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contentsSeptember 2012 • Volume 21 • Number 6

8Sixth in watercraft thefts

A new report from a national insurance fraudprevention group shows that Michigan has thedubious distinction of being among the top ten

states for watercraft thefts, with jet-skis andrunabouts the watercraft most often stolen.

17 A new fracas It’s been a part of energy extractionefforts in Michigan for a half-century,but hydraulic fracturing — fracking —is heating up debate among skepticsand proponents alike. We set out toanswer the following question: Is itsafe? The answer may surprise you.

29 Most wantedThe Department of Natural Resourcesand an arm of Michigan State Universityare attempting to implement an EarlyDetection Rapid Response Programtargeting the most problematic invasivespecies posing threats to the health andwell-being of state lakes and streams.

26 Status quoThe Oakland County Health Divisionwas forced to close six sites itmonitored in 2012 for a total of 11 daysas part of its annual beach testingprogram — largely in line with thenumber of beaches closed and thelength of closures seen in recent years.

— Oakland Lakefront photos/Amy K. Lockard

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index of advertisersSeptember 2012 • Volume 21 • Number 6


Report: State had sixth-most watercraft thefts

A dubiousdistinction

www.oaklandlakefront.com OAKLAND LAKEFRONT 9

in U.S. last year; jet-skis the No. 1 targetBy Angela Niemi

Surrounded by the Great Lakes and home to thousands of inland lakes, it's not surprising thatMichigan is in the top ten states for its number of stolen watercraft, according to the NationalInsurance Crime Bureau's (NCIB) annual U.S. Watercraft Thefts and Recoveries report for 2011

that was released in July. The NICB describes itself as the nation's leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to "preventing,

detecting, and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through data analytics, investigations,training, legislative advocacy, and public awareness."

The report details for 2011 all watercraft reported stolen from Jan. 1, 2011 through Dec. 31,2011 to the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

The NICB uses the NCIC database because it can be considered one of the most reliable andcomprehensive, since it's a centralized data warehouse where crime information is reported from thelocal, state, and federal levels.

There were a total of 6,070 watercraft thefts in the United States in 2011. According to the report,2,406 of these watercraft were recovered by May 14 of this year for a 40 percent recovery total.

NCIB staff noted that the data in the report only includes reported thefts."You can have a little dinghy or other watercraft that was on the side of your house for years and

years which you never used, and it goes missing," said Frank Scafidi, the director of public affairs forthe NICB. "But it only shows up in the data if someone reports it (stolen)."

The recovery information was gleaned from the NCIC, as well, and covered the time period betweenJan. 1, 2011 and May 14, 2012.

There is a wide range of watercraft covered by the NCIC standards, according to Scafidi.


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"When you look at what's classified by theNCIC as a watercraft, it can be something from asuper yacht to a little dinghy," he said.

Watercraft types were defined as follows,according to the NCIC code manual:

• Commercial: Includes ferry, oyster boat,motor barge, towboat, tug, clam dredge, coaster,riverboat, smack boat, etc.;

• Cruiser: A boat with an inboard motor thatis at least 25 feet long, but no longer than 50feet;

• Houseboat;• Hovercraft;• Jet-ski;• Runabout: Launch, motorboat, outrider,

speedboat;• Sailboat: Includes cat, catamaran, cutter,

bark, ketch, lateen, lugger, pinnace, schooner,sloop, yawl, etc.;

• Utility: Fisherman, sedan boat, etc.; • Yacht; and • All other: Includes canoe, dinghy, dory,

johnboat, kayak, lifeboat, paddleboat, rowboat,skull, skiff, etc.

Nationwide, the top ten types of watercraftstolen in 2011 were as follows:

• No. 1, jet-skis, with 1,219 thefts and 428recoveries for a recovery rate of 35 percent;

• No. 2, runabouts, with 992 thefts and 471recoveries for a recovery rate of 47 percent;

• No. 3, utility watercraft, with 437 thefts and149 recovered for a recovery rate of 34 percent;

• No. 4, cruisers, with 255 thefts and 137recovered for a recovery rate of 54 percent.

• No. 5, sailboats, with 60 stolen and 36recovered for a 60-percent recovery rate;

• No. 6, airboats, with 23 thefts and 16recovered for a 70-percent recovery rate;

• No. 7, commercial watercraft, with 21 theftsand 13 recovered for a recovery rate of 62percent.

• No. 8, houseboats, with 14 thefts and sixrecoveries for a 43-percent recovery rate;

• No. 9, hovercrafts, with 14 stolen and 11recovered for a recovery rate of 79 percent; and

• No. 10, yachts, with eight stolen and fourrecovered for a 50-percent recovery rate.

"Most of the vessels stolen are jet-skis," Scafidisaid. "Normally when people hear 'watercraft,'they think boats, like nice, big luxury yachts.However, only eight yachts were stolen vs. 1,219jet-skis, so you can see where the focus is. Areason why jet skis could be stolen more isbecause they are easier to steal. You can put it in

the back of a pickup truck and drive away, so it'sthe ease of theft and perhaps an ease of hiding(it). You don't need a dock or place to store it(like with) a larger boat, where it's in plain view.With a jet-ski, you can place it under a tarp orput it in a garage, and people never see it againreally."

White Lake Township Police Chief Ed Harrisagrees.

"Most likely because of their size, it makes iteasier to move jet-skis and possibly easier todispose of them," he said.

According to the national statistics, 37 percentof the watercraft thefts occurred during thesummer months of June, July, and August.

Ninety-two percent of the recoveredwatercraft were recovered in the same state fromwhich they were stolen. The average time torecover a watercraft — from the theft date to therecovery date — in Michigan was 28 days, withthe geographic average of 55 days for theMidwest.

According to the NICB's report, a watercrafttheft occurred in every state in the U.S. exceptHawaii.

As can be expected, many of the theftsoccurred in states near large bodies of water withcoastlines or numerous lakes.

The top ten states, as follows, accounted for60 percent of the total watercraft thefts in theU.S.: Florida (1,322 thefts); California (550thefts); Texas (437 thefts); Washington (224thefts); North Carolina (205 thefts); Michigan(186 thefts); Georgia (182 thefts); Tennessee(181 thefts); Alabama (177 thefts); and SouthCarolina (175 thefts).

Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, had the12th-most watercraft thefts in 2011.

Of Michigan's 186 thefts during 2011, jet-skiswere the most commonly stolen (52 thefts).Runabouts followed at 16 stolen and then utilitywatercraft with 15 thefts. Thirteen cruisers werestolen, while one sailboat, one commercialwatercraft, and one houseboat were reportedstolen in 2011.

No cities in Michigan were ranked in the topten for watercraft theft in 2011. Florida had thedubious honor of having the most cities (six) onthe top ten list, including the top four, withMiami, Fort Lauderdale, Marathon and Tampaclaiming the top spots.

Of some interest is the continuing downwardtrend in the amount of watercraft theftsoccurring.


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"Not unlike vehicles, we are seeing a big dropoff in thefts with respect to boats andwatercraft," Scafidi said.

Scafidi said it's normally a knee-jerk reaction toblame the economic doldrums for trends inthefts, and the economy "generally doesn't affectcrime trends upward or downward."

"When the recession came along, peoplepredicted all kinds of chaos," Scafidi said. "But thestatistics have shown that was wrong. Thefts aredown and continue to be down."

Using the NICB's Watercraft Theft Report from2009 through May 2011, the bureau was able toshow a three-year trend in watercraft thefts withthe analysis revealing a steady decline throughoutthat period. The number of watercraft theftsdecreased by 10 percent between 2009 and2010. A 9-percent decline was reported between2010 and 2011.

Likewise, there was a decline in the amount ofrecoveries, as well, with recoveries decreasing by18 percent between 2009 and 2010 and 17percent between 2010 and 2011.

Scafidi hazarded a guess as to why this mightbe the case.

"With the economy, fewer vessels have beenpurchased," he said. "Since there are fewer(watercraft) out there to begin with, there arefewer that are targets of theft. While theeconomy can be a factor, it's not an empiricallyviable theory as to overall trends."

Scafidi also noted that thieves today may havefound an easier way of gaming the systemthrough other crimes like identity theft andfraud.

"With crimes like those, there is no (physical)exposure (required) to commit them," he said."People may be finding other ways to earn theirliving below the radar."

According to Scafidi, Oakland County was inthe top 50 counties of the 1,342 counties in thenation for the highest reported number ofwatercraft thefts — 20 total — in 2011.

But Scafidi said that figure does not representany cause for alarm.

"While that figure is a sizable presence in ourreport, it's a relatively minuscule number," he said."People shouldn't be jumping over rooftops overthis."

With 20 watercraft thefts being a low numberin the grand scheme of things, according toScafidi, local police departments say they rarelyhave watercraft thefts reported to them.

White Lake's Harris said his department will

occasionally see reports of personal watercraft orjet-skis stolen, but rarely do officers come acrossbigger boats missing.

The Records Bureau in the BloomfieldTownship Police Department had similar statistics,with only 8 watercraft being reported stolen overthe past three years — the majority of whichwere kayaks, canoes, or watercraft of thatnature.

Instead, local police normally see the theft ofboat parts.

"What we see the most are larcenies fromwatercraft (of things) like gas cans and batteriesand the like," Harris said.

Nevertheless, watercraft owners should takecertain precautions.

Although the NICB does not get access to howexactly watercraft are stolen, the organizationdoes offer some tips to make sure watercraft areprotected.

• When you dock the watercraft, lock it andsecure it to the dock with a steel cable;

• Dock watercraft in well-lit areas;• Remove expensive equipment when not in

use;• Lock the boat's cabin, doors, and windows

when not in use;• Chain and lock detachable motors to the

boat;• Do not leave titles or registration papers in

the craft;• Disable the watercraft by shutting off fuel

lines or removing batteries;• Use a trailer hitch lock after parking a boat

on its trailer;• Park trailers in a locked garage, secured

boat storage facility, or a well-lit, fenced area;• Install an alarm and kill switch on the

ignition system; and• Ensure your marine insurance policy includes

your equipment, boat, and trailer.The NICB also encourages boat owners to take

photos of their watercraft and to make sure thattheir boat and equipment are marked with a HIN— a unique, 12-character serial number thatidentifies your boat and which can help withrecovery efforts.

"People should take the time to follow thesetheft prevention steps," Scafidi said. "They need tobe aware that while they think their boat is not atarget, someone else might. So take the extratime and secure it, especially if you are going tobe away from it for a time. You will be happierfor it." ❏


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snapshot

ommerce Township communityactivist Peter Pace thrives on growing

new ideas and seeing them bloom as hishands-on involvement ranges from local politics to theLower Straits Lake Preservation Committee.

"We sit down on a quarterly basis and go over thenecessary needs for the lake to keep it preserved, likeweed control, the fish habitat for the lake, the goosepopulation, and most of all, working with the financingfor weed control," Pace said.

He took the lead in contracting with Oakland CountySheriff's Department for marine patrol services on LowerStraits Lake.

"I initiated with (the Sheriff's Department) to privatizeit so we can have scheduled patrols on a regular basis,"he said. "It's funded through donations from our lakecommittee."

Pace doesn't take riparian living for granted."I'm not the kind of guy to have a cottage because I'm

too busy and I always wanted to own a home on thelake," said Pace, who owns Tri-Star EnterprisesConstruction Services, a property management and realestate development company. "I'm living a dream. Ourlake is a little jewel, well-maintained by the lakecommittee and people here respect her."

Pace also serves on the Edgewood HomeownersAssociation and is deeply involved in CommerceTownship affairs as the current vice-chairman of theCommerce Township Parks and Recreation Committee, amember of the Planning Commission, chairman of theEntertainment Committee and founder of the Concert inthe Park Series.

— Leslie Shepard— Oakland Lakefront photo/Amy K. Lockard

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Flammable tap water and watercontamination are thoughts that come tomind when hydraulic fracturing — morecommonly known as "fracking" — ismentioned, yet claims suggesting suchnegative consequences of the process have

yet to be substantiated. In reality, when it comes to fracking, there are

facts and misinformation, risks and benefits — all ofwhich lead to a very controversial issue that hastaken the national stage among academics,environmentalists, the energy industry, andpoliticians.

Here in Oakland County, hydraulic fracturingbecame a hot topic due to fear of it happening alonglakefront properties after state gas and mineral leasesin west Oakland County were recently auctioned off. It has even prompted Oakland County CommissionerJim Nash (D-Farmington Hills) to hold a seminar onthe topic featuring four different speakers from fourdifferent backgrounds to address the issue from 6 to8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the OaklandCounty Board of Commissioners Auditorium.

Yet Hal Fitch, the chief of the MichiganDepartment of Natural Resources (DNR) Office of Oil,Gas, and Minerals said he doesn't believe fracking iswhat's in mind for the county's lakefront areas.

But it still begs the questions: What is hydraulicfracturing? And is it safe?

Fracking is a well stimulation process used by gasproducers to stimulate wells and recover natural gasfrom sources such as coal beds and shale gasformations, according to the U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA).

Shale gas is the oldest source of natural gas in theUnited States, but until recently it has not beeneconomically feasible to access these resources.Technology advancements have now made horizontaldrilling and fracking useful ways of accessing theseresources.

"With horizontal drilling, you get more natural gasthan by going vertically," said Dr. Steven Wright, aprofessor of civil and environmental engineering atthe University of Michigan. "The advent of horizontaldrilling made fracking a viable alternative to extractnatural gas."

Horizontal wellbores allow a greater exposure to ashale formation than a vertical wellbore, which is whythey are ideal for shales that lacked sufficientpermeability using vertical wells.

"One horizontal well will drain a large area, whichis the whole point of exposing the formation to thewellbore," Fitch said. "If you drill vertical holes, youhave to drill a lot more — perhaps 10 to 20 verticalwells as opposed to one horizontal well — to get thesame amount of gas."

During fracking, millions of gallons of water mixedwith chemicals and sand are injected under highpressure into shale formations to create fissures,which release oil and natural gas in the rock andallow them to flow back into the well.

"One of the advantages is that a lot of natural gasand oil that could never be produced is now availablebecause of hydraulic fracturing," Fitch said."Projections by the federal government show that agreat majority of natural gas in the next 20 to 30years will come from reservoirs that are hydraulicallyfractured."

According to a report by the Energy Institute atthe University of Texas, "Fact-Based Regulation forEnvironmental Protection in Shale Gas Development,"the current estimate of the country's shale gasresources stands at 862 trillion cubic feet (tcf) — anestimate that doubled from 2010 to 2011. Thepercentage of that contribution to the total naturalgas supply grew to 23 percent in 2010 and isexpected to increase by 46 percent by 2035.

The extraction of natural gas from these shaleformations has had a "fairly significant effecteconomically," according to Wright.

"One thing that has happened is that the price ofnatural gas has not gone up. In fact, in someinstances it has even dropped in the last few years,"he said. "That's due almost entirely to fracking due tothe availability to the natural gas resources.Economically, it has been a positive thing, and fromthe standpoint of green gases, using natural gases isbetter than burning coal."

Yet, he said some people are concerned that theavailability of more domestic natural gas is divertingattention away from the development of cleaner,renewable resources such as wind and solar energy.

Rita Chapman of the Michigan Sierra Club's CleanWater Program agrees.

"We are investing so much money into this processand so much enthusiasm that it takes away thefinances and enthusiasm to go after renewables," shesaid. "Wind and solar energy resources, they neverspill."

Despite the apparent advantages and benefitsof fracking, the process itself has remainedcontroversial across the nation.

"People are raising concerns because a lot of thewells that were previously hydro-fracked wereshallow and at low volume," Fitch said. "Now usinghorizontal wells they are using deep shales with ahigher volume of fracturing fluids."

He added that this has made the practice "safer asthe wells were isolated from aquifers by thousands offeet of rock."

A study conducted by the EPA in 2004 concludedthat there was little-to-no risk of fracturing fluid


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contaminating underground sources of drinkingwater.

In 2005, Congress exempted hydraulic fracturingfrom the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.

S ince then, however, there have been complaintsof water contamination following the use offracking in several states, including Wyoming

and Pennsylvania.In Pennsylvania, a man was shown being able to

light his tap water on fire — which some feared wasdue to fracking — in the Oscar-nominateddocumentary "Gasland."

However, the first peer-reviewed study onhydraulic fracturing conducted by Duke University'sRobert Jackson concluded that, while those who livecloser to a gas well are more likely to have theirwater contaminated with gas, such contaminationdoesn't come directly from fracking. Sometimesmethane can seep naturally from a shale formationinto the groundwater supply — a natural occurrencewhich has been happening for millennia, according toFitch.

And in Pennsylvania, where methane was found inthe water, it was decided that the most likely culpritwas gas well coverings that were leaking — aproblem that is easily fixed, according to Jackson'sstudy — and not hydraulic fracturing itself.

Furthermore, the study showed that no fracturingfluid was found to have leaked or contaminated theadjacent water sources.

Nevertheless, public concern over the process hasgrown due to other reasons, including the chemicaladditives in the fracking fluid, the amount of waternecessary for the process, flow back and wastewaterdisposal, air emissions, spill management, and blowouts.

"One of the major concerns in Michigan is that thisnew type of hydro-fracturing goes deeper and usesmore water — around 5 million gallons per well —and contains known carcinogens and neurotoxins inthe fracking fluid," said Nic Clark, the Michigancampaigns director for Clean Water Action. "There'sno way to clean the water that's used once it'scontaminated with all the toxins. The water cannotre-enter the hydrologic cycle."

"There are two main issues," U-M's Wright added."One is associated with making sure the fluids cannotcome back up around the drill casing, and the biggerissue is how to handle the fluids that come back upafter you develop the well. I don't think that has beendealt with from a long-term perspective yet."

The DNR's Fitch said that fracking wastewaterhasn't been treated properly in other states, includingstoring the water in pits, disposing it improperly, orhaving it treated at a municipal wastewater treatmentplant — which cannot be done due to the chemicals,

salt and minerals that are present in the wastewater. Michigan, however, has regulations that require

the wastewater to be contained in steel tanks beforebeing transported to deep disposal wells, which arelicensed by the state Department of EnvironmentalQuality (DEQ) and the EPA for that type of waste.The water can stay there "indefinitely," according toFitch.

However, Clean Water Action's Clark said that"forever is a long time."

"The storage of wastewater is a huge concern," hesaid. "There has been no long-term study."

While no water well contamination has occurredas a direct result of fracking, spills at the surface canbe a problem, according to Fitch. But he noted thatis a concern with any type of drilling or thetransportation of chemicals — and not just in the oiland gas industry.

However, it's precisely the inevitability of humanerror that causes concern for the Sierra Club'sChapman.

"Humans don't do things perfectly," she said. "If wecould guarantee everyone was doing it perfectly, wewould, but they don't. People make mistakes all thetime. And people take shortcuts all the time."

But accidents aside, is the process itself safe?Yes, according to various experts — provided that

the proper procedures and regulations are followed."The process should be safe if people take the

proper level of precaution," U-M's Wright said.

No major problems from fracking have beenreported in Michigan, which DEQ SpokesmanBrad Wurfel attributed to the state's stringent

regulatory measures."It's been used on more than 12,000 wells in

Michigan since the 1960s without any of theenvironmental incidents publicized in a handful ofother states, largely because it's tightly regulatedhere," he said.

"Our No. 1 goal is environmental stewardship,"Wurfel added. "We regulate processes that interfacewith Michigan's natural resources. We've done itsuccessfully with this process for decades. If theprocess was truly posing a real threat to the naturalresources, we'd further regulate it or shut it down.Instead, it's been done safely and regularly inMichigan for a long time."

Yet some remain dissatisfied with the state'sregulatory practices, leading to the introduction offive bills known as the "Frack Pack," according toClean Water Action's Clark.

Three of these bills — House Bills (HBs) 5149,5150 and 5151 — were introduced by state Reps.Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), Mark Meadows (D-EastLansing), and Brandon Dillon (D-Grand Rapids) lastNovember.


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State Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield) is alsoa co-sponsor of the bills.

According to Irwin, the bill he is sponsoring — HB5149 — requires oil and gas companies to follow thesame rules as all other citizens with respect to wateruse.

"The law says that if you use more than a certainthreshold of water, then you need a permit for useand to make sure that you're not negatively affectingyour neighbors or the surrounding waters," Irwinsaid.

T he other two bills in the package go together.One requires a one-year study to be conductedin order to look at the best practices of fracking

in other states. The other requires a one-yearmoratorium on fracking while that study is beingconducted.

"The Michigan Sierra Club, Clean Water Action,and other groups have worked with legislators tointroduce a group of bills," Chapman said. "We want astudy done by the DNR and DEQ and state agencyscientists who would look at risks and problems andall the data and find what risks exist to watersupplies before allowing fracking to continue."

Two other bills, HBs 4736 and 5565, are also apart of the "Frack Pack" and would require companiesto assume liability for any spills or mishaps and todisclose what chemical additives they are using intheir fracking fluid concoction.

"When people hear about fracking, theyimmediately think this causes the water in the sink toturn on fire," Clark said. "We're not saying that. Wejust think we need proper regulations in place inMichigan in order to ensure this process is carriedout in the best possible way."

Yet, Fitch said DEQ officials feel that they have "athorough comprehensive regulatory structure" thataddresses the issues and protects environmental andpublic health.

Meanwhile, Wright said there is a lot of workbeing done at various levels to study and address theconcerns people have expressed, which will make iteasier to make a good assessment of the frackingprocess after those studies are completed.

"I really believe it has the potential to be a safeprocess as long as we make sure people aren'tcutting corners — which has happened in the past,"he said. ❏

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By Tim Dmoch

SIX COUNTY SITES CLOSED FOR A TOTAL OF 11 DAYS

DURING THE 2012 SEASON

W hen the Oakland County HealthDivision's 2012 beach monitoringprogram wrapped up earlier this year,there were a few more county beaches

closed and for a slightly longer total of time whencompared to figures from the 2011 program.

This year, the Health Division monitored 45public beaches on 37 Oakland County lakes forpotentially unsafe levels of bacteria in beach water.The annual beach monitoring program began onJune 4 and ended on July 27.

Analysis of water samples collected from thetargeted beaches resulted in the closure of sixbeaches for a total of 11 days during 2012.

Here's a detailed look at the county's 2012beach closures:

• E.V. Mercer City Beach on Walled Lake in thecity of Walled Lake was closed on June 12 with abacteria count of 547 colonies. The beach wasreopened the next day when follow-up testingindicated a bacteria count of 23 colonies.

• Thelma Spencer Beach on Carter Lake inRochester Hills was closed twice during the 2012monitoring program. The first closure took effecton June 13 due to a bacteria count of 762colonies. The beach was reopened the followingday after subsequent testing revealed a bacteriacount of 22 colonies.

The beach was closed again on July 6 with abacteria count of 308 colonies. Again, the beachwas reopened the next day after a second round oftesting found 11 bacteria colonies in beach watersamples.

• The Groveland Oaks County Park's ParadiseBeach on Stewart Lake in Groveland Township wasclosed on July 18 with a bacteria count of 485colonies. The beach was allowed to reopen thefollowing day after testing showed just 23 bacteriacolonies in beach water samples.

• The Seven Lakes State Park beach on BigSeven Lake in Holly was closed on July 18 aftertesting revealed a bacteria count of 531 colonies.The beach was reopened the next day following asecond round of testing that indicated 24 bacteriacolonies in beach water samples.

W hen the Oakland County HealthDivision's 2012 beach monitoringprogram wrapped up earlier this year,there were a few more county beaches

closed and for a slightly longer total of time whencompared to figures from the 2011 program.

This year, the Health Division monitored 45public beaches on 37 Oakland County lakes forpotentially unsafe levels of bacteria in beach water.The annual beach monitoring program began onJune 4 and ended on July 27.

Analysis of water samples collected from thetargeted beaches resulted in the closure of sixbeaches for a total of 11 days during 2012.

Here's a detailed look at the county's 2012beach closures:

• E.V. Mercer City Beach on Walled Lake in thecity of Walled Lake was closed on June 12 with abacteria count of 547 colonies. The beach wasreopened the next day when follow-up testingindicated a bacteria count of 23 colonies.

• Thelma Spencer Beach on Carter Lake inRochester Hills was closed twice during the 2012monitoring program. The first closure took effecton June 13 due to a bacteria count of 762colonies. The beach was reopened the followingday after subsequent testing revealed a bacteriacount of 22 colonies.

The beach was closed again on July 6 with abacteria count of 308 colonies. Again, the beachwas reopened the next day after a second round oftesting found 11 bacteria colonies in beach watersamples.

• The Groveland Oaks County Park's ParadiseBeach on Stewart Lake in Groveland Township wasclosed on July 18 with a bacteria count of 485colonies. The beach was allowed to reopen thefollowing day after testing showed just 23 bacteriacolonies in beach water samples.

• The Seven Lakes State Park beach on BigSeven Lake in Holly was closed on July 18 aftertesting revealed a bacteria count of 531 colonies.The beach was reopened the next day following asecond round of testing that indicated 24 bacteriacolonies in beach water samples.


• The Haas Lake Park No. 1 beach on Haas Lake inLyon Township was closed on July 24 due to abacteria count of 328 colonies. The beach wasreopened the next day with a bacteria count of 4colonies.

• Martindale Beach inside Kensington Metropark inMilford Township was shut down on July 24 afterwater sample testing showed 507 bacteria colonies.The follow-up testing results indicated 1,176 bacteriacolonies in beach water samples and required thebeach to remain closed on July 25. The beach wasallowed to reopen on July 26 after a third round oftesting found 204 bacteria colonies in beach watersamples.

In 2011, a total of four Oakland County publicbeaches on four lakes were closed for a total of fivedays because of high bacteria levels found in beach

water samples. In 2010, 11 beaches were closed for16 days, which is significantly different from 2006,when 22 beaches were closed for a total of over 90days.

Budget cuts have forced the Health Divisionto scale back the number of beaches it monitorseach year from over 100 public and semi-publicbeaches.

The Health Division tests beach water samples forthe presence of E. coli bacteria, although most strainsof E. coli are harmless. However, because E. coli livesin the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals,including birds and humans, it's often excreted infeces. This makes E. coli a useful indicator of fecalpollution, which can contain other, more harmfulpathogens including other bacteria, viruses, andprotozoa.

According to the Michigan Department ofEnvironmental Quality (DEQ), studies of fresh waterbathing beaches have established a direct relationshipbetween the density of E. coli in water and theoccurrence of swimming-associated gastroenteritis.The recognition of this relationship has led to thedevelopment of criteria that can be used to establishrecreational water standards.

These standards specify that water samples frommonitored beaches must meet a one-day standard ofno more than 300 E. coli bacteria colonies per 100milliliters of water, and a 30-day geometric averagestandard of no more than 130 colonies per 100milliliters of water. If a beach water sample exceedseither of those standards, the beach is closed untilbacteria levels drop.

Typically, bacteria levels fall off within 48 hours, aswind and wave action, as well as ultraviolet light fromthe sun work to reduce the levels. However, sometimesit can take longer for bacteria to die in a freshwaterenvironment, especially if the water is stagnant.

Since illness can occur from swallowing watercontaining even minuscule amounts of fecal matter,it's important to determine as soon as possible if alocal beach is contaminated — which is why theHealth Division annually collects water samples atbeaches for testing to make sure the water is safe forswimming.

In order to implement the 2012 beach monitoringprogram, the Health Division employed four paidsummer college interns to collect beach water samplesat the 45 targeted public beaches. The interns aretypically environmental health science students whorequire internships to complete their degrees.

Each of the 45 beaches targeted for testing thisyear were sampled at least once a week for theduration of the monitoring program.

If the lab results show E. coli bacteria levels exceedthe state contamination standards, the Health Divisioncloses the beach by sending an intern to post a sign atthe beach and by notifying the beach's contact person.

A variety of sources can contribute bacteria andother pathogens to surface water resources. Sourcesof bacterial contamination include combined seweroverflows, which are releases of raw or inadequatelytreated sewage from systems designed to carry bothsewage and stormwater to wastewater treatmentplants. When the volume of the combined wastewateris greater than the treatment plant capacity, theexcess untreated sewage and stormwater aredischarged into nearby waterways.

Sanitary sewer overflows are another potential

source of bacteria in beach water. They are

discharges of raw or inadequately treated

sewage from systems designed to carry domestic

sanitary sewage, but not stormwater. According to

the DEQ, systems that contain cracks, obstructions,

illegal stormwater connections, or that are undersized

with sewers and pumps too small to carry all the

sewage may leak or overflow raw sewage from

manholes, bypass pump stations, and treatment

plants into surrounding waters, particularly during

extreme hydrologic events.

Failing septic systems also are a source of the

bacteria that can force a beach closure.

Large congregations of waterfowl near beaches

and animal waste runoff from farms and fields can

work in tandem with stormwater runoff to contribute

to elevated bacterial levels.

People can help prevent beach water pollution by

conserving water; redirecting runoff; maintaining their

septic systems properly; and properly disposing of

animal waste. People who use a beach also shouldn't

feed the waterfowl or leave their trash because both

attract animals that may leave behind fecal matter. ❏

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Aquatic invasive species continue to beintroduced in Michigan's waterways at analarming rate. At the same time, bothwildlife and human activity spread theinvaders from infested waters topreviously uninfested locales, which can

pose problems for native wildlife and people who uselakes and streams for recreation. Since early detectionand monitoring of invasive species are critical todevising and implementing successful response andmanagement efforts, the Michigan Natural FeaturesInventory and the state Department of NaturalResources (DNR) are collaborating on the developmentof an Early Detection Rapid Response Program inorder to locate and eradicate several priority aquaticinvasive species.

The priority aquatic invaders targeted by the jointeffort include:

Flowering rush(Butomus umbellatus) This invader was noted as being located in the DetroitRiver as early as 1918, but has spread acrosssoutheast Michigan — including Oakland County —in recent years.

Flowering rush is found in rivers, lakes, emergentwetlands and ditches in water up to 10 feet deep. Itcan be identified by its pale pink, rose, or whiteflowers of three petals and three petal-like sepals.

Cutting flowering rush under the water surfacemay reduce population density. In addition, diggingout isolated plants may prevent spreading; however,bulbils on rhizomes must be removed.

Starry stonewort(Nitellopsis obtusa)This exotic plant has been characterized as the mostaggressive aquatic plant ever observed in Michiganand is able to outcompete all Michigan plant speciesand even other invasive species. Although it wasn't

positively identified in a Michigan inland lake until2006, anecdotal evidence suggests that it has beenpresent in Michigan lakes since the 1990s.

Starry stonewort is actually a species of algae. It'sgenerally rootless, although it can sometimes beloosely rooted. They feature little flowers that looklike stars and tan-colored bulbils at the base of eachcluster of branches. It grows in deeper waters,usually 10 to 12 feet deep or more, and can grow toa height of 7 feet or more.

Mechanical harvesting has been used to controlstarry stonewort but with little success. Fortunately, ithas proven to be highly sensitive to common copper-and endothall-based algaecides.

Parrot feather(Myriophyllum aquaticum)Native to South America, this invasive species formsdense mats of vegetation that can entirely cover thesurface of water in shallow lakes, ponds, ditches, andbackwaters in rivers. The tough stems make itdifficult to boat, swim, fish, or water ski, and itprovides ideal habitat for mosquito larvae.

The invader can be identified by its bright greenfir-tree-like emergent leaves and stems. Parrotfeather's underwater and above-water foliagehampers the effectiveness of herbicides, and theemergent leaves and stems are covered in a waxycuticle that inhibits herbicide uptake.

Fanwort(Cabomba caroliniana)Although native to the southeastern U.S., fanwort isconsidered to be invasive in the northeast. It's arooted submersed plant with submersed and floatingleaves of different shapes. The floating leaves aresmall, diamond-shaped, and infrequent.

Fanwort flowers are white to pink to purplish andare about a half-inch across. The flowers are onstalks which arise from the tips of the stems.


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The ONLY“Critter-Proof”

Shrink-WrappingFor more informtion

Visit us at Waltspointmarine.com

8226 Highland Rd. • White Lake MI 48386

248.666.2854

WE WRAP7 MIL

in Blue orWhite

Call Tom 248-681-4250www.TomsPontoonService.com

Cal

l Tom

248

-681

-425

0 Call Tom

248-681-4250

1) Pick up and hauling from your boat ramp to our facility.2) The full winterizing of your Outboard Motor (io’s could be extra).3) Full end to end shrink wrapping with a min. of three (3) hanging damp rids in

your boat and all proper ventilation.4) Storage in our secure and lighted storage yard.5) Spring time start up ... we will make sure your battery(s) are charged and check

that your motor starts.* We can also price individual services separately if needed – Just ask!

✓ Winter Storage $199.99✓ Summer Storage $59.99

Lighted and Secured

storage yard in area of M-59 & Cass Lake Rd.Waterford, MI.

✓ All types of Pontoon Hauling✓ Local & Long distance

✓ Tri-Tube hauling specialist✓ Campers, trailers and other items welcome for storage

LET US SELL YOUR PONTOON

Tom’s Pontoon &Marine ServicesTom’s Pontoon &Marine Services

Special 5 Services Package $499.99


Water hyacinth(Eichhornia crassipes)This invasive plant is considered to the be one of themost troublesome aquatic weeds in the world, and isknown to be persistent in the Detroit River andwestern Lake Erie.

The free-floating plant features distinctive airbladders that keep the leaves afloat and forms densemats. Its leaves are thick, waxy, round and broad,while its showy flowers are lavender-blue in colorwith six petals. Upper petals feature a central, yellowblotch mark.

This invader can be thwarted by hand pulling smallpopulations. In addition, several herbicides are effective.

European frog-bit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae)This species is a perennial, free-floating aquatic herb

that forms large colonies creating dense mats with

tangled roots.

The plant's leaves, which resemble tiny water lilies,

are kidney-shaped with long stems and have a dark

purple color below. Its flowers are white and cup-

shaped, and made up of three petals with yellow dots

at the base.

European frog-bit occurs in shallow, slow-moving

water on the edges of lakes, rivers, streams, swamps,

marshes and ditches. No control measures have been

reported for the species, but hand pulling or raking

out colonies before fall is advised.

Water lettuce(Pistia stratiotes)Experts differ on whether water lettuce is native tothe U.S., as it's been present in Florida since 1765.This floating plant commonly forms large infestationswhich prevent boating, fishing and other uses oflakes and rivers.

This invasive plant's thick, soft leaves are formedin rosettes with no leaf stems. The flowers areinconspicuous, as they are nearly hidden in the centeramongst the leaves.

Mechanical harvestors and chopping machines canbe used to remove water lettuce from the water.

Brazilian water-weed(Egeria densa)This submerged, rooted plant has three-petaled whiteflowers. It grows in still or slow-moving waters,including ponds, lakes, rivers and streams.

While reported but not confirmed in Michiganwaters, Brazilian water-weed is a popular aquariumplant that reproduces by fragments that can bedispersed by waterfowl and boats — none of whichbodes well for Michigan's inland waterways.

Those who discover these or other aquatic invasivespecies are asked to note their location and extentand contact Matt Ankney, early detection and rapidresponse coordinator for the DNR, at 517-641-4903,ext. 260. Reports can also be sent to Ankney via e-mail at [email protected].

Reports can also be sent via e-mail to the MidwestInvasive Species Information Network atwww.misin.msu.edu. ❏


4158 Pioneer DriveCommerce Twp., MI 48390

248-360-7225 (rack)

www.aggressivemarine.com

SAME LOW PRICES AS LAST YEAR!BOAT & TRAILER RACKED TOGETHER!

INDOORstarting at

$500OUTDOOR

starting at

$150for the season

• We offer indoor storage for over 300 boats, andoutdoor storage for over200 boats.

• Pick-up and DeliveryAvailable

• Winterization• Shrink Wrap• Bottom/Acid Wash• Engine Repair

Specializing in custom boat coversFor all your canvas needs

Waterford

248-623-3443248-895-7155

Licensed & Insured

Anne’sCanvas

“GREAT RATES”Pontoon Boat

Re-deck &Carpet

J& DMarine ServiceCertified Marine Tech

• Winterization• Mobile Service• Engine Repairs• Detailing• Boat Transportation

Get Your BoatInterior Re-Done Over the Winter

& Receive

FREEOutdoor WinterBoat Storage

Pontoon Hauling

Shrink Wrap

Storage

FREEOUTDOORWINTER

STORAGE

www.sunsportmarine.net31785 S. River Rd., Harrison Twp., MI 48045 • 586.783.1100

Please Contact Neil Williams

170 CC

190 SPORT

SteveDirect:

[email protected]

JanetDirect:

[email protected]

www.TheStocktonTeam.com

2900 Union Lake Rd., Suite 210Commerce, MI 48382

248-366-7200Zillow - Preferred Agent

UNION LAKEFRONT PRICES ARE RISING - BUY NOW!•Great location, 75 ft. sandy shoreline, 200 deep-treed lot•Possible walkout site, seawall, Walled Lake Schools•Existing home, 2-3 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement

GORGEOUS LAKE VIEWS @$495,000#212017000 • EXT. #205

BRENDEL LAKEFRONT RANCH WITH FINISHED WALKOUT•Diamond in the rough set on 1.7 wooded acres•2,000 sq ft + finished walkout, 3 bedroom, 2 bath•2 fireplaces, deck, patio, green house, 2 car garage

POSSIBILITIES @ $239,900#212079780 • EXT. #236

WHITE LAKE TWP.

WEST BLOOMFIELD

BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT - 327 FT. LAKE FRONTAGE•4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, dining room, granite kitchen•Great room, family room, fireplace, second kitchen•3 car garage, decks, patios, beach, seawall, dock

GORGEOUS @ $514,000#212070498 • EXT. #287

WHITE LAKE TWP.

80 FT. OF SANDY SHORELINE ON ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE!•2 separate buildable lots, newer 2 car detached garage•Existing 3 bedroom, 2 bath, great room, stone fireplace•Vaulted Florida room, family room, 1st floor laundry

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES @ $539,900#212084822 • EXT. #279

127 FT. OF BULLARD WATERFRONT - TREED .43 ACRE •Incredible views, 2,116 sq ft + walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath•Granite, hardwood, wet bar, part fin w/o + appliances•Circle drive, elevated/tiered decking, patio, 1st flr laundry

A RARE FIND @ $249,900#212051318 • EXT. #234

HARTLAND TWP.

WEST BLOOMFIELD

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME ON ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE•2.962 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 2 bath, vaulted dining•Library, great room, stone fireplace, vaulted family room•Granite kitchen - ss appliances, 1st flr laundry, basement

MUST SEE @ $349,900#212060746 • EXT. #246

HIGHLAND TWP.

LAKEFRONT RANCH HOME ON ALL-SPORTS LONG LAKE•3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, open floor plan, Florida room•Great room, snackbar kitchen, new flooring•Covered deck, dock, seawall, 2 car garage

MUST SEE @ $299,900#212075900 • EXT. #241

GORGEOUS LAKE FRONT HOME ON WOLVERINE LAKE•2,514 sq ft + finished walkout, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath•Great room - fireplace, master - jet tub bath - deck •Deck, patios, dock, seawall, first floor laundry, 2 car

UNBELIEVABLE @ $499,900#NEW • EXT. #255

COMMERCE TWP.

ALL-SPORTS UNION LAKEFRONT SPECIAL•2-3 bedroom brick ranch + finished walkout•Bright and open floor plan, brick fireplace•2 car attached garage, elevated deck and patio

GORGEOUS LAKE VIEWS @ $378,800#212034479 • EXT. #215

COMMERCE TWP.

The Stockton’s are the Lakes Area’s #1 Team!

800-396-5204 + Ext. # for recorded message

WOLVERINE VILLAGE

800 S. Woodward Ave. • Birmingham, MI 48009

JJOHN &GAYLE HANNETTJohn’s cell phone (248) 939.3191

[email protected]

“Homes of QualityAre

Our Specialty”

151 FT. OF LOWER LONGLAKE FRONTAGE

Great location behind Kirk In The Hills Church.Walkout potential, nice elevation, the street has2-3 million dollar homes. Lower Long Lake is aterrific fishing lake and can also access ForestLake and Upper Long Lake by pontoon boat.$795,000

WELCOME HOMETO PRIVATE

ESTATE LIVINGBeautiful spring fed 470+ acre LakeAngelus is located just 18 minutesnorth of Birmingham. Designed by BillBaldner of Clifford Wright Architects,this one of a kind custom built 10,000sq. ft. home is on an 8 acre lake frontestate where horses are permitted.Spectacular views of private LakeAngelus from high ground with over250 ft. of lake frontage. First floormaster bedroom, family room open tokitchen, floor to ceiling windows,fieldstone fireplace, hardwood floors,3rd story cupola, 2 story 40’x10’ foyer,walk-out lower level with 40’x25’finished recreation room, and a 4 1/2car garage. Boat house with 2bedroom apartment above -- muchmore -- fabulous! $2,975,000LAK2025

ALL SPORTS - 189’ OF UPPER LONGLAKE FRONTAGE IN GATED HERON BAY

8000 sq. ft. of quality abounds. 1st floor master bedroom w/his & hers masterbaths. Open feel foyer, great room w/wet bar & beautiful family room & 11’ceilings. Library w/ solid cherry paneling & built in executive desk & shelves.Hardwood floor & back stairways, plant shutters, heated pool & heated 4 cargarage. Full house generator, kitchen & baths w/granite, family room with 16’wet bar with copper top, mirrored excercise room includes quality equipment.18’x14’ pool table room with great views. $1,695,000

LOWER LONGLAKE

FRONTAGE130 ft. of frontage onthis magnificent soft rusticcontemporary with elevatedwooded setting andsouthern exposure offeringspectacular lake views.Open flow for entertaining.Beautiful newer $150,000kitchen, master bedroomwith large walk-in closetjacuzzi, skylights, lots ofwestern cedar, stone andglass. Office 15’x12’ withsliding door to courtyard/could be 6th bedroom.$1,200,000 LOC155



This palatial, Mediterranean classic, is situated ona .68 acre rolling, tree-lined lot. The sunset viewsare priceless. This 3-story villa has old worldcharm and is loaded with such amenities as marblefloors, granite counters, elaborate trim, crownmolding and Roman columns throughout plus 6waterside terraces with French doors. FEATURES:4 beds/3 suites, 5.1 baths, 7 fireplaces, updatedOmega, Tuscanystyle gourmet kitchen, 3-storygrand, floating staircase, theater rm, 7-person wetbar/billiards rm, cabana house with full kitchen &bath leading to oversized in-ground pool withinfinity 2-tier waterfall, 12 person hot tub, 3.5heated, side entry car garage, heated-paverdriveway. Built in 1993, totally updated 2005.8,659 total sq. ft.. Call RW Watson for your privatetour 248.736.000. 212039029

Offered at $1,975,000

Lake Oakland Frontage $1,599,000Very private waterfront Estate on 1.64 acres w/187’ lakefrontage. Two story great room, granite counter in largeopen custom kitchen and baths. 2 master bedroom suites,3 fireplaces and finished lower level with family roomand more. Wrap around porch leading to in-ground pooland professionally landscaped. 6 car heated garage. 5bedrooms w/ 4.1 baths. Call RW Watson for your privatetour 248.736.000. 212034610

Middle Straits Lake- $997,900This elegant French Country Chateau is nestled amongtowering hardwoods, southern exposure overlooking all-sports Middle Straits Lake .w/129’ frontage, Featuring 6bedrooms, 2 master suites, (entry and upper) 4.5 baths,3729 sq ft, gourmet kitchen w/distressed antique cabinets,granite counters/marble floors, finished lower lever walk-out w/kitchen, 2 bedrooms imported mahogany Irish pubbar., stamped concrete driveway. First time on the marketWalled Lake Schools, Call RW Watson for your privatetour 248.736.000.

` agnificent Deer Lake Estate in Clarkston

Luxury Lakefront Living

CLASSIC ENGLISH TUDOREnveloped by picturesque nature full of wildlife, your

own 10 acre mini estate! Hickory island Kitchen,gleaming hardwood floors, bay windows, 2 storyfoyer, wrap around deck w/gazebo, private pond,

40’x30’ heated pole barn armed with all of the tech.necessities incl. geo thermal heat.

10-HUM $399,900

IMMACULATE CONDITION!!!Clarkston schools!! Includes extra build-able lot (75’x 150’),

MLS 1306376007. Home includes everything ~ 2 garages, 2complete kitchens, 2 fireplaces, 2 decks, parking pad fora motorhome & complete in-law suite on lower level. 173ft. of Maceday Lake waterfront, maintenance free exterior,

views from every room, 3 full baths, breakfast area &large concrete patio. 77-PAR $375,000

(248) 625-1010Take a Virtual Tour Online:www.mmrealtors.com

25 South Main St.Clarkston, MI

OWN YOUR OWN RESORT! Over 5,000 Sq. Ft. of captivating waterfront views.

This striking lakefront, complete with expansive decking, is ideal for enter taining. Interior is the “Ritz”with special rooms for every family member. Enviable

kitchen/hear th, explosive great room and a walkout finished to perfection.

44-MAJ $659,000

HALLELUIAH! COUNTRY LIVING IN AN URBAN SETTING.Estate parcel w/pond frontage sets the stage for this "modelhome" perfect treasure. Cherry cabinets, hardwood floors,

granite tops, designer paints & carpeting. Main level master,walkout lower & just a stones throw to state of the artelementary and conveniences galore make this a "10!"

67-CAN $299,000

DESIRABLE LAKEFRONT WALK OUT Clarkston schools. 0.6 acre lot has tranquil views of

Foley Lake from the new rear deck. Remodeled kitchen& baths with granite and hardwood floors. Newer

carpet & paint throughout. Freshly painted exterior with2 car side entry garage. 2nd deck off master to enjoy

lakefront view with the wildlife. 42-COA $248,000

Kenice Schooley Susan Tolstyka Darlene Darby Tracey Wertman Bob Newman Pam Ford MorganKaren & Jim Moreen

BETTER KNOWN AS CLARKSTON'S "CASTLE"It's been said to cost $10,000,000 to build. Sited on a 4.5acre spread and with 476' frontage on Heather Lake. Oldworld charm t/o from complete stone & brick exterior to

leaded glass windows t/o and hand carved moldings, trim,railings and staircases. In-ground pool, 2nd garage w/guest

quarters. The creme de la creme! 44-NEW

$ $ Multi-Million Dollar Talent $ $

Emily Ford Ron Serafini

Darlene Goodwin Cheryl Karrick

PRIVATE POND

ALL-SPORT LAKE

ALL-SPORT LAKE

ALL-SPORT LAKE

COMING SOON

INCREDIBLY BREATHTAKINGForested lakefront parcel. Site plan for (8) acreage

parcels on all-sports (235 acre) Lake Oakland. Oncein a lifetime opportunity! Build your dream home,

while seven other building sites serve as aninvestment. 00-OAK $650,000

BUILDER’S OWN PROPOSED BUILDOn large, beautiful wooded lot on Maceday Lake. Enjoy

419 acres of water on Maceday & Lotus Lakes for boating,fishing, swimming or just enjoy a quiet day on your own

private beach. Land for sale if you prefer your own builder.35-DOR $184,900 For Vacant Land. $489,000 For New Build

ALL-SPORT LAKE


560 N. Milford Rd.Milford

CYNDI ROBINSON20 Years of Successful Experience!

(248) 431-4571 cellwww.cyndirobinson.com

realestateone.com/crobinson

TOP AGENT, ACREAGE & LAKEFRONT SINCE 1989LAKEFRONT AND ACREAGE SPECIALIST!

LIVE ON THE LAKE FOR LESS!

LAKE LOT ON 2 LAKES!Now is the time to build! Affordable interest rates,builders are anxious for work! Located in MallardsLanding on Cul-de-sac. Fronts 2 lakes that connect!Beautiful homes in area. Almost one acre build site!Walkout possible. Past perk on file. EZ build restrictions.$69,900 MLS#212026422 (MAL3)

HIGHLAND VALLEYThis home is on one of the nicest lots in the sub! Backsto private Kyle Park and Downey Lake. Enjoy woodedand lake views. Canoes and kayaks allowed. Homefeatures 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, an island kitchen withgranite counters. Hardwood floors in entry, dining,kitchen and den! Unfinished walkout is bright withlake picture window. Beautiful decking! $314,900MLS#212022371 (788J3)

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOTRight on main lake! 2,702 sq. ft. (approx.) Classic CapeBeach style with artistic landscape with 1,000 sq. ft. paverpatio outdoor kitchen & firepit built-in gas grill. Sandybeach. Tile floors in kitchen, dining & great rooms. 4bedrooms, 3 baths. Central air. Heated garage & radiantfloors. Room to park with space by house/large driveway.Lakeside master with jet tub & separate shower. Built-inwall of shelves/plant ledges. 2-story. $469,900MLS#212086175 (3252L)

540 FT. ALL-SPORT WHITE LAKE BUILDABLE LOTIn Seven Harbors! Build your dream. Interest rates arelow. Builders anxious for work! Walkout site. New well,septic for a 3 bedroom on site. Views of main lake! Notmany lots available on a larger lake! No land contract.$142,900 MLS#212078005 (VACH3)

DOWNEY

LAKEFRONT

13 ACRE ESTATE IN MILFORD AREA!Exceptional all stone and cedar home with 579 - 1,600feet of frontage on water. Exotic woods throughout.Tigerwood floors, rosewood and walnut species usedfor custom cabinetry. Gallery style spaces and largeoutbuilding for workshop/storage. Five car garagecapacity with home elevator. $995,000.MLS#211088932 (809H3)

STRIKING PROUD LAKE 1.5 STORYTucked into the hillside! A rare find! 3,112 sq. ft.,3 bedroom, 3 bath treasure on all-sports lake, leads

to Huron River.Amid 4,700 acresof Proud Lake!Carriage stylegarage, perennialsgalore. Two leveldeck. Seawall.Endless views.H i cko r y /g ran i tekitchen, stainlesssteel appliances.Desk nook. Allpaved roads. Onmain body oflake. Walled LakeSchools. $389,900MLS#212080718(3313G3)

DISCOVER MALLARDS LANDING IN HIGHLANDStunning home on 1 acre manicured lot. Over 200 feet ofshoreline. All brick, skillfully and artfully constructed, oneof the best values in Michigan! Quality radiates.Travertine floors, granite counters, 5 bedrooms, 3 areensuites, 5.5 baths. Finished walkout. 7,000 sq. ft. totalof fine living! 4 plus garage. A must see property!$549,000 MLS#211115821 (4534T3) LAKE LOT

WHITE LAKE

WHITE LAKE

LAKEFRONT

PROUD LAKE

LAKE AND ACREAGE

LAKEFRONT


DENISE SIMMONS248.496.4847

[email protected]

16801 NEWBURGH RD. LIVONIA, MI 48154

Absolute Must see! Very Rare 5 Acre, Wooded Lake Front Estate With over 5900 square feet of living space on Private270 +/- Acre ALL sports lake. 250 Ft. lake frontage with breath-taking views. Nantucket-style home completelyremodeled exterior & interior in 2006-2007. 50 Foot Long Gourmet kitchen with 15 ft. granite island, double StainlessSteel Appliances. Huge master suite with fireplace & deluxe spa bath. Open floor plan. Oxbow Lake is one of the largerlakes in the “Lakes Area” and is 270 +/- acres and over 50 feet deep from end to end. This private lake has no off wateraccess or DNR boat ramps. Enjoy year-round activities, watch nature unfold, play on the 80 foot sandy beach. Thisproperty is pristine and a warm and welcoming family home. $799,000


MichaelCall

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

VViissiitt wwwwww..TThheeMMiicchhaaeellTTeeaamm..ccoomm

NEW TREND

★

UPPER LONG LAKE$999,000

Call Michael★

ORCHARD LAKE$749,000

Call Michael★

CASS LAKE$629,000

Call Michael★

WALNUT LAKE$1,999,000

Call Michael★

PINE LAKE$4,500,000

Call Michael★

ORCHARD LAKE$1,290,000

Call Michael★

LOWER STRAITS LAKE$1,490,000

Call Michael★

CASS LAKE$1,290,000

Call Michael★

PINE LAKE$875,000

Call Michael★

ORCHARD LAKE$2,190,000

Call Michael★

(248) 681-8500(248) 553-5050

(248) 681-8500(248) 553-5050

GODDARD-TALMAYAGENCY

347 N. Pontiac TrailWalled Lake, MI 48390

248-624-1531


Following are the waterway level readings for lakes and rivers across Oakland County, as compiled by personnel in Oakland County Water ResourcesCommissioner John P. McCulloch’s office. Legal levels are denoted by elevation in feet from sea level. Current (one month prior to press time) levels are denotedboth in elevation from sea level and as plus or minus the legal level in hundredths feet. Prior year elevation from sea level is provided as a comparison. Riverdepths are measured from the river bottom, at the point of measurement.

Angelus 950.00 949.79 –.21 949.81

Bevins 910.40 910.30 –.10 910.90

Big 1017.30 1016.79 –.51 1017.41 Winter Lvl: 1016.70

Bunny Run 965.95 966.05 +.10 966.40 Winter Lvl: 965.45

Bush Lake 913.60 913.10 –.50 913.70

Cass 929.22 929.51 +.29 929.41 Winter Lvl: 927.87

Cedar Island 934.00 934.39 +.39 934.43

Cemetery-Dollar 968.50 968.42 –.08 968.44 2)

Clinton River 2.10 2.28 +.18 2.60

Commerce 906.80 907.03 +.23 907.33

Crystal 917.50 917.65 +.15 918.23 7) Winter Lvl: 917.00

Dawson Mill Pond 928.60 928.90 +.30 928.98 6) Winter Lvl: 927.25

Duck 1016.63 1016.70 +.07 1016.92

Fox 930.00 930.08 +.08 930.21

Huron River 1.08 1.08 Legal 1.26 5)

Indianwood 992.62 992.78 +.16 992.93 Winter Lvl: 992.12

Lakeville 952.30 952.31 +.01 952.40

Long (Commerce Twp.) 933.00 933.10 +.10 933.17

Loon 949.30 949.67 +.37 949.57 2), 3)

Louise-Huff 962.27 962.27 Legal 962.29 8)

Middle & Lower Straits 930.70 930.42 –.28 930.80

Mohawk 949.30 949.78 +.48 949.61 2), 3)

Oakland-Woodhull 957.50 957.68 +.18 957.70

Orchard 930.50 930.17 –.33 930.70

Oxbow 942.75 942.97 +.22 943.03

Oxford-Multi 1017.80 1017.95 +.15 1018.22 1)

Pontiac 962.83 962.71 –.12 963.50

Schoolhouse 949.30 949.77 +.47 949.61 2), 3)

Scott 951.00 949.41 –1.59 950.00

Sylvan-Otter 928.60 928.89 +.29 928.98 6) Winter Lvl: 927.25

Tipsico 1015.39 1,014.70 –.69 1015.39

Union 927.07 927.28 +.21 927.42

Upper Straits 930.80 930.39 –.41 931.11

Van Norman 966.70 966.61 –.09 966.69 2), 4)

Walled & Shawood 932.80 932.10 –.70 933.13 Winter Lvl: 932.10

Watkins 950.00 950.00 Legal 949.91

Waumegah 1049.90 1049.72 –.18 1049.81

White 1019.10 1019.15 +.05 1019.11

Williams 965.42 965.12 –.30 965.79 2)

LAKELEGALLEVEL 8.24.12 + OR -

PRIORYEAR NOTES & REMARKS

NOTES:1) Oxford-Multi includes: Cedar, Clear, Long, Squaw, Mickelson & Tan Lakes.2) Waterford-Multi (WML) includes: Cemetery (Middle), Dollar, Greens, Maceday, Lotus, Lester, Van Norman,

Williams, Mohawk, Wormer, Schoolhouse, Silver, Upper Silver and Loon Lakes.3) The Loon Lake control structure also controls Mohawk, Wormer, Schoolhouse, Silver and Upper Silver Lakes.4) The Van Norman control structure also controls Greens, Maceday, Lotus and Lester Lakes.5) Lake Angelus, Huron River and Clinton River levels not under the jurisdiction of this office.6) The Dawson Mill Pond and Sylvan-Otter Lakes are controlled by the Price Dam.7) Crystal Lake is controlled by the Walter Moore Dam.8) Lake Louise and Huff Lake are controlled by the Ruth Johnson Dam.

waterway levels

WEEKLYLake LevelUpdates @

oaklandlakefront.com

WEEKLYLake LevelUpdates @

oaklandlakefront.com


(810) 629-22913241 Thompson Rd.Fenton, MI 48430

(Exit 84 on US-23)

FULL SERVICE PARTS & ACCESSORIESFiberglass Shop • Service Department • Indoor & Outdoor Storage

Flint

Pontiac

Detroit

Fenton

Ann Arbor

EXIT84

•

•

•

❂

M-59

US23

I-96

*Plus freight & tax, after rebates

HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.Closed Sunday

www.freeway-sports.com

THE YAMAHA

SALES EVENT

AS LOW AS

ON 2011 OR PRIOR YEAR MODELS.†VALUE UP TO $640. EXCLUDING SUPERJET.†

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* To Qualified Buyers. Offer expires 11/1/12

LOADED WITH FEATURES$3000 DOWN, 4.99%* INTEREST RATE, 144 MONTHS

24 ft. with70HP 4 StrokeYamaha Motor

Trade in your old pontoon boat andstart 2013 with a new Aqua Patio

FREEfirst year storagewithpontoon purchase

FREEfirst year storagewithpontoon purchase

OLF-9.2012

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Transcript of OLF-9.2012