The LDRP is on for ’24!
Good news—the HLWID Board has voted to continue the Lake Debris Removal Program (LDRP) this year. We agree that it greatly benefits the safety and beauty of Hayden Lake. The last day to tow and leave debris is June 9, 2024. Start with this year’s program notice to find everything you need to participate, including the permit application, tips, and a map.
Thank you for your thoughtful improvement ideas.
Thank you to those who replied to my request for program improvement ideas. These were the most popular:
- Use video to monitor the debris staging site. Post a video warning sign.
- The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) administers the State of Idaho’s ownership of the lake.
- Ask IDL to add a request for old dock disposition plans on new dock applications.
- Ask IDL to keep the HLWID informed about new Hayden Lake dock approvals.
- “Brand” existing docks with a unique identity. Most commenters also acknowledged that scofflaws would simply remove the ID. RFID chips were suggested.
- Impose/increase fines. Because Hayden Lake is a public waterway, fining violators is outside the authority of the HLWID. We can, however, notify the Sheriff when others break the law, which specifies that releasing materials on the lake that endanger navigation is prohibited.
- Build closer partnerships with the dock builders. Disposal costs are often several thousand dollars, highlighting the unfair burden placed on everyone in the Improvement District when individual property owners cast off their responsibility.
A few changes to the program have been implemented.
The most immediate deterrent to dumping obsolete docks is video monitoring. Nobody will want to see their picture on our website or social media sites towing their old dock into Mokins Slough. So, that’s a go.
We will also convert the program “registration” process to a permit application process. This will introduce a small delay in a participant’s ability to download their permit while the HLWID reviews their application. We hope you will be patient with this process, knowing it promises to motivate people to stick to the rules.
Thank you for all your ideas. If you have more, please email [email protected].
Steve Meyer
HLWID chairman