Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association

Jack Dailey and Steve Lewandoswki of the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association with Rotarian Eric Chapman

   Today we were visited by Jack Dailey and Steve Lewandowski from the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association.  Brought to us by Eric Chapman, they came to discuss the mission of their organization, which is to preserve, protect and promote Canandaigua Lake and its watershed.
   The Association was formed in 2010 from the merger of two lake advocacy groups.  The group consists of around 500 dues-paying members, who strive to promote responsible development along the lakeshore, monitor water quality, and work with local governments and state agencies to preserve the lake and its assets.
   One specific area of concern for the Watershed Association is development along the lakeshore.  Most of the low lands along the shore have been built up, meaning new developments tend to go on wooded hillsides.  The group works to encourage new developments to ensure that runoff patterns are not changed.  When vegetation is cleared for these developments, the chance of sediment and runoff getting to the lake increases, which can affect water quality and impact the ecosystem.
   If you would like more information about the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association and their mission, visit their website: www.canandaigualakeassoc.org