Volunteers removed 18,300 cubic feet of weeds from Post Lake in 2025; disposal error drew cattle

Mike Misterek, who leads the weed-harvesting effort on Post Lake, reported to the commissioners that crews removed 18,300 cubic feet of vegetation in 2025, totaling 2,079 pounds—more than three times the volume removed in 2024. Misterek reviewed the range of species encountered and described the volunteer-run harvesting and disposal process.

The minutes record a disposal incident in which a load of harvested weeds was dumped at the wrong site, allowing nearby cattle (referred to by the minutes as belonging to "Scott") to access the weeds. The cattle breached fencing to reach the material; the board agreed to bolster volunteer training to prevent repeat mistakes and to repair relationships with the landowner.

For the 2026 season the district is planning ahead: Chair John Steber is applying for a three-year harvesting permit, which requires a parcel-by-parcel list of lakefront property owners and mailing addresses. The district is coordinating with Langlade County to obtain the required owner contact information. Commissioners signaled ongoing reliance on volunteers and on improved procedures for disposal and training.