the best ways to handle that kind of problem. "Eurasian watermilfoil isn't much of a problem in many of the lakes in Oakland County," he added. "In White Lake, for instance, it's been eradicated. You won't see any there." Although Pinagel said herbicide treatments such as Sonar have been successful in controlling Eurasian watermilfoil, Ohlgart said Squaw Lake residents don't have a lake improvement board or any central organization to work within as a group to apply for permits and pay for whole-lake herbicide treatments, and that individual property owners go about weed control on their own. "Look at this," Ohlgart lamented while picking up milfoil fragments from his own beach and adding to a pile of weeds about the size of 5 pounds of cooked spaghetti he pulled from the shoreline the previous week. "This was all clean." ❏ www.oaklandlakefront.com
Article and photos by Kevin Elliott
Darwin Moore is battling a neighbor and the township over his Whipple Lake dock.
B
ad blood had already been brewing for about a year between Independence Township residents Darwin Moore and his next-door neighbor, Larry Osentoski, when a dispute about a dock took a long walk to Oakland County's 52-2 District Court. "They wrote me a ticket," Moore said of the Independence Township ordinance officer who cited him for a civil infraction for installing a dock at his house on Whipple Lake without first obtaining the proper permits from the township. Moore, who was first cited for the dock in April 2011, was ordered in July by 52-2 District Court Judge Kelley Kostin to remove the dock from the water and keep it out until he acquired written approval from Independence Township. "I was putting a second dock in ... I have one dock next to our neighborhood outlot and only one side of it is usable," Moore said. "I got along well with my former neighbor, so we used his dock." Moore, who said he believes his feud with Osentoski stems from a disagreement about a tree, acquired a second dock from a neighbor across the lake last summer. 30
OCTOBER 2012
He said he replaced the old wood, then installed the dock at an angle across the waterfront. Because the bottomland directly in front of his property contains rocks and other buried debris, he said he hoped to use the second dock to give his four children a better place to swim and his second boat a good location. "The new guy moved in and wanted to cut down a tree on my property. Then he cut it when I was on vacation," Moore claimed, gesturing to a row of trees he said he planted with his late father. "I confronted him. We haven't got along from the getgo." Moore said township officials told him the citation stemmed from complaints they received from a neighbor. Osentoski said he complained to the township about the dock because his waterway and view of the lake is blocked when Moore docks his pontoon boat there. While Moore has been ordered by the court to remove the dock, Osentoski said in a letter to Kostin that his neighbor continues to dock the boat there by fastening the craft to dock pillars that were left in the water after the dock deck was taken out. www.oaklandlakefront.com
"These actions continue to perpetuate the unreasonable interference of my enjoyment of my lakefront property by causing the water to stagnate due to restricted water flow to my shores," Osentoski wrote in an Oct. 1 letter to Kostin. "This stagnation has resulted in massive weed growth and murky water in locations where there was good flow and few weeds, resulting in my children not being able to fish the lake from the shore." Further, he said the dock pillars left in the water create a hazard, particularly once covered by snow and ice. Independence Township Building Director Dave Belcher said the township must now require Moore to obtain a permit to install the dock because the issue is bound by the court order. "The only way I can see that getting done is by going through the permit process in the wetlands and watercourse ordinance," Belcher said. "The ordinance regulates seasonal docks anywhere on the lake." Moore claims the permitting process could cost him several thousand dollars, as it requires him to pay for permit and application fees, as well as providing a retainer for a survey of the area where the dock would be installed. He also claims the township is attempting to stop him from installing the dock by claiming the seasonal structure would impact wetlands. Further, he said the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), which regulates dock permits under state law, has stated the department doesn't normally issue permits for seasonal docks. "They won't give me anything in writing to put (the dock) back in," Moore said of the township. www.oaklandlakefront.com
Ultimately, Moore said he doesn't believe the township has been enforcing the ordinance fairly, and that Independence Township shouldn't require a permit because it's not required by the DEQ. "It's arbitrary and inconsistent," he said. "The state told me it's their jurisdiction, but they don't go there (to issue permits)." Andrew Hartz, the district supervisor of water resources at the DEQ's office in Southfield, said while the department doesn't usually require permits for seasonal docks, it's completely within a municipality's authority to enact more stringent regulations. "If local municipalities feel there are issues important to them regarding seasonal docks, then they should put that down in an ordinance and enforce it," Hartz said. In general, he said the department doesn't get involved in disputes between neighbors, except in rare cases when staff is subpoenaed by a court to appear as a witness. "It's not a resource destruction issue," Hartz said of Moore's dock situation. "The placement of docks over a property line is really a misuse, it isn't a resource destruction issue. Unless the dock was abnormally long and caused a problem for navigation or something like that on the lake, it might be more of a cause or concern." Hartz informed Moore in an Aug. 14 letter from his office that Moore wouldn't need a permit from the DEQ to install his dock. However, Hartz said the department doesn't resolve local disputes. "There are typically two property disputes between neighbors at every lake," Hartz said. "You can imagine the number of calls we get." â?? OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
31
Since 1978
6777 Highland Rd. White Lake, MI 48383
248-887-7855 Visit our online store www.americanmarinesc.com
SEAWALLS Steel • PVC • Wood • Galvanized Steel • Boulders
WINTER BOAT STORAGE CALL FOR PACKAGE PRICING
• Rip Rap • Bio-Engineering
INSIDE & OUTSIDE BOAT STORAGE
PERMIT ASSISTANCE
DEQ Certified Commercial & Residential • Sales & Installation
Hewitt Lifts & Roll-A-Dock
Shrink Wrap Winterization Acid Wash Detailing Pick Up/Delivery
DO-IT-YOURSELF WINTERIZING • Shrink Wrap • Cleaners • Tape • Oil • Antifreeze ...OR WE CAN DO IT FOR YOU!
Docks Aluminum Docks Boardwalk Docks Vinyl Docks Poles & Accessories 4’X10’ BW 3’X10’ BW
Weed Rake Paddle Boats Jet Ski Lifts
WIPE OUT WEEDS IN THE WATER ADJUSTABLE UP TO A 270o ARC Drivehead, 3 Rollers, Dock Mount
32
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
JOHN & GAYLE HANNETT John’s cell phone (248) 939.3191 gayle1993@gmail.com
“Homes of Quality Are Our Specialty”
800 S. Woodward Ave. • Birmingham, MI 48009
WELCOME HOME TO PRIVATE ESTATE LIVING
Beautiful spring fed 470+ acre Lake Angelus is located just 18 minutes north of Birmingham. Designed by Bill Baldner of Clifford Wright Architects, this one of a kind custom built 10,000 sq. ft. home is on an 8 acre lake front estate where horses are permitted. Spectacular views of private Lake Angelus from high ground with over 250 ft. of lake frontage. First floor master bedroom, family room open to kitchen, floor to ceiling windows, fieldstone fireplace, hardwood floors, 3rd story cupola, 2 story 40’x10’ foyer, walk-out lower level with 40’x25’ finished recreation room, and a 4 1/2 car garage. Boat house with 2 bedroom apartment above -- much more -- fabulous! $2,975,000 LAK2025
ALL SPORTS - 189’ OF UPPER LONG LAKE FRONTAGE IN GATED HERON BAY
8000 sq. ft. of quality abounds. 1st floor master bedroom w/his & hers master baths. Open feel foyer, great room w/wet bar & beautiful family room & 11’ ceilings. Library w/ solid cherry paneling & built in executive desk & shelves. Hardwood floor & back stairways, plant shutters, heated pool & heated 4 car garage. Full house generator, kitchen & baths w/granite, family room with 16’ wet bar with copper top, mirrored excercise room includes quality equipment. 18’x14’ pool table room with great views. $1,695,000
LOWER LONG LAKE FRONTAGE
130 ft. of frontage on this magnificent soft rustic contemporary with elevated wooded setting and southern exposure offering spectacular lake views. Open flow for entertaining. Beautiful newer $150,000 kitchen, master bedroom with large walk-in closet jacuzzi, skylights, lots of western cedar, stone and glass. Office 15’x12’ with sliding door to courtyard/could be 6th bedroom. $1,200,000 LOC155
34
OCTOBER 2012
151 FT. OF LOWER LONG LAKE FRONTAGE Great location behind Kirk In The Hills Church. Walkout potential, nice elevation, the street has 2-3 million dollar homes. Lower Long Lake is a terrific fishing lake and can also access Forest Lake and Upper Long Lake by pontoon boat. $795,000
www.oaklandlakefront.com
Janet
Steve Direct:
Direct: 2900 Union Lake Rd., Suite 210 Commerce, MI 48382
248-366-7200
248-755-7600
248-755-7500
janet@TheStocktonTeam.com
steve@TheStocktonTeam.com
Zillow - Preferred Agent
800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message
The Stockton’s are the Lakes Area’s #1 Team! ST WE
D IEL MF O O BL
UNION LAKEFRONT PRICES - RISING - TIME TO BUY! •Great location, 75 ft. sandy shoreline, 200 deep-treed lot •Possible walkout site, seawall, Walled Lake Schools •Existing home, 2-3 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement GORGEOUS LAKE VIEWS @$495,000 #212088077 • EXT. #205 . WP ET AK L ITE WH
GORGEOUS RANCH HOME ON ALL-SPORTS BRENDEL LAKE •1,488 sq. ft. & finished walkout, 3-4 bedroom, 2 bath •Great room/dining - hardwood flr, snackbar kitchen •2 fireplaces, deck, lakeside patio, dock, shed MUST SEE @ $224,900 #212084331 • EXT. #210 . WP ET RC E MM CO
LAKEFRONT RANCH HOME ON ALL-SPORTS LONG LAKE •3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, open floor plan, Florida room •Great room, new snackbar kitchen, new flooring •Covered deck, dock, seawall, 2 car garage MUST SEE @ $299,900 #212075900 • EXT. #241
DL AR CH OR
E AK
CHARMING HOME ON ALL-SPORTS UPPER STRAITS LAKE! •3 bedroom, 2 bath, walkout basement, jet tub bath •Great room with corner fireplace, kitchen with appliances •Huge party deck, lakeside deck & dock, 2 car garage A MUST SEE @ $624,900 #212100812 • EXT. #232 . WP DT N A HL HIG
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME ON ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE •2,962 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 2 bath, vaulted dining •Library, great room, stone fireplace, vaulted family room •Granite kitchen - ss appliances, 1st flr laundry, basement PERFECT @ $349,900 #212093248 • EXT. #246 E AG ILL EV N I R LVE WO
GORGEOUS LAKE FRONT HOME ON WOLVERINE LAKE •2,514 sq ft + finished walkout, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath •Great room - fireplace, master - jet tub bath - deck •Deck, patios, dock, seawall, first floor laundry, 2 car UNBELIEVABLE @ $499,900 #212089282 • EXT. #255
D IEL MF LOO B ST WE
80 FT. OF SANDY SHORELINE ON ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE! •2 separate buildable lots, newer 2 car detached garage •Existing 3 bedroom, 2 bath, great room, stone fireplace •Vaulted Florida room, family room, 1st floor laundry ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES @ $539,900 #212084822 • EXT. #279 . WP DT LAN T R HA
127 FT. OF BULLARD WATERFRONT - TREED .43 ACRE •Incredible views, 2,116 sq ft + walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath •Granite, hardwood, wet bar, part fin w/o + appliances •Circle drive, elevated/tiered decking, patio, 1st flr laundry A RARE FIND @ $249,900 #212091684 • EXT. #234
L ITE WH
. WP ET AK
ALL-SPORTS BRENDEL LAKEFRONT - 1.4 ACRE LOT •4,000+ sq ft, 5 bedroom, 3.2 bath, hardwood throughout •Living and family rooms, newer kitchen - appliances •Master suite, fireplace, sauna, 2 car + 1 car garage GREAT VALUE @ $399,900 #212103989 • EXT. #224
www.TheStocktonTeam.com
Lake Home Financing Specialist Lakefront Lending for over 10 years
Making a difference one family at a time! • Exceptional customer service • Approvals in as little as an hour • Immediate response to all inquiries • Closing in as little as 30 days • Experience you can trust
Call Today! 248-762-8915
“His work ethic and attention to detail displayed his commitment to my family.” – Michael Bone V.P. of ABC Warehouse, Resident on White Lake “His integrity and knowledge continuously exceeds expectations!” – Matt Cotter President of Lawrence Plastics, Cooley Lake Resident
Stephen Ferency Loan Specialist sferency@goldstarfinancial.com NMLS ID#169277
NMLS ID#3446 36
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
25 South Main St. Clarkston, MI L RT PO S L AL
(248)
Take a Virtual Tour Online:
www.mmrealtors.com
E AK
D ON EP T IVA PR
CLARKSTON ALL SPORTS LAKEFRONT! Well maintained home on large double lot, home includes two sidewells. Don’t miss out on this exceptional value. ”Be in by Christmas!” 1,362 sq ft of Walter’s Lake Views. Three possible bedrooms, third walkout closet and a huge loft area for guests. 49-LAK $154,900
HALLELUIAH! COUNTRY LIVING IN AN URBAN SETTING Estate parcel w/pond frontage sets the stage for this "model home" perfect treasure. Cherry cabinets, hardwood floors, granite tops, designer paints & carpeting. Main level master, walkout lower & just a stones throw to state of the art elementary and conveniences galore make this a "10!" 67-CAN $299,000 L RT PO S L AL
DESIRABLE LAKEFRONT WALK OUT Clarkston schools. 0.6 acre lot has tranquil views of Foley Lake from the new rear deck. Remodeled kitchen & baths with granite and hardwood floors. Newer carpet & paint throughout. Freshly painted exterior with 2 car side entry garage. 2nd deck off master to enjoy lakefront view with the wildlife. 42-COA $248,000 L RT PO S L AL
CLASSIC ENGLISH TUDOR Enveloped by picturesque nature full of wildlife, all on your own 10 acre mini estate! Hickory island kitchen, gleaming hardwood floors, bay windows, 2 story foyer, wrap around deck w/gazebo, large private pond and a 40’x30’ heated pole barn armed with all of the tech. necessities including geo thermal heating. 10-HUM $399,900
E AK
OWN YOUR OWN RESORT! Over 5,000 Sq. Ft. of captivating waterfront views. This striking lakefront, complete with expansive decking, is ideal for entertaining. Interior is the “Ritz” with special rooms for every family member. Enviable kitchen/hearth, explosive great room and a walkout finished to perfection. 44-MAJ $659,000
E AK
BETTER KNOWN AS CLARKSTON'S "CASTLE" It's been said to cost $10,000,000 to build. Sited on a 4.5 acre spread and with 476' frontage on Heather Lake. Old world charm t/o from complete stone & brick exterior to leaded glass windows t/o and hand carved moldings, trim, railings and staircases. In-ground pool, 2nd garage w/guest quarters. The creme de la creme! 44-NEW $1,490,000 L RT PO S L AL
Emily Ford
INCREDIBLY BREATHTAKING Forested lakefront parcel. Site plan for (8) acreage parcels on all-sports (235 acre) Lake Oakland. Once in a lifetime opportunity! Build your dream home, while seven other building sites serve as an investment. 00-OAK $650,000
$
Kenice Schooley
625-1010
Susan Tolstyka
www.oaklandlakefront.com
E AK
Ron Serafini
Darlene Goodwin
Cheryl Karrick
EXTRAORDINARY HILLSIDE CONTEMPORARY with stunning views overlooking 200 acres of all-sports Big Lake with enough space for the entire family. Awesome 2-story spa room with bar opens to expansive deck. 11-BIG $245,000
$ Multi-Million Dollar Talent $ $
Darlene Darby
Karen & Jim Moreen
Tracey Wertman
Bob Newman
Pam Ford Morgan
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
37
SPECIALIZING IN LUXURY LAKEFRONT & CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL HOMES
1160 LAKE ANGELUS SHORES Ultimate Lakefront Estate - Newer construction, 2.5 acres with 192 ft. Lake Frontage, 4 bedroom, 4.2 baths, 5,000+ sq ft., boat house, 6 car heated garage with caretakers apartment - landscaping, gated entry, park like setting & landscaping. Every possible amenity and upgrade you can think of. You will not be disappointed!
$2,799,900
2260 PRIVATE DRIVE, LAKE ANGELUS Fabulous South Shore ranch on a point with 180 degree views. All updated in last 2 years, gourmet kitchen 6 mos. old, 5 bedroom, 4.3 baths, 4+ car garage, 3.5 acres. Over 5,000 sq. ft. plus additional 2,500 sq. ft. in finished lower level. Extremely private - hardwoods/granite/ marble - too much to list.
$1,999,900
850 LAKE ANGELUS SHORES Fabulous South Shore Lake Angelus Home Newer - 6 bedroom, 5 full and 2 half bath, 4,500 sq. ft. above grade and an additional 2,650 sq. ft. in finished walkout lower level (with 13 ft. ceilings). First floor master suite, gourmet kitchen, open floor plan, stone fireplace, lower level in-law quarters, 5 car heated garage, 1+ acres, new permanent dock, fabulous deck across entire front of home to showcase the views.
$1,899,900
PRISTINE AND PRIVATE LAKE ANGELUS YOU’LL THINK YOU’RE IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN. Crystal clear, spring fed, 470+ acre private Lake Angelus. Water Skiing and sailing. No jet skis. 15 minutes north of Birmingham/Royal Oak/Southfield. Call me for your personal tour. 2074 LAKE ANGELUS SHORES Fabulous 4 bedroom ranch on “Shores Drive”. First time on the market. 3,000 sq. ft., 2.5 baths, sunsets, 6 car heated garage. Private setting.
2478 LAKE ANGELUS LANE Very affordable Lake Angelus home with great views and ready to move in for summer. 3-4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3,672 sq. ft. above grade with add’l 1,300 sq. ft. in finished walkout lower level. 2.85 acres.
$975,000
$699,000
2405 LAKE ANGELUS ROAD Horses, horses, horses 6.25 acres - 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3.5 baths, horse barn, pole barn, tack room, corrals, walkout lower level, 3,200 sq. ft.
2378 LAKE ANGELUS LANE Fabulous lake views. 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2,000 sq. ft. ranch with 1,600 sq. ft. in finished walk out lower level. deck, paver patio, 2 car garage, stone seawall.
$999,900
$859,900
2445 LAKE ANGELUS ROAD - VACANT LAND 2.38 acres - 106’ x 999’ - cash - land contract - $649.900
LEE EMBREY 248-283-8151
E-MAIL: LEMBREY@ SKBK.COM
415 S. OLD WOODWARD BIRMINGHAM, MI 48009 248-283-8151 WWW.SKBK.COM
CHECK OUT LEE’S WEBSITE AT WWW.LEEEMBREY.COM OR WWW.LAKEANGELUS.COM
www.oaklandlakefront.com
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
39
DENISE SIMMONS
248.496.4847 deniseworks4you@yahoo.com
16801 NEWBURGH RD. LIVONIA, MI 48154
Absolute Must see! Very Rare 5 Acre, Wooded Lake Front Estate With over 5900 square feet of living space on Private 270 +/- Acre ALL sports lake. 250 Ft. lake frontage with breath-taking views. Nantucket-style home completely remodeled exterior & interior in 2006-2007. 50 Foot Long Gourmet kitchen with 15 ft. granite island, double Stainless Steel Appliances. Huge master suite with fireplace & deluxe spa bath. Open floor plan. Oxbow Lake is one of the larger lakes in the “Lakes Area� and is 270 +/- acres and over 50 feet deep from end to end. This private lake has no off water access or DNR boat ramps. Enjoy year-round activities, watch nature unfold, play on the 80 foot sandy beach. This property is pristine and a warm and welcoming family home. $775,000
40
OCTOBER 2012
www.oaklandlakefront.com
CYNDI ROBINSON 23 Years of Successful Experience!
(248) 431-4571 cell www.cyndirobinson.com realestateone.com/crobinson
560 N. Milford Rd. Milford
Thinking of Selling? Think Cyndi, Think Sold! LAKEFRONT AND ACREAGE SPECIALIST!
PUT YOUR HOME ON MY SOLD LIST KE LA T ITE RON H W KEF LA
GE EA CR EA K LA
13 ACRE ESTATE IN MILFORD AREA! Exceptional all stone and cedar home with hundreds of feet of shoreline on private Downey Lake. Exotic woods throughout. Tigerwood floors, rosewood and walnut species used for custom cabinetry. Gallery style spaces and large outbuilding for workshop/storage. The house has a 60’ x 30’ hobby barn separate outbuilding with 14 ft. tall doors. A 2 car garage under the house and attached 3 car garage. $995,000 on 13 acres, and $1,145,000 on all 23 acres. MLS#211088932 (809H3)
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOT Main lake! 2,702 sq. ft. (approx.) Classic Cape Beach style with artistic landscape w/1,000 sq. ft. paver patio outdoor kitchen & firepit built-in gas grill. Sandy beach. Tile floors in kitchen, DR & GR. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths. C/A. Heated garage & radiant flrs. Room to park w/space by house/large driveway. Lakeside master w/jet tub & sep shower. Built-in wall of shelves/plant ledges. 2-story. $464,900 MLS#212086175 (3252L)
E AK DL OU R P
T ON FR KE LA
DISCOVER MALLARDS LANDING IN HIGHLAND Stunning home on 1 acre manicured lot. Over 200 feet of shoreline. All brick, skillfully and artfully constructed, one of the best values in Michigan! Quality radiates. Travertine floors, granite counters, 5 bedrooms, 3 are ensuites, 5.5 baths. Finished walkout. 7,000 sq. ft. total of fine living! 4 plus garage. A must see property! $546,000 MLS#212103268 (4534T3) KE LA EY WN O D
STRIKING PROUD LAKE 1.5 STORY Tucked into the hillside! A rare find! 3,112 sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 3 bath treasure on all-sports lake, leads to Huron River. Amid 4,700 acres of Proud Lake! Carriage style garage, perennials galore. 2 level deck. Seawall. Endless views. Hickory/granite kitchen, SS appliances. Desk nook. All paved roads. Main body of lake. Walled Lake Schools. $359,900 MLS#212080718 (3313G3) ITE TS OU LK A W
HIGHLAND VALLEY One of the nicest lots in the sub! Backs to private Kyle Park and Downey Lake. Enjoy wooded and lake views. Canoes and kayaks allowed. Home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, an island kitchen with granite counters. Hardwood floors in entry, dining, kitchen and den! Unfinished walkout is bright with lake picture window. Beautiful decking! $314,900 MLS#212022371 (788J3)
BUILD SITE ON ALL-SPORTS 540 ACRE WHITE LAKE Not many lots on this size lake available without tearing a home down! A true walkout! All paved streets and in a sub of mostly improved homes! New well to be in and a new septic for a 3 bed home. County approved-installed on the property! Seller did tear down & haul away. Stop dreaming & start building! Sandy beach. Views of wildlife & main lake. $142,900 MLS#212078005 (3908H3)
T LO KE LA
LAKE LOT ON 2 LAKES! Now is the time to build! Affordable interest rates, builders are anxious for work! Located in Mallards Landing on Cul-de-sac. Fronts 2 lakes that connect! Beautiful homes in area. Almost one acre build site! Walkout possible. Past perk on file. EZ build restrictions. $69,900 MLS#212097696 (MAL3)
20 Years Solid Successful Experience in the Milford, Highland, Commerce, White Lake & Lakes Area.
PUT YOUR HOME ON MY SOLD LIST! 2012 SOLDS & PENDING SALES! 1651 Kingsway, Highland 3496 Harvey Lake Rd., Highland 4667 Windswept, Milford 3433 Gadd Ct., Highland 8106 Heron Hills, Walled Lake 790 Friar, Milford 2900 Hidden Pine, Milford www.oaklandlakefront.com
2833 Windwood Ct., Commerce 3252 Lakeview, Highland 1784 Lockwood, Highland 214 Ravineside, Milford 3045 St. Jude, Waterford 2974 Cloverdale, Highland 1710 Imperial, Highland
2900 Pallister, Highland 2845 Cherry Rd, Highland 10460 Davison Rd., Davison 3066 White Oak Beach, Highland 10716 Oxbow Lakeshore, White Lake 5670 Berkley, Waterford OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
41
Deer Lake
Lake Oakland
• 4 Bedroom Suites - 5.1 Baths • 52,000 Gal. Salt Water Pool • 7 Fireplaces - Cabana Guest Suite • 8,659 Sq. Ft. - 3 Car Heated Garage • Western Exposure - Clarkston Schools • $1,975,000
Middle Straits Lake
• 5 Bedroom - 4.1 Baths • 2 Master Suites - Finished Lower Level • 187 ft Frontage - 1.64 Acres • 6 Car Heated Garage • 5,882 Total Sq. Ft. • $1,599,000
• 6 Bedroom - 4.5 Baths • 2 Master Suites - 2 Kitchens • 129 ft Front-South Exposure • 3,729 Sq. Ft. - 2,448 Sq. Ft. Lower Level W/O • 2 Story Great Room - Walled Lake Schools • $997,000
LD SO
LD SO
Lower Straits Privileges
Maceday-Lotus Lake
• 3 Bedroom - 2.1 Baths • 2 Story Great Room • First Floor Master bedroom • 3 Car Attached Garage • SOLD IN 7 DAYS FOR FULL PRICE
• 4 Bedroom - 3.1 Baths • 2 Story Great Room - Western Exposure • 1 Acre Rolling, Hilly Wooded Lot • Multiple, tiered decking • Finished Walk-out
G IN ND PE
LD SO
Watkins Lake
Walters Lake
• 3 Bedroom - 2.1 Baths • Field Stone Fireplace • Hardwood Floors - 2 Car Garage • Open Floor Plan • Stunning Sunset Views • SOLD IN 7 DAYS
Direct: 248.736.3000
Commerce Lake
• 4 Bedroom - 2 Baths • 2-2 Bed/1 Bath Guest Apartments • Authentic Log Home Built in 1930 • 2 Story Fieldstone Fireplace & Great Room • 6,000 approx Sq. Ft - Clarkston Schools • $449,000
~
www.rwwatson@skbk.com
• Unique Lakefront Vacant Lot • West Exposure - Private Dead-end • 161 Ft. Sandy Shoreline • 262 Acre All-Sports Lake • Walled Lake Schools • $160,000
~
Email: Rwwatson@skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Michael
Call NEW TREND Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
★
(248) 681-8500 (248) 553-5050
V i s i t w w w. T h e M i c h a e l Te a m . c o m
SPECTACULAR LOWER STRAITS LAKEFRONT $1,350,000 Call Michael★
CASS LAKE $399,000 Call Michael★
WALNUT LAKE $1,999,000 Call Michael★
ORCHARD LAKE $749,000 Call Michael★
ORCHARD LAKE $1,290,000 Call Michael★
PINE LAKE $4,500,000 Call Michael★
UPPER LONG LAKE $999,000 Call Michael★
ORCHARD LAKE $2,190,000 Call Michael★
CASS LAKE $1,290,000 Call Michael★
LOWER STRAITS LAKE $1,290,000 Call Michael★
Prospecting for waterfront listings? Hoping to move that special lakefront home to someone already living on water? Then make sure you cast in the right place — Oakland Lakefront magazine, reaching over 17,000 lake homeowners in Oakland County seven times this year by direct mail. It’s your best bet for putting yourself in the top tier when it comes to listing waterfront property — by making yourself a familiar figure to those who will be selling and/or buying. If you want to hear more about how inexpensively you can reach this important real estate prospect market call your ad representative.
O O
AA
K K
LL
AA
N N
D D
LAKEFRONT
INTERNET DIRECTORY
Guide to Lake-Related Sites on the World Wide Web AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY Aerial Graphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aerialgraphics.com BEACH RESTORATION TT&C Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ttcbeaches.com BOAT COVERS Bev’s Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.bevscanvascovers.com BOATS/NEW & USED Lake Ponemah Marina . . . .www.lakeponemahmarina.com BOAT REPAIRS/FURNITURE American Soft Trim . . . . . . . . .www.americansofttrim.com BOAT SERVICES Toms Pontoon Service . . . .www.tomspontoonservice.com BOATING SUPPLIES Boating Supply Center . . . . . . . . . .www.boatsupplies.com DOCKS & LIFTS American Marine . . . . . . . . . .www.americanmarinesc.com LAKE MANAGEMENT SERVICES Aqua Weed Control, Inc. . . . . . . . . . .www.aquaweed.com
Go direct or reach these lake-related websites at www.oaklandlakefront.com Ask about promotion opportunities on our website www.oaklandlakefront.com by phoning 248.360.6397 44
OCTOBER 2012
WE CAN WHEELBARROW YOUR SAND FOR YOU!
Boulder Sea Walls Boulder Retaining Walls Limestone Walls & Stairs Rock Garden Projects Over 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates Licensed and Insured • Guaranteed Workmanship
(517) 861-0207 • curtis@michiganrockscapes.com www.michiganrockscapes.com Like us on facebook
www.oaklandlakefront.com
waterway levels
Following are the waterway level readings for lakes and rivers across Oakland County, as compiled by personnel in Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch’s office. Legal levels are denoted by elevation in feet from sea level. Current (one month prior to press time) levels are denoted both in elevation from sea level and as plus or minus the legal level in hundredths feet. Prior year elevation from sea level is provided as a comparison. River depths are measured from the river bottom, at the point of measurement.
LAKE
LEGAL LEVEL
10.5.12
+ OR -
PRIOR YEAR
NOTES & REMARKS
Angelus
950.00
949.54
–.46
Bevins
910.40
910.31
–.09
950.20 910.72
Big
1017.30
1016.65
–.65
1017.36
Winter Lvl: 1016.70
Bunny Run
965.95
965.91
–.04
966.15
Winter Lvl: 965.45
Bush Lake
913.60
913.04
–.56
913.70
Cass
927.87
929.20
1.33
929.20
Cedar Island
934.00
934.37
+.37
934.30
Cemetery-Dollar
968.50
968.12
–.38
968.35
Clinton River
2.10
2.20
+.10
2.68
Commerce
906.80
906.97
+.17
907.30
Summer Lvl: 929.22 2)
Crystal
917.50
917.55
+.05
917.97
7) Winter Lvl: 917.00
Dawson Mill Pond
928.60
928.71
+.11
928.45
6) Winter Lvl: 927.25
Duck
1016.63
1016.57
–.06
1016.74
Fox
930.00
930.02
+.02
930.40
Huron River
1.08
1.00
–.08
1.66
Indianwood
992.12
992.74
+.62
992.83
5) Summer Lvl: 992.62
Lakeville
952.30
952.30
Legal
952.28
Long (Commerce Twp.)
933.00
933.21
+.21
933.28
Loon
949.30
949.59
+.29
949.58
2), 3)
Louise-Huff
962.27
962.31
+.04
962.28
8)
Middle & Lower Straits
930.70
929.84
–.86
930.70
Mohawk
949.30
949.49
+.19
949.75
Oakland-Woodhull
957.50
957.65
+.15
957.52
Orchard
930.20
930.03
–.17
930.63
Oxbow
942.75
942.77
+.02
942.73
Oxford-Multi
1017.80
1017.95
+.15
1017.96
Pontiac
962.83
962.30
–.53
963.40
Schoolhouse
949.30
949.49
+.19
949.62
Scott
951.00
949.16
–1.84
949.78
Sylvan-Otter
928.60
928.71
+.11
928.70
Tipsico
1015.39
1,014.46
–.93
1015.30
Union
927.07
927.12
+.05
927.30
Upper Straits
930.80
929.99
–.81
931.14
2), 3) Summer Lvl: 930.50 1) 2), 3) 6) Winter Lvl: 927.25
Van Norman
966.70
966.73
+.03
966.80
2), 4)
Walled & Shawood
932.80
931.63
–1.17
933.21
Winter Lvl: 932.10
Watkins
950.00
949.94
–.06
950.00
Waumegah
1049.90
1049.42
–.48
1049.60
White
1019.10
1018.60
–.50
1019.07
Williams
965.42
965.06
–.36
965.38
NOTES: 1) Oxford-Multi includes: Cedar, Clear, Long, Squaw, Mickelson & Tan Lakes. 2) Waterford-Multi (WML) includes: Cemetery (Middle), Dollar, Greens, Maceday, Lotus, Lester, Van Norman, Williams, Mohawk, Wormer, Schoolhouse, Silver, Upper Silver and Loon Lakes. 3) The Loon Lake control structure also controls Mohawk, Wormer, Schoolhouse, Silver and Upper Silver Lakes. 4) The Van Norman control structure also controls Greens, Maceday, Lotus and Lester Lakes. 5) Lake Angelus, Huron River and Clinton River levels not under the jurisdiction of this office. 6) The Dawson Mill Pond and Sylvan-Otter Lakes are controlled by the Price Dam. 7) Crystal Lake is controlled by the Walter Moore Dam. 8) Lake Louise and Huff Lake are controlled by the Ruth Johnson Dam.
2)
WEEKLY Lake Level Updates @ oaklandlakefront.com oaklandlakefront.com
www.oaklandlakefront.com
OAKLAND LAKEFRONT
47
3241 THOMPSON ROAD, FENTON, MI 48430
810-629-2291 E SID E T OU RAG STO
INS STO IDE RA GE
We can provide Pontoon and Boat Pick-Up and Delivery, Professional Fiberglass Repair & Boat Detailing, Shrink-Wrap, Stern Drive Pull and Grease, Oil Changes and Basic Winterization. Factory-Authorized Service Center for Mercury, MerCruiser, Yamaha, Honda, Johnson, Evinrude, Yamaha Jet Boats and Waverunners
For questions or pricing email us at service@freeway-sports.com
48 OCTOBER 2012 www.oaklandlakefront.com
www.oaklandlakefront.com OAKLAND LAKEFRONT 3