Lake Pend Oreille has people in its corner

If you have ever launched your boat or gone fishing at the Memorial Park boat ramp, you may have noticed an oil and gasoline slick on the surface of the water, especially after a rain storm. Recently, steps have been taken to reduce this pollution problem.

Two diversions have been installed to channel the water into a series of nine interconnected pits or "swales" that are filled with wood chips and inoculated with a specific type of underground mushroom mycelium. This species of mushroom fungus has the unique ability to break down the gas and oil so the water goes into the swales polluted and comes out into Pend Oreille clean. Many entities have cooperated together to accomplish this project (which is still in progress).

On behalf of the Bonner Soil and Water Conservation district, I would like to thank the following cooperators: Natural Resources Conservation Service, Tri-State Water Quality Council, the Sandpoint Parks & Recreation, Sandpoint Public Works Department, Full Circle Design, Bonner County Sheriff's Sgt. Bob Van Buren and his inmate work crew, and Richard Howell of Elliot Environmental who donated his time and equipment to hydroseed the area.

Your dedication is greatly appreciated.

GARY PARKER

Lake*A*Syst

program coordinator

Bonner Soil & Water Conservation District