Tri-Lakes Winter – Spring Update

EOR has presented all of the data collected from last years testing areas to the WI DNR.

We have had 2 presentations by EOR concerning the addition of oxygen to the water and it’s effects on phytoplankton and zooplankton and the second presentation on dissolved oxygen. Our next presentation will be the measurement of sediment removal around the 10 Neo units and the large 2,400 gph unit.

The results were as expected with no negative impacts on the 2 aquatic organism. The dissolved oxygen indicated that the areas around the units were less variable oxygen ranges. We do have quite a few positive anecdotal comments about the improved water clarity and removal of sediment, but we will wait for the studies for confirmation.

EOR is currently in the process of obtaining the DNR permits for this season, and we are looking for a startup date of May 15 for the container and the 10 units.

We are also working on getting additional NEO units placed and permitted but will have to wait for DNR approval. We do have quite a few approximate locations picked as I went around Camelot and Arrowhead last fall looking for acceptable sites. Last year was an interesting learning experience and we are developing a short questionnaire for future locations to ensure available locations provide ease of installation.

The Tri-Lakes board has also committed to replacing the barley bags with biochar as preliminary tests indicate the removal of phosphates and nitrates. We are looking to work with 14 Mile Alliance and some other groups to place an order and get a volume price. We are still working with the experts as to the best placements for these bags as their costs are substantially higher than the barley bags, but they can last up to 3 years. There was a 2025 Penn Extension study that promotes the use of barley bags, but the number of bags required, proper location and the fact it inhibits algae growth rather than reducing the nutrients are reasons for the switch. We also want to ensure there is no issues with the biochar and nanobubble units. We do want uncompromised data in all cases. We will have additional information soon.

Enjoy your spring and have an enjoyable 2026!