Our quarterly Magnolia Springs Citizen Honoree is Jan Roberts.  Jan has been our volunteer “Lakes and Snakes Manager” for 15 years!  In that capacity, he monitors the conditions of both lakes, the spring that feeds the upper lake, and the creek below the lower dam to ensure there’s not an over-growth of algae in either lake and that there are plenty of fish for all of you who enjoy fishing.  He also keeps track of other wildlife that may impact our common grounds, including turtles, waterfowl, raccoons, and other predators.  But many of our residents know him as the “snakes guy!”  Many people spot common, non-venomous snakes in our neighborhood, especially around the lakes and during certain times of the year.  They post photos to our Facebook page or contact Jan directly.  He has always been able to identify our resident snakes as either common Eastern banded water snakes, rat snakes, corn snakes, or garter snakes.  As far as Jan knows we’ve never had a water moccasin or cottonmouth in Mag Springs! 

 

Jan, a retired biologist, recommends lake actions to the Board of Directors, and when algae treatments or fish stocking have been approved he oversees those operations.  Without his expertise and experience we’d need to hire expert help.  We are therefore deeply indebted to Jan for his many years of volunteer service and his expertise.  Please take a moment to thank him personally if you see him out and about. 

 

Jan and his bride Mary Ellen live on the upper lake.  You will know their home when you see the Tennessee flag!