Enviroweenies!!they're everywhere, they're everywhere

When I and my then-toddler son first arrived in St. Cloud, Minnesota 12 and a half years ago, one of the first features of the town to capture my eye was Lake George. At first glance, Lake George looks like a man-made lake. Not much bigger than a couple acres in size, it used to be a centerpiece of the city. At night a multi-colored fountain in the center of the lake reflected off the water, making it a true show piece. Well-groomed banks along the lake made for inviting places to sit on the shore to skip stones and to watch the geese, blue herons and other waterfowl cavorting about. Paddleboats were available for rental, and for fun kids used to paddle the boats through the fountain for an icy summer cool-off. In short, Lake George was a grand place to spend a summer's day.


Lake George, before the restoration

Enter the Enviroweenies.....

Around five years ago the environmentalists at St. Cloud State University took it upon themselves to remake our beloved Lake George in their own image. Gone are the inviting well-groomed banks to while away a summer's day. Gone is the beautiful multi-colored fountain. Enter a glorified drainage ditch.

To wit:

Melanie Boike, NRCS Soil Conservationist, weeding the area planted in the spring of 2002.

Weeding the area? How does one "weed" amongst weeds? Lake George has turned from what was a well-manicured centerpiece and an attraction to an eyesore and a liability. Thanks so much, enviroweenies.