Long Laker’s Encourage Membership in LLAA
By Deanna Frazier
Long Lake is home to hundreds of summer and permanent residents, who not only enjoy “lake life” but also share a a commitment to preserve the lake environment for the future. From short-timers to long-timers to everyone in between, membership in our Long Lake Area Association (LLAA) is paramount to the organization’s conservation efforts, especially educating lake residents about Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) and ways to minimize their effect on Long Lake.
“I appreciate the work being done on aquatic vegetation, lake conservation, and combating invasive species to keep our lake beautiful for future generations,” explained JoAnn Manlove, who is not only a 53-year resident on Long Lake, but a third-generation family to the lake as well.
Ken Retzer, a Long Laker since 2007, echoed Manlove’s sentiment. The LLAA’s conservation and education efforts are key, Retzer said, “to ensure Long Lake is healthy for decades to come and for future generations.”
Though they are very new to Long Lake and the Association (June, 2024), Steve and Anne Skoe agree the LLAA makes a vital contribution to life on Long Lake. Feeling it was the least they could do to join the Association, they joined immediately upon receiving the LLAA packet to encourage those who are helping the lake. The more people that can volunteer to help, the less work for each person in the group, they explained, adding, “It takes a village to keep a lake healthy.”
And a healthy lake makes it possible for family memories to be made on Long Lake, explained Manlove, like beautiful sunsets on the dock, boat rides, and the Fourth of July Flotilla. She also described how relaxing it is to just be around the water, watching all the birds and animals, especially the bears, “as long as I’m in my house,” she chided.
Making memories shapes life on Long Lake for Retzer as well. “All the family gatherings that have made many happy memories,” are what he remembers most about life on Long Lake. The Skoe’s may be new to the lake, but they are not new to the area. Steve grew up in Park Rapids during the 1960s, his family owning the old Park Drug, where Walgreen’s stands today. They look forward to getting to know their new neighbors and participating in LLAA activities next summer.
In a parting word, Manlove encouraged Long Lake residents to join LLAA. “If they want their families to enjoy lake life into the future,” Manlove explained, “they need to support the organization which has their backing!”
Click here to join the LLAA: If you have questions about joining LLAA, email office@longlakeliving.org