Hello, Team LMOA!

The LMOA staff is diligently working on storm recovery initiatives. While past efforts, like replenishing sand on the beaches, have taken some hits, the team is dedicated to ensuring the community is prepared for the peak season starting May 24. The packet for next week's Board meeting has been posted on the website today and includes all the necessary information to prepare for the meeting. Please continue reading to stay updated with the latest official news.

Storm Recovery: This storm was more severe than expected, resulting in unavoidable flooding; however, monitoring was in place as usual. It is important to know that LMOA has revised its previous protocol. We no longer lower the lake before a storm by manually opening the spillway, as this has been proven to be an unnecessary action that significantly damages the spillway. This was identified in 2021, when we repaired the damage and undertook extensive renovations. The spillway of the dam is currently operating as it should, draining the lake at a rate that maintains the dam’s integrity. At the time of the renovation and throughout the recent dam recertification process, LMOA received valuable guidance from engineers on best practices, learning that manually opening the spillway isn’t recommended. Please keep an eye on the flags at all beaches to know whether the Lake is open or closed - a red and white checkered flag indicates the Lake is closed.

Aqua Virginia Update: LMOA maintained communication with Aqua Virginia staff following the storm. Yesterday morning, we informed the community that Aqua Virginia identified two pump stations submerged underwater at Lakeview Circle and near Dover Court. In the evening, Aqua Virginia’s Communication Specialist, Heather Keefer, updated us, writing, “Aqua Virginia is committed to providing safe and reliable water and wastewater service to the Lake Monticello community. Our team has been working night and day in response to recent rain events in the area. Both lift stations are equipped with submersible pumps and continued to run throughout the event. This morning [May 15, 2025] our team inspected our collections system, including the two lift stations impacted from flood conditions. Upon inspection water has receded and no sanitary sewer discharge from the stations took place. Our team has been in contact with Virginia Department of Water Quality to inform them of Aqua’s response to this event.”

Swim Advisory: Following the discovery of the submerged pump stations, LMOA staff collected water samples as a precautionary measure. The lab results indicate that elevated E. coli levels were detected in the Lake on May 15, which is to be expected after flooding and heavy rain. According to EPA guidelines, the level warrants a swim advisory, not a lake closure. LMOA always recommends waiting at least 48 hours after a storm before swimming in Lake Monticello. Heavy rain washes chemicals, animal feces, and other contaminants from yards into the Lake.

Job Opportunities at the Lake: Enjoy a work-life balance at Lake Monticello! We are hiring a Full-Time or Part-Time Custodian. The ideal candidate is an independent worker who takes pride in their work and is available Wednesday through Sunday. We offer benefits, options, and/or unique perks as well as flexible working hours. Visit lmoa.org for more information! Also, the Shark Tank will be open on Saturday, May 24, 2025. If you’re interested in a part-time summer job and are 16 years or older, you can fill out an application at Bunker Bistro.

Water Safety Tip of the Week
Brought to you by the Volunteer Water Safety Team

Did you know...

The Water Safety Team has prepared Paddler's Info bags for those who kayak, canoe, and enjoy their paddleboard! This free bag is available at the Marina and contains a laminated Lake Safety Card, a whistle (required for all paddlers), a chem light, and other goodies. Stop by to get your complimentary bag during Marina hours 10:00-4:00 (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday).

IMPORTANT DATES

See Plan Your Month at lmoa.org under the NEWS tab for more information!
May 22 Regular Board Meeting; sign up to speak HERE
May 24 Pool Opens
May 26 LMOA Offices CLOSED for Memorial Day
May 27 Annual Meeting Voting Opens
June 28 Annual Meeting

USEFUL ARTICLES

Prepare for the Pool Season
Sign up for Everbridge
PPP Loan Summary
Help the Community Get Wildlife Habitat Certified!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Kind Regards,

Tom Schauder
LMOA General Manager