New group focuses on efforts to preserve and improve Diamond Lake

An alliance has formed in Mundelein to benefit residents, the community and those who enjoy Diamond Lake, organizers have said.

The Diamond Lake Preservation Alliance is focused on creating awareness and educating the public about efforts to preserve the lake and improve its quality and work with local homeowners' associations and agencies to create a lake management plan that best meets the needs of the 153-acre gem.

Nestled just off Route 60/83 in Mundelein, Diamond Lake's longtime popularity dates back to the 1930s, with a reputation of being a local recreation haven for summer visits.

Formed last year, Diamond Lake Preservation Alliance hosts meetings at 7 p.m. the third Monday of each month at Countryside Fire Protection District Station 1, 801 S. Midlothian Road. Everyone is encouraged to get involved. The goal is to heighten awareness and prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species that can destroy lake ecology and the economy and recreational opportunities built around it.

The Diamond Lake Preservation Alliance includes residents and lakeshore property owners, as well as professionals from Mundelein Park & Recreation District, www.mundeleinparks.org, which owns 100 acres of the lake and provides a swimming beach, water activities, boat launch and youth programming.

The Lake County Health Department Lakes Management Unit, which monitors water quality and promotes healthy and safe lake conditions, is also a partner.

"This group represents a diverse mix working together - from education, business, recreation, homeowners, lake enthusiasts - for the lake's benefit and longevity," said Margaret Resnick, executive director of the park and recreation district.

"We want to make people aware of the lake, its many uses and how we can maintain and protect its ecology in the best ways, so everyone can enjoy it for years to come."

The park district has selected Hey and Associates, Inc., which specializes in engineering, ecology and landscape architecture, to help facilitate a lake management plan.

To learn more, contact Resnick at (847) 388-5460 or mresnick@mundeleinparks.org.