There is nothing more relaxing to me than floating on the calm water of a lake. In the Applegate Valley, we have one of those liquidly jewels that was finished just 40 years ago. I know the age of the lake because I have a picture of our 8-month-old son, Josh, sitting on a rock wall above the unfilled lake.
Everything was new and promising 40 years ago. Not so much today. U.S. Forest Service funding is largely used for fire suppression and leaves little funds for maintenance and none for improvements. The joy that the lake brings residents and visitors requires that access to the lake be maintained. And wouldn’t it be helpful to boaters of every style to have docks where they could tie up for a quick trip to the bathroom without blocking the boaters launching or pulling out. And let’s move beyond the basics and consider a handicap-accessible ramp for fishing.
With this in mind, I have created a non-profit called “Friends of Applegate Lake.” The purpose is to work with the U.S.F.S to raise funds for recreational dock and amenity improvements at Applegate Lake. The group may also have hands-on projects.
I am seeking board members for the Friends of Applegate Lake. The duties will include creating a development plan, raising funds, managing fiscal responsibility with the funds and implementation of improvement projects.
If you are interested in joining as a board member or volunteer, contact gilliam.genie@gmail.com or call me at 541-531-2343.