What We Do

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What We Do

AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES (AIS)

  • Work with local counties and the MN DNR regarding AIS inspections at public boat launches.
  • Seek grants at state and county levels for AIS activities.
  • Coordinate with government agencies concerning the use of the decontamination unit at the Government Point public access.
  • Manage the I-LIDS units at the Nisswa and Gull Narrows public accesses which provide unmanned AIS inspections.
  • Collaborate with vendors to inspect 30+ hot spots on the Gull Lake Chain.
  • Oversee application of chemicals to eradicate or control AIS.
  • Educate resort owners and staff about AIS prevention at their boat accesses.
What We Do - AIS

COMMUNICATONS

  • Produce and distribute quarterly newsmagazines.
  • Manage website content and design.
  • Post social media content.
  • Deliver email blasts and surveys.
What We Do - Communications

ENVIRONMENTAL

  • Host the Tree Giveaway event.
  • Monitor water quality using chemical and/or physical methods.
  • Promote the benefits of a dark night sky for people and animals.
  • Interact with local governments and planning and zoning committees to protect water quality.
  • Provide education concerning the ecosystems of our lakes.
What We Do - Environmental

FINANCE & AUDIT

  • Coordinate annual budget approval process.
  • Responsible for all internal and external audits.
  • Maintain oversight of the AIS funds managed by the Initiative Foundation and Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation.
  • Manage insurance.
  • Oversee all GCOLA finances.
What We Do - Finance

FISHERIES

  • Work with MN DNR regarding fish management activities on the Gull Lake Chain.
  • Identify fishery/fishing issues to be addressed by the Board.
  • Facilitate discussions with the MN DNR concerning special fishing regulations.
What We Do - Fisheries

GALA

  • Host an annual social event which educates members about key GCOLA topics and raises funds for programs.
Wat We Do - Gala

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

  • Work with state and local legislators and governmental agencies on legislation related to key priorities.
  • Collaborate with other lake associations on issues and actions.
  • Network with lobbyists and advocacy groups to help accomplish legislative goals.
  • Attend meetings held by governments and agencies concerning legislative priorities.
Phelps Frawley

LAKE STEWARD

  • Engage property owners to evaluate their shoreland and/or update it to qualify for the Lake Steward Award.
  • Coordinate the GCOLA Shoreland Habitat cost-share program.
  • Promote the Lake Steward Award program state-wide by engaging with cities, counties, MN DNR, and Minnesota Lakes and Rivers.
What We Do - Lake Steward

LOON CONSERVANCY

  • Conduct loon surveys, and report findings to DNR MN Loon Restoration Project (MLRP).
  • Deliver education materials and signage regarding loon protection.
  • Participate in the MPCA Get the Lead Out (GTLO) Program.
  • Place artificial loon nesting platforms with guidance from the MLRP.
  • Coordinate loon rescues as part of the Minnesota Loon Rescue Network.
  • Support loon banding on the Gull Lake Chain through The Loon Project.
What We Do - Loon Conservancy

MEMBERSHIP

  • Attend local events to promote membership.
  • Actively pursue new property owners to join GCOLA.
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SAFETY & RECREATION

  • Coordinate the installation and ongoing maintenance of the buoy system with the vendor, and Cass County and Crow Wing County sheriffs.
  • Manage the adopt-a-buoy program.
  • Provide watercraft safety brochures to the public.
  • Work with local law enforcement to provide boat safety training for youth.
  • Interface with local law-enforcement regarding watercraft safety concerns.
What We Do - Safety