July has been recognized as Lake Appreciation Month in New York under a resolution sponsored by state Sen. Pam Helming and Assemblymember Andrea Bailey. The designation is intended to recognize the role lakes play in drinking water, local economies, tourism, wildlife habitat and recreation across the state.
Helming said the resolution is also meant to raise awareness of challenges facing lakes, including harmful algal blooms, invasive species and other threats to water quality.
The resolution was adopted by the State Senate in February, according to Helming's office. It applies statewide, including to the Finger Lakes, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Lake Champlain, Lake George and smaller lakes and reservoirs across New York.
Helming said she visited several lakes across the region over the Fourth of July weekend and spoke with residents, business owners and visitors. She said the holiday weekend highlighted how closely local communities and economies are tied to waterfront activity.
The announcement also cited the first Finger Lakes Advocacy Day, held at the State Capitol in February, when organizations from across the region gathered to discuss waterway issues. Helming said priorities included clean water protection, harmful algal bloom research and long-term investment in lakes.
This year's state budget included funding for environmental protection and clean water infrastructure, according to the release. Helming said her office has also provided letters of support for grant applications seeking funding for water quality projects in the region.
Helming said lake protection requires cooperation among watershed groups, local governments, researchers, conservation organizations, property owners, farmers, businesses, volunteers and state leaders.
Her office also noted a recent visit with members of the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association, which works to support stewardship of Canandaigua Lake through education, scientific research and public policy advocacy.
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