From overflowing to wading in the mud, our community along with metro Atlanta observed our share of weather in September. Our namesake, the lake, had risen an estimated 25 inches over full pool on September 21, to being lowered 10 feet below full pool during the next thirty (30) days.

Sediment Removal and Storage: BLHA Board and Committee members have been actively working to perform research; gather information and present findings to BLHA members at the October, November, and December monthly board meetings. A BLHA assessment report is on the website to summarize this activity and to assist in communicating to our membership.

Lake Cove Excavation: Following review of the (Committee – Board) recommendations and a vote from our BLHA members, we will start the process of cleaning out coves on a case-by-case basis. Subject to membership approval.

I would like to extend thanks to committee members, David Lee, Randy Kirkus, Gordon Gearhart, Joe Voyles and Bryan Stuart along with board representation from Chip McDaniel and myself, who have been working with a number of agencies and contractors to gather and evaluate a great deal of information on each of the coves. It is imperative to assess various alternatives in order to present options to BLHA Board and members. Please refer to other articles within this newsletter to learn more about the effort being discussed.

Storm Water Runoff Alert: In our September newsletter, we identified storm water and silting challenges from developers along Peachtree Industrial Boulevard (PIB). Although we have made good progress in these matters, our stream, pond and lake "state waters" continue to be the recipient of sediment. In this newsletter, we will attempt to expand on storm water issues within our city limits by highlighting areas of concern, while looking for opportunities on how we as a community can work together to resolve identified areas, protect our property and improve the overall wellbeing of our lake. Refer to additional articles within this newsletter to provide further details and what we can do to HELP.

Shoreline Walk and Cleanup: Planned for early December while the lake is lowered and the surface is dry to walk upon. Interested individuals are requested to contact Steve Craigg, who has volunteered to coordinate teams to walk along assigned areas on the lake's shoreline. Property owners along the lake are encouraged to walk along their shoreline to pick up debris. If you find any large items you need assistance with, contact me and BLHA will review and assist with its removal.

Fish Habitat and Structures: Our anglers are preparing to add new fish structures in the lake to improve the fishing habitat and create the proverbial "fishing hole." Individuals wanting to learn about these activities are encouraged to contact Dudley Simpson, BLHA Lake Maintenance, to learn what is involved and how you might be able to assist.

• Increased membership and managed income / expenditures to better budget

• Expanded beach wall; added two landscape walls, two stone tables and two stone benches
• Bocce ball court
• Kayak and canoe storage racks
• Enhanced landscaping
• Installed lake irrigation system
• Installed split rail fencing along garden area
• Replaced beach lawn chairs

• Enhanced landscaping
• Graded picnic area to relocate BLHA storage shed
• Kayak and canoe storage racks (Planned for 2010)
• Installed boat ramp access gate for improved security
• Installed split rail fencing along patio area

• Increased awareness with County / State agencies on developers silting Lake Berkeley
• Proactive in reviewing options to remove sediment from lake.
• Assisting property owners with planning and bidding projects adjacent to shoreline