Why is the lagoon project being done? What is wrong with the lagoon?
The lagoon project is being led by Humboldt Parks Friends in partnership with the Milwaukee County Parks Department. Due to 158 parks in the system, MCPD staff are spread thin. Additionally, large deficit in the county parks budget and $400 million of deferred maintenance, HPF board and volunteers have agreed to dedicate their time and energy to see this lagoon project happen. Encroaching vegetation and the reduction in water quality is negatively impacting the quality, aesthetics and accessibility of the lagoon. We feel the lagoon and Humboldt Park is an asset to our local urban greenspace and community and we are obligated to preserve because it is invaluable.
The cattail removal pilot project was HPF first initiative to showcase to the MCPD the investment the community has to preserving the lagoon. Research completed by Milwaukee County Environmental Service in 2005 [ADD HYPERLINK] (http://county.milwaukee.gov/ImageLibrary/User/tdetzer/02_POND_AND_LAGOON_MANAGEMENT_STUDY.pdf) and a report released about cattail management by the Wisconsin DNR [ADD HYPERLINK] (http://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/ss/SS0112.pdf) paved the direction of the pilot project.