MAYVILLE, NY – On Monday, Chautauqua County will host an official signing ceremony to celebrate the initiation of the Chautauqua Lake Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study, a collaborative effort between Chautauqua County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District.
The event will serve as an opportunity to provide updates on this significant project and to formally mark the beginning of a comprehensive study aimed at restoring the aquatic ecosystem of Chautauqua Lake.
Event Details:
Date: Monday, October 7, 2024
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Mayville Depot Museum (16 Water Street in Mayville, NY)
The Chautauqua Lake Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study is designed to address aquatic impairments of the lake’s ecosystem. Chautauqua Lake and associated wetlands support a diverse aquatic community, and a thriving local and regional socioeconomic system. Habitat degradation threatens the sustainability of Chautauqua Lake via sedimentation, growth of nuisance aquatic vegetation, and chemical degradation. Through a partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, the study will examine potential measures to restore aquatic ecosystems and riparian habitats, and improve recreational opportunities while decreasing flood and public-health risks. The study, initially authorized in 2018, recently received $500,000 in federal appropriations.
Key speakers and participants include:
- Col. Nicholas Melin, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District Commander
- Congressman Nick Langworthy
- Paul M. Wendel Jr., Chautauqua County Executive
- Pierre Chagnon, Chautauqua County Legislature Chairman
The Pittsburgh District will provide an overview of the study’s objectives and highlight the foundational research conducted by leading institutions such as the Jefferson Project, State University of New York at Fredonia, SUNY ESF, North Carolina State University, and Bowling Green University. The Pittsburgh District, in collaboration with these partners, will conduct scoping activities in the initial phase, followed by detailed evaluation and analysis of management measures starting in January 2024.
This multi-year, $3 million effort will engage the public and key stakeholders in seeking solutions to the lake’s most pressing environmental challenges, including the detrimental impacts of invasive aquatic plants and harmful algal blooms. The feasibility study’s findings will be shared with the public afterwards with an opportunity for review and comment.
Congressman Nick Langworthy noted, “I’m proud to have worked to secure this critical funding for the Chautauqua Lake Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Study and to see it come to fruition. Chautauqua Lake is a cornerstone of our community, and this investment will address water quality issues and restore the lake’s natural beauty. With the support of our local partners, we’re ensuring that the lake remains a cherished resource for residents, visitors, and future generations to enjoy. I am dedicated to spending my time in Congress continually working towards the revitalization of Chautauqua Lake.”
Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. noted, “This is the first federal investment in Chautauqua Lake, and we are so thankful to Congressman Nick Langworthy for making this happen. This ceremony marks an important step forward in safeguarding the future of Chautauqua Lake. We are grateful for the collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the continued support from our local and federal partners.”
