New aerator will improve safety , reduce maintenance
From the Winsted Lake Watershed Association
The Winsted Lake Watershed Association ( WLWA ) has provided the equipment and volunteer labor to operate an aeration system in Winsted Lake for more than 20 years .
Recently , the organization of volunteers purchased and installed a new system , which keeps those maintaining the system safe and off thin ice . Why winter aeration ? Winter aeration has been a lifesaver for maintaining a fish population in Winsted Lake .
In past years surface-based aspirating aerators were used . With the advancement of technology , more lakes are being aerated with underwaterbased diffuser systems .
Minnesota , the land of 10,000 lakes , has a number of lakes operating winter aeration systems which are controlled by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources .
Winter aeration is used on smaller , shallow water lakes like Winsted Lake to prevent winter fish kill .
During the winter smaller lakes can become depleted of oxygen , thereby creating winter fish kill . Aeration injects air into the water and creates an open water area , which will also obtain air from wave action caused by the wind . The combination of these two elements is usually sufficient in oxygenating the water to prevent winter fish kill . New aeration system The new aeration system is a diffuser-based system . A diffuser system uses a compressor motor located on shore to blow air through tubing placed on the bottom of the lake out to a device called a diffuser , which is also permanently placed on the bottom of the lake .
When powered up , these compressors push air into the airline , which bubbles out at the diffuser , thus aerating the lake .
The upward current created from the air , along with warmer water from the bottom of the lake , creates an opening in the ice .
This system is constructed of stainless steel , rubber , and industrial plastic , so it will last many years .
The maintenance is very easy and safe . The only part of the system that needs regular maintenance is the compressors , and they are located on shore so there is no need to go out on thin ice or into freezing water .
This system has a one time installation procedure , and lasts for the life of the system . The startup and shut-down of the system in future years is a simple matter of turning on , and turning off the power .
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