And the Answer is:

The closest guess to yesterday's question was AtPanda over at Putting Out Fires who guessed that it was the root system of a downed tree. It is actually dritwood that was found at the beach when the lake water drains. Go check out Amanda's site! I've only recently been introduced to her, and her site looks great! She is an engineer, the recently married wife of a firefighter, is a world traveller, and has many interesting things to write about. Thanks to all who took a guess at my blurry picture!