What We Do
We are working for you
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.
COMMUNICATONS
- Produce and distribute quarterly newsmagazines.
- Manage website content and design.
- Post social media content.
- Deliver email blasts and surveys.
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.
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.
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.
GALA
- Host an annual social event which educates members about key GCOLA topics and raises funds for programs.
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.
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.
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.
MEMBERSHIP
- Attend local events to promote membership.
- Actively pursue new property owners to join GCOLA.
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.
