A focal point of environmental concern and community involvement at the recent Deal Lake Commission meeting was the planning and authorization of the annual spring cleanup. Set for March 16th, with a backup date of April 6th in case of inclement weather, the event will not only aim to tackle the accumulation of trash but will also serve as an educational experience for local students. The commission has approved a budget not to exceed $400 for advertising and equipment, and announced its partnership with Wanamassa fourth graders to raise awareness about environmental issues.

In addition to educational efforts, the Commission has been navigating the complexities of environmental project permits. Members expressed frustration with the challenges they face when dealing with state bureaucracy, which often impedes the timely execution of lake conservation and restoration projects. Despite these obstacles, they remain engaged in advocacy with state senators and assembly people, striving to secure necessary permits and additional funding through associations like the New Jersey Public Lakes Association.

The Commission also recognized the importance of water quality monitoring, thanking the dedicated water testers who provide crucial data for assessing the health of the lake. The data collected from testing sites around the lake is accessible to the public via the Clonet website, a resource that the Commission highlighted during the meeting. The presentation aimed to educate attendees on how to access and interpret the results, further emphasizing the Commission’s dedication to transparency and public involvement in environmental monitoring.

The meeting brought to light community concerns regarding the presence of jet skis on Deal Lake. Public comments focused on the disturbance caused by jet skiers, particularly around The Flume area, raising issues related to noise pollution and the impact on the lake’s ecosystem. These concerns prompted discussions among Commission members about the need for stricter regulations and enforcement of noise and speed limits to mitigate the environmental and social impacts of jet ski activity. The Commission also discussed the possibility of restricting jet skis and updating rules in coordination with the state police Marine unit.

The issue of lake water levels was another significant topic, as the Commission discussed the state’s control over dam permits and water levels. Heavy rainfall had caused a rise in water levels, prompting a request to the state to raise the maximum height of the outfall pipe by two feet, as supported by the mayors of neighboring towns. Restrictions on lowering the lake between July 1st and September 15th were also mentioned, aimed at protecting aquatic life.

New business at the meeting included the approval of a weed management program proposal and discussions regarding a flume permit, which became especially pertinent following a significant storm. The Commission also passed a resolution authorizing the acceptance of a Department of Environmental Protection grant worth $89,400 and discussed federal codes and paperwork necessary for the grant’s management.

Public engagement extended beyond environmental concerns, with attendees raising issues such as the placement of garbage bins in Allenhurst and the expansion of kayak racks around the lake. Suggestions for a “lost and found” section on the website and concerns over garbage accumulation at a local park were also addressed.

Moreover, the Commission welcomed its new alternate commissioner, Josh Starner, who brings his experience as a real estate agent and a member of the Asbury Park rent leveling board to the table. Starner’s appointment follows the departure of the previous alternate commissioner.