Big Sand Lake Association
committed to the preservation of Big Sand Lake
Lake News Archives
Archived News from the Big Sand Lake area.
12/05/2024 - REMEMBER to be Ice Smart this season
02/03/2025 - Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center
Please see the link below for the 2024 Annual Report, which highlights the progress they have made, and introduces their new 10-year strategic plan aimed at delivering even more impactful solutions.
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/4b555e840d8043a0857ee6df8412186e
01/08/2025 - Minnesota Lakes and Rivers
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, we at MLR remain energized by the momentum generated last year. Our mission remains steadfast: to build the civic imagination and infrastructure necessary at the local level to safeguard Minnesota’s lake heritage—lake by lake by lake.
2024 was a landmark year for MLR, marked by several legislative and programmatic achievements, including:
- Securing $385,000 to provide boat cleaning equipment at accesses infested with starry stonewort.
- Doubling the participation of member lake associations in the Lake Steward Program,
- Expanding the Homestead Tax Credit to further support lakefront property owners.
- Updating the inventory of public waters to include previously excluded water bodies,
- Increasing funding for the Lawns to Legumes program by $800,000 statewide,
- Extending a $3.82 million MAISRC grant to prioritize research-based solutions to mitigate aquatic invasive species until 2028.
- Launching a Boat Wrap Recycling program to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.
- Supporting groundbreaking “First-in-the-Nation” legislation to fund research into rough fish ecology and draft regulations for their sustainable management.
As we look ahead to 2025, MLR remains focused on building upon these successes with new initiatives:
- Advocating for an increase in the AIS surcharge on three-year boat registrations to expand funding for Invasive Aquatic Plant Management (IAPM) grants.
- Updating legislative language to further promote shoreline protection and restoration.
- Adapting and expanding the Lake Steward program to engage urban communities.
- Strengthening our leadership network to address the spread of starry stonewort and other invasive species with best management practices.
- Growing MLR’s capacity through the Water Connects Us All fundraising campaign.
Additionally, if you like, you can get involved with the following events and activities.
AIS Webinar: Starry stonewort science, prevention, and management
https://umn.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OXSsp829QgWR01eQKvsURA#/registration
12/05/2024 - Minnesota Lakes and Rivers
Some concerning information to be shared about eating Walleye and Perch from lakes that have been infested with Zebra Muscles.
MPRNEWS Study: Walleye in lakes with zebra mussels have higher mercury levels
ScienceDirect: Increased mercury concentrations in walleye and yellow perch.
11/11/2024 - Hubbard County COLA
As many of you know, Sharon Natzel stepped down from her role as President. Sharon will now be acting as Secretary for Hubbard County COLA. We at Big Sand Lake would like to thank Sharon for her long time work with the organization.
If you would like to subscribe to the Hubbard County COLA Newsletter, please use this link.
11/11/2024 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
The MN Lakes and Rivers Advocates - MLR 2024 Lake Steward Webinar is now available on the Minnesota Lakes and Rivers (MLR) website. The recording provides valuable information for anyone considering becoming a Lake Steward or looking for ways to better care for our lakes and rivers. To listen, please use this link.
11/11/2024 - Another Area Lake Infested with Zebra Muscles
As many of you know, Zebra Muscles were found and confirmed by a homeowner on Potato Lake this fall. If you have a subscription to the Park Rapids Enterprise, you may use this link to read the story.
10/11/2024 - Fall Newsletter 2024
CLICK HERE to read or download the BSLA 2024 Fall Newsletter
08/29/2024 - Welcome New Board Members
President: Catharine Williamson
Vice President: Ann Hilger
Treasurer: Al Judson
Secretary: Barbara Billing
We also welcome the following committee members, and thank everyone for volunteering to help preserve and protect our beloved lake: Wick Corwin, Bryce Craig, Mike Cziok, Linda Lee, Mark Kalvoda, Jo Kilander, Steve Kimpton, Rich Provinzino and Justin Young
08/20/2024 - Chuck Fenton Memorial Golf Classic
When: Saturday, September 7 - Tee times start at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Headwaters Golf Club, 20018 CR1, Park Rapids 56470
All Big Sand residents and guests are invited to our 7th Annual Two-Part Golf and Taco Bar Fall Social – now to be known as the “Chuck Fenton Memorial Golf Classic”.
Please join us for a great time, share a meal and to raise a glass to joyfully remember and honor Chuck’s dedication to this event and all things Big Sand.
Part One – 9-Hole Golf Scramble: Players of all levels, beginners to experienced, are encouraged to participate in this informal, fun, and barely competitive event. Tee times start at 2:30. Four-person teams will be assigned unless otherwise requested.
To play golf: Contact Mike Cziok, drcziok@gmail.com by Wednesday, September 4
Part Two - Taco Bar Dinner and Social at 5:30: Everyone is encouraged to attend. Reservations for the meal are greatly appreciated, but not required if you are able to come at the last minute. Drawings will be held for door prizes, plus prizes for a few fun golf events.
To RSVP for the taco bar dinner: Jo Kilander, jolkilander@gmail.com
Details: Location – Headwaters Golf Club, 20018 CR1, Park Rapids 56470
Taco Bar and Social will be on the enclosed patio rain or shine.
Cost for Golf: $20 -- 9-hole walking Green fee for non-Headwaters Members $10 – optional cart fee
Cost for Dinner: $18 includes beef and/or chicken tacos, sides and dessert. Note - BSLA members will be provided one free drink ticket for the open bar.
07/23/2024 - Chuck Fenton Memorial
Charles "Chuck" Fenton, age 75 of Litchfield, passed away in Park Rapids, MN on Friday, July 19, 2024. A memorial service for Chuck will be held on Friday, July 26, 2024, at First Lutheran Church at 1:00PM. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25 from 4-7PM at Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home, Litchfield, MN.
A tribute to Chuck's life and his obituary can be found HERE.
* Please note: The visitation for Chuck will be on Thursday only*
07/11/2024 - Bears on Big Sand Lake
Please be aware that the bears are busy this year rummaging through garbage cans. There have been reported issues on Iowa Beach as well as near Hurd's Acres. Please read the attached article for at home basics https://bearwise.org/six-bearwise-basics/. We can all do our part.
07/09/2024 - Big Sand Lake Annual Meeting
We had a good turnout for our BSLA Annual Meeting on June 22 at Pine Cone Lodge. A big thank you to all for making it happen, and to Pine Cone for graciously allowing us to move inside to hold the meeting when the weather decided not to cooperate for an outdoor event. Stay tuned for some new faces, and good changes happening within the association.
07/09/2024 - Big Sand Lake Annual 4th of July Parade
We held our annual 4th of July Flotilla on Thursday, July 4th. This year we had the added gift of a boat "drive by ice cream dock" generously provided by the Williamson Family. What fun, and we thank them for adding another layer of fun to the event.
07/09/2024 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
Legislative Update
The 2024 session was extremely short, mid-February to mid-May. This meant that there was very little time for complex or controversial legislation to work its way through the process. MLR set a more modest legislative agenda this year, focusing on issues on which we had been able to initiate in previous years. We made make progress in 3 key areas:
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Changing Shoreline Development Standards 
In the 2024 legislative session, MLR partnered with the MN DNR to reinstate rulemaking authority for shoreline development standards, aiming to update regulations for urban and rural areas. These actions underscore Minnesota's dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable management of its lakes and rivers. |
Addressing wake & boater dynamics 
In the 2024 legislative session, MLR partnered with the MN DNR to reinstate rulemaking authority for shoreline development standards, aiming to update regulations for urban and rural areas. These actions underscore Minnesota's dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable management of its lakes and rivers. |
Aquatic invasive species Prevention 
In the 2024 legislative session, MLR partnered with the MN DNR to reinstate rulemaking authority for shoreline development standards, aiming to update regulations for urban and rural areas. These actions underscore Minnesota's dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable management of its lakes and rivers. |
Other legislative efforts included addressing runoff pollution through an inventory of public waters, expanding funding for shoreline restoration projects under the Lawns to Legumes initiative, implementing boat wrap recycling programs, and establishing management plans for native rough fish populations to ensure ecosystem sustainability.
Read thefull Legislative Report
07/09/2024 - Hubbard County COLA
COLA held their spring meeting on April 24. If you would like to read what is happening, please click here to view their meeting minutes.
06/02/2024 - Make it a Date! - Big Sand Lake Annual Meeting
Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:30 a.m. at Pine Cone Lodge.
We hope to see you there at 10:30 a.m. for our meet, followed by our Annual Meeting with our special guest speaker, TJ Erickson from TJ’s Guide Service. A luncheon will follow for all residents and guests after the meeting.
05/30/2019 - Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center
We are pleased to share the 2023 Annual Report from the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center(MAISRC). This comprehensive report highlights our key achievements, research advancements, and the impactful work MAISRC carried out over the past year.
In 2023, MAISRC made significant strides in understanding and mitigating the effects of aquatic invasive species on Minnesota's lakes and rivers. Our dedicated team of researchers works diligently to develop innovative strategies and solutions to protect our waterways and address the impacts of aquatic invasive species.
A few highlights include:
• A new online tool to locate watermilfoil strains and herbicide tolerance in Minnesota
• Successful new volunteer project to test environmental DNA (eDNA)
• MAISRC's 10th anniversary event!
Click here to download a PDF of our report, or click here to read our report online. Thank you for another amazing year of working together for the preservation of Minnesota's lakes and waterways!
We are grateful for our supporters, partners, and the community for an amazing year of working together for the preservation of our lakes, rivers and wetlands! Together, we can find solutions to the AIS problems that face our state.
04/16/2024 - Membership & Charitable Lake Fund Campaign
By now, you should have received in the mail our Spring Membership and Charitable Lake Fund Campaign letter. Please click here to read a copy of the same. We thank you, in advance, for your devotion to our beloved lake.
03/11/2024 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
A research study published in 2020 has documented that young walleye growth is reduced in several northern Minnesota waters where invasive zebra mussels or spiny water (Bythotrephes) fleas are present. To read more about this, please see article in the Park Rapids Enterprise (a subscription may be required to read article in full).
03/11/2024 - Hubbard County COLA
Roll out the welcome mat for Big Sand Lake board member Steve Kimpton! He will act as our new representative with Hubbard County COLA. To read a recap of 2023 and get a preview of early 2024 plans for COLA CLICK HERE.
04/16/2024 - Ice Out
The ice went out on Big Sand on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 9:00 p.m. Congratulations to Chuck Perkins who submitted the correct guess!
View Big Sand Lake ice out history.
03/11/2024 - Spring Newsletter
CLICK HERE to read our Spring Newsletter.
03/11/2024 - Ice Out 2024
Ice out is going to be happening soon! What date do you think the ice will be off the lake? For those of you into research, check out our previous ICE OUT DATES.
To participate in the fun, please send your guess to include both date and time to Don Kilander at kilanderdon@gmail.com. The deadline we will accept for submission will be 72 hours prior to the actual ice out. Those who select the winning date and time will have the honor to be recognized both on the website and at the Annual Meeting. Good Luck to all!
03/11/2024 - Upcoming Campaign for Membership and Charitable Lake Fund
Stay tuned for our upcoming Spring Membership and Charitable Lake Fund Campaign! We are excited to be able to continue our path in providing funding hours for inspections at the lake access in an effort to thwart AIS from entering our beloved Big Sand Lake.
02/20/2024 - BSLA Approved Board Meeting Minutes September 30, 2023
CLICK HERE to view the Board meeting minutes.
11/01/2023 - Fall 2023 Newsletter
To view a copy of the Fall 2023 BSLA Newsletter, please CLICK HERE.
01/05/2023 - Reminder, Be Ice Wise
Don't Let Thin Ice Crack Your Fun! Take a moment to review the ice thickness chart below. It could save you from a dangerous plunge.
Click here or click on the chart for a larger view.
10/23/2023 - 2023 Big Sand Lake AIS Detection Vegetative Survey
10/11/2023 - Hubbard County COLA AIS Committee Report
AIS watercraft Inspection program – Aaron reported 19216 watercraft inspections have been completed, with an average of 1.35 inspections per hour at Hubbard County public access locations. Approximately 300 hours of scheduled inspections remain to be completed per the 2023 program schedule. 144 decontaminations have been completed this season compared to 83 last year. The decon station is now closed for the season. No new instances of AIS being found during watercraft inspections were noted since last month. The DNR portable decon station has been intermittently operating at the Long Lake South access this fall and will be there through October.
Sharon reported that the cost of renting the current billboard located on highway 34 at the east entrance to Park Rapids is $7500 for a full year. The county will split the cost of the billboard with HCCOLA.
Sharon reported the CD3 decon unit will be installed at the Long Lake South Access this month.
The team discussed the summarized results of the brainstorming sessions and last month’s prioritizing effort. All ideas that received at least 4 votes during the prioritizing session will be added to the 2024 AIS Operating Team goals document. Sharon and Aaron will update the Goals and Accomplishments spreadsheet for the October HCCOLA meeting.
The team discussed the funding for increased AIS vegetation surveys for next year. Aaron and Bryan will work with the county to determine if the county will set aside some money from the State of Minnesota AIS prevention funds to establish a limited pot of money to supplement HCCOLA funding for AIS vegetation surveys on county lakes. HCCOLA will be exploring additional funding for this effort beyond the $4000 already allocated to the Charitable Grant program.
The next meeting of the AIS Operating Team is scheduled for November 14, at 10:30 AM in the Environmental Services Conference
09/19/2023 - Charitable Fund Committee
The Big Sand Lake Charitable Fund Committee would like to thank the following donors who contributed to the Charitable Fund from July 1, 2022, to September 20, 2023. Thanks to your generosity, the 2023 DNR watercraft inspection program at the public access was completely funded! Thanks for joining in the fight to protect beautiful Big Sand Lake!
06/27/2023 - BSLA Membership
If you have not already done so, we encourage everyone to please renew/join BSLA with a current membership for 2023. Click on the link under Membership, log in and submit your dues via credit card or PayPal. We also encourage everyone to take a moment and review your contact information, etc. in the Resident Directory by visiting the Member’s Area and logging in with your password. Membership is crucial to helping us maintain the pristine waters of Big Sand Lake and we thank all of you for your support.
09/04/2023 - 2023 Big Sand Taco Bar Social & Fun Golf Scramble, Saturday, September 9th
Golf at 3 - 5:30 / Taco Bar 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Taco Bar Social - all Big Sand residents are invited to enjoy a beef and/or chicken taco dinner on Headwater’s new patio at 5:30pm. Drawings will be held for door prizes, plus prizes for a few fun golf contests. Reservations are greatly appreciated but not required.
RSVP - taco bar only to Jo Kilander @ jolkilander@gmail.com
BSLA Golf Scramble (5th Annual) - a non-competitive, 9-hole scramble; all levels of golfers are encouraged to participate. Five tee times have been reserved.
Register for golf by Thursday, September 7
Contact Chuck Fenton @ chuckfenton@outlook.com
06/02/2023 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
Governor Walz signed the "One Minnesota" legislative package into law. There were a number of measures that will protect lakes and our lake heritage. Check out the blog post for more details:
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06/01/2023 - Hubbard County COLA
Simple actions, and tools can protect our lakes and rivers from starry stonewort and zebra mussels.
Click here to read the Enterprise article.
05/09/2023 - Hubbard County Cola
As property owners, there is a growing need for AIS (aquatic invasive species) awareness. The following is from Jeff Mosner from the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations. Please take the time to review the recent survey results. The analysis of the 2022 Eyes on the Water Survey has now been completed. There are 4 summary reports available that can be found at http://hubbardcolamn.org
Within these reports you can find summarized statistics from the survey, including where on your lake (which sides) have "eyes". Also there is a report that shows which lakes have tested for zebra mussel veligers and spiney water fleas over the past 10 years. Another report summarizes survey responses over the past 5 years.
According to our Hubbard County AIS Program Coordinator there were no new AIS confirmations in 2022 (Woohoo!) however new infestations were noted in the following neighboring counties: Beltrami, Cass and Wadena.
And while watercraft inspections represent a huge "boots on the ground" effort to control the spread of AIS, YOUR "eyes on the water", representing early detection, has proven to be an effective way of stemming the subsequent spread of AIS to other lakes.
So, on behalf of the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations, thank you for your continuing efforts to preserve our pristine lakes.
06/01/2023 - BSLA ANNUAL MEETING/FAMILY PICNIC - SATURDAY, JUNE 24, PINE CONE LODGE
10:30 a.m. Registration (coffee/treats/socializing)
11:00 a.m. Annual Meeting followed by noon Family Picnic BBQ
This annual event is a wonderful time to socialize with fellow Big Sand Lake residents and to learn more about our lake association.
05/09/2023 - Ice Out
Ice out was official as of 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 6! Our closest prediction was May 4, submitted by Deb Goltz!
05/09/2023 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers
Free Webinar May 31, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.: Wakes, waves and propeller wash - Research on the impacts of recreational boating on inland lakes. Click here to register.
04/27/2023 - Charitable Lake Fund News
Ice-out and open water will be here before we know it, which means the DNR watercraft inspection service will be in place at the public access, ready to help protect the lake from Aquatic Invasive Species infestation. Our annual Charitable Fund Committee spring campaign to raise money to fully fund this important process has officially begun!
Read the full story about this crucial campaign...
04/06/2023 - Hubbard County COLA
Enjoy the First quarter 2023 Hubbard County COLA Newsletter: Click Here
03/02/2023 - 2023 ICE OUT Contest
We are apparently having a second winter and a ways from ice out! We will update as to when ice out actually occurs! Stay Warm.
February proved to be an exceptionally fickle weather month this year! Temperatures were all over, with readings from the negative range up to 48 degrees. We need to think positively about Spring. What date do you think the ice will be off the lake? For those of you who are into research, check out our ICE OUT DATES tab on the Big Sand Lake website. It might help with your decision.
To participate in the fun, please send your guess to Don Kilander at kilanderdon@gmail.com. The deadline for your submission is March 30. Those who select the winning date will have the honor to be recognized both on the website and at the Annual Meeting (Saturday, June 24, 2023). Good Luck to all!
02/08/2023 - 2022 Big Sand Lake AIS Watercraft Inspections Summary
The AIS Watercraft Inspection program is under the auspices of the Hubbard County Environmental Office and the DNR. The current Hubbard County AIS Specialist, Aaron Anderson, recruits and manages the inspectors and the overall watercraft inspection program. The DNR trains and certifies the inspectors and is available to assist with problem inspections and consultation. Participating lakes are granted a certain number of state-funded inspection hours based on usage and other factors. Lake associations may request supplemental hours to be paid for by the individual lake associations. BSLA requested 1100 hours of inspections for the 2022 season of which 150 hours were allocated to the Lake Emma access. Due to the closure of the Big Sand access during construction in 2021, 128 hours were carried over from 2021.
Aaron Anderson submitted the following 2022 summary for Big Sand:
· Big Sand Lake Association paid $8,580 for 390 supplemental hours (128 hours were carried over from 2021, reducing the 2022 payment).
· BSLA received a $3,300 grant from Lake Emma Township for 150 hours
· State funded hours 432 hours
· Total 2022 hours: 1100
2022 Inspection Results Summary:
· A total of 1,532 inspections were completed
· Number of inspections per hour = 1.36
· Number of inspections upon entering Big Sand = 849
· Number of inspections upon exiting Big Sand = 683
· Number of watercraft entering from infested waters = 166
87 from Zebra Mussel infested waters
18 from Stary Stonewort infested waters
· Number of watercraft entering from out of state = 111
NOTE: Total state funded hours that have been allocated for Big Sand for 2023 will be 360 hours, which is a reduction of 70 hours from 2022. BSLA will be paying more supplemental hours to maintain our 1100 hours of coverage. Watch for and please resound to forthcoming requests from the Big Sand Charitable Lake Fund for AIS Donations.
02/08/2023 - Big Sand Lake Association Annual Newsletter
Stay tuned for the mailing of our annual newsletter! To read an online copy, click here. Please note it is time to renew your BSLA Membership for 2023. A membership form will be enclosed with the Newsletter, however, you can easily renew online today! Please see the Membership Tab, and renew via credit card or PayPal. You may also download a printable form and mail in your dues if you prefer. During this process, we would ask that you check your BSLA contact information and update it, if needed, by choosing Update My Information under the Membership Tab. Thank you all for updating or starting a new BSLA Membership for 2023.
02/08/2023 - Big Sand Lake Social Committee
If you have not participated in any of the social events for Big Sand, please get in touch with Jo Kilander at jolkilander@gmail.com to get signed up for notifications with regard to these fun happenings!
11/14/2022 - As a reminder
We encourage all winter anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts on our lakes and rivers to pick up and remove their garbage and waste from the ice.
If you are done with open water fishing, now is a great time to reevaluate and clean your tackle box. Find tackle that you no longer use or want. if it contains lead, don’t throw it in your trash or recycle at home, but rather dispose of it safely at your county household hazardous waste facility.
11/14/2022 - Hubbard County Coalition of Lakes
Aaron Anderson, program coordinator for Hubbard County AIS, recapped the results of the 2022 season, and it appears that boat ramp inspections do work. See article in Park Rapids Enterprise for details.
10/17/2022 - Hubbard County COLA
Great article in the Enterprise about Sharon Natzel. Very well deserved praise. Thank you Sharon for all your devotion to our lakes.Hubbard County COLA has one remaining meeting this year, Thursday, October 27, on AIS Prevention Program Recap for 2022 and Plans for 2023.
Click here to read the Enterprise article.
08/17/2022 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
Please support them as they do a lot of good work to protect our waterways. Here is a link to their web page.
08/17/2022 - Hubbard County COLA
Please support them as they do a lot of good work to protect our waterways. Here is a link to their web page.
List of COLA remaining meetings this year:
Thursday, August 25th – HC COLA Annual Meeting Plus Presenter Sue Schiess, HC COLA Shoreland Advisor on Kabekona Lake and UMN Extension Master Gardener of 18 years shares our updated "Lawns to Lakes: There is a Connection" message for lakeshore owners and how we can help.
Thursday, Sept 29th - Each Lake Association HC COLA Rep to Share a Brief Two-Minute Overview of Season Highlights for their lake.
Thursday, Oct 27th – AIS Prevention Program Recap for 2022 and Plans for 2023.
09/08/2022 - Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center
Research Needs Assessment :
The Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) invites you to participate in our yearly research needs assessment survey, where we receive input from people like you to prioritize research funding for the coming year.
MAISRC research projects fit into a strategic plan with input from hundreds of stakeholders across the state, and experts around the world. You can help shape our research by participating in this survey. Click the link below to begin. If you have questions, please email us. The survey will close on September 30th.
RNA SURVEY :
https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bPmrC4apnpRiB70
09/01/2022 - Details for Big Sand Taco Bar Social & Fun Golf Scramble
What: Big Sand Taco Bar Social & Fun Golf Scramble
Saturday, September 10th
3:00-6:00pm ⇒ Golf Scramble
6:00-8:00pm ⇒ Taco Bar Social
Where: Headwaters Golf Club
Cost:
Golf:
• Non-Headwaters members pay $17 for 9-hole green fees
$32 with cart
• Headwaters members will only incur the cost of a cart, if needed
Taco Bar:
• $12.50 per person
• Cash bar - one free drink ticket per person provided by BSLA
Details: 4th Annual Golf Scramble - a non-competitive, 9-hole scramble; all levels of golfers are encouraged to participate. Four tee times have been reserved. Please register for golf by Thursday, September 8th, with Chuck Fenton at chuckfenton@outlook.com.
Taco Bar Social - all Big Sand residents are invited to join the golfers on the new patio at 6pm. Drawings will be held for fun door prizes, plus prizes for a few fun golf contests. In the event of inclement weather, the taco bar will be moved indoors. Reservations are greatly appreciated. Please RSVP to Jo Kilander at JOLKILANDER@gmail.com.
REMINDER: Contact Chuck Fenton to sign up for golf by Thursday, September 8th. Also, let Chuck know if you plan to attend the taco bar social.
QUESTIONS: Contact Jo Kilander at JOLKILANDER@gmail.com.
08/17/2022 - Group Social
Saturday, August 20, 5 - 7 pm
Hors D’Oeuvres & Dessert Potluck
Steve & Liz Quadays
Contact jolkilander@gmail.com
08/17/2022 - 2022 Ladies Group Gatherings - 2nd & 4th Mondays ~ 9 am or 4 pm
August 22 ~ Coffee - Linda Lee
September 12 ~ Happy Hour - Barb Kimmer
Contact Jo Kilander for further information
08/17/2022 - Golf Scramble at Headwaters Golf Club
3 pm golfers of all levels are invited to join in the non-competitive 9 hole scramble (details forthcoming)
6 - 8 pm Social (everyone invited, not just golfers) Taco Bar appetizers and desserts provided by BSLA
Contact Jo Kilander at jolkilander@gmail.com
08/17/2022 - Group Social
Saturday, August 20, 5 - 7 pm
Hors D’Oeuvres & Dessert Potluck
Steve & Liz Quadays
Contact jolkilander@gmail.com
07/12/2022 - Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center
Lake-loving volunteers are needed across the state of Minnesota on Saturday, August 20, 2022 to participate in a search for starry stonewort - an aggressive, aquatic invasive algae that can spread easily and grows into dense mats at and below the lake’s surface.
Starry Trek is an annual event where members of the public first gather at training sites to learn how to identify starry stonewort and other aquatic invasive species. The newly trained participants then branch out to local water accesses to search for signs of the invasive species.
Register for Starry Trek by clicking here.
07/06/2022 - BSLA 4th of July Boat Parade
Thank you to everyone for the great 4th of July Boat Parade turnout!
06/30/2022 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
$95K grant promotes water-quality-friendly living on Mantrap chain of lakes, to read more about it, CLICK HERE.
06/09/2022 - Spring BSLA Newsletter
Click here to view and/or download the spring BSLA newsletter.
06/09/2022 - 2022 Ladies Group Gatherings - 2nd & 4th Mondays ~ 9 am or 4 pm
June 13 ~ Happy Hour - Pam Stone
June 27 ~ Coffee - Joe Kilander
July 11 ~ Happy Hour - Tara Schell
July 25 ~ Happy Hour - Carolyn Corwin
August 8 ~ Open Date
August 22 ~ Coffee - Linda Lee
September 12 ~ Happy Hour - Barb Kimmer
Contact Jo Kilander for further information
06/09/2022 - BSLA Annual Meeting and Picnic
Where: Pine Cone Lodge
When: Saturday, June 25
10:30 am Registration
11:00 am Meeting
Noon Family Picnic/BBQ
06/09/2022 - Ice Out Contest Winner
May 9, 9:30 am was the date and time of ice-out on Big Sand for 2022; and the correct guess was made by Pam Kobriger! Congratulations Pam! Thank you to everyone that participated by entering a guess.
06/09/2022 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates
Living With Aquatic Invaders. read article...
06/09/2022 - Hubbard County COLA
Read the 4/28/2022 meeting minutes. Click here
06/09/2022 - Park Rapids Area Calendar
Remember to visit your local Chamber of Commerce to view all the events going on in the area this summer.
Click here to view the event calendar.
06/09/2022 - Dorset Boardwalk Art & Author Festival
June 18 10 am - 4 pm
Come on out and support your local community!
03/31/2022 - Ice Out Contest
Given the slow spring warm up this year, there is still time to take a guess as to ice-out on Big Sand Lake. Please email your guess with both TIME and DATE to Don Kilander at kilanderdon@gmail.com.
The rules for the contest this year are as follows: Qualifying entries must be submitted 3 days (72 hours) before our team of observer’s rules ice out. All entries should include the date and time, as well as name and contact information.
Decision of the judges is final. Good luck to all and see you on the water!
Don
04/27/2022 - Charitable Lake Fund
The annual Charitable Fund Committee spring campaign to raise money to fund watercraft inspection at the public access is underway! Please make a donation to help cover the cost of this critical effort for summer 2022. Donate to the Charitable Lake Fund here.
To date, Big Sand Lake remains AIS free, thanks to the diligence of your Big Sand Lake Association. Again this year, they have planned for 1100 hours of summer watercraft inspection. The state of Minnesota will cover the cost of 432 of these hours, and 128 hours have been carried over from last summer when the public access was closed for construction. That leaves 540 hours at $22 per hour, or $11,880. A $3,300 grant from Lake Emma Township reduces the total cost to $8,580, which is our campaign goal this year.
Thank you in advance for making a contribution toward this vital tool in our fight to protect beautiful Big Sand!
Chris Hilger, Ann Hilger, Linda Lee
Charitable Fund Committee
04/25/2022 - Get the Lead Out
Lake Associations have been integral partners in Get the Lead Out - reach out to your bait and tackle store partners to encourage them to join.
The MPCA has a rebate program which gives bait and tackle stores a 35% rebate on lead-free tackle purchases, (Max award of $2,000 per store). See website here for more information: www.pca.state.mn.us/leadoutrebate
04/25/2022 - Minnesota Lakes & Rivers
Will launch both Lake Steward and Stop Starry programs this summer. For more information on either of these, please contact Jeff Forester at jeff@mnlakesandrivers.org
Please note that Big Sand Lake Association is a member of Minnesota Lakes & Rivers, this is provided as information, and to additionally provide contact information should you wish to join and support them in their efforts.
We have seen increases as high as 110% without any improvements or changes to the property. Minnesota lakes and Rivers Advocates has a long track record of success. We are working this Legislative Session for some property tax relief. We need your support to continue our work.read more...
04/25/2022 - The Best Plants to Protect Your Shore - A Case Study, by Jeff Forester
Click here to read the article.
04/25/2022 - Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s Volunteer Water Monitoring Program
Click here to learn more.
03/31/2022 - BSLA Annual Meeting and Picnic
Our annual meeting and family picnic will be held June 25, 10:00 a.m. at Pine Cone Lodge, 19703 Grouse Road, Park Rapids, MN. We hope to see you and your family there!
03/31/2022 - BSLA Summer Socials
Reminder, we will be hosting summer socials again, with dates to be announced. There will be a Women’s Gathering planned June thru September on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, with the itinerary to be announced. If anyone is interested in assisting with this, or for further details, please contact Jo Kilander. Finally, the Annual Golf Outing & Social will be held at Headwaters Golf Club on Saturday, September 10th, so mark your calendars.
03/31/2022 - Hubbard County COLA
HC COLA 1st Quarter E-Newsletter published for your reading enjoyment. Click here to read the latest E-Newsletter.
03/23/2022 - Are You a 2022 BSLA Member?
To check your BSLA membership status, please click on the 'Membership' tab above. If you are a renewing member, and have already paid dues for 2022, the first line on the page will state 'Your last membership year is 2022'. Please do not submit payment again. We are hoping to reach, if not surpass, our goal of 165 BSLA members in 2022. We currently stand at nearly 135. Thank you to all who have renewed! We look forward to seeing everyone at the 2022 BSLA Annual Meeting and Family Picnic on June 25 at Pine Cone Lodge.
01/26/2022 - BSLA Membership Drive
It’s time to renew your Big Sand Lake Association (BSLA) membership for 2022 (or become a new member). The BSLA Annual Membership Drive runs January – December. Membership recruitment letters were mailed on January 25. If you don’t receive yours within the next 10 days or so, please contact admin@bigsandlake.org.
However, to simplify, just click on the ‘Membership’ tab in the menu above. Renewing members, please be sure to review and update your contact information. (Check your password to access the ‘Members Area’ on the website.)
BSLA is active year-round. Your dues paid now offset recurring expenses, help us prepare to be up and running with water quality testing, and other activities for the 2022 lake season. Thank you, in advance, for supporting the lake association. May thoughts of warm temperatures, beautiful sunrises/sunsets, and the clear blue waters of Big Sand comfort you while the snow is flying and temperatures are well below freezing.
01/10/2022 - Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations
4th Quarter, October - December Newsletter can be found here:
https://www.hubbardcolamn.org/uploads/3/4/5/6/34563649/hc_cola_oct-dec_our_4th_quarter_2021_e-newsletter.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0ny8puuqX7RrH-73e0frxx11bCrYaBtdoHuDUk55e4ufLTIXMulbaz7Es
01/10/2022 - Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates
Good news, Boat cleaning stations aim to contain starry stonewart. More here:
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2022/01/04/boatcleaning-stations-aim-to-contain-aquatic-invader?fbclid=IwAR32R5dQuX2rU9A6h4tylpU_3riI9GKv3WJ7tSM67LCHU04jAAi2FERQurw
01/10/2022 - Lake Ice Thickness Chart
Please be mindful of ice thickness on the lake. Here is a good reminder chart.
