Who are the Friends of Lake Mattoon?

The Friends of Lake Mattoon, a not for profit organization, was recently formed because of major concerns relating to the detiorating conditions of Lake Mattoon.

When the city propsed selling lake water in addition to the water that was used by Mattoon and Neoga, a number of people with varied interests in the lake became concerned about the possible further depletion of the already diminishing water supply. On further consideration it became apparent that the srop in water level was caused not only by the combination of drought, evaporation, and drinking water use, but also in large part by decreased lake volume die to silt runoff and shoreline erosion.

Moreover, other problems with the lake (for exampl, public facility conditions and grounds maintenance) because additonal focus of discussion, as these directly affect public accessibility, recreational use, wildlife habitat, and property values.

Thus, while out inital impetus for the formation of the organization was to investigate the effects of the city's proposal to sell lake water, since then our focus has expanded. We are trying to explore means to improve all areas of the lake and all lake facilities. Towards these ends, we have been working with the City of Mattoon officials, county, state, and enviromental agencies to establish programs and to apply for grant money where possible. Some of the problems mentioned above will require a long term solution, while others can beginas soon as help and money becomes available.

Our membership includes many area and nonarea people who use the lake for reliable dinking water, camping, fishing, sailing, skiing, boating, viewing wildlife or to who reside at the lake in the summer or full-time. People from Mattoon, Neoga, Effingham, Champaign, Chicago, and other areas as well have joined together to help improve and maintain this valuable resource.

The cleanup committee and volunteers have already become very active. Drive across the bridge and notice the work that has been done around the pavillion area and the area across the road. It looks like a different area and there's still lots to be accomplished. All labor and cleaning up has been accomplished by volunteer men and women. If you are interested in helping with this project, all one has to do is show up at the site at 9:oo a.m. on any Saturday morning when it is not raining.

More information about our organization, becoming a member, recreational oppurtunities, and upcoming events can be found by clicking on the menu links.