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LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport reported that official nomination papers for candidates running for seats on the Lakeport City Council will be available starting Monday, July 18.

There are two seats available, each for a four-year term.

Those seats currently are held by Stacey Mattina and Mireya Turner.

Interested candidates must be registered to vote and reside within the Lakeport City limits.

The deadline to file nomination papers for the council seats is 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11.

Each candidate must be nominated by not less than 20 nor more than 30 registered voters; therefore, it is recommended that you pick up your nomination papers well in advance of the deadline for filing to allow time to gather signatures.

If you are interested in running for Lakeport City Council, please contact City Clerk Kelly Buendia at 707-263-5615, Extension 101, or Deputy City Clerk Hilary Britton, Deputy City Clerk at 707-263-5615, Extension 102, for further information and to set up an appointment to pick up and review the nomination packet.

Candidates are asked to call ahead for an appointment with the clerk’s office during the nomination period. Regular business hours at City Hall are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lakeport Planning Commission will discuss projects and outdoor dining parklet requirements when it meets this week.

The commission will meet at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, in the council chambers at Lakeport City Hall, 225 Park St.

The council chambers will be open to the public for the meeting. Masks are highly encouraged where 6-foot distancing cannot be maintained. For those who are not vaccinated, facial coverings are required.

The agenda is available here.

To speak on an agenda item, access the meeting remotely here; the meeting ID is 986 6166 5155. To join by phone, dial 1-669-900-9128.

Comments can be submitted by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To give the city clerk adequate time to print out comments for consideration at the meeting, please submit written comments before 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 13.

Please indicate in the email subject line "for public comment" and list the item number of the agenda item that is the topic of the comment. Comments that are read to the council will be subject to the three minute time limitation (approximately 350 words). Written comments that are only to be provided to the council and not read at the meeting will be distributed to the council before the meeting.

On Wednesday, the commission will consider Jan Cody’s application for a fence variance to permit an existing 4-foot-high wooden fence constructed within the front yard encroachment setback located at 450 Sixth St.

Commissioners also will discuss Lake County Tribal Health’s application for an architectural and design review and categorical exemption to construct a new patio, sidewalk and shade structure to be located at 925 Bevins St.

In other business, the commission will hold a study session regarding outdoor dining parklets and community feedback in regard to the design standards.

They also will consider a request to amend the Lakeport Municipal Code to allow signs to be located specifically and seen from Highway 29 for major centers as well as clarify the maximum height requirements for signage.

The commission’s next meeting is set for Wednesday, Aug. 10.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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MIDDLETOWN, Calif. — The Middletown Area Town Hall will get project updates and review its bylaws when it meets later this week.

MATH will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14, in the Middletown Community Meeting Room/Library at 21256 Washington St, Middletown. The meeting is open to the public.

To join the meeting via Zoom click on this link; the meeting ID is 659 964 1209. Call in at 669-900-6833.

At 7:05 p.m., the group will hear a presentation on the Rabbit Hill water tanks beautification project.

Action items scheduled for 7:30 p.m. include bylaws review, correspondence, and chair and board reports or comments.

If available, District 1 Supervisor Moke Simon will give a report at 8 p.m.

MATH is next set to meet on Aug. 11.

The MATH Board includes Chair Monica Rosenthal, Vice Chair Ken Gonzalez, Secretary Todd Fiora, Rosemary Córdova and Bill Waite.

MATH — established by resolution of the Lake County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 12, 2006 — is a municipal advisory council serving the residents of Anderson Springs, Cobb, Coyote Valley (including Hidden Valley Lake), Long Valley and Middletown.

For more information email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport reported that it has received a large amount of response from community members on a survey about outdoor dining and design options.

Outdoor dining areas, or “parklets,” were introduced in the downtown area particularly in response to COVID-19.

The city is now working on planning rules for the areas. The Lakeport City Council asked the Planning Commission to take the lead on that work.

As part of that process, the city requested input from the community on outdoor dining options.

An overwhelming 638 individuals weighed in with 70.5% being in favor of sidewalk and on-street dining; 20.7% in favor of sidewalk, but not street dining; and 8.8% being opposed.

The survey additionally asked for opinions on some designs, as well as providing opportunity for comments.

To review the complete survey analytics, click here.

Community Development Director Jenni Byers said the insight of community members is invaluable, and called the participation for the survey “incredible.”

The Lakeport Planning Commission will be reviewing and providing direction to staff on Wednesday, July 13, at 5:30 p.m. in person at City Hall, 225 Park Street, Lakeport.

The meeting can be accessed remotely from Zoom. The meeting ID is 986 6166 5155.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Lake County Behavioral Health Services recognizes July as Black, Indigenous and People of Color, or BIPOC, Mental Health Awareness Month.

BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month was formally recognized in 2008 to bring awareness to the struggles underrepresented groups face surrounding mental illness.

BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities face unique challenges and stressors that increase vulnerability to mental health conditions.

Increasing awareness of issues people of color and those in marginalized communities manage helps and encourages those experiencing mental health concerns to get the help they need to thrive.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that each year, nearly one in five Americans experience some form of mental illness.

Anyone can experience challenges related to mental illness.

Health officials report that people in BIPOC communities are typically less likely to have access to mental health services, less likely to seek help, and more likely to end services early if receiving treatment.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that these barriers are attributed to many factors, such as systemic racism and discrimination, negative cultural beliefs around mental illness and lack of health insurance.

“The effect of racial trauma on mental health is a reality, and we must not ignore it,” said Todd Metcalf, director of Lake County Behavioral Health Services.

“Racism is a public and behavioral health crisis,” said Metcalf. “Our department stands culturally competent and ready to assist BIPOC individuals in need of our programs and services.”

Lake County Behavioral Health Services suggests to improve mental health outcomes for community members:

• Encourage equality between mental and physical illness.

• Show compassion for those experiencing mental illness.

• Talk openly about mental health and discuss it no differently than physical health.

• Educate yourself and others by responding to negative comments or misperceptions by sharing experiences and facts.

For more information, please contact Lake County Behavioral Health Services at 707-994-7090 or 707-274-9101 or visit Mental Health America’s website.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Lake County Animal Care and Control has new felines ready to be adopted this week.

Call Lake County Animal Care and Control at 707-263-0278 or visit the shelter online at http://www.co.lake.ca.us/Government/Directory/Animal_Care_And_Control.htm for information on visiting or adopting.

The following cats at the shelter have been cleared for adoption.

This female domestic short hair kitten is in kennel No. 7, ID No. LCAC-A-3624. Photo courtesy of Lake County Animal Care and Control.

Female domestic short hair kitten

This female domestic short hair kitten has an all-gray coat.

She is in kennel No. 7, ID No. LCAC-A-3624.

This 3-year-old male domestic medium hair cat is in cat room kennel No. 63, ID No. LCAC-A-3633. Photo courtesy of Lake County Animal Care and Control.

Male domestic medium hair cat

This 3-year-old male domestic medium hair cat has a gray coat with white markings.

He is in cat room kennel No. 63, ID No. LCAC-A-3633.

This female domestic shorthair kitten is in kennel No. 84a, ID No. LCAC-A-3614. Photo courtesy of Lake County Animal Care and Control.

Domestic shorthair kitten

This female domestic shorthair kitten has an all-black coat.

She is in cat room kennel No. 84a, ID No. LCAC-A-3614.

This female domestic shorthair kitten is in kennel No. 84b, ID No. LCAC-A-3615. Photo courtesy of Lake County Animal Care and Control.

Domestic shorthair kitten

This female domestic shorthair kitten has an all-black coat.

She is in cat room kennel No. 84b, ID No. LCAC-A-3615.

This male domestic shorthair kitten is in cat room kennel No. 84c, ID No. LCAC-A-3616. Photo courtesy of Lake County Animal Care and Control.

Domestic shorthair kitten

This male domestic shorthair kitten has an all-black coat.

He is in cat room kennel No. 84c, ID No. LCAC-A-3616.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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Taking part in a Shakespeare at the Lake rehearsal are, from left to right, Ed Borg, Nathan Zavala, Barbara Clark, Jeff Schmidt, Carrie Ann Eve, Daniel Blecman, Brandon Blecman, Kaleb Sanderson, Benjamin Miranda and Allen Fletcher. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Rehearsals are in full swing for the seventh annual Shakespeare at the Lake.

After two years of virtual shows, cast and crew alike are beyond thrilled to be working on a project that will culminate in front of a live audience.

Under the determined and impassioned direction of John Tomlinson, Shakespeare at the Lake went online for 2020 and 2021 since live performances were not an option.

This year brings the show not only off the screen and onto the stage, but also out of this world in a futuristic intergalactic production of “Twelfth Night.”

Inspired in part by his own affinity for science fiction as well as the private space expeditions that have hit the news recently, Tomlinson thought an outer space setting seemed the perfect way to bring this production to life for the audience. He wanted to go big after two years behind a screen, and you can’t get much bigger than outer space.

Although the production has not been immune to COVID (some cast members have been quarantined and missed several rehearsals), everyone involved is continuing full force with the energy and enthusiasm you might expect from thespians that haven’t done a show in two years.

Tomlinson emphasized that they would get through this as a team.

“We will survive on stage, no matter what happens,” he assured his cast. “Our resilience has definitely been tested, not only by COVID, but also by fires and power outages prior to that. All of these challenges have prepared us and taught us to stay flexible, positive and productive. We were lucky enough to stay in a creative space with two years of online shows, but the real magic of theater is the actual space and movement that happens on a stage, and I am so glad to be back there.”

Cast members are also overjoyed to be performing again, in person.

“Every show is a community,” explained Ed Borg, who has been in all seven Shakespeare at the Lake productions. “We still had a community online, but it wasn’t the same.”

Borg returns to audition year after year because it is a healthy stress reliever from his high profile day job as senior deputy district attorney for Lake County.

“It’s good to get out of that world and be involved in a project with people who are completely removed from that part of my life,” he said. “Every year it’s a different but equally wonderful community of people. There’s ‘old’ people and there’s ‘new’ people, and then the next year, the ‘new’ people become the ‘old’ people.”

With seven years of Shakespeare at the Lake under his belt, Borg certainly qualifies as the “oldest” of the bunch. “It’s also so much fun working with John [Tomlinson]. He teaches me things about myself that I didn’t know. When we are doing in-depth character work, I discover things that I didn’t know were there.

“As actors, one of the biggest questions we must ask is ‘What’s my motivation?’ This has actually helped me in all aspects of my life, including my job. I find myself asking ‘What is their motivation?’ when I’m dealing with clients or opposing counsel. Participating in theater has helped shape me into a better attorney, and a better person. And, it’s a lot of fun, too,” Borg said.

“Helping people discover who they are is one of the ultimate goals of a director,” explained Tomlinson. “I am humbled to be a part of that process with the actors. Theater is about so much more than just putting on a play for an audience. It’s about the actors connecting with the script, each other, and themselves.”

A play will be put on for an audience, five times, and the entire community is invited to attend free of charge.

Performances are located at Library Park in Lakeport on July 30 and 31. On Aug. 5 to 7, performances will be held at Austin Park in Clearlake. All shows begin at 7 p.m.

Shakespeare at the Lake is brought to you by Mendocino College and the Lake County Theatre Company, with generous support from the Lake County Friends of Mendocino College and the Cities of Lakeport and Clearlake.

Laura Barnes is the producer for Shakespeare at the Lake.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to discuss how to fill an impending board vacancy, hear a presentation on a new state program to help those with mental illness and housing needs, and consider commenting on a tribe’s proposal to put hundreds of acres into trust within the boundaries of the Middle Creek Restoration Project.

The‌ ‌board will meet beginning ‌at‌ ‌9‌ ‌a.m. ‌Tuesday, July 12, in the board chambers on the first floor of the Lake County Courthouse, 255 N. Forbes St., Lakeport.

The‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌can‌ ‌be‌ ‌watched‌ ‌live‌ ‌on‌ ‌Channel‌ ‌8, ‌online‌ ‌at‌ ‌https://countyoflake.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx‌‌ and‌ ‌on‌ ‌the‌ ‌county’s‌ ‌Facebook‌ ‌page. ‌Accompanying‌ ‌board‌ ‌documents, ‌the‌ ‌agenda‌ ‌and‌ ‌archived‌ ‌board‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌videos‌ ‌also‌ ‌are‌ ‌available‌ ‌at‌ ‌that‌ ‌link. ‌ ‌

To‌ ‌participate‌ ‌in‌ ‌real-time, ‌join‌ ‌the‌ ‌Zoom‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌by‌ ‌clicking‌ ‌this‌ ‌link‌. ‌ ‌

The‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌ID‌ ‌is‌ 941 6378 0569, ‌pass code 539781.‌ ‌The meeting also can be accessed via one tap mobile at +16699006833,,94163780569#,,,,*539781#.

All interested members of the public that do not have internet access or a Mediacom cable subscription are encouraged to call 669-900-6833, and enter the Zoom meeting ID and pass code information above.

To‌ ‌submit‌ ‌a‌ ‌written‌ ‌comment‌ ‌on‌ ‌any‌ ‌agenda‌ ‌item‌ ‌visit‌ ‌https://countyoflake.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx and‌ ‌click‌ ‌on‌ ‌the‌ ‌eComment‌ ‌feature‌ ‌linked‌ ‌to‌ ‌
the‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌date. ‌If‌ ‌a‌ ‌comment‌ ‌is‌ ‌submitted‌ ‌after‌ ‌the‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌begins, ‌‌it‌ ‌may‌ ‌not‌ ‌be‌ ‌read‌ ‌during‌ ‌the‌ ‌meeting‌ ‌but‌ ‌will‌ ‌become‌ ‌a‌ ‌part‌ ‌of‌ ‌the‌ ‌record.

In an untimed discussion, the board will finally take up a discussion that has been put off for months — consideration of the next steps to fill the District 4 supervisorial seat. Supervisor Tina Scott announced in April that she was stepping down as of July 31.

The board will decide on a resolution setting an election for District 4 supervisor as part of the Nov. 8, 2022, Statewide General Election.

Also on Tuesday, at 9:10 a.m. the board will receive a presentation on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment, or CARE, Court.

Newsom’s office said CARE Court would provide Californians suffering with untreated schizophrenia spectrum or other psychotic disorders with community-based treatment, services and housing.

In another untimed item, the board will consider a response to the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ invitation to provide comment on the Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians non-gaming land acquisition application.

The tribe wants to place into trust 14 parcels totaling 845 acres near its casino near Nice.

County documents outline officials’ concerns about the “potential unintended consequences” on the Middle Creek Flood Damage and Ecosystem Restoration Project, as the parcels are within the project boundaries and the United States Army Corps of Engineers has indicated there is some uncertainty as to how this restoration project will move forward when parcels are taken into trust.

The full agenda follows.

CONSENT AGENDA

5.1: Approve continuation of proclamation of the existence of a local emergency due to pervasive tree mortality.

5.2: Approve agreement between the county of Lake and Visit Lake County California for the provision of administrative services in the amount of $78,000 from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and authorize the Chair to sign.

5.3: Appoint alternate Public Health Officer Charles E. Evans, M.D. and ratify physician consultation services contract.

5.4: Adopt resolution approving an agreement with the state of California, Department of Food and Agriculture for State Organic Program cooperative agreement # 22-0383-000-SA in the amount of $4,565 for period July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023.

5.5: Adopt resolution approving agreement with California Department of Food Agriculture for Certified Farmers Market Program Investigation and Enforcement Agreement # 22-0308-000-SA in the amount of $1,425 for the period of July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023.

5.6: Ratify Lake County Audit Committee bylaw changes.

5.7: Approve amendment No. 1 between county of Lake and Resource Development Associates for consultation and support in the Community Program planning process and the evaluation of the Whole Person Care Grant Project for a new contract maximum of $268,060.00 for fiscal years 2021-22 and 2022-23 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.8: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Mother-Wise Program (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Initiative) for fiscal year 2022-23 in the amount of $125,000 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.9: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Sunrise Special Services Foundation for supportive employment and supportive education program services for fiscal years 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24, and 2024-25 in the amount of $257,106.50 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.10: Approve memorandum of understanding between Lake County Behavioral Health Services and Lake County Health Services Department, Public Health Division, for the Safe Rx Coalition in the amount of $40,000 for fiscal year 2022-23 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.11: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Redwood Community Services Inc. for the Lake County Wrap Program, Foster Care Program, and Intensive Services Foster Care Program for specialty mental health services for fiscal years 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 in the amount of $1,500,000 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.12: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Crisis Support Services of Alameda County for after hours crisis support services in the amount of $84,000 for fiscal year 2022-23 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.13: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Davis Guest Home for adult residential support services and specialty mental health services for fiscal years 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 for $630,000 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.14: Approve agreement between county of Lake and Redwood Community Services Inc. for the MHSA Lake County Family Stabilization Program in the amount of $221,000 for fiscal year 2022-23 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.15: Approve Amendment No. 1 to the agreement between the county of Lake and New Life Health Authority to increase the total amount payable under the agreement to $850,000 for fiscal year 2021-22 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.16: Approve agreement between the county of Lake and Clover Valley Guest Home for adult residential support services and specialty mental health services in the amount of $270,000 for fiscal years 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.17: Approve Board of Supervisors minutes June 14, 2022, and June 21, 2022.

5.18: Approve continuation of resolution authorizing teleconferenced meetings during a state of emergency to continue to exist.

5.19: (a) Adopt “Resolution Accepting Official Canvass of the Statewide Direct Primary Election held on June 7, 2022”; and (b) accept the certification of county elections official of the official canvass of the election results with the official statement of votes prepared by the Registrar of Voters Office.

5.20: Approve fourth amendment to the agreement between county of Lake and Management Connections for temporary staffing support services to extend the agreement term and authorize the board chair to sign the amendment.

5.21: Approve annual renewal of veterans subvention certificate of compliance and Medi-Cal Cost Avoidance Program certificate of compliance and authorize the board chair to sign certificates.

5.22: Approve amendment three to the agreement with Marsh EMS Consulting to provide professional services for Med Health Preparedness Response EMS, not to exceed $105,000 and authorize the chair to sign.

5.23: Approve Amendment No. 1 to the agreement between county of Lake Health Services Department and Lake County Office of Education to coordinate COVID-19 vaccination clinics to eligible school aged children, and authorize the board chair to sign.

5.24: Approve continuation of a local health emergency by the Lake County Health officer for the Cache Fire.

5.25: Approve continuation of a local health emergency related to the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) as proclaimed by the Lake County Public Health officer.

5.26: Approve continuation of a local health emergency and order prohibiting the endangerment of the community through the unsafe removal, transport, and disposal of fire debris for the LNU Complex wildfire.

5.27: Approve continuation of a local emergency in lake county in response to the LNU Lightning Complex wildfire event.

5.28: Approve continuation of a local emergency due to COVID-19.

5.29: Approve continuation of an emergency declaration for drought conditions.

5.30: Approve continuation of a local emergency by the Lake County Sheriff/OES director for the Cache fire.

5.31: Adopt resolution temporarily prohibiting parking and authorizing removal of vehicles.

5.32: Appoint William Vance Ricks as county surveyor.

5.33: Approve use of PG&E settlement funds for various road projects and authorize the Public Works Department to include appropriations in the fiscal year 2021-22 budget.

5.34: Adopt resolution establishing county-maintained mileage for 2021.

TIMED ITEMS

6.3, 9:10 a.m.: Presentation on California's Proposed CARE (Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment) Court.

6.4, 9:30 a.m.: Public hearing before the Board of Supervisors regarding a notice of nuisance and order to abate for 5145 W State Hwy 20, Upper Lake, CA (Blue Lakes).

6.5, 10:30 a.m.: Public hearing, sitting concurrently as Clearlake Keys CSA#1, #2, #6, #13, #20, #21-Board of Supervisors, Kelseyville County Waterworks District #3 and Lake County Sanitation District Board of Directors, consideration of (a) resolution confirming collections of annual lighting fees; (b) resolution confirming collections of delinquent water fees; (c) resolution confirming collections of delinquent water and sewer fees; (d) resolution of delinquent sewer fees for Lake County Sanitation District.

UNTIMED ITEMS

7.2: Consideration of a resolution adopting a display of flags policy.

7.3: Consideration of response to the Bureau of Indian Affairs invitation to provide comment on the Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians land acquisition application.

7.4: Consideration of appointments to the Commercial Cannabis Ordinance Task Force.

7.5: (a) Discussion of next steps to fill the role of District 4 supervisor, to be Vacated by Tina Scott July 31, 2022; (b) consideration of a resolution setting an election for District 4 supervisor as part of the November 8, 2022 Statewide General Election.

7.6: Consideration of travel reimbursement claim for expenditures outside the scope of the travel policy for Health Services Director Jonathan Portney, in the amount of $723.90 for the EMSAAC Conference held in San Diego and authorize the auditor-controller to process payment.

7.7: Consideration of Amendment No. 1 to the agreement between the county of Lake and SCS Engineers for engineering design services for the Eastlake Landfill Expansion Project.

CLOSED SESSION

8.1: Conference with legal counsel: Existing litigation pursuant to Gov. Code section 54956.9(d)(1) – City of Clearlake v. County of Lake, et al.

8.2: Public employee evaluation: Community Development Director Mary Darby.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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Natural vegetation along shorelines prevents erosion while improving water quality and supporting aquatic, amphibian, and terrestrial wildlife populations. Photo by Angela De Palma-Dow.


Dear Lady of the Lake,

Due to the drought our shoreline has increased into the lake where the water level once was. We want to do some work on the plants and weeds that have grown where the water has receded. What do we need to be aware of when working on our shoreline?

-Stanley Family & their Shoreline

Dear Stanley family,

Thanks for this question! This is a great topic to discuss right now in my column. The good news is that I have a great informational video I will provide on this topic, which is provided below my column today.

Some other good news for you is that shorelines are oh so very special, and it seems like you have gathered that sentiment by reaching out and asking about what needs to be considered when working on your shoreline.

Shorelines are the backbone of any lake, pond, stream, or coastal zone. They provide the structure around the water and act as a zone of transition between the land and the water. Shorelines are very unique in that they are not always dry or aquatic, but some variable combination of the two at any time.

This variability applies to the flora and fauna that live and thrive in shoreline zones. We discussed some of this in my “Wondering about Wetlands” column from Feb. 3, 2022.

Shorelines, much like wetlands, are vulnerable to events that can have negative impacts for both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Flooding can bring in water, but also excess nutrients, sediments, contaminants and even sometimes invasive species. Wave energy and flood pulses can uproot plants and flush out needed nutrients or smaller, sensitive organisms, seeds, and propagules.

The variability of shorelines makes it difficult for most organisms to live among a shoreline, or a wetland. The constant change in conditions, from inundation and flooding, to prolonged dry periods, can pose challenges and unique environments to organisms. However, like the case on Clear Lake, some plants and animals have adapted to not just survive, but thrive in shoreline environments.

This adaptability makes these organisms very special so that when shoreline habitat declines, or is reduced, they have trouble surviving in other ecosystem types like open water or terrestrial zones.

Examples of plants that have adapted to shoreline life, like Tules, known as Hard Stem Bulrush (Schoenoplectus acutus), native aquatic smart weed (Polygonum amphibium) and a variety of native willows (Salix sp.), create a special shoreline habitat around Clear Lake, and many of the connecting streams and tributaries.

Like wetlands, shorelines provide habitat and breeding grounds for a wide variety of wildlife, from fish, to birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Shorelines provide vital food sources, such as plants, seeds, algae, zooplankton and invertebrates — not just within the shoreline zone itself, but these resources “leak” out into the adjacent open water, wetlands, connecting streams, and into the terrestrial zone.

Some valuable native species are declining as a direct result of shoreline degradation and loss. For example, one species is the Clear Lake Hitch, an endemic minnow species found only in Clear Lake. Hitch are rather small fish, and as juveniles, after they swim down from the streams, they live their first year of life within the shallow, shoreline zone. The shoreline zone provides safe refuge from large predatory game fish, cool water habitat vegetated with tules, and plentiful food provided by plants, insects, and green algae. You can learn more about the Hitch in my previous column from January 16, 2021, “How about the Hitch.”

Hitch numbers are declining, significantly, in the Clear Lake ecosystem. Based on conversations with biologists from California Department of Fish and Wildlife and United States Geological Survey, lack of available and suitable habitat and food sources in the shorelines and wetlands around Clear Lake, combined with decreased stream flows, are the most likely significant contributors.

Declining shoreline factors

The introduction of invasive species, shoreline development, boat wake activity, and removal of vegetative shorelines have taken a significant negative toll on Clear Lake. A large contributor to the declining water quality in Clear Lake since the last quarter of the 1900’s is contributed to the reduction in wetland shorelines around the lake, heavy land moving and excavation (i.e. mining, levee development, wetland removal, and land conversion), and shoreline development.

When I refer to shoreline development, I am specifically acknowledging the removal of native, beneficial wetland shoreline vegetation and ecosystems with the replacement of fill (i.e. sand and dirt) and shoreline hardening. Shoreline hardening can include large rocks called rip rap or hardened vertical walls, like sea walls, or a combination of both. Usually these constructed materials are installed to protect the private or commercial property from erosion from wave action of boat waves.

Any of us who have been out or around the lake on a windy day know that sometimes wave action is strong on Clear Lake. Especially if a home or property is west or north west facing; the most common direction for wind events to occur on the lake. Clear Lake is also huge, meaning that some parts of the lake, even during a minimally breezy day, are constantly being bombarded by large, powerful waves that would destroy beaches and any property foundations without the structural integrity provided by shoreline hardening.

However, hardened shorelines don’t last forever, especially under fluctuating water levels like floods and droughts. Hardened shorelines also don’t provide any ecological benefit to the ecosystem or lake water quality. In fact, once a sea wall starts to degrade, it leaches sediments, contributes to lakebed scour, and actually causes damage to the shoreline habitat and contributes to poor water quality.

Not only do hardened shorelines contribute to poor water quality, but they basically eliminate the ability for native wildlife to interact with the shoreline or access the terrestrial zone. Species like turtles, muskrats, otters, shoreline nesting birds and waterfowl, that rely on terrestrial or shoreline habitats for food, shelter, or reproduction, are unable to use shoreline spaces that have been hardened.

Before people lived along the shoreline of the lake, there were large, wide, buffer areas of wetlands and shorelines. Of course, some of these areas are naturally protected by rockbed, but many areas around the lake, even when experiencing heavy wave action, were protected by a large “natural” shoreline.

Natural shorelines protect terrestrial property from waves and erosion, prevent sediment scour, therefore improving water quality by limiting the sediments and nutrients that are pushed, or scoured, back into the lake. Recreating natural shorelines is not easy, but the goal of natural shoreline restoration is to protect the property from damaging waves and erosion while improving the ecological features and biotic integrity of the shoreline. While different methods exist to recreate, or enhance, natural shorelines, the natural shoreline can act as a living buffer that changes throughout the seasons and years, but remains resilient in all water levels and conditions.

Did you know that according to the US EPA National Lakes Assessment, about 36% of lakes nationwide have been graded as having “poor” lakeshore habitat. Lakes with poor surrounding vegetation are about three times more likely to also have poor biological conditions, or poor water quality and compromised biodiversity. (National Lakes Assessment 2012)

What can I do during a drought to improve my shoreline?

This is a great question that is getting asked by many folks. This question really depends on the perspective you have for the term “shoreline improvement”. Let’s remember that Clear Lake is a very old, natural lake. Clear Lake, and her shorelines, are not conducive to a traditional beachy, resort, palm-tree paradise.

The lake and shoreline contains great biomasses of natural vegetation, high fish-food production (lots of green algae), and warm, shallow nutrient-rich waters. Clear Lake will never be like Lake Tahoe or large reservoirs - and she never was similar to those ecosystems as they are deep, cold, lack nutrients, and are limited in the wildlife they can and do support.

Therefore, the best thing you can do for your shoreline or to best encourage it to be a natural shoreline, is to let it be. Let native tules and willows grow and expand on your shoreline. If it’s in front of a current sea wall, that vegetation will actually help protect your sea wall from scour and improve the integrity of that structure, while providing benefits to water quality and wildlife. They will help “soften” your hardened shoreline.

Sometimes woodier or older willows or other tree or shrub species can block docks, boat access, or lake access. On some properties it's clear that the vegetation will cause navigation hazards when the water level returns. The folks at County of Lake Water Resources understand this concern and have adapted a streamlined permit for providing consultation and guidance on how to manage these type of situations to prevent future navigation hazards and difficult, submerged tree removal during higher water levels.

Low water levels are allowing terrestrial weeds and aggressive invasive wetland or aquatic species to fill in dry areas once covered in water. These areas can look very messy, weedy and some woodier species will eventually become navigation hazards when the water levels return to normal.

Low water levels are allowing terrestrial weeds and aggressive invasive wetland or aquatic species to fill in dry areas once covered in water. These areas can look very messy, weedy and some woodier species will eventually become navigation hazards when the water levels return to normal. Photo by Angela De Palma-Dow.


If you think you have vegetation growing along your now-dry and expanded shoreline area, and you think it may cause a navigation hazard when the lake water levels return, you can contact the County Water Resources Department at (707)263-2344 and learn about potential solutions. Photos of the site are encouraged to speed up the process and those can be sent directly through email, along with the address and description, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Shoreline vegetation provides habitat to birds and other species, so part of being a responsible lake shore property owner is not cutting or trimming any willows or tules that are providing nesting habitat, in fact this is protected by both County Ordinance Ch. 23 and State California Department of Fish and Wildlife Code.

Tules will never be allowed to be removed by the roots, as they are valuable species to Clear Lake and since they don’t become woody, they won’t pose a navigation hazard when the waters return. The benefits of tules in Clear Lake far surpass any mild inconveniences they pose to a water user or property owner.

Sometimes the vegetation within your drought-expanded dry shoreline is just terrestrial weeds that have come in and taken advantage of the now open soil and space. In that case, these plants can be easily removed by weed whacking, push mowing, or cutting. However, consultation with the Water Resource department is needed, as some “weedy” plants are really adaptable and aggressive aquatic species, like the invasive Creeping Water Primrose, that seem to love the drought conditions as much as the normal lake water level.

Lastly, because shoreline areas are part of the Clear Lake Lakebed zone, no chemicals or herbicides can be applied to any weeds unless an Aquatic Plant Management herbicide permit is granted from the County and the applicator is Licensed through the CA Department of Pesticide Regulation and approved by the county Agriculture Department.

In addition, nothing can be sprayed on the lakebed, including vinegar, salt water, and any over the counter hardware store herbicides such as Round-Up, Monterey or Bayer products. This might be surprising and frustrating for some who live on the lake, have rental properties or resorts, but remember that Clear Lake provides drinking water for the majority of the County, and it’s unknown the fate or impact of chemicals that are applied to the landscape (dry and wet) unless they are regulated closely by state and local agencies and deemed safe in content and process of application.

Current state of Clear Lake shorelines and management
So far we have discussed what benefit shorelines provide to the lake ecosystem and how natural shorelines can actually benefit lakeshore properties, wildlife, and water quality. I have also touched on a small part of shoreline management, mostly for vegetation management during drought conditions.

There is some remaining information regarding the current state of shorelines on Clear Lake and the way they are being managed by local and state agencies. These items are included in an informational video provided below.

This video is part of the County of Lake Water Resources Department Water Quality Wednesdays Public Learning Forum Webinar Series. This video discussed results of a current project to inventory and quantify the shorelines around the lake, and also discusses the management programs that are currently in progress, and planned, to improve shorelines and water quality, on Clear Lake.





Caption: WQ Wednesday July 6, 2022 6pm Shoreline Science and Management
Evaluation and feedback survey link here: https://forms.gle/xKWmLYgFV2mbJc3U8

Sincerely,

Lady of the Lake

Angela De Palma-Dow is a limnologist (limnology = study of fresh inland waters) who lives and works in Lake County. Born in Northern California, she has a Master of Science from Michigan State University. She is a Certified Lake Manager from the North American Lake Management Society, or NALMS, and she is the current president/chair of the California chapter of the Society for Freshwater Science. She can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Sentencing of a Northshore man convicted of several counts of sexual assault has been rescheduled due to his motion for a new trial.

Antonio Thomas Magalhaes, 36, of Nice, appeared before Judge Andrew Blum in Lake County Superior Court on Monday afternoon.

Following just one hour of deliberation, a jury convicted Magalhaes in April of seven separate crimes: assault with intent to commit sodomy while committing a first degree burglary; sodomy by force; forcible rape; first degree burglary; rape of an intoxicated person; rape of an unconscious person; and domestic violence involving corporal injury.

Authorities said Magalhaes had two victims, one of whom he repeatedly assaulted from Sept. 1, 2018, through March 19, 2019, breaking into her home and raping her. In December 2019, he raped a second victim while she was unconscious.

He’s facing a maximum period of 38 years to life in prison.

During Monday’s hearing, it was reported that Magalhaes’ attorney filed a motion for a new trial on July 5.

Judge Blum noted that the court already had begun to review that motion and to look at the trial transcripts.

Deputy District Attorney Rich Watson asked for time to respond.

“You’re entitled to that,” said Blum.

Watson asked for 30 days, which Blum granted.

Blum said there was good cause to continue the hearing to Monday, Aug. 15, at 1:30 p.m. in his department.

At that time, the court will hold a hearing on the motion for a new trial and, if that’s not granted, go forward with the sentencing.

Magalhaes remains in the Lake County Jail, where he has been since his arrest in August 2020.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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LAKEPORT, Calif. — The Lakeport Economic Development Advisory Committee will get updates on community programs and partnerships when it meets this week.

The committee, or LEDAC, will meet via Zoom from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 13.

The meeting is open to the public.

The meeting will be held via Zoom: Meeting ID, 847 7588 3505; pass code, 77470. Dial by your location, 669-900-6833.

Chair Wilda Shock said the Wednesday meeting will include several presentations.

Amanda Xu, Ph.D., dean of centers at Mendocino College, will discuss the dual enrollment program at Mendocino College, which includes three high schools in Lake County.

Jamey Gill, executive director of the Blue Zones Project Lake County, will discuss the project, which is following its successful kickoff with activities countywide.

The group also will discuss workforce partnerships in Lake County and services for job seekers and employers and plan for business walks to resume in the fall.

Shock said work on the next economic development strategic plan also is continuing with the LEDAC subcommittees.

There also will be updates on city projects and activities, member reports and citizen input.

The group’s next meeting is on Sept. 14.

LEDAC advocates for a strong and positive Lakeport business community and acts as a conduit between the city and the community for communicating the goals, activities and progress of Lakeport’s economic and business programs.

Members are Chair Wilda Shock, Vice Chair Denise Combs and Secretary JoAnn Saccato, along with Bonnie Darling, Candy De Los Santos, Bill Eaton, Monica Flores, Pam Harpster, Scott Knight, Alicia Russell, Laura Sammel and Marie Schrader. City staff who are members include City Manager Kevin Ingram and Community Development Director Jenni Byers.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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Quilter Suzanne Lee finishing a project. Time to get those UFO’s finished! Courtesy photo.

LAKEPORT, Calif. — The Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild is now accepting entries for the Falling Leaves Quilt Show.

If you would like to enter your quilt, an entry form must be submitted by Aug. 13. There is no limit on the number of quilts you may enter, but each quilt must have its own entry form.

The judges will award ribbons in many categories, but you can also enter your quilt non-judged.

Entry forms can be downloaded from the guild’s website, or call or email Quilt Show Chair Betty Fessler at 707-771-0641 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Falling Leaves Quilt Show will take place at the Lake County Fairgrounds at 401 Martin St. Lakeport.

Show hours are Saturday, Oct.1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about the Falling Leaves Quilt Show, contact Betty Fessler at 707-771-0641 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild website at www.LLQG.org.

Suzanne Lee is vice president of the Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild.

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