Happy New Year to all of you with a special wish that you find 1983 a specially rewarding time at Deer Lake. It is the time again, as we enjoy the change in seasons, to give thought to activities (state legislation, county legislation, DLPOA sponsored functions) that will either make the recreational value of your Deer Lake property grow or decline in 1983. There are many controversies we will need to address this year, but there are also many pleasures and rewards for DLPOA members to be derived depending on our willingness to become involved.
STATE LEGISLATION: Since 1979, when the Shorelands Management Act was passed, under the sponsorship of then Rep. Scott Barr (now Senator Scott Barr from Edwall), the Dept. of Natural Resources, as the administrative arm for the State of Washington, was charged with its implementation. One crucial issue, we as property owners faced with great anticipation, was the sale of the Second Class Shorelands. Many lakefront property owners assumed for many years that the beach in front of their property was theirs because they always used it, maintained it, etc. This was the farthest from the truth, as many of you, upon checking your deeds, found out. Over the years prior to 1979, the State of Washington occasionally sold the beach front property (that property from the mean high water to the line of navigability) to the property owners of abutting lands. However by 1971, all such transactions ceased. The Shorelands Management Act of 1979 again was to open the accessibility of abutting land owners, the right to purchase their second class Shorelands. Deer Lake was not as affected as were neighboring lakes, such as Diamond, Loon Lake, Sacheen, and others.
Roughly 70 or more of the Second Class Shorelands were already owned on Deer Lake (the balance according to the DNR would not be sold) but yet our support of other lake owners and lake groups, similar to DLPOA, to secure that right in 1979 for everyone was tremendous. We, as you may recall, attended many public hearings on your behalf, in favor of enactment of the Shorelands Management Act. As is true in most legislation these days, amendments and changes from the original draft are made. In this case, one change gave the legislation a flaw, under the words "public interest," that all property owners as well as the DNR found hard to reconcile. As the DNR was charged with the implementation of the 1979 Act, it had to define the 'line of navigability' so as to appraise values of the property to be sold, and in addition the DNR saw another way to enrich itself, was by charging leases on recreational docks beyond the 'line of navigability.' Public hearings in 1980, 1981, and as late as April of 1982 addressed this problem, but to no ones satisfaction. DLPOA Directors attended these hearings in numbers, giving testimony at each. Always with our support of the right to purchase and our opposition to considered dock leases.
Since the property owners and lake organizations were on one side and the DNR on the other side, seemingly at odds and unable to compromise, the Marine Advisory Committee, who consults with the Governor, appointed a Task Force to analyze the Shorelands Management Act of 1979, and make suggested legislative changes to the combined committee of Natural Resources of the House and Senate. The Task Force has now completed its work, public hearings were held in Olympia, and work sessions of the joint committee (which I attended on your behalf on January 26 in Olympia) were held and the following recommendations are now being drafted into statute form for consideration and passage during this legislative term.
The opening statement on Sec. 1 of the draft sets the tone for the proposed bill. "The legislature finds that state owned aquatic lands are an irreplaceable public heritage." Sec. 3 goes on to say "the public benefits provided by aquatic lands are of several types; including but not limited to providing opportunity for direct public use, fostering water-dependent uses, and ensuring environmental protection for the public benefit. A balance shall be maintained between the various types of public benefits to ensure maximum benefit to the public ...." "Direct public access to and use of state owned aquatic lands shall be encouraged to the greatest extent feasible."
This reverse in posture by the Legislature (and the DNR) from the Shorelands Management Act of 1979, which recognized rights of private landowners to acquire the aquatic lands (Shorelands of the Second Class) where he already owned the abutting upland property, is now more apparent.
To avoid defining the "line of navigability" which seemingly appeared impossible, the draft under Sec. 6, Sub-section (5), "Residential docks used exclusively for recreation are exempt from the fees specified in sub-section (2) of this section." It was discussed at recent hearings and at the workshop which I attended, by Mr. John Chambers of the DNR, that recreational docks, although they represent a substantial number of leases, generate minimal amounts of revenue and a tremendous amount of controversy. The Task Force further recommends a revocable use and occupancy permit at no charge. One does not need to apply for this permit, but a statement in statute will give a blanket permit to everyone.
The line of navigability is that line which delineates the waterward boundary between public and private ownership where the Shorelands have been sold. Since the definition on "line of navigability" has not legislatively been defined and appears will not be, it was the further reasoning of the Task Force, that by providing free permits for recreational docks, the controversy and therefore the need for the definition is greatly reduced. Likewise the desirability for ownership of those lands should be greatly reduced.
This then starts to address the problem that this writer sees in the draft legislation recommended by the Task Force. In repealing the Shorelands Management Act of 1979, you automatically lose your recently acquired right to purchase Second Class Shorelands, which you did not own, although you may have assumed you did. I always have felt and expressed that the beach in front of our cabins have absolutely no public interest to anyone except the abutting land owner and he should have the right to purchase it if he so desires. I cannot understand the value to the State of Washington to retain aquatic lands that in no way generates revenue to the State or provides pleasure to anyone but the abutting landowner who wants the privilege of ownership (and paying taxes Thereon).
I might add, in conversation with Senator Barr, who originally sponsored the Shorelands Management Act and who fought for our rights to purchase the Second Class Shorelands also shares his concern and opposes the Task Force recommendation. If you have any ideas or concerns we can only advise you to contact your Legislators. Lois Stratton, 3rd District Democrat .(Spokane) chairman of the House Natural Resources committee, and Steve Furhman, Kettle Falls Republican, is ranking minority Vice-chairman. Representative Fuhrman's phone in Olympia is 206-753-7908. I do not have Representative Stratton's phone number handy.
FISH HATCHERY- Wes Wagoner reported at the January 14 Board Meeting that he has hatched out 30 000 Eastern Brook eggs in his hatchery in the narrows. The next six weeks are crucial for survival and future planting in the lake. Wes also reported he will get his Rainbow eggs soon.
SECURITY- Remember, it is a good idea to notify the Sheriff's Dept. if you have installed a security system in your cabin, just in case the alarm goes off. Some board members have installed systems in their cabins this past year and more I'm sure are considering them. Although we have not heard of any break-ins or vandalism this winter, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
DEER LAKE FIRE DEPT : The Deer Lake Fire Department, led by Fire Chief Quetta Collins, has recently completed another year of excellent service. The department is steadily growing by acquirinq and improving more equipment. During the past year the department has had approximately 18 calls which included fire calls, first aid calls, one standby, one false alarm, and three (P.P.) civic service calls Equipment acquired last year includes a 1972 rebuilt 4-wheel drive vehicle, with a 9000 Ib winch Quetta Collins, Lew Houdak, Alien Reed and other members of the department have spent many hours of their time installing equipment and improving the vehicle. The 4-wheel drive vehicle is used for Rapid Response and first aid calls.
The department last year also held their annual pancake breakfast in July to raise funds for equipment, and approximately $900.00 was raised.
Quetta Collins, Fire Chief, would like to have more volunteer help, especially during the winter months. If you are interested call her at 233-2171.
We are starting a new year and we are looking forward to a more improved, efficient fire department We all realize how fortunate we are to have a Deer Lake Fire Dept. Our "hats off" to these wonderful people in the department that are always ready and willing to help at all times, and our thanks for the excellent response in the past.
NOTE- The third annual Pancake Feed this year is July 10th at the Deer Lake Fire house. MARK YOUR CALENDARS AND ATTEND! Jerry Linton
LOON LAKE FIRE DEPT.: The Loon Lake Fire Dept. has had another busy year responding to a total of nearly 70 emergency calls. The department has a total of 13 members (seven emergency medical technicians and six firemen).
During the past year the department sponsored a benefit dance to raise funds for acquiring more equipment for the department, of which approximately $900.00 was raised. The money was used to Purchase a portable radio which was greatly needed. Also a new metal building which houses the emergency vehicle and fire trucks was completed. The fire department's fire truck was damaged responding to a call earlier in the year. The truck was repaired and is now in good working condition.
The Loon Lake Fire Dept. under the leadership of Derald Helt, Fire Chief, and Roy Russel , Emerqency Medical Technician, has brought the Loon Lake Fire Dept. to a strong, fast, efficient unit We are all very thankful to have these dedicated and qualified people ready to help at any time, and we wish the department another successful year. Also our thanks this past year to the Stevens County Fire Commissioners, Rich Miller, Elmer Parker, and Daryl Russell, for their help and concern.
Recently the Loon Lake Fire Dept. had its election of officers for the coming two-year term Roy Russell, former assistant fire chief was elected Fire Chief and will replace Derald Helt. Derald is a fireman and Roy is also an EMT. Pat Anderson, a fireman, will be the new Ass t. Fire Chief; Roy Russell will continue to head the Emergency Medical Team. Good luck to the newly elected officers.
Jerry Linton, reporter.
WATER QUALITY: The WATER - that's why most of us have property on Deer Lake. Deer Lake, Loon Lake and Diamond Lake were studied by the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) in 1973 and again in 1978. Their report on the 1978 testing concluded that Deer Lake "has the least water quality problem of the three lakes." They further concluded that conditions had changed little from their tests made in 1973. What is the quality of the water today? Has it deteriorated: What are the sources of pollution to the lake? Can we do anything about it? What are people who live on other lakes doing?
These are some of the questions your newly appointed DLPOA Water Quality Committee has been considering. The committee consists of Jerry McBride, chairman, and members Clyde Innes, Allan Reed, Les Schneider and Wes Wagoner. So far the following action has been taken:
1 The DLPOA Board has appropriated $1,000.00 for testing of water quality.
2. Committee member Wes Wagoner has contacted a Spokane firm about testing water samples from Deer Lake. A testing plan is being formulated for the coming year.
3. Roger Ray of the DOE water quality division and member of DLPOA attended our meeting of January 12. Mr Ray told us that the owner of the peat bog mining operation on Deer Lake must have a federal permit to discharge water into Deer Lake. The owner has been notified and has 60 days to respond. Before any permit is issued a public hearing will be held. DLPOA plans to attend that hearing.
4. Committee member Les Schneider has attended a meeting of the Loon Lake sewer district to learn more about their plans and the system they're proposing to the property owners on Loon Lake. Les plans to keep in touch with them by attending future meetings.
We'll try to keep you up to date on items that affect the quality of water in Deer Lake. If you have any questions or suggestions please contact me or any of the members of the Water Quality Committee.
Jerry McBride, chairman.
MEMBERSHIP: Once again as we enter a new calendar year, we are reminded of the upcoming dues renewal for DLPOA. If you have received this NEWSLETTER, you will be getting from Kathryn Bean, our treasurer, a statement for payment of dues ($12.00/year) for the coming year. If you have friends or neighbors ask them if they received this issue of the NEWSLETTER; if not it is because we only send to paid-up members. Solicit their membership to the Deer Lake Property Owners Assoc. Join a growing organization that is working to maintain the quality of life at Deer Lake as we have enjoyed it in the past and want to continue to enjoy it in the future.
ARBOR DAY: That's right, ARBOR DAY, when everyone around the lake pitches in for cleaning and raking all public areas (roadways, launch areas and the like, that never seems to get cleaned up) Your Directors are promoting this as a way to self beautify the surroundings of Deer Lake. We will do this in May or June. Further details will be in the May Newsletter.
COMING EVENTS IN FUTURE NEWSLETTER: Local Planning District - the rationale and needs mechanics for organization, etc. - Dr. Ted Maxson.
Woodcutting Parties - availability of wood, permit fees if any, time and place, etc., similar to last year.
Water Safety Patrol - review Stevens County ordinances, announce the water sheriffs for 1983, etc.
ANNUAL MEETING - June ... Election of officers and three-year term to Board of Directors. Open general meeting for all members. Loon Lake school.
A special THANKS to Mr. Roger Ray, Dept. of Ecology, for attending our January meeting of the Board; and to Mr.'s Clive Price, Jack Cogswell and Ken Rosenberg, Stevens County Commissioners, for your support and interest in DLPOA. All of us working together to make Deer Lake and Stevens County a better community, to work and to play in safely and in harmony with nature......