Lake Info

The overall health of our lakes impacts swimming, fishing, boating and our property values. Monitoring the lake health involves taking water quality samples from spring to fall, treating the lakes to control invasive weeds (watermilfoil, starry stonewort), and taking the necessary actions to control or prevent the spread of other invasive species, like common carp and zebra mussels. Also, lake treatment has involved the use of copper to control algal blooms (due to excess nutrients).

Water Quality

Monitoring the health of Crystal and Perch Lakes is critical to maintaining our quality of life and property values. A variety of measurements reveal information about the health of our lakes. PLM Lake and Management Corporation, and CLPL volunteers are monitoring the health of CLPL by taking routine measurements, including water clarity, temperature, acidity, turbidity, and more.

• See Water Quality Reports & Data
• 2022 CLPL Article - Water Quality

Invasive Species

Learn more about Invasive Species in Michigan (early detection and response are critical)

Invasive Species in Crystal and Perch Lakes:

• Eurasian Watermilfoil - control methods: herbicide treatment by a licensed contractor and limited volunteer removal with weed cutter
• Starry Stonewort - control method: herbicide treatment by a licensed contractor
• Carp-control method: join the Carp hunt to remove these invasive fish

Prevent the spread of these and other invasive species in CLPL:

• What Boaters Can Do: Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers
• Zebra Mussels Article

Algae

Naturally growing in water, algae are small plants. Algae blooms thrive in shallow, warm water, particularly in small lakes. Most algae are harmless but some can be harmful to pets and humans.

• Harmful Algae - blue-green algae or cyanobacteria can be toxic to fish and humans
• Algae and What You Can Do actions to avoid toxic algal blooms

Water Quality Standards & Copper 

The use of copper to control algal blooms has decreased and is monitored carefully. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, the amount of copper in Crystal & Perch is classified as non-polluted, according to the following EPA values: A) Non-polluted: 0 mg/kg  – 24.9 mg/kg, B) Moderately Polluted: 25mg/kg – 50 mg/kg, C) Highly Polluted:  > 50 mg/kg.