Current State of the Lake

Problem:

Chautauqua Lake was listed in 2004 & 2010 on the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC's) 303d list for levels of the Phosphorous that exceed Federal Clean Water Act allowable pollution levels. Phosphorous is the main cause of excess weed growth in our lake. Eurasian Water Milfoil is our worst (most invasive (i.e., "weedy") weed.Click on the photo above of a Eurasian Water Milfoil infested lake for more information from the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants at the University of Florida.

Who cares?
The Federal Clean Water Act requires states to periodically assess and report on the quality of waters in their state. Section 303(d) of the Act also requires states to identify Impaired Waters, where specific designated uses are not fully supported.

What are Chautauqua Lake's designated uses?
Chautauqua Lake is classified as by NYDEC as a "Class A" water of the State. Class A indicate a best usage for a source of drinking water, swimming and other recreation, and fishing. Click on logo below for link to website:

Bottomline:
The federal government (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - EPA) is requiring New York State to cleanup the lake and reduce sources of pollution (Phosphorous mainly) entering it through runoff.

Action must be taken now to avoid losing the vital uses of the lake we all enjoy like, swimming, recreating, and fishing opportunities on the lake.

Save Chautauqua Lake

Save Chautauqua Lake's Mission Statement:
To promote the restoration and preservation of Chautauqua Lake for future generations of Chautauquans.

Chautauqua Lake is a 22-mile long lake located between Erie, PA and Buffalo, NY in the Southern Tier Region of New York State. "Chautauqua Institution is a community on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York state that comes alive each summer with a unique mix of fine and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship and programs, and recreational activities. Over the course of nine weeks, more than 170,000 visitors will stay at Chautauqua and participate in programs, classes and community events for all ages—all within the beautiful setting of a historic lakeside village."