About Us

The riparian owners of Perch Lake, Iron County, Michigan formed the Perch Lake Owners Association (PLOA). This is the official website of the PLOA.

Shared Interests and Values

We are a 501(c)3 IRS designated non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the quality and diversity of the flora, fauna, and water quality of Perch Lake for all who enjoy this unique resource. A key initial focus will be on the prevention and remediation of invasive species (e.g., rusty crayfish & EWM). We seek to achieve these objectives by engaging local resource management agencies, forming academic partnerships, and through the education, awareness and active involvement of the riparian owners of Perch Lake.

Governance

The Perch Lake Owners Association is a voluntary, non-profit Michigan corporation under the direction of an elected Board of Directors (BoD).

Please see the Leadership page for details.

Key Association Accomplishments

  • We funded a study of the rusty crayfish population and initiated a coordinated trapping program.
  • We prevented a township ordinance to allow multi-family dwellings.
  • We discouraged mining exploration on the NE end of the lake.
  • We completed an aquatic plant survey and EWM prevention program

Our Approach

The PLOA works in partnership with many organizations to communicate our concerns and advocate our proposed solutions to help maintain and improve the lake and its ecosystem.

The PLOA is a member of the:

  • Michigan Lakes and Streams Association (MLSA)
  • Western Peninsula Invasive Species Coalition (WePic)
  • Iron County Lakes and Streams Partnership (ICL&SP).

We also have a working relationship and agreement with Ottawa National Forest Service.

The PLOA is also an active participant of the Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program (CLMP).

The PLOA also has a close working relationship with the:

  • Michigan State University Outreach Program
  • Michigan Department of Natural Resources
  • Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
  • Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission

and many other lake associations and agencies in the area.

PLOA Projects

Our two most visible/active projects are the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Containment System and our Invasive Crayfish Research. Click on the links to learn more about these projects.

All projects are undertakings of the PLOA and have been managed and funded by the membership themselves. This dedicated and giving group of nature-lovers are committed both emotionally and financially to preserving Perch Lake for many years to come.

Useful Links

Resource Management Agencies:

Area Attractions & Resources: