Oakville Indian Mounds Lake Renovation: Removal of Invasive Plant Species

This project has made a difference to our community in several different ways. This project helped renovate our 20 acre lake that was used for community free fishing, for school group canoe rides, and the lake serves as the picturesque backdrop for all of our cross-country running events and our Native American Festival. By finishing this project, it has impacted the entire view of our park in a positive manner. This is a case where the before and after photos do this project more justice than I can eloquently write. Please see our project photos sent in a separate email. Not only has this grant allowed us to clear the invasive plant species, but it has made the pond a safer environment by cutting down on the venomous water snake habitat that was formed with all the thick aquatic vegetation. The vegetation had caused a low oxygen atmosphere and our fish had started to die off, then the drought of summer 2016 came and further damaged the fish and aquatic wildlife population. We had not been able to allow school groups to canoe for over a year and a half, these rides will resume this May. This project has made a huge impact on our local community and on our school system and this was a project that we definitely could not have made possible without the support of the AMRV RC & D support. The lake has been completely transformed into a safe, useable, beautiful community space that can be used for a variety of events. The lake is bordered by several pavillions and facilities that we offer for free use for family reunions, birthday parties, etc throughout the year. Oakville is a open community park that is available to the public 7 days a week for free.