SAVE GROVE LAKE - Petition to Protect Grove Lake and Preserve Its Natural Environment

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the proposed development of a 25-unit commercial RV campground with 15 boat slips on Grove Lake (56-952), located at 16446 470th St., Pelican Rapids, MN 56572, within Scambler Township. The applicants and current landowners, Joseph and Iliana Clauson, propose this development, which we believe threatens the lake’s pristine condition, poses risks to local wildlife, and violates several environmental protections.

Our Concerns:

1. Environmental Impact on Grove Lake’s Natural Ecosystem
   Grove Lake is currently free of zebra mussel contamination, a status that could be jeopardized by the increased boating activity from the proposed campground. Minnesota’s Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Law is designed to protect lakes like Grove Lake from invasive species, but the increased boat traffic poses a high risk of introducing zebra mussels. If this development lacks sufficient inspection and control measures, it may lead to long-term ecological damage. Studies have shown that campgrounds often lead to increased nutrient runoff into water bodies, causing eutrophication and degrading water quality (Higgins et al., 2014).
2. Increased Crime Rates
   Research indicates that areas near campgrounds often experience higher crime rates. A study in California found that crime increased significantly following the establishment of a large RV park, with residents reporting more thefts and disturbances. Moreover, the Journal of Environmental Management highlights a correlation between high visitor numbers in recreational areas and increased instances of vandalism and drug-related activities.
3. Protection of Local Wildlife, Including Eagle Nests
   The proposed development area is home to nesting bald eagles, which are protected under the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. This law prohibits disturbing eagles or their nests, and the increased human activity and noise from the campground would likely interfere with these protected birds. Disturbing their habitat is not only detrimental to the ecosystem but also illegal without special permits.
4. Violation of the Minnesota Shoreland Management Act
   Grove Lake is classified as a Natural Environment (NE) lake under the Minnesota Shoreland Management Act, which imposes strict regulations on lakeside developments to protect water quality, shorelines, and habitats. The proposed 15 boat slips may exceed what is allowed for NE lakes, where development intensity is limited to preserve natural beauty and ecological balance. We urge authorities to enforce these regulations to prevent overdevelopment.
5. Environmental Review Requirements (MEPA)
   Under the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA), developments that could significantly affect the environment must undergo an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) or a more thorough Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Given the size of the proposed RV campground, its potential to introduce invasive species, and the presence of protected wildlife, an EAW or EIS is warranted to fully assess the impact on Grove Lake’s environment. This review could provide a pathway to block or mitigate the development if significant risks are identified.
6. Threat to the Connected Water System and Wetlands
   Grove Lake is part of a chain of four interconnected lakes and a creek system that leads to Barnesville, MN. Any contamination from invasive species or pollutants could spread throughout this waterway. The Clean Water Act (CWA), particularly Section 404, regulates activities that discharge pollutants into U.S. waters. The proposed development may require a permit if it involves any activity that could result in runoff or discharges into the lake, potentially violating federal regulations.
7. Impact on Local Residents and Quality of Life
   Many residents who live on Grove Lake have chosen this area for its peaceful and pristine environment. The introduction of a commercial RV campground with increased boat traffic will result in noise, pollution, and overcrowding, fundamentally altering the lake’s character. The cumulative effects on water quality, local wildlife, and residents’ quality of life are significant and should be considered in any review of the project.

We Urge Local Authorities to Act:

Considering these concerns and the potential violations of both state and federal laws, we call upon local government officials, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and environmental protection agencies to:

• Reject the proposal by Joseph and Iliana Clauson for the RV campground on the grounds that it could introduce invasive species, disturb protected wildlife, and overburden the natural environment of Grove Lake.
• Enforce environmental protections, including the Minnesota Shoreland Management Act, Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Law, and the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, to safeguard Grove Lake’s ecosystems and residents.
• Require a thorough Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) before any development proceeds, ensuring that the lake’s ecological balance, water quality, and wildlife are fully considered.

Please join us in standing against this development to protect the natural beauty, wildlife, and pristine condition of Grove Lake for current residents and future generations.

References:

1. California State University. (2015). Impact of Recreational Development on Local Crime Rates: A Case Study of RV Parks.
2. Higgins, J., et al. (2014). "Visitor Impacts in Recreational Areas: Evidence from National Parks." Journal of Environmental Management, 134, 118-126.