Lone Lake Status
Lone Lake Concerned Citizens Association
(previously Lone Lake Homeowners Association)
Status Report 7-11-25
Current Water Quality
Toxic algae has returned with longer summer days and higher water temperatures. The bloom will likely continue through the summer, fueled by phosphorus release from the sediments in the deeper parts of the lake. A sample collected on June 7th had an anatoxin concentration of 242 ug/L, which is well above the recreational contact guideline for the Department of Health of 1 ug/L. Therefore, avoid contact with the lake water; keep children, livestock and pets away; if eating caught fish, clean them well and discard guts; be aware of symptoms of toxic algae poisoning (skin and eye irritation, gastrointestinal and neurological issues, potential liver damage and other serious health problems). The County will continue to sample the lake for toxins through the summer. You can see the results here: https://www.nwtoxicalgae.org
Toxic Algae Treatment
Following a December 7,2024 community meeting on this subject, Dr. Mark Sytsma continued researching available products and treatment protocols appropriate for Lone Lake’s conditions. He determined that Eutrosorb G is the best product option and that spreading application out over a five year period will be the most effective way to encapsulate phosphorus in the lake sediment thereby preventing toxic algae blooms. By the time we determined requirements for government approvals and permitting it was too late to attempt effective treatment this year. Here is the proposed plan going forward:
The total estimated cost of the Eutrosorb G treatment is $250,000 (including permitting, materials and application), which equates to $50,000/year for 5 years. This estimate is based on treating the lake area where phosphorus is released (below 3 meters) to a sediment depth of 5 cm.
We’re in the process of confirming that Island County’s Department of Environmental Health will be applying to the state’s Department of Ecology this fall for a grant to cover the costs of this treatment plan. If successful, the funds would be available in early 2026 in time to apply Eutrosorb B next spring. Note, there will be some impact on the toxic algae bloom in the first year but it will take several years of application to reach full effect.
While there is no matching fund requirement for this grant, we’ve been advised that private donations and evidence of community actions to promote lake water quality will help influence the grantor’s decision. We will be providing more information about fundraising plans and guidance on best practices for residents and businesses in the Lone Lake watershed in coming weeks.
Vegetation Survey
A survey of the vegetation growing in Lone Lake was conducted in June. It revealed there is a healthy variety of 12 plant species present in normal density ranges, and there are two other nonnative species present in a couple small areas that can be removed/treated. One, the small patch of water lilies on the northwest shoreline, is considered a noxious weed in Island County and could spread in the shallow water of the lake
High Water Table
In January we assessed the general area where the damaged pipe for the outlet is located and observed flooding there and on shoreline all around the lake. The high water level in winter impacts yards, landscapes, fencing, crawl spaces and foundations, kills trees and leads to deterioration of docks and the park’s boat ramp. We were pursuing options for public funding to reconstruct the outlet system when it became clear that the Washington state budget shortfall and federal funding uncertainties dimmed those prospects for the time being. We will renew our efforts when public agencies are more receptive.
Other News for Lone Lake Concerned Citizens
Boat Ramp – this week the Department of Fish and Wildlife (WSDFW) began to repair broken cement sections of the boat ramp and spread gravel to improve the boat launch area. However, continued high water in the winter due to the plugged outlet will probably continue to erode the area.
Restroom Building – South Whidbey Parks and Rec is in the process of painting the building, and we’ve been assured a new toilet riser and seat will be installed soon!
Park Fence and Parking Expansion – WSDFW has these upgrades on their list to be done as time and funding allow.
Organization Name Change – we are in the process of changing the registered name of the organization from Lone Lake Homeowners Association to Lone Lake Concerned Citizens Association in order to convey a more accurate description of the various individuals and groups interested and invested in the health and vitality of Lone Lake.
If you have questions, concerns, comments or recommendations about any of this information or other issues involving Lone Lake, please contact us at lonelakehomeowners@gmail.com. We appreciate your support!!
