Allen/Oyster Lake
Management Plan Meeting Synopsis
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
I. Areas of Concern
Outlet Management
Outlet needs to flow naturally
Private Property Rights vs. Preservation
Does the lake have any rights?
Local politics trumping federal/state policies
The lakes are a public resource, and policies should be made with this in mind
Proposed Restoration Project****
Hydrology of the lake has been diminished due to alterations of the outlet and adjacent wetlands
Restore hydrology to a more natural condition
Support the current restoration project
Amend the project to remove the unpaved portion of Thompson Road, reconnect the wetland and install structures similar to the ones proposed for the Causeway
Ensure that the outlet/culvert portion of the project be initiated
Expand the lake to its historical condition
Storm-water Runoff
Control runoff into the lake and wetlands
Potential impact from golf course and individual homes
Control runoff from 30-A
Septic Systems
Potential impact from existing septic tanks
Lack of requirements to change septic tanks to the public sewer system; may need to alter existing language to encourage adoption of sewer system
Rules/Regulations
Protect the remaining wetlands; do not allow them to be filled
Require less density within the watershed; minimize the land-use amendments
Education/Outreach
What can citizens do to protect the lake?
Need more awareness on the importance of the lakes
Need more scientific knowledge to make more educated decisions about the lakes
Utilize educational resources from the TDC
Recreational Use
Recreational use has diminished; especially as it pertains to fishing and fisheries
II. Potential Solutions
Draft letter from Oyster Lake Homeowners Association addressing outlet issues
Solicit opinions from local residents to determine their thoughts on restoring the overall health of the lake
Request a meeting with County Officials to discuss the concerns of local residents
Address the design in the restoration project of the unpaved portion of Thompson Road
Encourage decision-makers to settle outfall management issues
Provide a specific definition of a Coastal Dune Lake/System
Address invasive species by training homeowners
Address water quality by maintaining current conditions while trying to improve the water quality to historic conditions
Assist Golf Course in finding sponsor for Audubon Certification
Address storm-water issues related to the new development in the upper portions of the watershed for both Oyster and Allen Lake
o Proposed developments for the head of Allen Lake
o Two culverts on Thompson Road where storm-water needs to be addressed
o Wetland entry to Oyster Lake from Golf Course
o Replace storm-water culvert emptying into Allen Lake
Develop educational information regarding Coastal Dune Lakes
Linear Mode
