As the summer season concludes, we reflect upon another year where Swimmers Itch was not a significant issue for our community It proved to be an extraordinary year for lake associations, like ours, who rely on Trap and Release methods to control the problem. Due to the presence of avian flu, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) suspended permits for such activities in 2022. The full impact of this suspension will become more apparent on other lakes in 2023. However, we were fortunate that no broods needed removal from Higgins Lake this year. While migration still plays a role, the number of cases was minimal, and we considered ourselves fortunate to have evaded this challenge when our primary tool was unavailable.
The avian flu has witnessed a substantial reduction in recent months. However, its complete eradication remains uncertain until spring. The influence of migration on the viability of the flu in 2023 will be closely monitored in the coming months. Whether restrictions on Trap and Release methods will be imposed again is yet to be determined.
One fact remains certain: the Swimmers Itch problem is most prominent with the presence of common merganser ducks and their interaction with Stagnicola snails. Our research in 2021 revealed that the potential for Swimmers Itch from the Canada goose cycle with Helisoma snails is significantly lower than previously suggested. Therefore, our focus should primarily be on controlling common mergansers to effectively manage Swimmers Itch.
In 2022, we initiated a study to identify when and where Swimmers Itch cases were reported on Higgins Lake. We intend to continue collecting data for this study in 2023 to identify potential patterns that could guide our future actions. Please refer to the research study report for more detailed information.
Regarding avian flu, its viability in 2023 remains uncertain. We are yet to determine whether restrictions on relocating ducks will be necessary again. Winter discussions have already been scheduled with the DNR to evaluate this situation.
We extend our gratitude for your past participation and encouragement. The success we have achieved in combating Swimmers Itch is a testament to the unwavering support of the Higgins Lake community. The HLSIO board is fully committed to utilizing proven methods to control the spread of Swimmers Itch in the future. Moreover, we will continue our pursuit of new and more effective approaches.
We wish everyone a joyful holiday season and a Merry Christmas.
Sincerely,
Your HLSIO Board
Melanie Brown, Bill Carey, Phil Czech, Duncan Lawrence, Dale McDonald, John Ogren, Mike Purkey, and Greg Semack