Open Forum

Two weeks ago, I came home to visit my parents who have lived on Lake Edward for over twenty years. I grew up on this lake as well, and often brag about its crystal clean water and sandy bottom. However, this visit I was shocked when I ventured down to my beloved lake. The water is no longer crystal clear, and the beaches no longer exist. Over the past few years, we have watched our lake continue to rise, and this year it has extended beyond its limits. As the lake creeps over the shores, it is becoming corrupted from what I assume would be fertilizers, sewer systems, and who knows what else. And, as I paddled along the shore in my canoe, I saw numerous cabins that have been on the lake for years that are now at major risk of flooding.

Most of our neighbors yards are filled with lake water. What is causing this mess? Can't blame it on the rain folks. Let's face it -- it rains a substantial amount in Minnesota, and Brainerd would need a major

drought to bring Lake Edward down. My parents have told me that the culvert draining the lake is not draining properly, and it continues to get worse each year. They have contacted the county commissioner, but he hasn't done anything about it. Who in the state of Minnesota can help? If we don't address this issue, we are at risk of losing a beautiful lake, and that is a horrible shame! In all the places I have visited, I have found few lakes as lovely as those in the Brainerd Lakes area. Please don't take this resource for granted, and please don't let this happen!

K.M. Schwartz

Denver, Colo.