Lake Manitou Association Inc

Lake Manitou Association Inc is a nonprofit organization located in Michigan, United States. It is dedicated to managing and maintaining Lake Manitou, a 73-acre reservoir in Shiawassee County, Bennington Township. The organization focuses on promoting understanding of the lake and its watershed, while working towards its protection and restoration[1][2].

History

The origins of Lake Manitou date back to 1947 when the planning for its creation began. Murl Duffey played a pivotal role in developing the project by securing deeds and investors despite facing several setbacks. The actual transformation of the marshy valley into a lake occurred in the early 1960s. By spring 1960, eighty acres of land were submerged, creating the lake as it exists today[1][3].

The Lake Manitou Association was originally incorporated as the "Lake Manitou Residents Association" on August 12, 1964, and was later renamed to "Lake Manitou Association" on December 15, 1973. This change reflects the organization's evolving role in overseeing the lake and its surrounding community[1].

Activities

Lake Manitou serves as a hub for various recreational activities year-round. During the warmer months, residents and their guests engage in activities such as fishing, power boating, water skiing, tubing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boating, swimming, and sailing. In winter, the lake transforms into a site for ice fishing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling[1].

Governance and Membership

The association is governed by a board of directors and operates under a set of bylaws. Membership is limited to property owners within the Lake Manitou community. The association assesses annual dues to support maintenance of the lake and its common areas. Access to the lake is restricted to association members and their invited guests[1].

Financial Overview

As a nonprofit organization, Lake Manitou Association Inc relies on contributions and fees from its members to support its activities. The organization's financial reports show significant contributions as its primary source of revenue[4].

Purpose and Objective

The primary objective of Lake Manitou Association Inc is to promote awareness and understanding of Lake Manitou's ecosystem and to work towards its conservation. This includes efforts to protect, restore, and maintain the lake and its watershed for future generations[2].