Negaunee city manager Nate Heffron has announced the city and Michigan conservation officers will be stepping up efforts to help prevent littering on Teal Lake during the winter months.
“For the past few years, the city has been getting complaints about litter and other debris being left on Teal Lake,” Heffron said. “This usually consists of items left after ice fishing.”
Lt. Ryan Aho, DNR District 1 law supervisor, said conservation officers will increase patrols given the increased number of littering complaints.
“All users of the lake have the responsibility to clean up after themselves,” Aho said. “Littering is a civil infraction, with violators subject to fines.”
Heffron said one of the biggest concerns is wood pallets being left on the lake.
“After the spring thaw, these pallets wash up on the shoreline, creating potential threats to watercraft and swimmers on the beach,” Heffron said. “Other trash items that can cause potential harm to humans and wildlife are glass bottles, wooden boards and plastics.”
Heffron said the city will monitor the situation to determine whether additional action is required.
“We hope that everyone who enjoys beautiful Teal Lake will be responsible stewards,” Heffron said.
