>Lake Michelle was once a seasonal system, holding water only in winter. The
pan completely dried out during low rainfall years but retained some water throughout the year
only during average rainfall years. From 1925 to 1940 the area was commercially mined for its
salt. However ever since 1960 the water levels changed forever as the pan instead remained
full all year round, irrespective of rainfall changes. In 1972 the area was dredged to create an
artificial lake for a mariner-type housing development.
These major changes in drainage patterns, a decrease in salt concentrations and the addition of
nutrient rich water transformed the salt pan to Lake Michelle as we know it today.
The lake water chemistry is typical of a coastal lake. The salinity nowadays is about 1/10 th
that of seawater. The water body is fed by saline groundwater and summer water levels closely
match the surrounding groundwater level (water table). The average depth of the lake in
summer is 1.5 m and about 4 m during winter. Runoff storm water enters the lake at the north
eastern corner, with a controlled outflow at the north western side.
During 2001 the conservation status of Lake Michelle, especially with respect to protecting its
salt mash vegetation was rated as very high. Based on this, five options for retention of the salt
marsh were proposed. It was concluded that Lake Michelle was ‘botanically unique’.
A pencil is provided with the log. However you are advised to also bring your own pen or pencil to sign the small log scroll. * VERY IMPORTANT *---Please and do replace the container firmly with stealth in mind and as intended (nudge, nudge, wink, wink).
Additional Information: There is no need to enter the premises or reception area of Lake Michelle, or walk through any flower beds or plants. Its hidden in a publicly accessible spot.
This bigger, better and more accurately located container replaced the former one on 11 November 2018.