More Info The Fulton Chain of Lakes are a true natural wonder. Surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, they offer breathtaking views and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to swim, boat, kayak, or simply relax while taking in the scenery, an Adirondack Lake is the perfect destination for nature lovers. We must take care of our lakes. 2025 FCLA Newsletter.pdf 2024 FCLA Newsletter.pdf 2023 FCLA Newsletter.pdf 2022 FCLA Newsletter.pdf Link The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association has pledged its support of the Boon Family's Maintain the Chain annual events devoted to preserving the magnificent lakes and watershed of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Join us July 1st-August 31st 2026 for the 6th annual MTC event and help protect the ADK!

Boating and Navigating the Fulton Chain of Lakes The beauty of the Fulton Chain of Lakes is special and unique, and there is no better way to enjoy our lakes then from their waters. Eight lakes, all accessible by public launches makes the “Numbers Chain” a wonderful water sports playground. Whether you are paddling in the waters in a kayak, canoe or stand up paddle, the lakes are beckoning to be explored, enjoying the flora and fauna along the shorelines as well as the still of the morning or evening quiet times. If your pleasure is motoring the lakes on your personal watercraft, pontoon boat or powerboat the lakes are yours to delight in three seasons long. Fishermen are out from the crack of dawn until the sunset hoping to catch a trophy trout, large or small mouth bass, Atlantic salmon, yellow perch, tiger muskie or northern pike. Finally, any windy day finds sailboats in full sails silhouetted on the waters.Our goal is to have all boaters enjoy the beauty of the Fulton Chain’s waters while keeping them clean and safe for everyone’s pleasure. This means: know and obey NYS navigation and community laws, be courteous of fellow boaters whether power, sail or paddle, beware of swimmers, do not litter or deface waters or shorelines, and always boat responsibly . Below are some of NYS boating navigations laws that are particularly important to our lakes. For a complete Guide on New York State Boating Be aware that as of January 1,2025. all operators, regardless of age, will be required to have a safety certificate to legally operate a motorized vessel. The certificate must be carried. Boating Safety Courses Approved courses include those offered by NYS Parks, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Boating/US Sailing or America's Boating Club. Find a boating safety course at the link below. Click here for more info Age and Education Requirements ALL Operators must have a boating safety certificate and be at least 10 years old. The certificate must be carried. Click here for more info Alcohol and Drugs There are severe consequences for boating under the influence of drugs or while intoxicated. Underage drinking will not be tolerated. Click here for more info Be courteous to others Observe all New York State boating laws. Be courteous of others. Drive at a safe speed. Avoid playing loud music. Observe shoreline regulations. Respect property owners and do not create a disturbance near shore. Boating While Intoxicated Our lakes are a place into enjoy family and friends socially and responsibly. Boating while intoxicate is neither. NYS law says no one may operate a vessel on the waters of NYS while impaired or intoxicated either through the consumption of alcohol or drugs. An operator with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher is considered legally intoxicated. New York law prescribes heavy fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of operator privileges for violators. In New York, if you are stopped for the suspicion of impaired operation and refuse to voluntarily submit to a breath test, your privilege to operate may be immediately suspended, pending a hearing. Click here for more info Buoys There are many buoys on the lakes. They indicate channels, dangers and speed limits. Click here for more info Fishing Fisherman should avoid fishing in or near channels. Boaters should avoid boats that are fishing so that lines aren’t damaged. Click here for more info Life Jackets (PFDs) All boats operating in New York waters must have a wearable Personal Floatation Device (PFD) on board for each passenger. Throwable floatation devices are required on all boats greater than 16 feet except canoes and kayaks. There are also requirements when it is mandatory for both children and adults to wears PFDs. Click here for more info Noise Boaters should be considerate of other people around the lake. New York State has established noise levels for recreational boats. Boats must be less than 75 decibel Click here for more info Personal Watercraft All operators must have a boating certificate and be at least 14 years old. The certificate must be carried. Click here for more info Right of Way There are boating rules for how to avoid other boats on the water, just like there are rules of the road on highways. Click here for more info Safety Equipment There are safety equipment requirements that vary by size and type of boat. Click here for more info Speed Limits 45 MPH maximum daytime, 25 MPH maximum nighttime 5 MPH maximum:• In channels• Within 200 feet of shore from Old Forge Pond through 5th Lake• Within 100 feet of shore 6th-8th Lake The lakes are our lifeblood, and it's our responsibility to protect them for future generations. We Need Your Support Today! Donate

Meet the Team President - Mark Steigerwald Vice President - Ray Letterman Secretary/Treasurer - Phyllis Sanzone Board Members Martha DuMont Butch Hartsig Don Kelly Ray Letterman Tom McCabe Steve Mulvihill Phil Sanzone Phyllis Sanzone Gary Schafran Michael Schreppel Connie Schreppel Mark Steigerwald Tom Vawter Paul Willsey Historian - Phil Sanzone Website - Martha DuMont Directors Emeritus Janet Blakeman Jack DeBevoise Richard Knight Jim Murphy Jodelle Pross Amy Sauer Ron Smith Ed Stafford Heather Stafford Honorary Directors - Thomas Greco, Supervisor of Town of Webb John Frey - Supervisor of Town of Inlet 6th & 7th Lake Improvement Asso. - Terence Whyte Committees Thomas B McCabe Sr. Environmental Studies Scholarship Don Kelly - Chair Danelle Keifer Tom Vawter Publicity/Marketing Paul Wilsey - Chair Martha DuMont Butch Hartsig Nominations/Awards Tom McCabe - Chair Don Kelly Phil Sanzone Annual Meeting Ray Letterman Phyllis Sanzone Mark Steigerwald Water Quality Ray Letterman - Co-Chair Gary Schafran - Co-Chair Don Kelly Connie Schreppel Mike Schreppel Tom Vawter By - Laws Phil Sanzone Boating Martha DuMont Navigation Butch Hartsig - Chair Steve Mulvihill Tom McCabe Paul Willsey Government Liaison Tom McCabe - Chair Martha DuMont Don Kelly Kevin Jost

The mission of the Fulton Chain of Lakes Association is to protect the waters of the eight lakes in the chain within the Adirondack Park of Upstate New York by preserving and protecting the unique environment of the Lakes and by being actively involved in numerous issues such as water quality, boater safety, and invasive species. Welcome The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association was founded in 1968 (over fifty years ago) with a mission to protect the waters of the Fulton Chain of Lakes in New York's Central Adirondacks. On this website you will find helpful information about our organization and how you can help us preserve and protect the unique environment of the Lakes and the surrounding woodlands, streams and wetlands. We are actively involved in numerous issues such as boater safety, water quality and invasive species. We envision a future where the Fulton Chain of Lakes thrives as a pristine and healthy ecosystem, supporting diverse flora and fauna. Our vision includes fostering a community that values and prioritizes the conservation of natural resources, ensuring the long-term well-being of the lakes for generations to come. Click here for our membership application - we hope you will join us in supporting our mission! Become a Member About Us Our Mission Upcoming Events Get Informed & Take Action Join the Cause Support Us Watercraft Inspection Stewards Needed Link You could work this summer in the Adirondack Park to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Positions start at $19 per hour! Click here for details Brianna's Law In 2005 Brianna lost her life in a tragic boating accident. She was 11 years old. That accident was the inspiration and impetus for Brianna's Law, a comprehensive boater education law that now requires all power boaters in New York State to complete an eight hr boating safety course. The course certificate must be carried. Idea - Copy your certificate to place in your boats and PWCs. Click here for more info Heading 2 2026 Upcoming Events Fireworks Celebration July 4th Old Forge Lakefront Fulton Chain Rendezvous Antique Wooden Boat Show July 11th Old Forge NY 90 Miler Adirondack Canoe Classic Sep 11-13th Public Beach, Old Forge NY Boat Parade Aug 22nd Old Forge Pond Become a Member Protect Our Lakes Support Now The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association has pledged its support of the Boon Family's Maintain the Chain annual events devoted to preserving the magnificent lakes and watershed of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Join us July 1st-August 31st 2026 for the 6th annual MTC event, help protect the ADK, and qualify for a free MTC beach towel.

Working Together To Protect Fulton Chain Waters The beauty of Fulton Chain waters has made it a very popular destination. Traditional summer camps are giving way to year-round homes, as more and more people want to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of lakeside living. The landscape is dramatically changing as lots are cleared and driveways paved, and trees are removed to make way for fertilized lawns. The cumulative effects from such drastic changes to the landscape mean big changes to the health of our lakes. The FCLA has been active in the long-range development planning for the area, it is vigilant in monitoring our waters for non-native invasive plants and was instrumental in establishing programs such as the Bti program that is currently used to control black flies. Recent studies have linked water quality with property values on lakes throughout the US from Minnesota to Maine. Lakeshore properties are in demand, and the value of these properties depends upon the quality of the lake. People prefer clean water and will pay more to live on lakes with better water quality. What you and your neighbors do to protect and improve the water quality of The Fulton Chain of Lakes will protect your lakeshore property investment and quality of life. We address the four main ways to protect the water quality of The Fulton Chain of Lakes and your investment and enjoyment of your lakeshore property. If we all practice lake-friendly living, we can all enjoy the beauty and health of our lakes for generations to come. 1. Minimize Runoff Runoff picks up pollutants and carries them to the Lake. Minimize the hard surfaces that create runoff. 2. Eliminate Pollutants Eliminate pollutants at their source. Avoid using fertilizers, household toxins, and other chemicals. Prevent soil erosion and failing septic systems. 3. Capture and Infiltrate Capture and infiltrate any pollutant-carrying runoff that you didn’t eliminate before it reaches the Lake - with shoreline buffers, rain barrels, and rain gardens. 4. Monitor our Lake Monitor lakefront shorelines and your watercraft for unfamiliar aquatic plant forms. Alerting the Fulton Chain of Lakes Association and Lake Stewards at boat launches and washing stations is the best offense against invasive species. Households Lawns and Planting When you fertilize your lawn you are fertilizing our lakes. A state law limiting the use of phosphorus lawn fertilizer took effect on January 1, 2012. If you live near or on a lake use as little fertilizer as possible. If it feeds your lawn it feeds algae and seaweed. Rainfall will carry fertilizer into the lake. Use ONLY No-Phosphate (middle number 0) Click below to learn when fertilizer can be applied and the requirements for using fertilizer near an open body of water. Homeowner's Guide to Lake-Friendly Living

Publications & Links Watch for articles in the Adirondack Express related to preserving and improving the quality of our waters and safe boating. During the summer months, we run ads in the local papers to remind people of actions they should take to protect and improve the quality of our waters. We encourage property owners to adhere to all NY State laws when they use fertilizers on their lawns. We highly encourage everyone, particularly visitors, to get their boats inspected for invasive species before launching them and wash, drain and dry as necessary. We run ads reminding boaters of some of the laws pertaining to navigation on the lakes. We also run ads encouraging everyone who enjoys the Fulton Chain of Lakes to join FCLA. Preserving and Protecting our waters is everyone responsibility. Be Informed homeowners_guide 15 simple strategies for sustainable lakeshores & landscapes to protect the Fulton Chain of Lakes. NYS Boaters Guide A handbook of registration, operation and safety information for the prudent boater in New York State.Basic rules and regulation pertaining to navigation on the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Aidrondack Watershed Institute The mission of AWI’s AIS Spread Prevention Program commonly known as the Stewardship Program is to prevent the introduction of new invasive species into Adirondack waters and to prevent the spread of established invasive species between Adirondack waters following Clean, Drain, Dry best practices. AWI accomplishes this mission by providing voluntary boat inspections, free boat wash stations , and public education. Diet for a Small Lake The expanded guide to New York State Lake and Watershed Management Aquatic Plant Survey This report consists of summary tables, aquatic plant maps, and supplemental reference materials pertaining to the aquatic plant survey performed on the Fulton Chain of Lakes by the Adirondack Watershed Institute of Paul Smith's College. Water Quality Monitoring DEC programs collect monitoring data on rivers, streams, and lakes. Results are analyzed and evaluated for quality assurance, used to inform applied research and reporting, and made publicly available through the online data portal and waterbody assessments . Adirondack Lakes Alliance The ALA provides a forum for lake and river associations to share information and resources and to make recommendations to appropriate state, county and local agencies, and educational and other relevant non-profit organizations, regarding environmental and ecological issues threatening Adirondack lakes and rivers. Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program APIPP works with a dedicated network of 30+ cooperating organizations to protect the adirondack region from the negative impact of invasive species.

Mission The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association was founded in 1968 (over fifty years ago) with a mission to protect the waters of the Fulton Chain of Lakes in New York's Central Adirondacks. On this website you will find helpful information about our organization and how you can help us preserve and protect the unique environment of the Lakes and the surrounding woodlands, streams and wetlands. We are actively involved in numerous issues such as boater safety, water quality and invasive species. Click here for our membership application - we hope you will join us in supporting our mission! The Association Today The organization has been and continues to be instrumental in water safety issues on the lake including watercraft speed limits and noise levels. The FCLA prints and distributes a navigation map and water safety brochure for the benefit of all residents and visitors in the area. The Association has assisted the local Sheriff departments in purchasing decibel level meters, GPS, radar for their patrol boats and other support and safely equipment. The FCLA has given and continues to provide monetary assistance to local students who study and participate in environmental pursuits. The organization has received many awards from local, state, and national sources. They include a Congressional nomination for the “President’s Volunteer Action Award”, a Commendation from the Environmental Protection Agency and the “Adirondack Centennial Stewardship Award” from New York State . The Association partners with other lake associates and now is a leading member of the Adirondack Lake Alliance which works as a resource to strengthen and assist other Adirondack lake and river associations. All this could not and cannot exist without the countless hours of work and dedicated by our all- volunteer Board of Directors. And it is certainly not without the generous support of the membership that the organization continues to accomplish its goal to preserve and protect the unique environment of our lake and the watershed basin. Help us continue protecting The Fulton Chain of Lakes by becoming a member! To become a member and/or make a donation, please go to our membership page. .

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Terms of Use Welcome to the Fulton Chain of Lakes Association website. This section outlines the terms of use for our website. Here, you will find information about how the website may be used, the type of content we publish, and any additional features such as making donations or contacting us with concerns. We believe in transparency, which is why we have provided a detailed policy to build trust with our visitors. Our straightforward language aims to gain your trust and ensure that you keep coming back to our site! Support Our Cause Donate Now

"Boat Smart from the Start" Below please find a concise equipment checklist. If you have questions consult the NYS Boaters Guide at https://www.nxtbook.com/newyorkstateparks/nysparks/ny_boatersguide_24/index.php#/p20

Clean, Drain and Dry – Protecting our Lakes from Aquatic Invasive Invasive species are detrimental to boating activities on the lakes. Non-native species can overtake the lake and effect boating, fishing, kayaking etc. To prevent inadvertent introduction of non-native species boats and trailers should be cleaned after they are taken out of the water. This is especially important if they have been in other lakes. Bilges should be drained. Boats, trailers and bilges should be thoroughly dried.

Join the Association The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association is dedicated to providing information about water quality and boating safety on the lakes. Your support empowers us to continue our efforts in preserving the natural beauty of the lakes and ensuring a safe boating environment for everyone. Join us in making a difference today. Consider an annual membership and /or donation. The FCLA is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization so your donations are tax free. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP: $10.00 Basic $25.00 Family $35.00 Sponsor $50.00 Friend of the Lakes $100.00 Patron Ways to Support Donate Mail Fulton Chain of Lakes Association P O Box 564 Old Forge, NY 13420 Membership Form Online Donation First name Last name Spouse Mailing Address Email Choose a Membership Level Concerns? Enter the amount you wish to pay: $ Donate Notice we added 3% to your transaction for the credit card processing fee to ensure the FCLA realizes your full donation. Thank you for helping us make a difference!