After the incredibly mild Winter of 2024 I hope this newsletter arrives to you as you are either enjoying or anticipating a beautiful, warm, sunny Spring and Summer here on the Fulton Chain of Lakes!  It is an honor to serve you as a member of this board.  As you will read in this newsletter The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association with the support of its members continues its vigilant monitoring of water quality and of all things that effect the health and enjoyment of these beautiful lakes.  Indeed, that has been the focus and mission of this Association since 1968.

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       Here are some of interesting articles, relevant news, reports and updates you’ll find in this year’s newsletter…

• Water Quality and the continuous testing through the NYS CSLAP program.

• “Maintain the Chain” calendar of events for the whole family to participate in.

• Dam remediation progress report.

• Scholarship program for Environmental Studies update.

• Safety on the water – Navigation and license requirements updates.

• Government relations and our ongoing advocacy.

 

       Continue to stay abreast of your association and its activities by visiting our website: www.FultonChainOfLakesAssociation.org and like us on Meta - Facebook! 

 

       As the season progresses here are some issues and activities we will be continuing with as well as  some new initiatives.  The survey we commissioned of Invasive Aquatic Plants for the entire Chain of Lakes has been completed and we will now be investigating and advocating for remediation.  Septic System testing is stronger than ever with a full-time dedicated staff member added to the Town of Webb Codes office.  Keep in mind that even properly designed quality septic systems age with time and need to be maintained and monitored.  

 

       Also keep in mind, the quality of our water is directly affected by its watershed.  Our lakeshores and landscapes impact the water that enters our lakes, plant responsibly and abide by the strict laws on the use of fertilizers.  Advocacy of water safety, we have been working with the Town of Webb and the Herkimer County Legislature to improve the law enforcement patrolling of our lakes which unfortunately has been dramatically reduced if not eliminated these past two seasons.

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       The overall strength of any association is its members.  Our members come from a broad range of stakeholders, residents waterfront and others, business owners, local officials, and visiting vacationers who just love these lakes.  If you’re not a member and appreciate what we are doing please support us by joining.  You’ll find a membership form as part of this newsletter.  If you are a member then perhaps you know of someone new to the area, someone with like interests to yours.  Reach out and ask them to join.

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       Participate – Read about all the activities planned for this year’s Maintain the Chain.  You’re sure to find several of interest for all the members of your family.  Watch for announcements of our Annual Meeting and plan to attend.  We usually feature a timely and interesting guest speaker and you’ll learn more about what we’ve been working on and meet and talk with other members like yourself.

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       Finally, remember our motto “Preserve and Protect”!  Together let’s continue to enjoy, appreciate and respect this beautiful chain of lakes.

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Mark Steigerwald - President