To the editor:

The June 2010 Crooked Lake Association Newsletter contained some interesting information related to the augmentation pumping project, however, some clarification is needed.

It seems the chairman inadvertently left out a few important facts.

He referred several times to the “small group of objectors.”

This so-called “small group” was described as of more than half the residents by  the following quote from a 2007 DEQ memo: “Public input on this project was extremely high, with over half of those who responded, expressing their objection.”

The newsletter also stated, “All DEQ requirements had been met to obtain the permit” some of the association members have been seeking.

However, an interdepartmental DEQ e-mail, dated December 2008, shows the futility of this project.

After reviewing the test results, one official stated, “The pumping would probably recirculate the water between the aquifer and Big Crooked Lake, which seems to indicate the pumping may not be effective (waste of dollars). I assume this is not a reason we can use to avoid issuing the permit, correct?”

With our current state and national financial problems, it is difficult to understand how anyone would have the courage to make such an outrageous statement.

Yet another quote from the MDEQ, indicating the folly of this project:

“The augmentation well is limited to pump 800 gallons per minute, otherwise, more recirculation will occur. Pumping at this rate will not keep up with the evaporation of the two lakes.”

Another point to consider is the same pump will be used by the farmer for his orchards, which will decrease the amount of water available for the Crooked Lakes and will further reduce the effectiveness of the well.

The newsletter stated, “The drain commissioner will maintain the lake level at 765.5 feet above sea level.”

This implies that maintaining the lake at a constant level is good for the lake environment, however, a statement from the DEQ does not support that thought.

“Research confirms that wetland habitat functions actually benefit from water levels that are not held at a static level.”

The newsletter stated, “We are concerned about the added expense, but the drain commissioner and The Lake Association are not the parties driving up the cost. The costs of attorney fees and expert fees continue to mount due to the continued protest by the small group of objectors.”

It was not the so-called “small group of objectors” that hired an attorney to fight the MDEQ’s Dec. 14, 2007, denial of the well.

That appeal was made by Drain Commissioner Joe Parman and the Crooked Lakes Association.

It is interesting to note the residents will be assessed annually for a still unknown dollar amount regardless of whether or not the well is used.

Paying all maintenance and utility expenses for the farmers’ use for the next 25-year term of the lease.

George Haley

Sister Lakes