“The marina we feel is the absolute key element to this plan and that’s why we need your help,” said Dick Dreher.

While both DNR Area Hydrologist Julie Aadland in Fergus Falls and Glenwood Area Fisheries Manager Dean Beck, said they have some initial concerns with the marina expansion, they also contended there were some positives about what the proposed project could bring to the Lake Minnewaska Area.

“It all depends on how the environmental review turns out,” said Aadland. She said it is important the work done in the marina will not pose a potential to harm Lake Minnewaska, or adversely affect the surrounding area. The study will likely be one of the first steps in determining whether a marina expansion in Starbuck is possible.

Beck said there were a number of the aspects of the revitalization plan that would trigger an environmental assessment, such as moving the campground, airport, mixed use commercial buildings, a golf course near the lake, and many more. While he said he didn’t want to endorse or commit to the project right now, the idea of expanding an existing marina rather than building a new one, was a positive in his mind.

“In terms of an existing marina, and expansion, that is certainly a plus in my mind,” he said.

Some of the concerns listed by Beck and Aadland included storm water runoff, the loss of wetlands, rerouting the marina and the effects that may have on lakes down stream, and how more traffic and potential for pollution in the marina may affect Lake Emily and its already impaired water state.

Beck said it is important to look at the impact any work on the marina and surrounding area will have on the natural wildlife, including fish. An adverse affect on the natural animals could likely prevent any development of the marina area. However, knowing how the surrounding area would be affected by an expansion of the marina, would likely not be known until an environmental study is done.

Steve Klick, whose Steve Klick Foundation helped pay for the initial revitalization plan, said Lake Minnewaska is a tremendous asset for not only Starbuck, but the entire area. However, he said everyone from the community, DNR, and developers will need to work together to make the project a success, and help the area grow.

Glienke said before a shovel is ever put in the ground, there are some obstacles facing the project, but thanked everyone for coming to the meeting to gauge the interest in the revitalization project.