"Keyholing" and "Anti-Funneling"

On behalf of its members and in keeping with the association's purpose and mission, the Lake of the Woods Improvement Association is currently investigating the revision and enactment of specific "Keyholing" and "Anti-Funneling" ordinances within Hamilton and Decatur Townships to address current and potential future issues and concerns.  This would serve some of the following purposes: 

• Address complaints of increased dockage and boats and their resulting adverse impacts at private and public access sites, and recognizing fairness in the resolve of current ongoing practices around the lake
• Facilitate the protection of the health, safety and welfare of persons and property.  Unregulated funnel development creates land use conflicts, unsafe and inadequate access, lake and shoreland congestion, multi-use conflicts, derogation of the environment and a potential decrease in property values.
• Address potential overcrowding impacts related to the "carrying capacity" of the lake, especially at peak use times.
• Create up to date ordinances that are consistent with Michigan Supreme Court rulings, DEQ regulations and State law.
• Create ordinances that are consistent across Hamilton and Decatur Townships where conflicts currently exist while mitigating issues of fairness related to current practices.

During the process and prior to the passage of any ordinance, there will be opportunity for welcomed public input.  In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns please notify the Lake Association's Riparian Committee members Dan Buenz or Dominic Panico. Their e-mail addresses are listed on the Association web-site.   ​
Your LOW Association board