CLEAR Project drum still beating

‘It’s not time to say we are done and there is no more we can do’

For many in the North Iowa area, the importance of a lake is no secret.  Clear Lake has been a popular place for tourists to visit and spend time for many years.  The beauty of

 the lake was in jeopardy back in the 1980’s and 1990’s when it was realized that without a quality lake, North Iowa would lose a lot.  The economy of Mason City, Clear Lake and many other area towns would suffer significant loss and property values of area homes could become worth a lot less.  It was realized that something had to be done right away and the CLEAR (Clear Lake Enhancement and Restoration) Project was formed.  

“Thanks to many partners, this endeavor has been successful but still has a ways to go.  It is not time to say we are done and there is no more we can do.  We are ready to move into Phase 2 of the project and new avenues for projects must be looked at in order to continue the progress we are experiencing,” said CLEAR Project Coordinator Mary Jo Burkgren.                                                    

On Thursday, April 9, the public is invited to attend a program being presented by the CLEAR Project at 5 p.m. at the Ventura Community Center with a meal also being served.  

This program will feature State Urban Conservationist Wayne Petersen, Derek Namanny, urban conservationist from Okoboji and western Iowa, as well as others from the Iowa DNR and other organizations.  Information will be shared ranging from clean water practices in urban conservation area to larger scale practices for cities and counties.  Also discussed will be projects and information that homeowners can do and use no matter where they live.  Information on projects that cities and counties can incorporate into their infrastructure will also be presented.  

Funding sources for small individual projects as well as large multi-million dollar infrastructure will be discussed. 

“This will be an informal evening - Read More Via e-Edition