Like the swallows returning to Capistrano and the buzzards to Hinckley, Ohio, Clark Lake has its own story. Every year about this time, Clark Lake experiences the annual appearance of Mayflies, sometimes called fish flies. Those who have been at Clark Lake for years, know the story: they do not bite, they do not sting, and they live only a very short adult life (often 1–2 days). But don’t open your mouth too wide…
Mayflies spend most of their lives underwater as nymphs. A healthy lake bottom supports them, so their presence is actually considered a sign of good water quality. The nymphs emerge from the lake, transform into winged adutls, gather everywhere, mate and die quickly. But not before some of them end up inside.
Last year, this website posted the annual mayfly story on May 8th. So, today’s timing syncs perfectly with last year. That story quoted Wikipedia that says mayflies live in fresh water “where their presence indicates a clean, unpolluted environment.” John Deming researched the topic 10 years ago. “A lot of particulate in the water diminishes their numbers. While in the water, they breathe through gills and turbidity prevents that from happening. Further, fewer mayflies may inhibit growth of the fish and bird population as both feed lustily on them. So if there is a big hatching, that’s good news.” Just remember to breath through your nose.
Clark Lake’s inner beauty is all the stronger because of these indicators of healthy conditions. As a harbinger of spring, they announce the new season as do some breathtaking photographic moments. Chris Donahue immortalized one of them on May 1st at 8:16 pm as he looked out on the lake, southside, east end.
This sign in the Community Center says it alll.
