Learn about ESLA

ESLA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and one of the most effective associations representing waterfront property owners, or riparians, in Michigan. In 1950, four property owners on Skegemog Point, filed the charter papers in Lansing to form the Skegemog Lake Association. A year later, the association agreed to join forces with neighbors on the Elk Lake side of the road and the Elk-Skegemog Lakes Association was born.

ESLA’s focus is in protecting the environment, monitoring development, tracking water quality and following trends in boating, fishing, and other uses of our lakes. ESLA has worked closely with other environmental organizations to sustain high water quality, responsible shoreline development, and safe recreational use.

As ESLA’s waters continually face the challenges of shoreline development and increased boat traffic, ESLA is the watchful eye to protect and preserve our treasured waters. Want to join that effort? Click HERE to Join. Membership is open to all.

Purposes:

Promote an understanding and appreciation of the rights of and responsibilities of owners of riparian lands.

Do all things and take such actions as may be necessary or desirable to protect and preserve the environment of the area of the Elk-Skegemog watershed, including connecting lakes, streams, and wetlands.

Help solve problems common to the members, involving lake level, water safety, water pollution and indiscriminate or over development of the waterfront which could lead to overuse of the waters or deterioration of their quality.

Cooperate and otherwise interact with federal, state, and local government bodies and other organizations concerned with water quality and environmental issues, and to advance their programs to the extent they shall improve, develop, benefit or serve the area.

Undertake periodic scientific tests of the quality of the water in Elk and Skegemog lakes and their connecting waters and encourage others to follow practices or take action to preserve and protect our precious resources.

Assist in the acquisition, establishment, maintenance and protection of nature preserves, wilderness and other protected areas within the ESLA watershed and connecting waters.

Join Elk-Skegemog Lakes Association

ESLA’s primary source of income is from dues our members pay each year. ESLA uses your dollars to underwrite many projects to protect and preserve the waters and shorelines of Elk Lake, Lake Skegemog, the Torch River, the Lower Rapid water and their connecting waters.

Joining or renewing your membership is easy!

Our recommended dues levels are $50 Basic, $100 Sustainer, $250 Silver, $500 Gold and $1,000 Platinum.

To join with a credit or debit card CLICK ON THE BUTTON BELOW.  If you prefer to not pay online, you may write a check to the Elk-Skegemog Lakes Association and send it to P.O. Box 8, Elk Rapids, MI. 49629.

ESLA Membership is open to all.