2019 TMDL Prioritization

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Comment From: Heather Carpenter

11/29/19 @ 3:40 PM

As a homeowner on the lake as well as having a PhD in wetland ecology, Vancouver lake health has been a long-standing concern of mine. I watch invasive species spread as control lags behind. I see dangerous Cyanobacteria washing up in front of my hom...↓

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Comment From: Eric Hale

11/29/19 @ 2:37 PM

I would like to encourage Vancouver Lake and its local watershed to be a high priority for TMDL prioritization in the upcoming evaluation. The nutrient load and shallow depths make make water quality a recurring yearly problem that can be tied direct...↓

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Comment From: Nancy Hale

11/29/19 @ 7:47 AM

Re: Vancouver Lake, WA This wonderful lake is needing help! It could be a terrific asset for the community, as a local water/nature draw. It could host water athletic events that would provide an economic boost. It has a varied group of supporte...↓

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Comment From: James Hale

11/29/19 @ 7:34 AM

I am writing to urge priority for Vancouver Lake (WA). There are many reasons that Vancouver Lake should be addressed promptly: The pollution problem is severe - Category 5 in temperature, turbidity, toxins. Loss of use for local citize...↓

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Comment From: Spokane Riverkeeper (Jerry White, Jr)

11/29/19 @ 4:40 AM

Dear Lara Henderson, TMDL Program Planner: I would like to provide the following comments on behalf of the Spokane Riverkeeper in Spokane Washington. We are advocates for the rivers and waterways of the Spokane River Basin as well as advocates fo...↓r the public uses and enjoyment of those waterways. Our comments are in regards to two waterways in the Spokane River Basin that we believe require Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) for pollutants that currently impair the public uses of those waterways, and are damaging the aquatic life that they support. 1) We ask that the Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE) develop a TMDL for polychlorinated biphenyl's (PCBs) for the Spokane River in WRIA 54 and WRIA 57. Numerous segments of the Spokane River are on the 303d list for PCB pollution and require attention and action. Currently, the Spokane River lacks an approved loading limits (Waste Load Allocations and Load Allocations) for PCBs. Because of this deficiency, the work plans and actions developed to address pollution from controllable sources lack accountability and coherence under the Clean Water Act. The Spokane River Regional Toxics Task Force (SRRTTF) is not an adequate substitute for a proper TMDL as it lacks the final loading allocations and legal limits. However, the SRRTTF does provide a foundation and numerous pieces of scientific analysis with regards to the loading and sources of PCB pollution, and therefore the SRRTTF could provide substantive additions in the development of a TMDL. 2) We ask that the WDOE develop a TMDL for dissolved oxygen (DO) for Hangman Creek in WRIA 56. This creek is impaired for multiple parameters that degrade its capacity to carry and deliver enough oxygen to keep it a healthy waterway. Additionally, Hangman Creek is a primary contributor of pollutants to the Spokane River which is currently suffering from DO impairments. A TMDL for DO on Hangman Creek would allow for the development of Waste Load Allocations that aid in facilities planning for point-sources as they endeavor to upgrade waste water treatment plants that damage both Hangman Creek and the Spokane River. We hope you will consider the enormous benefit that the development of TMDLs would bring to reducing pollution in the Spokane River Basin. We appreciate the opportunity to comment for the benefit of our waterways and the public that uses and enjoys them. Respectfully, Jerry White, Jr. Spokane Riverkeeper

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Comment From: Kristen Krohn

11/29/19 @ 4:05 AM

Please place Vancouver Lake as one of the top priorities in the state for addressing water quality and cleanup via improvement projects. This is a historical, heavily used asset for our community and we are losing it. This lake has been listed as a c...↓

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Comment From: NW Rowing Council (Letcher Ross)

11/29/19 @ 4:00 AM

I have been a referee for USRowing for over 20 years and have worked at many rowing events held at Vancouver Lake including NW Regional Masters Championships and NW Regional Youth Championships. The NW Regional Masters Championships are annually amon...↓g the largest held in the United States attracting competitors from Canada and across the USA. The regional economic impact of these activities generates many hundreds of thousands of dollars in hotel/motel/restaurant taxes, plus sales taxes from purchases from the rowers and their families and friends in the Vancouver/Clark County community. Severity. of the Pollution Problem: Since 2004 Vancouver Lake has been designated an impaired body of water in need of clean up. We have worked diligently to call this severe problem to the attention of regulatory bodies — to no avail. The severity of the problem includes impairment for temperature, PCBs, bacteria in the water, total phosphorus, Deldrin and other toxins. Co-joined bodies of water, including Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek, and Salmon Creek add to the Lake's level of impairment. Risks to Public Health: Every summer our community misses out on the opportunity to bring many thousands of visitors and competitors to the largest lake within a 50-mile radius of the greater Vancouver/Portland metropolitan area which enjoys an international reputation for hosting world, national, west coast, regional and local competitive rowing competitions because of Lake closures due to blue-green algae. Risks to Threatened and Endangered Species: The risks posed by the deteriorated state of the Lake do not impact humans alone. Vancouver Lake is a refuge for migratory waterfowl and has identified salmonids including chum, chinook and steelhead as part of its fish population. Vulnerability_ of Water Bodies to Degradation: We have been dealing with, and trying to work around, temperature, toxicity, flow and dilution issues, but these debilitating problems remain unaddressed — even as we have reached out and pleaded for assistance. Now we face a new challenge — Eurasian Milfoil Weed that is taking hold throughout the shallow waters of Vancouver Lake — including where we hold our regattas, and where swimmers and other recreational users, such as wind surfers and paddle boarders formerly enjoyed the waters of the Lake. Failure to engage with the multiplying problems impairing colder water flow from the Columbia River through the existing Flushing Channel remains disturbing and distressing to the thousands of citizens who enjoyed the Lake, and it has become an issue that needs your immediate attention. Local Support and Interest in Watershed: For more than 30 years, the local, regional, national and international rowing communities have supported and enjoyed the multiple and unique benefits afforded by the amazing water sports venue that is Vancouver Lake. And for more than 40 years, the Vancouver, Clark County, Portland, and Multnomah County communities have understood the remarkable potential that Vancouver Lake represents for outdoor recreation, economic development and the important well-being of community residents spending time recreating with friends and families at this amazing regional resource. Vancouver Lake Regional Park is a major source for recreational shoreline opportunities that is accessible and affordable for those with limited resources, or that use public transportation to access outdoor, water oriented recreational opportunities. Clark County has been using resources available through its Legacy Land program to acquire property around the Lake to build a series of trails as part of the Lewis & Clark Regional Trail Project. This is providing additional opportunities for access to the surrounding watershed and can be an additional major visitor attraction. Vancouver Lake is a unique resource to the northwest rowing community, providing a near world class racing course that is easily accessible across the region with support facilities such as restaurants and hotels in close proximity. It would be difficult to replace.

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Comment From: Joanne Warner

11/29/19 @ 3:11 AM

I speak in full support of Vancouver Lake. As a rower, I have personal experience on the water, and as a nurse I feel committed to assuring that my local environment supports strong public health. The pollution problem is quite serious and any furt...↓

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Comment From: Terrie Demierre

11/29/19 @ 1:49 AM

Dear Sirs, Re: VancouverLake water cleanup prioritization. As a nearby resident to Vancouver Lake and a frequent user of its unique offerings, I would like to encourage you to elevate this body of water to the top of your priority list. I ...↓

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Comment From: Sophia Prentice-Wattson

11/29/19 @ 1:26 AM

Vancouver Lake is a special place to a lot of people, myself included. I had the honor and wonderful opportunity to use this body of water for crew when I was in high school. This lake offers a place for kids to unite, a second home to some, and it b...↓

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Comment From: Adam Aguilera

11/28/19 @ 2:34 PM

Vancouver Lake is a multi-billion dollar asset to the state. It's surrounding bio-diversity, local economy, and connection to the neighborhoods and industries of Vancouver make it an essential priority to save. If neglected, it will be an expensive ...↓

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Comment From: Alexis Winnett

11/28/19 @ 10:06 AM

Vancouver lake should be prioritized for cleaning because it is a beautiful landmark of history, a family friendly park and beachy shore area, along with housing many aquatic sport facilities. I rowed with Vancouver Lake Aquatic center through high s...↓

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Comment From: Thomas Kovaric

11/28/19 @ 7:42 AM

I first swam in Vancouver Lake in 1987. Please help this community resource so it can continue to be used and useful.

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Comment From: Dina Hovde

11/28/19 @ 3:22 AM

Department of Ecology crew, I never knew what TMDL meant before this week, but now I realize how important it is. We need Vancouver lake on a priority list for a water improvement plan. It's not being prioritized right now, and The Columbian has it...↓

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Comment From: Lenville O'Donnell

11/28/19 @ 2:38 AM

Cleaning up, preserving, and maintaining Vancouver Lake should be a high priority for the region. It is a priceless resource that creates millions of dollars every year in revenue for the local economy, both private and public. It is the best and mos...↓

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Comment From: Duane Ehleringer

11/27/19 @ 2:01 PM

Note: Please replace my prior submitted comment with this new copy correcting misspellings To Whom it may concern: I write in support of Vancouver Lake being selected, in this upcoming work cycle, by the Department of Ecology to receive To...↓tal Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) analysis. I would go further stating I am in strong support of having the Flushing Channel, Vancouver Lake, and Lake River be included/treated as one continuous body of water for analysis in receiving one written TMDLs. These waters prior to filling of lands after the 1930s' acted as one cohesive unit flowing from the Columbia River to Vancouver Lake down Lake River and then returning to the Columbia River (see doc. 1). It is recorded in USGS documentation Vancouver Lake was 20 feet deep and full of Sturgeon in the early 1900s'. There were no recorded issues with these bodies of water prior to the diking/infilling. Simple observation has shown me and others the solution to most of the 303d category 5 identified items within these listed waters has more to do with a severely diminished water flow rate from the Columbia River, poor farming techniques, and failing septic systems. PCB's identified within Vancouver Lake and Lake River were found in 2014 to come from upstream Burnt Bridge Creek and probably from annual street run off (per DOE publication No. 14-03-101). Allowing the Flushing Channel to become once again the dominate water flow into the lake in combination with controlling chemical discharge upstream, and deepening portions of the lake to maintain a minimum 10 foot depth year round would resolve all know issues. The USGS water flow meter located on the North end of the Columbia Slough across from the entry to the Flushing Channel shows the potential of water flow into the lake (recording on average 1,000 cfs with an average width of 150 feet). This is also supported through water flow analysis through Lake River in the USGS "Water and Nutrients Budgets for Vancouver Lake" (Scientific Investigations Report 2014-5201). I participated in the recent web-seminar. During the seminar I identified to the moderator a strong solution to acquiring lands to widen the flushing channel upwards of 1,000 feet in width. In a private message, during the seminar, they encouraged forwarding this potential solution as part of my comments when I wrote in support of selecting Vancouver Lake for TMDLs. The Port of Vancouver owns the Flushing Channel. Port lands adjacent to the Flushing Channel are known as Parcel 3. Contacting the Port, I inquired on the amount of wetlands found within this parcel. Documentation forwarded states there are 74.45 acres of small acreages of wetlands found within this parcel (see doc. 2). I suggest these wetlands be exchanges for lands adjacent to the current Flushing Channel allowing for the Flushing Channel to be enlarged to approximately 1,000 feet. Encouraging the Port to do the exchange by lowering the now required exchange rate for mitigating wetlands from creation of 5 acres:1 acre exchanged to maybe 1.5 acres creation:1 acres exchanged. -All parties and the environment would benefit in such a proposal (see doc. 3); -The Port would have consolidate developable lands with limited restrictions -The smaller separated wetlands would be combined to allow for a wider Flushing Channel -The wider Flushing Channel would resolve water flow through the Flushing Channel Vancouver Lake, and Lake River, saving all these bodies of waters -An additional desire by Fish and Wildlife to open up Buckmire Slough for natural tidal flow would be achieved through Vancouver Lake -With a park adjacent to the Flushing Channel the now Port lands adjacent to the Flushing Channel become very valuable real estate for future development to benefit the community. I live in Oregon, but come north to sail on Vancouver Lake because of the good winds and sheltered water Vancouver Lake affords sailors. I have sailed in waters from San Diego, California to include Santa Cruz and San Francisco Bay to as north as Whidbey Island, Washington on the West coast. There are no waters for a small dingy sailor between San Diego, California and Lake Washington close to a metropolis other than Vancouver Lake. These bodies of waters are a true region treasure and if pollutants are addressed could support endangered salmonoid fry; create/improve wetlands for wildlife such as the sandhill crane and other migratory and indigenous fowl species, and have both large recreation value to the community as well as great economical value to the region. Please select Vancouver Lake and these other Category 5 water for this current selection cycle for TMDLs. There is no negatives just positives for the environment, citizens, and the local economy. Respectfully, Duane Ehleringer

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Comment From: Bob Bush

11/27/19 @ 11:51 AM

Vancouver Lake, in Clark County, Washington, can and will be a valuable resource for the city of Vancouver. The lake's proximity to the city's population, its large size and surrounding parks and protected areas, provide tremendous natural and recre...↓

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Comment From: Jack Burkman

11/27/19 @ 10:24 AM

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Comment From: Fran Hammond

11/27/19 @ 8:38 AM

Please make the TMDL a top priority for Vancouver Lake! This area is a local center-point for many recreational users in the greater Vancouver area and has long been neglected. Addressing the needs of the lake now will help preserve the quality for ...↓

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Comment From: Katharine Cotrell

11/27/19 @ 7:11 AM

Please give this the attention it deserves!

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Comment From: Duane Ehleringer

11/27/19 @ 6:22 AM

To Whom it may concern: I write in support of Vancouver Lake being selected, in this upcoming work cycle, by the Department of Ecology to receive Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) analysis. I would go further stating I am in strong support of hav...↓e the Flushing Channel, Vancouver Lake, and Lake River be included/treated as one continuous body of water for analysis in receiving one written TMDLs. These waters prior to filling of lands after the 1930s' acted as one cohesive unit flowing from the Columbia River to Vancouver Lake down Lake River and then returning to the Columbia River (see doc. 1). It is recorded in USGS documentation Vancouver Lake was 20 feet deep and full of Sturgeon in the early 1900s'. There were no recorded issues with these bodies of water prior to the diking/infilling. Simple observation has shown me and others the solution to most of the 303d category 5 identified items within these listed waters has more to do with severe diminished water flow rate from the Columbia River, poor farming techniques, and failing septic systems. PCB's identified within Vancouver Lake and Lake River were found in 2014 to come from upstream Burnt Bridge Creek and probably from annual street run off (per DOE publication No. 14-03-101). Allowing the Flushing Channel to become once again the dominate water flow into the lake in combination with controlling chemical discharge upstream, and deepening portions of the lake to maintain a minimum 10 foot depth year round would resolve all know issues. The USGS water flow meter located on the North end of the Columbia Slough across from the entry to the Flushing Channel shows the potential of water flow into the lake (recording on average 1,000 cfs with an average width of 150 feet). This is also supported through water flow analysis through Lake River in the USGS "Water and Nutrients Budgets for Vancouver Lake" (Scientific Investigations Report 2014-5201). I participated in the recent web-seminar. During the seminar I identified to the moderator a strong solution to acquiring lands to widen the flushing channel upwards of 1,000 feet in width. In a private message, during the seminar, they encouraged forwarding this potential solution as part of my comments when I wrote in support of selecting Vancouver Lake for TMDLs. The Port of Vancouver owns the Flushing Channel. Port lands adjacent to the Flushing Channel are known as Parcel 3. Contacting the Port, I inquired on the amount of wetlands found within this parcel. Documentation forwarded states there are 74.45 acres of small acreages of wetlands found within this parcel (see doc. 2). I suggest these wetlands be exchanges for lands adjacent to the current Flushing Channel allowing for the Flushing Channel to be enlarged to approximately 1,000 feet. Encouraging the Port to do the exchange by lowering the now required exchange rate for mitigating wetlands from creation of 5 acres:1 acre exchanged to maybe 1.5 acres creation:1 acres exchanged. All parties and the environment would benefit in such a proposal (see doc. 3); The Port would have consolidate developable lands with limited restrictions The smaller separated wetlands would be combined to allow for a wider Flushing Channel The wider Flushing Channel would resolve water flow through the Flushing Channel Vancouver Lake, and Lake River, saving all these bodies of waters An additional desire by Fish and Wildlife to open up Buckmire Slough for natural tidal flow would be achieved through Vancouver Lake With a park adjacent to the Flushing Channel the now Port lands adjacent to the Flushing Channel become very valuable real estate for future development to benefit the community. I live in Oregon, but come north to sail on Vancouver Lake because of the good winds and sheltered water Vancouver Lake affords sailors. I have sailed in waters from San Diego, California to include Santa Cruz and San Francisco Bay to as north as Whidbey Island, Washington on the West coast. There are no waters for a small dingy sailor between San Diego, California and Lake Washington close to a metropolis other than Vancouver Lake. These bodies of waters are a true region treasure and if addressed could support endangered salmonoid fry; create/improve wetlands for wildlife such as the sandhill crane and other migratory and indigenous fowl species, and have both large recreation value to the community as well as great economical value to the region. Please select Vancouver Lake and these other Category 5 water for this current selection cycle for TMDLs. There is no negatives just positives for the environment, citizens, and the local economy. Respectfully, Duane Ehleringer

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Comment From: Sheila Neck

11/27/19 @ 5:41 AM

To the Washington State Department of Ecology: I will add my voice to the many others who have expressed that Vancouver Lake is an important contributor to the quality of life in the Greater Vancouver area as well as to the entire Pacific Northwes...↓

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Comment From: Anonymous Anonymous

11/27/19 @ 5:30 AM

The lake is a treasure in our area like central park is to New York City. It is necessary.

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Comment From: Visit Vancouver USA (Cliff Myers)

11/27/19 @ 5:24 AM

I am writing on behalf of Visit Vancouver USA, the regional tourism office for Vancouver and Clark County Washington, to encourage the department of ecology to add Vancouver Lake to the priority list for water quality improvement and establish a TDML...↓

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Comment From: Serin Hale

11/27/19 @ 5:09 AM

Please help clean up Vancouver Lake! It's a lovely body of water, close to the community, that we could use so much more if it were safe and clean. The wildlife around it is stunning - I'm lucky enough to live near it, so I get to enjoy the bald eagl...↓

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Comment From: Rebecca Wahlstrom

11/27/19 @ 4:42 AM

Vancouver Lake is an important ammenity not only to the sporting groups that utilize it, but the county, as a whole. Large regattas are held here multiple times a year, each drawing hundreds of people from across the state. All those people purchas...↓

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Comment From: Darryll Olson

11/27/19 @ 3:59 AM

Vancouver Lake has the potential to become the most popular family oriented recreational facility in Clark County, but that will not happen until Clark Co leadership prioritizes its clean-up and commits the political and financial resources to make t...↓

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Comment From: Micah Berry

11/27/19 @ 3:58 AM

Vancouver Lake should be a priority for remediation. The area is a needed recreational and natural area for many individuals and organizations. Vancouver lake has many issues that the DOE can help with. Invasive species, terbitiy, and algae all...↓

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Comment From: Diana Perez

11/27/19 @ 3:55 AM

On behalf of the Southwest WA League of United Latin American Citizens Council 47013, I am writing to request that Vancouver Lake be considered as a priority for establishing a TMDL and receive the adequate level of funding for water improvement. Thi...↓

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Comment From: EUGENE & KAREN FOSTER

11/27/19 @ 3:21 AM

Dear Sir; Originally Residents from Washington State, both my wife and I returned to the Great Northwest after living in numerous other locations. We have always loved our State for its natural beauty and accessibility to countless outdoor recreati...↓

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Comment From: Lorena Brewer

11/27/19 @ 3:19 AM

Please help keeping Vancouver Lake beautiful! Our family enjoys this lake all year round. Cleaning up and maintaining it's beauty should be an important issue! Thank you Lorena Brewer

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Comment From: Phil Busse

11/27/19 @ 3:15 AM

From sailing to rowing to taking my 2-year old to the beach, Vancouver Lake is essential to the health and happiness for the community. There are few bodies of water in the area that provide the same recreational and community opportunities. Yet, la...↓

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Comment From: Marla Young

11/27/19 @ 3:11 AM

Please clean up Vancouver Lake so that it is safe and can be enjoyed by our community, fish and wildlife.

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Comment From: Friends of Vancouver Lake Friends of Vancouver Lake

11/27/19 @ 2:45 AM

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Comment From: Tom Fuller

11/27/19 @ 2:44 AM

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Comment From: Portland Vancouver Rowing Asso... (Sam Gray)

11/27/19 @ 2:22 AM

I am the president of the Portland Vancouver Rowing Association with maintains and operates a 2000m buoyed race course for rowing and dragon boating events. We host several large regattas and numerous small ones that bring thousands of participants t...↓

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Comment From: Gerald Neuburger

11/27/19 @ 2:01 AM

My family has been sailing on Vancouver Lake since the early 1980's. Unfortunately, the lake has slowly degraded over the years. It offers the best option for small boat activities in the Portland Metropolitan area. Portland has nothing like this,...↓

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Comment From: Richard Parr

11/27/19 @ 1:07 AM

Vancouver Lake is the only decent rowing course in Washington State. Our state is famous for its rowing, from the thousands of junior rowers, through college, and to the World Championships and Olympics. The loss of such a venue would have drastic co...↓

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Comment From: Pam Neild

11/27/19 @ 12:22 AM

I used to visit Vancouver much more often than I do now because I don't want to expose my daughter to the water. The minifoil and subsequent algae blooms were so bad this year we stopped going in June which meant no swimming or enjoying Summer at thi...↓

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Comment From: Gretchen Gianotti

11/26/19 @ 10:38 PM

Vancouver lake has become unusable for the public to use in the summer with the increasing occurrence of toxic blue green algae. Vancouver lake is over 10,000 years old. It is a shame the man made dredging through the years has altered the natural ...↓

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Comment From: DOUGLAS GREENE

11/26/19 @ 4:28 PM

Sometime ago, (August 29, 2018) I sent this letter (copy below) to Duane Ehleringer supporting his efforts to reclaim/revitalize Vancouver Lake, one of Clark County's hidden gems. He has written a 19-page proposal to "Save the Lake" but it hasn't got...↓ten much traction. As I/we became more knowledgeable about the many failed efforts to save the lake from becoming a "Dying Lake" I/we have personally invested over $5000 in the Friends of Vancouver Lake organization to fund solutions to its many problems, which are fixable, given the proper attention by governmental authorities to fulfill their responsibilities relative to the preservation of the land and state resources of which Vancouver Lake is. Over 100 years of study are enough! -There is a fix and many of the citizens of Clark County have stepped forward, with private funding, to treat the milfoil issue but much more needs to be done with the cooperation of Washington State, the DOE, Clark County, the City of Vancouver and the Port of Vancouver. We live on the lake's shores and I could provide reams of photos showing the algae, the milfoil and other contaminants that are attacking the lake. It is unsafe to swim in during the summer months when these things "sprout". This makes the lake, in its current state/condition a serious health hazard to humans and no doubt to the wild animals and fowl that inhabit the lake. Lets put the reclamation of this asset on a priority list, not only for the citizens of Clark County but for the state of Washington, showing the capacity of the DOE to "step up to the challenge" making living in the State of Washington an even more desirable homestead. Regards, Douglas & Heather Greene 2425 NW 69th Street Vancouver, WA 98665 zdcg@verizon.net Dear Duane, I have to admire you and your perseverance to make something happen to the Vancouver Lake watershed, aka, revitalizing the lake, making it a destination and recreational water park as well as a promoting its potential to become a commercial enterprise. It is a real shame that the lake has been neglected for so many years and that it now almost fits the definition of a "Dying Lake". It needn't be this way, if we can get the attention of the local, state and federal entities to realize how a revitalized lake can impact the community recreationally as well as economically. You have proposed some very aggressive plans to bring Vancouver Lake back to life and, with all that is happening on the Columbia River waterfront, there is no reason that Vancouver Lake couldn't follow that same pattern of reclamation. Remember the Columbia river waterfront was a vast industrial entity (nearly abandoned) before some forward thinkers decided to invest millions in the redevelopment which will benefit all of Vancouver as well as the state. The same could happen with support of a reclamation project on Vancouver Lake. We already have the Vancouver Sailboat Club, Lakeview Par 3 Golf Course and the world-class Vancouver Rowing Club on the shores of Vancouver Lake, why stop there? There are numerous other recreational and commercial enterprises that could be part of the reclamation project but allot has to be done to improve the lake itself. Damming and dredging the lake, along with a wider flushing channel to supply an abundance to fresh water to the lake, is a necessity. Perhaps draining the lake would be the best way to remove the weeds which prevent much of the lake from being used. I believe the waterfowl will find alternate nesting and feeding grounds, in the same area, while such a "shock treatment" takes place. We have to think big on such a reclamation project, taking into consideration that some environmental abnormalities may be necessary, for the better good, in the long run. I realize such a bold suggestion will send up red flags to many who feel that we "shouldn't fool with mother nature", but in the end, the benefits will far out weigh letting the lake die/dry up fouling the air with the poisons that have resulted from the uncontrolled runoff of septic systems, farming fertilizers and highway runoffs that have been deposited into the lake over the years. One only has to look at the Salton Sea in southern California to understand what 60 years of neglect has done to this body of water and that hundreds of millions of dollars will have to be spent to reclaim the lake to prevent a "poisonous dust bowel" from destroying the quality of the air from the desert cities, to San Diego as well as Los Angeles. Salton Sea Restoration Gets $80.5 Million In State Budget ... www.kpbs.org/news/2016/jun/28/salton-sea-restoration-80...state-budget The Salton Sea is 100 miles east of San Diego and is fed by runoff ... Wilcox said advocates for the sea are also looking into ways to get federal ..

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Comment From: Andrew jones

11/26/19 @ 3:05 PM

I believe that Vancouver Lake, Washington should be a high priority for water cleanup, and below details my reasons why. Vancouver Lake is a beautiful area, the nature is outstanding and it is a source of enjoyment for many. Currently the lake is ...↓

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Comment From: William Byrd

11/26/19 @ 12:40 PM

Bill Byrd 700 E McLoughlin blvd Vancouver, WA 98663 I have been visiting Vancouver Lake for well over 30 years and it is a real treasure for the City of Vancouver and all who visit. I have been involved with the sport of rowing for over 50 year...↓

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Comment From: Donn Venema

11/26/19 @ 11:34 AM

Hello, I am writing to support the addition of Vancouver Lake to your list of water bodies to prioritize for improvement projects. I live in the Lakeshore area just east of the lake and have also been a member of Vancouver Lake Rowing Club for 8 year...↓

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Comment From: Michele Gamburd

11/26/19 @ 10:51 AM

Please consider spending some resources for Vancouver Lake in Vancouver, WA! Rowers in Washington and Oregon race on the lake frequently, and the lake needs protection and restoration. Thank you!

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Comment From: Elliza McGrand

11/26/19 @ 10:42 AM

Vancouver Lake is a neglected treasure. As a rower, we go to several major regattas there, and an abiding joy is when the phenomenal coaches of the Vancouver Lake rowing clubs host us in guest rows. Their junior program has not just been producing ...↓

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Comment From: Mr. (TED GATHE)

11/26/19 @ 8:32 AM

2019 TMDL Prioritization I write as the Chair of Watersheds Alliance of Southwest Washington,- a Vancouver,Washington nonprofit devoted to education and preservation of our water resources- to strongly encourage the Department of Ecology to ele...↓vate to the highest priority possible Vancouver Lake and its tributaries in the current TDML process. Vancouver Lake has been designated as category 5 impaired water body needing improvement but no water improvement project yet exists. The Lake is impaired for temperature, PCBs, turbidity, bacteria in the water, total phosphorous, Deldrin and other toxins. Conjoined bodies of water like Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek, and Salmon Creek all add to the Lake's level of impairment. Category 5 listings require monitoring and updating with EPA every two years and also require a mandatory plan to rectify the problems identified. A combination of Eurasian Milfoil and blue green algae has plagued the Lake for years and resulted this past summer in a water quality crisis that led the County Health Department to repeatedly "close" the Lake for all uses. This had significant economic and environmental impacts resulting in the loss of several rowing events and regattas that would have brought 1000's of people and 10,000's of thousands to our community. Our fisheries are also been at risk: Salmon and sturgeon in particular. Carp are a problem because they spread milfoil and we are working with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to find a solution. In the last year, facing this crisis, our community has come together and independently raised funds to treat the milfoil in the spring of 2020. Clark County and the Port of Vancouver have committed funds, as have several non-profit entities and numerous citizens. Vancouver Lake Regional Park represents a major local source for recreational shoreline opportunities that remains accessible to those with limited resources or using public transportation. There is recent renewed interest in taking advantage of the lake's potential for public access and use. Clark County has been acquiring land along the shore through its Legacy Land program and started to build a series of trails looping around the lake as part of the Lewis & Clark Regional Trail project (proposed alignment attached). This is a major investment with the belief that Vancouver Lake and the surrounding watersheds can be a major attraction for public use. For these reasons, Watersheds Alliance urges the Department of Ecology to support our community in helping improve the water quality in Vancouver Lake and its tributaries, Burnt Bridge Creek, Salmon Creek and Lake River. Ted H. Gathe Chair Watersheds Alliance of Southwest Washington P.O Box 961 Vancouver, Wa. 98666-0961 tedgathe@gmail.com

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Comment From: Tracy Strylewicz-Crossman

11/26/19 @ 6:55 AM

I began rowing on Vancouver Lake in 2002. It was a beautiful lake with eagles, herons, and a natural ecosystem that thrived. Through the years it has had algae, increased temperatures, millfoil. What once was a great place for outdoor recreation is s...↓

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Comment From: Fred and Rhonda Dojan

11/25/19 @ 11:23 PM

Please prioritize Vancouver Lake as a water improvement project. There are many recreational activities that take place on Vancouver Lake and no other options for us in the area. We are members at the Vancouver Lake Sailing Club, our son was the sai...↓

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Comment From: Jana SCHWEITZER

11/25/19 @ 8:50 AM

Hello, please prioritize protection of Vancouver Lake. This is a gem that is used by many rowers, paddlers, sailboats, kayakers, swimmers. It is a tragedy that between the milfoil and the algae, that this lake cannot be used safely/healthily for a nu...↓

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Comment From: Sara Amundson

11/25/19 @ 3:04 AM

As someone who was raised very close to the lake and its beauty, I believe it is imperative that the lake is treated and managed well, by both community members and the Ecology department. Our young people use this lake area for training (running, cy...↓

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Comment From: John Wylder

11/25/19 @ 2:12 AM

It is important to all users of Vancouver Lake Park that the lake and it's supporting ecosystem be maintained and improved. The free flow of walter to and from the lake is essential. As a frequent user of thel lake and park I have seen what happens w...↓

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Comment From: Pam Pagel

11/24/19 @ 2:45 PM

Please give Vancouver Lake the attention it deserves. Our community counts on this lake for paddle sports, swimming and recreation. It is heavily used by the community when it isn't shut down for toxic pollution. As a dragon boat paddler, and past pa...↓

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Comment From: Lyn Wylder

11/24/19 @ 9:00 AM

I would like to voice my support for you to prioritize and work on the clean up of Vancouver Lake. I am a rower and have spent many days at Vancouver Lake as it is the only 2000 meter rowing course in the Pacific NW. The land support areas are wond...↓

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Comment From: Robert Chapman

11/24/19 @ 4:39 AM

I am writing in support of the State of Washington placing a high priority on water quality improvement in Vancouver Lake. Investing in sustaining and improving the water quality in this lake will yield major INCREMETAL ecological and recreational b...↓

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Comment From: Amber Baker

11/24/19 @ 4:19 AM

As a Category 5 303(d) impaired body of water Vancouver lake should already be in the process of restoring. Seeing as funding is always an issue I'd like to take a moment to share why Vancouver Lake should be at the top of the list for restoration. V...↓ancouver Lake is a vital piece to the health, sustainability, and watershed of Clark County and beyond as it connects to the Columbia river which has an effect all the way to the Pacific ocean and beyond. This fragile eco-system and community center have degraded quickly over the last 10 years. This degradation affects water, land, and air eco-system as well as the well being of vulnerable youth and disabled athletes. The lake is so full of various matter that it is shallow across the entire lake allowing the lake to heat to unhealthy levels each summer as exhibited by the mass dying off of fish, birds, and toxic algae blooms. And you must remember that this toxic water travels down Lake river to the Columbia River going through the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Ridgefield) opening additional environmental and eco-system harm downstream! Vancouver lake is also home to the Vancouver Lake Sailing Club(https://vlsc.org/) and Vancouver Lake Rowing Club and Aquatic Center (https://www.vancouverlakerowingclub.com/) both incredible contributors to the community of Clark County. They provide resources, community, and outlets to children, youth and adults of South West Washington. These clubs also offer support to vulnerable children and youth as a place to make connections with positive adult support. They also offer opportunities for disabled youth and adults to participate in water sports. This lake is so much more than a body of water! Vancouver lake has a ripple effect that touches so many. Vancouver Lakes eco-system includes SouthWest Washington, North West Oregon, and the Pacific ocean. It is time to stop putting off what needs to be done to return this vital and fragile lake back to where it needs to be for it to continue to be a healthy contributor to its eco-system instead of allowing it to spread toxins further due to lack of attention. Vancouver Lake cannot heal on its own. The pollution and degradation are not a product of the natural cycle of a body of water but are a result of man-made interference that we are responsible to correct. Our family has greatly enjoyed the lake during the spring, winter, and fall months over the last 10 years, via special events and the Vancouver Lake Aquatic Center. We don't enjoy it in the summers as it smells awful and the algae blooms make it unusable. As someone who loves the water and grew up on Lake Tapps (Auburn, WA) it's beyond horrible how we have let the lake become so gross and unusable. We have had numerous events and celebrations over the years with family, friends, and others from our community. It's a part of what makes SW Washington so special and it is worth our time, effort, and finances to make it a usable beautiful resource again. Thank you for your time.

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Comment From: Issac Baker

11/24/19 @ 3:40 AM

Vancouver lake is a highly trafficked body of water, and as such should be receiving the proper care and attention. Every summer due to improper care and upkeep Vancouver lake experiences an algae bloom that is not safe to be highly exposed to, the w...↓

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Comment From: Austin Baker

11/24/19 @ 3:18 AM

Vancouver lake is a central location for creating a thriving community in the south west Washington region. But it is greatly suffering from the poor maintenance quality of recent years. I would submit that by cleaning and restoring vancouver lake, y...↓

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Comment From: Nanis Gilmore

11/23/19 @ 3:06 PM

I am writing as a resident of Clark county and a member of the Vancouver Lake Sailing Club. It has been a pleasure to be able to sail and kayak on Vancouver lake over the past 5 years, enjoying the beauty and serenity of the natural setting. It's a...↓

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Comment From: Sharon Wyle

11/23/19 @ 10:13 AM

This is a water playground in our backyard. Our family swims and kayaks all over that lake. However, it is so frustrating that we can only enjoy it when rhe water is ok. This year I was on the planning committee for a fundraiser for Vancouver vete...↓

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Comment From: Jeff Finley

11/23/19 @ 8:57 AM

Alan Stewart's input makes the case better than I can, but I agree with his entire input. I would add the following: I live on Lakeshore Ave. and my home overlooks the lake. I retired in 2015 and in 2016 decided to get involved with the Vancouver ...↓Lake Rowing Club. I also became interested in trying to understand the issues that plagued this invaluable resource and why over time and study no direct action had been taken to address this threatened regional resource. After several months of research and discussions with various official personnel at various city, county, state and commercial organizations who a citizen might reasonably expect to have ownership or interest in the lake I was disappointed to find out that not one entity claimed responsibility or was willing to grab ahold of the issues and studies that had already been completed to find solutions for the lake. The most surprising fact I discovered was there was no consensus regarding "ownership" of the lake. Some claimed they owned the lake bottom; some said they owned the flushing channel; some said they owned the water from such and such high and low water marks, etc. As I was doing my research a common refrain from contacts at agencies that should have significant responsibility and interest in the issues basically told me, "great to see a citizens interest. Please keep me informed of your progress!" As it developed my interest began to focus on the milfoil problem. My research indicated that more than just a rapidly spreading invasive species that is impossible to eradicate, it is also a significant hazard to those who recreate on the lake. Apparently there are deaths each year attributed to the weed with people becoming trapped in the mass and drowning throughout Washington. I did however discover that there are treatments for the milfoil that when properly and repeatively applied can control the spread of the weed. In fact, there are proven techniques and products that can in fact do that job. Additionally it was discovered that the state has a template based on experiences in other location that is directly applicable to our lakes situation. The "how to" instructions with experienced contacts is available within state regulation and codes. To address the problem of too many fingers in the lake ownership pie but no responsibility, there is also a state directive on how to establish a Lake Management District which brings together various organization under a charter that spells out ownership, responsibility and funding mechanisms and provides examples of proven experiences of other locations where this has been successfully implemented. At this point as I understand it, milfoil has been identified as the most threatening issue facing the lake; funds have been accumulated and application has been made and approved for the first application of milfoil abatement treatment, but that treatment has not taken place. Without treatment as soon as possible, and a mechanism and organization put in place to provide continuous oversight and management of Lake Vancouver all of the potential benefits of this great resource will be lost. Treatment of the lake next year is critical but if it isn't followed up by structural reorganization, identification of responsible parties and an ongoing funding source it will be impossible for "concerned citizens" to carry the day indefinitely to protect and maintain this lake. Jeff Finley Captain, USN (Ret)

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Comment From: traci kosaki

11/23/19 @ 6:15 AM

Please take care of Vancouver Lake, we would like to Kayak, possibly swim which is currently not an option. Also sail and rowing are wonderful if we could keep that lake clean for an entire summer. Currently there are times that we cannot allow ou...↓

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Comment From: Scott Judkins

11/23/19 @ 1:03 AM

Please make Vancouver Lake's health a priority. It's a valuable asset to everything around it. People enjoy its attributes for many types of recreational activities. The natural world depends on it for life and sustenance. I regularly see bald eagles...↓

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Comment From: Barbara Hedges

11/23/19 @ 12:41 AM

Please add Lake Vancouver to your priority list for water quality improvement as soon as possible. Lake Vancouver is a beautiful asset to our community, providing much needed protection for wildlife and a much needed water resource for swimming, boa...↓

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Comment From: Natalie Cantrell

11/22/19 @ 11:50 PM

Vancouver Lake is the jewel of Vancouver with unrealized potential. With the new waterfront development, the Lake will be an attraction for new tourists and visitors, and wil bring revenue to the area. As a paddler on the lake, I have been witness t...↓

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Comment From: Nancy Hays

11/22/19 @ 10:38 AM

Please consider clean up of Vancouver Lake. I am a member of the Vancouver Lake sailing club. Despite its long status as a Category 5 303(d) impaired water body, Vancouver Lake has not been prioritized for clean up by the State of Washington. Ple...↓ase see the following 5 reasons to make clean up of Vancouver Lake a priority. 1 Severity of the pollution problem – the Lake falls into Category 5 on temperature, PCBs, turbidity, bacteria in the water, total phosphorous, Deldrin and other toxins. Conjoined water bodies such as Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek and Salmon Creek add to the Lake's woes with their own Category 5 issues. 2 Risks to public health – each season the Lake and this community miss out on the opportunity to host thousands of competitive athletes and visitors to the largest lake within a 50-mile radius of a major West Coast city and international airport (Portland) for world, national, west coast, regional, and state competitive rowing competitions, dragon boating competitions and outrigger canoe events due to blue-green algae blooms and E.coli issues. The same conditions affect swim beaches and community recreational uses such as sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Risks to health from cyanobacteria are well established. 3 Risks to threatened and endangered species – The Lake temperature, toxicity and shallow depth threaten salmonids, lower Columbia chum, Chinook and steelhead. 4 Vulnerability of water bodies to degradation – As temperature, toxicity, flow and dilution issues remain unaddressed, the Lake faces a new foe – Eurasian Milfoil Weed taking hold throughout the shallow waters threatening swimmers and recreation. Failure to address increased flow of colder Columbia River water through the existing Flushing Channel – a waterway with only one Category 5 designation for temperature – warrants an updated hydrological study. 5 Local support and interest in a watershed – For more than 40 years, the Vancouver and Clark County communities have understood the enormous possibilities that Vancouver Lake represents for outdoor recreation, economic development and the important personal well-being that results from time spent recreating with families and friends in the beautiful outdoors.

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Comment From: Jordan Harmer

11/22/19 @ 8:59 AM

The lake pollution really needs to be fixed. The lake has been listed as a category 5 for quite some time now.

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Comment From: Hilary Swain

11/22/19 @ 6:44 AM

I write as a rower who loves Vancouver Lake as a premier venue for rowing regattas. Some of the best and biggest regattas in the Northwest for masters and junior rowers are held on Vancouver Lake, and I hope that continues. Milfoil and blue-green ...↓

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Comment From: Jenny Ruthven

11/22/19 @ 6:30 AM

Hello, Please prioritize addressing the various issues at Vancouver Lake. The lake is used by the rowing community for several regattas each year, bringing thousands of people to the area from WA, OR and CA, which positively benefits the local econo...↓

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Comment From: Emily Kuo

11/22/19 @ 6:09 AM

I used to use Vancouver Lake regularly but now cannot because of: Severity of the pollution problem Risks to public health This valuable lake is now: A risks to threatened and endangered species Vulnerable due to degradation I believe a new or ...↓

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Comment From: Shirley Brierley-Lovell

11/22/19 @ 5:17 AM

I used to row and dragon boat on Vancouver Lake but due to the change in water conditions I know row for another club on the Willamette River. This years dragon boat weekend had to be moved elsewhere due to the state of the water. This needs to be ad...↓

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Comment From: John Najarian

11/22/19 @ 5:08 AM

As I am sure you are aware Vancouver Lake is suffocating. This amazing body of water is where I was given the chance to compete at the NW regionals jr. Regatta. I have many fond memories and wish to see it restored.

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Comment From: Bonnie Little

11/22/19 @ 4:54 AM

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Comment From: Joanna Schwartz

11/22/19 @ 4:48 AM

Vancouver Lake is a Lake I used to use regularly but now cannot because of: Severity of the pollution problem Risks to public health This valuable lake is now: A risks to threatened and endangered species Vulnerable due to degradation I bel...↓

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Comment From: James Luce

11/22/19 @ 4:38 AM

I write as a Clark County and Vancouver, Washington resident to strongly encourage the Department of Ecology to elevate to the highest priority possible our own Vancouver Lake and its tributaries in the current TDML process. Since 2004 the Lake...↓ has been designated an impaired water body needing improvement but no water improvement project yet exists. The Lakes is impaired for temperature, PCBs, turbidity, bacteria in the water, total phosphorous, Deldrin and other toxins. Conjoined bodies of water like Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek, and Salmon Creek all add to the Lake's level of impairment. Personally, I have always enjoyed Vancouver Lake but until last years outbreak of milfoil, and then blue green algae, I was unaware of the water quality crisis that faced the Lake. Last year these in combination led the County Health Department to repeatedly "close" the Lake for all uses. This had significant economic and environmental impacts resulting in the loss of several rowing events and regattas that would have brought 1000's of people and 10,000's of thousands to our community. Our fisheries are also been at risk: Salmon and sturgeon in particular. Carp are a problem because they spread milfoil and we are working with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to find a solution. In the last year, facing this crisis, our community has come together and independently raised funds to treat the milfoil in the spring of 2020. Clark County and the Port of Vancouver have committed funds, as have several non-profit entities. Vancouver Lake Regional Park represents a major local source for recreational shoreline opportunities that remains accessible to those with limited resources or using public transportation. There is recent renewed interest in taking advantage of the lake's potential for public access and use. Clark County has been acquiring land along the shore through its Legacy Land program and started to build a series of trails looping around the lake as part of the Lewis & Clark Regional Trail project (proposed alignment attached). This is a major investment with the belief that Vancouver Lake and the surrounding watersheds can be a major attraction for public use. The bottom line. For these and the other reasons important to the highest TDML Listing we encourage the Department of Ecology to support our community in helping us improve the water quality in our Lake.. James O. Luce 310Pasadena Way Vancouver, Wa. 98661

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Comment From: Norberto Gliozzi

11/22/19 @ 4:20 AM

Vancouver Lake I'm particularly concern about the following issues related to Vancouver Lake: • Severity of the pollution problem • Risks to public health • Risks to threatened and endangered species • Vulnerability of water bodies to degradatio...↓

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Comment From: gregory pagel

11/22/19 @ 4:04 AM

I grew up and now live overlooking Vancouver Lake, so I have been able to see the changes the lake has endured over the last 50 years. As a registered Civil Engineer, with a hydraulics and construction background, the degradation of the lake and any ...↓

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Comment From: Teresa Grompe

11/22/19 @ 4:03 AM

I use this Lake recreationally myself and clean, safe water is a high priority for me! Thank you, Teresa Grompe

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Comment From: Joce Oien

11/22/19 @ 3:22 AM

Please put effort toward cleaning up Vancouver Lake. My son rows with the Vancouver Lake Rowing Club and I've seen first hand how degraded the lake is. It needs attention.

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Comment From: Gavin Oien

11/22/19 @ 3:15 AM

Please place clean up of Vancouver Lake at the top of your priorities. The lake is a unique and important natural resource to the community but the health of the lake has continued to deteriorate with the lack of attention. As this community continu...↓

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Comment From: Megan Fries

11/21/19 @ 11:59 PM

As a life long resident of Vancouver I feel that the cleanup of Vancouver Lake should be a top priority. It's the first lake I ever waded and swam in as a kid. The park is already so lovely, it's a shame that the lake is mostly un-usable each summe...↓

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Comment From: Jenna Carr

11/21/19 @ 11:33 PM

Please consider cleaning up Vancouver Lake in a big way. It is dangerous to public health every summer, but not only that it is dangerous to at-risk fish species. I learned to row on this lake, and it breaks my heart to come back to visit, walk dow...↓

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Comment From: Vancouver Lake Rowing Club stewart

11/21/19 @ 3:41 PM

• Severity of the pollution problem – since 2004, Vancouver Lake has been designated an impaired water body in need of clean up and yet no water improvement project exists. The Lake falls is impaired for temperature, PCBs, turbidity, bacteria in the ...↓water, total phosphorous, Deldrin and other toxins. Conjoined bodies of water like Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek, and Salmon Creek all add to the Lake's level of impairment. • Risks to public health – every season the Lake and this community miss out on the opportunity to bring thousands of visitors to the largest lake within a 50-mile radius of a major West Coast city and international airport (Portland) as hosts for world, national, west coast, regional, and state competitive rowing competitions because of closures due to blue-green algae. The same conditions affect swim beaches and recreational uses such as kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding. Risks to health from cyanobacteria are well established. • Risks to threatened and endangered species – the Lake is a refuge for migratory waterfowl and has identified salmonids including chum, chinook and steelhead as part of the fish population. • Vulnerability of water bodies to degradation - As temperature, toxicity, flow and dilution issues remain unaddressed, the Lake faces a new foe – Eurasian Milfoil Weed taking hold throughout the shallow waters threatening swimmers and recreation. Failure to address increased flow of colder Columbia River water through the existing Flushing Channel remains a key disappointment and issue. • Local support and interest in a watershed - For more than 40 years, the Vancouver and Clark County communities have understood the enormous possibilities that Vancouver Lake represents for outdoor recreation, economic development and the important personal well-being that results from time spent recreating with families and friends in the beautiful outdoors. Vancouver Lake Regional Park represents a major local source for recreational shoreline opportunities that remains accessible to those with limited resources or using public transportation. There is recent renewed interest in taking advantage of the lake's potential for public access and use. Clark County has been acquiring land along the shore through its Legacy Land program and started to build a series of trails looping around the lake as part of the Lewis & Clark Regional Trail project (proposed alignment attached). This is a major investment with the belief that Vancouver Lake and the surrounding watersheds can be a major attraction for public use. The attached pictures are of the annual US Rowing Northwest District high school rowing championships on Vancouver Lake in mid May. This event has close to 2000 athletes competing and brings easily another two to three thousand accompanying family members to the local community / economy. The US Rowing Northwest Masters district championship is also held on Vancouver Lake one month later in June with approximately 1200 athletes competing from all over the country. This regatta came very close to losing its permit due to water quality issues on Vancouver Lake. This would have been a big economic loss to the city of Vancouver initially and no doubt in the future as we cannot guarantee good water quality any longer. Additionally, 2 large dragon boat races had to be cancelled this year due to water quality. One being a fund raiser for our local vets, which despite being cancelled, still raised over $22,000 doing alternative dry land events at Vancouver Lake Park.

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Comment From: Alan Stewart

11/21/19 @ 3:23 PM

• Severity of the pollution problem – since 2004, Vancouver Lake has been designated an impaired water body in need of clean up and yet no water improvement project exists. The Lake falls is impaired for temperature, PCBs, turbidity, bacteria in the ...↓water, total phosphorous, Deldrin and other toxins. Conjoined bodies of water like Lake River, Burnt Bridge Creek, and Salmon Creek all add to the Lake's level of impairment. • Risks to public health – every season the Lake and this community miss out on the opportunity to bring thousands of visitors to the largest lake within a 50-mile radius of a major West Coast city and international airport (Portland) as hosts for world, national, west coast, regional, and state competitive rowing competitions because of closures due to blue-green algae. The same conditions affect swim beaches and recreational uses such as kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding. Risks to health from cyanobacteria are well established. • Risks to threatened and endangered species – the Lake is a refuge for migratory waterfowl and has identified salmonids including chum, chinook and steelhead as part of the fish population. • Vulnerability of water bodies to degradation - As temperature, toxicity, flow and dilution issues remain unaddressed, the Lake faces a new foe – Eurasian Milfoil Weed taking hold throughout the shallow waters threatening swimmers and recreation. Failure to address increased flow of colder Columbia River water through the existing Flushing Channel remains a key disappointment and issue. • Local support and interest in a watershed - For more than 40 years, the Vancouver and Clark County communities have understood the enormous possibilities that Vancouver Lake represents for outdoor recreation, economic development and the important personal well-being that results from time spent recreating with families and friends in the beautiful outdoors. Vancouver Lake Regional Park represents a major local source for recreational shoreline opportunities that remains accessible to those with limited resources or using public transportation. There is recent renewed interest in taking advantage of the lake's potential for public access and use. Clark County has been acquiring land along the shore through its Legacy Land program and started to build a series of trails looping around the lake as part of the Lewis & Clark Regional Trail project (proposed alignment attached). This is a major investment with the belief that Vancouver Lake and the surrounding watersheds can be a major attraction for public use. Please see attached pictures of blue green algae blooms and fish die off as a result. This past summer 2019, the lake was closed to recreation for over 100 days which had a direct economic impact on the local community due to loss of scheduled events which brought people in from the entire west coast.

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Comment From: Zoe Anastas

11/21/19 @ 1:14 PM

Vancouver Lake is a frequently used body of water for all sorts of water activities from fishing and boating to rowing and kayaking and even swimming. I say 'even swimming' because the lake is often closed, especially in the summer due to outbreaks o...↓

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Comment From: Jennifer More

11/21/19 @ 11:30 AM

As a citizen of Vancouver, and an avid outdoor enthusiast, I feel it's imperative that the state make caring for the safety and sustainability of Vancouver Lake a priority. We have an ecosystem to maintain in this beautiful body of water. It is used ...↓

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Comment From: Gail Liberman

11/21/19 @ 7:12 AM

Vancouver Lake located in Clark County is a recreational gem in Vancouver WA used by water enthusiasts to row, paddle, swim, kayak, paddle board and sail. The water pollution and milfoil in Vancouver Lake negatively affects these activities. Water qu...↓

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Comment From: Anita Bigelow

11/21/19 @ 6:14 AM

I write as a rower who cherishes Vancouver Lake as a premier venue for rowing regattas. Some of the best and biggest regattas in the Northwest for masters and junior rowers are held on Vancouver Lake, or have been. Milfoil and blue-green algae blooms...↓

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Comment From: Craig Smith

11/21/19 @ 5:49 AM

I have recreated at Vancouver Lake over the years. The quality of the water has become worse and worse and the lake has been closed during crucial summer months when I would like to swim in the water, take out my inflatable kayak and play with my ki...↓

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Comment From: Charles Harless

11/21/19 @ 5:36 AM

Vancouver Lake is used by most area residents, and a lot of out of area recreationists. A perfect place for sailing, rowing, kayaking, swimming, and just enjoying the outdoors. A lake that needs attention to retain these activities. A serine place...↓

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Comment From: George Gardner

11/21/19 @ 3:06 AM

I urge the state of Washington to put Vancouver Lake high on the priority list for cleanup. This is a natural waterbody within a metropolitan area that offers numerous recreation and environmental values and is affected by various threats. Vancouver ...↓

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Comment From: H Wain Greenhalgh

11/20/19 @ 2:15 PM

I live in Olympia Wa. 1-3 times a week I drive to Vancouver Lake to go Dragon Boating. That is 250 - 750 Miles. I make the drive because when conditions are good I feel it is one of the best places in the area. However this past summer there have ...↓

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Comment From: David Kuch

11/20/19 @ 1:14 PM

Vancouver Lake is a treasure for the entire Vancouver/Portland community, for its beauty, its accessibility, and its part in providing habitat for a rich mixture of plants and animals. Additionally, it is an incredible venue for recreation and sports...↓

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Comment From: david myers

11/20/19 @ 1:04 PM

Hello Vancouver is a beautiful place. It has many recreational opportunities for us in the metro area with Vancouver Portland. Unfortunately it is being clogged with milweed which is preventing water sports (rowing , paddling ) ie non carbon emitt...↓

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Comment From: Amber Cole

11/20/19 @ 11:53 AM

To whom it may concern, I am a resident of Portland, Oregon and a regular visitor to Vancouver Lake for swimming, recreation with my family, and rowing events. Vancouver Lake is an important ecological and recreational asset to the Clark County and ...↓

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Comment From: Paddle for Life (Rick Mclaughlin)

11/20/19 @ 11:48 AM

Paddle for Life dragon boat event which raises funds for Clark County Veterans. The event was cancelled due to toxic algae bloom in Vancouver Lake although no racing happened by any of the 35 teams, we still held a large picnic and raised enough mon...↓

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Comment From: Chris Barrar

11/20/19 @ 11:03 AM

I am in support of prioritizing cleanup and maintenance of Vancouver Lake. It is a beautiful lake that I used to take my children to. It is a close drive from Portland, and the only lake I know of that is so close, except for Lake Oswego, which is pr...↓

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Comment From: Amelia Carter

11/20/19 @ 10:14 AM

Vancouver lake is a treasure! Countless rowers, dragon boaters, kayakers, paddle boarders and fishermen love and use the lake. It is home to a variety of birds including bald eagles and great blue herons. The sunrises and sunsets make you pause and g...↓

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Comment From: Susan Adams

11/20/19 @ 9:53 AM

Vancouver lake is becoming a health risk. As a competitive rower who hungers for and thrives on bodies of water for both exercise and serenity, I plead with authorities for please consider prioritizing clean up of Vancouver Lake. Additionally there a...↓

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Comment From: Maryann McCormick

11/20/19 @ 9:52 AM

Vancouver Lake was a find for the Northwest rowing community in the early 1990s. Prior to that time there had been no feasible site for very popular rowing regattas, but the lake proved so good that the USRowing Nationals were held there in 1993, an...↓d the Nike World Masters regatta in 1998. The USRowing Masters and Junior Regional regattas have been held there almost every year since, drawing more masters rowers than any other area in the country. But the outlook is not good. -Severity of pollution:Vancouver Lake was closed in July of 2019 due to an E. Coli outbreak, and the blue-green algae advisory was not lifted until October. In addition, because of the blue-green algae issue, the Milfoil problem has yet to be addressed despite sufficient fund-raising to pay for eradication. An article in the Vancouver Columian, 8/28/18 stated "Vancouver Lake is an impaired waterway that struggles with high levels of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, poor water clarity, high temperatures and occasional cyanobacteria blooms, which can be harmful to people and animals in the summer months, according to a 2013 report drafted by the Vancouver Lake Watershed Partnership. Swimming at the lake has also been closed in the past due to high levels of E. coli bacteria." -Vulnerability to degradation:The berm that was built last year to help endangered Sandhill Cranes, is problematic to the lake due to its effect on the flushing channel. -Public Health: The lake is one of a few safe non-pool swimming sites in the Metro area and includes a lovely park area with picnic tables and barbeque pits. As noted before, the pollution has caused closure and advisories. However families do come to picnic and people do swim. -Threatened species: The lake supports a large number of waterfowl, including American Pelicans, several species of grebes, loons, ducks. I don't know what the effects of algae or the other pollutants are on these birds, however my guess is that they would be healthier in healthier water. -Local support: Thousands of rowers, from the local area as well as California, Washington, and British Columbia come to the lake for events several times a year. A rowing club and a sailing club are based on the lake. Families and individuals in the growing Metropolitan area make use of the lake for picnicking, swimming, kayaking and triathlon training. I hope you will see the dire need to prioritize Vancouver Lake for clean-up. Thank you.

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