HQRA AQUATIC MANAGEMENT : simplebooklet.com

PROJECT OVERVIEWOVERLOOKED AND UNDERSUPPORTEDThe quarry lakes at the Heritage Quarries Recreation Area (HQRA) are remnants from historic mining operations (1850-1900). Once mining ceased, the limestone quarry pits flooded with groundwater and formed a series of lakes.Today, visitors to the HQRA fish, boat, and otherwise recreate around the various lake waters. Water drainage and circulation between the lakes, Illinois and Michigan Canal, Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, and surrounding groundwater occurs naturally due to water percolating through the porous limestone bedrock. Bass fishing is highly popular at the HQRA, though, other fish populations such as warmouth, crappie, bluegill, shad, northern pike, and walleye are present. We have recently discovered and verified a small population of endangered lake sturgeon.v Water Marigoldv Water-pennywortv Various Pondweeds1v Seaside Crowfootv Pursch’s Tufted Bulrushv Bur Reeds2v Bladderworts31Grass-leaved Pondweed, White-stem Pondweed, Spotted Pondweed, Fern Pondweed, Stiff Pondweed, Vasey’s Pondweed2American Bur Reed, Green-fruited Bur Reed3Horned Bladderwort, Flat-leaved Bladderwort, Small BladderwortWHAT PLANTS SHOULD BE HERE THAT AREN’T?4© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPLake Sturgeon – Endangered (Illinois)Water Marigold – Endangered (Illinois)PROJECT OVERVIEW

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WHY THE LAKES NEED SUPPORTNo formal fishery or habitat management has been documented or completed on any of the HQRA lakes. Fish surveys have been completed in 2013, 2018, 2023, and 2024. A partnership between the Village of Lemont and IDNR Division of Fisheries was established in 2018 with size and catch limits being implemented April 1, 2019.Currently, fish populations appear out of balance, and water quality and biome is suspect due to possible chlorine contamination and nutritional imbalances. Invasive aquatic plant species and algae blooms are beginning to overrun the lakes, reducing oxygen levels, unbalancing nutrient profiles, and threatening the health of fish populations. A 2023 survey observed Eurasian watermilfoil, Coontail, and sago pondweed as the primary vegetation in the Great Lakes and other quarry lakes. Chara is another priority species for control. All these species are invasive and/or become invasive when unmanaged.Fish stocking efforts are ongoing via IDNR and TFCA. However, thousands of fish have died in the last few years due to intense algae blooms and other water and food resource issues. In 2021 and 2022, more than 5,000 fish died in the Illinois & Michigan Canal. In 2023, hundreds of Crappies died suddenly; a bacterial infection was suspected. A survey was conducted on September 9, 2023, though the timing of the die-off and rapid decomposition of the deceased fish made it impossible to collect enough data to accurately determine the underlying cause. In recent years, Largemouth bass caught by anglers are often reported as having large heads and small bodies; a tell-tale sign of a food supply bottleneck. The 2023 Fall Community Electrofishing Summary also supports this. All but sub-stock sized fish had poor body conditions. The Young-Adult-Ratio was a healthy 3.0, but the reason for the lack of larger fish is unknown. Additional water quality and community surveys need to be conducted to gain further information.WHAT’S GOING ON WITH THE FISH?PROJECT OVERVIEW6© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPDeceased catfish in pond scumOvergrown Eurasian watermilfoil

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7© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPPROJECT OVERVIEWINVASIVE PLANT CONTROLRESEED AND REINTRODUCELAKE SURVEYSSTEWARDSHIPv Opens space for the planting and propagation of beneficial plantsv Decreases competition over valuable space and nutrients v Reduces likelihood of invasive plant spread to other areasv Provides a healthy and beautiful natural environment the community will appreciate and supportv Supports the local ecosystem as native plant populations recoverv Matured plants provide food and shelter for various wildlifev Monitors water quality, pH, lake populations, and nutrient levels to ensure healthy recoveryv Catches chemical imbalances before it is too late - excessive concentrations of herbicides or nutrients can be lethal to aquatic lifev Prevents undesired reactions with soil or water chemistryv Provides needed support for the developing ecosystemv Helps immature plants compete with invasive plants and weedsv Demonstrates a community example that will inspire future stewardsv Maintains plant and wildlife populationsWHAT THE LAKES NEED

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10-YEAR BUDGETTFCA will hire and oversee a licensed contractor to complete all necessary water treatments. Treatment will involve bi-weekly site visits at three priority areas from mid-April through mid-October over the course of (10) years. A long-term treatment plan is required to ensure long term viability of the restored aquatic ecosystem; treatment cannot be rushed. Fish stocking is in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. All figures are based on quotes from qualified third-parties.PROJECT OVERVIEW8© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPYear Cost Estimate Description1 $34,500Initial treatment for Algae/Chara and submerged weeds. Includes inspections that focus on harmful algae blooms (HAB's) along with identification of invasive species not covered under contract.2 $36,500Secondary treatment for Algae/Chara and submerged weeds. Includes inspections that focus on harmful algae blooms (HAB's) along with identification of invasive species not covered under contract.3 $6,500Off year for ecosystem stability; surveys and spot treatments are anticipated.4 $38,000Tertiary treatment for Algae/Chara and submerged weeds. Includes inspections that focus on harmful algae blooms (HAB's) along with identification of invasive species not covered under contract.5 $6,500Off year for ecosystem stability; surveys and spot treatments are anticipated. This is a key milestone; the next five years will be based on progress made up to this point.6 $40,500Additional treatment for Algae/Chara and submerged weeds. Includes inspections that focus on harmful algae blooms (HAB's) along with identification of invasive species not covered under contract.7 $6,500Off year for ecosystem stability; surveys and spot treatments are anticipated.8 $42,500Final large treatment for Algae/Chara and submerged weeds. Includes inspections that focus on harmful algae blooms (HAB's) along with identification of invasive species not covered under contract.9 $9,000Final spot treatments and surveys.10 $11,500Final spot treatments and surveys.TOTAL $323,00010-year total.

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11© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPPLANT MANAGEMENTPlantDescriptionEurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)Non-native aquatic plant that can grow in water depths of over 13 feet deep. It is found over broad alkalinity, moderate conductivity, and moderate but high pH ranges. It can quickly take over disturbed waters and out-compete existing species. It provides limited cover for fish when poor water clarity prevents broad-leaved pondweeds and other species from growing. Waterfowl graze on fruit and foliage to a limited extent. Plant beds also provide invertebrate habitat, but studies have shown mixed stands of pondweeds and wild celery have higher invertebrate numbers and diversity. EWM is consumed by the native milfoil weevil.Muskgrass (Chara spp.)Native plant-like algae that is typically found on lake bottoms. Forms dense thickets that can offer food and shelter for fish and invertebrates. Prefers muddy or sandy substrate in hard waters. Softens water by removing lime and carbon dioxide. Excess colonization can lead to the plant becoming deemed a ‘nuisance plant,’ however, it can be beneficial in controlled amounts.Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum)Native aquatic plant that typically grows in clear waters up to a depth of 15 feet. It lacks true roots; as a result, it can drift between depth zones. The plant rarely forms seeds and typically reproduces by stem fragmentation. It should not be 100% eliminated from a water body as it offers good habitat for fish and invertebrates. Various waterfowl consume it. Coontail is effective at removing phosphorus from the water column. Can overgrow its environment if not managed.Management Strategies* Certain birds, turtles, and fish feed on this algae. Grass carp are sometimes used.* Physical removal is an option (via raking or seining). Can lead to undesired spread from plant fragments or spores.* Fertilization to produce an intentional algal bloom can prevent bottom rooted plants from establishing and add food to the ecosystem. It can also cause severe chemical imbalances and the death of aquatic life.* Herbicide treatment can be effective. Requires extremely close management - herbicides are toxic to fish and can easily result in mass die-offs when concentrations get too high. Frequent water quality and pH tests are a must. Decomposing plant matter can have severe consequences on water oxygen content if not managed.Eurasian watermilfoilMuskgrassCoontailAPPENDIX

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12© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPNATURAL MANAGEMENT OPTION: MILFOIL WEEVILThe Milfoil Weevil is a small (2-3 mm) aquatic beetle native to North America that feeds on various species of watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spp.) plants including the invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum). It is specialized to this species; it cannot survive without it. They are brown with yellow to brown stripes on their backs. Eggs are tiny (about 0.5 mm across) and yellow in color. Darkened and hollowed watermilfoil stems are characteristic of stem mining by larvae and pupae. Adults can typically be found feeding on the top 3 feet of the submerged, non-flowering plant.The milfoil weevil spends most of its life cycle on watermilfoil plants. Mature weevils fly to the shore and overwinter in dry soil and leaf litter. They return to the water the following spring.Milfoil weevils primarily affect Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) by boring through the stem and consuming the cortex. This results in reduced plant buoyancy and accumulated carbohydrate stores, which may ultimately decrease overwinter survival and competitive ability. It is said that the larval stage of the weevil is the most destructive to EWM due to this burrowing behavior.HOW MANY WEEVILS?In several lakes of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, milfoil weevil densities are very low, and milfoil is not controlled. Experimental evidence suggests that a density of 100-200 weevils per square meter of bottom may be required to affect a decline. At many sites in Minnesota, weevil densities have failed to reach such levels, although 25-75 weevils per square meter (or less) may be adequate to cause declines if they persist through the summer. Researchers are currently investigating factors that influence weevil density; fish predation appears to be an important factor at sites with low weevil populations. Mechanical harvesting of milfoil over large areas can reduce weevil abundance, but harvesting was not occurring at many sites we have studied. (from University of Minnesota).Mature milfoil weevilMilfoil weevil larvae emerging from stemAPPENDIX

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13© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPHERBICIDE GENERAL OVERVIEWMuskgrassCoontailEurasian WatermilfoilBispyribac (Rated: Good)Carfentrazone (Rated: Excellent)Copper Sulfate (Rated: Excellent)Copper Chelated Complexes (Rated: Excellent)Copper Complexes (Rated: Good)Copper Complexes (Rated: Good)Diquat (Rated: Excellent)Diquat (Rated: Excellent)Alkylamine salts of Endothall (Rated: Good)Endothall (Rated: Excellent)Endothall (Rated: Excellent)Fluridone (Rated: Excellent)Fluridone (Rated: Good)Flumioxazin (Rated: Good)Flumioxazin (Rated: Good)Imazamox (Rated: Good)Penoxsulam (Rated: Excellent)Triclopyr (Rated: Excellent)2,4-D (Rated: Good)2,4-D (Rated: Excellent)Florpyrauxifen-benzylFlorpyrauxifen-benzylA management strategy combining natural and chemical approaches should prove adequate. Water quality surveys should be conducted in all lakes to determine nutrient profiles, dissolved oxygen content, and pH levels to minimize impacts on fish and native plant populations. Additional shoreline restoration will benefit waterfowl and other species that consume the plants of interest. Coontail is the most valuable food source. Ducks and turtles play a large role in the control of these plant populations.Copper compounds and/or alkylamine salts of Endothall will be effective herbicides for managing all three species concurrently. Alternatively, specific herbicides targeting only Eurasian watermilfoil are available. Care must be taken when choosing herbicides.Endothall is a contact herbicide and kills all plant cells. Copper compounds are toxic to fish when concentrations exceed recommended levels. They can also become toxic below recommended levels in overly soft or acidic waters. Other solutions may be ideal in very hard water; copper sulfate can react with dissolved calcium in water and precipitate.Herbicide list based on recommendations from Texas A&M UniversityRatings based on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers aquatic herbicide trialsAPPENDIX

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OUR VALUESThe Outdoors MatterWe believe the outdoors is an integral part of the human experience that enriches and enlivens us. Our commitment to protecting the natural landscape is uncompromising, and we are committed to enhancing, preserving, and sharing naturally beautiful outdoor experiences with our neighbors for generations to come.Well-being is a Lifestyle to be Enjoyed by EveryoneWell-being is not just a jog around the block. Well-being is a mental and physical journey that fluctuates and changes daily. We are dedicated to crafting spaces that enable this life-long mental and physical journey. Moreover, we are committed to providing access and opportunity to enjoy nature to people of all ages and abilities.Conservation Goes Beyond the LandWe are committed to preserving history and restoring the natural landscape of the locations we choose to support for generations to come. This promise fuels our operating strategy and is fundamental to our mission.The Forge Charitable Adventures exists to help IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF COMMUNITIES by RESTORING and PRESERVING NATURE, PROMOTING ACTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP, and PROVIDING ACCESS TO OUTDOOR EDUCATION AND RECREATION to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.18© The Forge Charitable Adventures, NFPEstablished in 2019 by Jeremie Bacon, Chris Gladwin, Bart Loethen, and Jeanette Virgilio, The Forge Charitable Adventures (TFCA) is a unique environment-focused non-profit serving a dual mission to: 1) protect, restore, and re-invigorate natural ecosystems that have been degraded by overuse and under investment, while 2) partnering with local governments, stakeholders, and companies to develop outdoor education and recreation resources that can be enjoyed and maintained in cooperation with their residents.As a long-term focused, conservation-minded organization, we seek to produce and promote impactful programs that help TFCA achieve:v Significant impact by engaging our local communities in conservation and personal health & wellness effortsv A respected presence as a devoted caretaker in the places we servev Long-lasting partnerships with communities, companies, and individualsv Enlightened communities where conservation, restoration, and wellness are cherished as core valuesOur vision is a future where people of all ages, abilities, and economic circumstances can freely enjoy authentic outdoor experiences while learning to respect the diversity of life and developing an appreciation for conserving the scarce resources and fragile ecosystems required to support it.We accomplish our mission by identifying projects and raising funds from private and public sources to execute them. We consider ourselves successful when we are able to:v Restore and protect natural areas that jointly serve as wildlife habitats and places where people can enjoy nature foreverv Establish and nurture public and private partnerships that accelerate the pace of land preservation for the enrichment of allv Deliver social benefits in the form of clean and healthy forests, streams, wetlands and lakesv Provide people with opportunities to understand and embrace conservation, and act to preserve the environment

HQRA AQUATIC MANAGEMENT

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