WHY BECOME A MEMBER
Being part of the Kangaroo Lake Association means being part of something bigger than ourselves. As stewards, not owners, of the lake, we share the responsibility to protect its beauty, health, and future.
Through membership, you stay informed with newsletters, educational resources, and meeting updates. You’ll also be invited to member-only events and have a voice in KLA decisions. Annual dues are minimal and help support lake protection efforts.
KLA members gain access to a password-protected section of our website with updates, contact info, meeting notes, volunteer opportunities, and more.
Our goal is 100% participation from residents who live on or near the lake. The more of us who join, the stronger our impact.
What We’ve Accomplished
KLA has worked closely with local, state, and environmental partners to protect Kangaroo Lake for decades. Key projects include:
- Protecting Sensitive Areas – Secured “no motor” zones and buoys to shield vulnerable habitats. A map of the No-Wake Zone is here.
- Invasive Species Control – Fought back against Eurasian Water Milfoil through grants, surveys, and treatment programs.
- Fish Habitat Improvements – Installed 50+ fish cribs and launched shoreline “fish sticks” programs. Click here for a map of the locations of the Cribs.
- Lake Management Plans – Partnered with ecological experts to guide long-term strategies. Here is the report.
- Bulrush Restoration – Planted and monitored native vegetation to preserve shoreline stability. A map of where the bulrushes were planted is available.
These efforts have only been possible through grants, expert guidance, and committed member support.
A Brief History
- 1965: KLA officially founded
- 1995: Revived to support land conservation with The Nature Conservancy
- 2004: Achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status
- 2014: Launched KLA website and expanded digital resources
- Ongoing: Advocacy, water testing, habitat restoration, and education continue
KLA also publishes a member directory, educational articles, and historical reflections on Kangaroo Lake’s legacy.
Want to learn more? Click here for full history and project details.
Why It Matters
Kangaroo Lake is shallow, just 6 feet on average, which makes it especially sensitive to change. Over time, plant diversity has declined, invasive species have taken hold, and water clarity is worsening. With more motorboat activity stirring up the lakebed, native habitats are struggling.
KLA’s strategic priorities focus on restoring balance, promoting sustainable use, and protecting aquatic life.
KLA Board of Directors
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Cindy Zellner-Ehlers (Chair), Jayne Berthelsen (V-P), Liz Hoffman (Treasurer), Karla Cooney (Secretary), Tom Schneider, Dr. David Hubbard, and Kriss Schorer.
MEMBERSHIP AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE: Nari Haig (Chair), Kriss Schorer (Co-Chair), Mike Schwarz, Nathan Schubel, Liz Hoffman and Gary Fairchild.
COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Jayne Berthelsen (Chair), Karla Cooney, Steve Cooney *, George Bezold, Laura Anschutz *
AQUATIC PLANT AND FISHERIES COMMITTEE: Tom Schneider (chair). Ed Ritger*, John Leach*
WATER QUALITY AND LAKESHORE PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION COMMITTEE: Bill Walkner (Chair), David Hubbard, Tom Anschutz, Dr. Kevin Weinkers (water testing volunteer)*, Dr. Don Wachwitz*
Click here to explore the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
* non Board member