SW Michigan Real Estate Community Voice

  With summer here we need to be more careful about how we transfer our watercraft, trailers etc. from one water source to another. Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM) is one of eight types of milfoil aquatic plants found in Michigan that is not native to Michigan. EWM has been in the US since the 1960’s. This invasive water plant grows quickly and forms a thick mat or canopy below the water and on top of the water. EWM kills off native plants, hinders fish, waterfowl and affects the water quality. The plants spread by floating on the water or attaching themselves to boats, motors, trailers, water crafts, bait buckets and fishing equipment. The EWM causes problems for boaters, swimmers and fishermen. Lake organizations and local areas can effectively treat milfoil with selected chemicals early in the summer before plants flower. Some ponds and lakes find hand pulling and removing the milfoil from the water a simple and effective control method for small areas. Harvesting, raking or screening

Summer is just around the corner. I know you and your boat are just waiting to have fun. Make this summer’s boating fun a safe one by keeping these boating and personal watercraft safety tips in mind: Don’t overload, observe weight limits Always wear a life jacket Know the waters you are navigating. Always carry a map Report accidents immediately Boating and alcohol do not mix Use your lights at sunset, before sunrise and when foggy Littering is illegal No harassing water birds Take a boat safety class I have more safety tips and special non profit blogs on my Val Cares web page. Valerie Bomberger ABR, AHWD Re/Max Harbor Country.

It is getting that time of year when everyone is looking forward to spring and summer and fun activities on Lake Michigan. Navigating Lake Michigan is different for paddle boarders, kayakers and canoeists then the inland lakes. Here are some safety tips to help keep you safe. Always check the weather in your starting point and ending point Never go out alone. Always use the buddy system. Leave your route information with someone reliable and stick to the route. Always wear a life preserver and pack a waterproof container with a cell phone and waterproof flashlight or flares. Know how safe your craft is and how to handle your craft. Try to stay out of the shipping lane to avoid being hit or capsized. Keep the shoreline in sight at all times. Try to stay away from break walls so as to not get capsized.  Take a safety course with your local paddles club. I have more safety tips and special non profit blogs on my Val Cares web page. Valerie Bomberger ABR, AHWD Re/Max Harbor Country.