In this episode, we catch up with Seneca Lake Watershed Steward Ian Smith.
Related: Seneca-Keuka Lake Watershed 9E Plan helps focus water quality efforts in Seneca and Keuka Lakes
The Nine Element Plan for the Seneca-Keuka watershed has been finalized and sent to the state DEC for approval. A Nine Element Plan (9E) is a quantitative watershed-based management plan similar to the EPA’s Total Maximum Daily Load plan but non-regulatory and geared more specifically towards addressing non-point source pollution. This multi-year project will identify the type, scale, cost, and location of the water quality improvement projects needed to protect the lakes from excessive levels of nutrient pollution through a rigorous scientific process.
When the plan is approved, organizations around Seneca Lake will qualify for grant funding to help with water quality projects.
Related: Repurposed Crooked Lake Canal will act as a natural water filter between Keuka, Seneca Lakes
We also discussed the plan to repurpose the former Crooked Lake Canal as a buffer between the lakes to reduce the flow of harmful nutrients between the lakes. The canal flows along the path of the Keuka Outlet. Natural Systems Engineering of Syracuse has been hired to do an engineering study on linking the canal and the outlet. The $23,821.78 cost of the study will be fully covered by a grant.
