​Keep Coldwater Clear Committee Packs the House

The Keep Coldwater Clear Committee packed the Coldwater Lake Association Building on Saturday, August 29, 2026, as community members gathered to learn more about the current state of Coldwater Lake, the growing threat of invasive aquatic weeds, algae and excess nutrients, strategies for managing them, the Watershed Management Plan, and best practices for riparian residents and lake lovers.

Margie Franker, the committee’s inaugural chair, opened the program by welcoming attendees and introducing the morning’s speakers. As Margie transitions into her role as President of the newly established Marble-Coldwater Clean Water Partnership, she will remain involved with the Keep Coldwater Clear Committee while introducing Sara Roper and Kirsten Felts as the committee’s new co-chairs.

Sara shared valuable information on current lake conditions and the actions the Coldwater Lake Association takes to help protect and improve the health of Coldwater Lake.

Guest speaker Shaun Grace, CISMA Coordinator with the Southern Michigan Invasive Species Team (SMIST) Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA), followed with a presentation on aquatic invasive species management. SMIST works to increase awareness of the impacts of invasive species and share effective management techniques with communities throughout Branch, Hillsdale, and St. Joseph Counties.

Margie then provided an update on watershed management planning and explained the purpose of the Marble-Coldwater Clean Water Partnership, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to develop a comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for the Marble-Coldwater watershed. The Partnership plans to pursue grant funding to support the plan and future implementation efforts. Margie emphasized that strong local support and fundraising are essential, as grant reviewers look for evidence that the community is invested in protecting its water resources.

Kirsten concluded the program with practical best practices for riparian residents and lake lovers, highlighting simple actions residents can take to help protect water quality and the health of Coldwater Lake.

​The response from the community was outstanding. The strong turnout and highly engaged audience demonstrated the deep level of interest and commitment to protecting Coldwater Lake as well as the entire South Chain for generations to come. 

The overwhelming attendance and visible support from Coldwater Lake Association Board members further demonstrated how strongly the Association is committed to these efforts and to the long-term health of our lakes. That support is deeply appreciated by the volunteers who are dedicating their time and energy to this important work. The morning was an encouraging reminder that informed, engaged community members, working together, can make a meaningful difference in protecting our water resources.
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For those who were unable to attend in person, the meeting was also livestreamed and recorded. You can view the recording here.

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