REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Adam Gufarotti, Community Support Manager
Date:June 25, 2024
Subject:Agreement with American Lady Vet Services for Lake Maintenance and Liquid Algaecide Treatment
Recommendation
Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the Contractor Services Agreement with American Lady Vet Services, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $84,865 in such final form as approved by the City Attorney and authorize the City Manager to execute change orders not to exceed a 10% contingency amount of $8,486.5 for uncertainties and adjustments. Waive the formal bidding process per Municipal Code Section 3.08.070(G) for the purchase from American Lady Vet Services.
Background
Lake Elsinore, the largest freshwater lake in Southern California, has faced ongoing challenges with water quality. Situated within the expansive 780 square mile San Jacinto watershed, the lake receives an annual influx of nutrient-rich sediment from natural water flows. This sediment carries elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which exacerbate water quality concerns and present a significant threat to the lake's aquatic ecosystem.
Over the past two decades, the City and its partners have undertaken numerous water quality initiatives. In 2008, the Lake Elsinore & San Jacinto Watershed Authority (LESJWA) implemented the Lake Elsinore Aeration and Mixing System (LEAMS). This project aims to enhance oxygen levels in the lake by aerating and mixing its water. Concurrently, efforts have focused on studying the fish population and managing detrimental species such as carp. In fall 2022, the City initiated a pilot study to investigate sustainable strategies for improving Lake Elsinore's water quality over the long term.
On August 22, 2023, the City Council implemented the Lake Management plan which outlines specific short term and long-term projects to enhance the water quality of Lake Elsinore.
Lake Maintenance and Algaecide
Discussion
As part of the City's Lake Management plan, an annual maintenance program is being developed to continuously enhance the water quality of the lake. This program encompasses several key components, including the application of a peroxide-based algaecide, lanthanum modified bentonite applications, and shoreline maintenance.
Currently, algaecide treatments involve using a powdered form of algaecide, which is mixed with lake water to create a slurry and then sprayed across the surface. However, discussions with our chemical manufacturer have revealed a promising alternative: a liquid formulation of the same algaecide. This liquid form has been shown to remain in the water longer and be more effective for shoreline applications.
Under this agreement, the liquid algaecide will be applied along the lake's perimeter where algae tend to accumulate. This treatment will promptly kill the algae, thereby significantly improving the overall water quality of the lake. Following the application of algaecide, the contractor will return the next day to physically remove visible algae from the shoreline. This cleanup operation will extend 10 feet into the lake to ensure thorough removal, and shoreline cleaning will span 10 feet from the water's edge.
To minimize disturbance to the lake bottom and prevent nutrient release into the water, all shoreline work will be conducted manually. Contractor will remove all algae and debris, disposing of them in dumpsters provided by the city.
This comprehensive approach aims not only to control algae growth but also to maintain the ecological balance and aesthetic appeal of the lake environment. By leveraging advanced algaecide technology and meticulous shoreline maintenance, the City is committed to preserving and enhancing the health of its lake for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.
Fiscal Impact
Funding costs are included in the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Measure Z Budget.
Attachments
Attachment 1- Agreement with American Lady Vet Services Exhibit A - Proposal
City Manager's Office