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LWTF News Archives

Fall 2008: State Park Erosion |  New Brown Trout |  Invasive Plant Council |  Seeing Green? |  Dishwashing Detergent Alert |  Leaf It Alone |  Curlyleaf Pondweed Battle |  Major Rain Event Precautions |  Summer Water Clarity | 

Summer 2008: May Water Clarity | Curlyleaf Pondweed | Layer-Air System | Alewives | Gardening Tips

Spring 2008: Curlyleaf Pondweed | Layer Aeration System | Alewives | CT Federation of Lakes | 2007 Monitoring Report

End-of-Summer 2007

Summer 2007: Message from Tom McGowan | Curlyleaf Pondweed Battle | State Approves Funding | Lake Conditions & Clarity | Transitions

Winter 2006/07: Curlyleaf Pondweed Eradication and Control | Annual Ecosystem Report | State DEP Agreement & Washington Boat Launch | State Aquatic Control Program Needed | Director's Report

Fall 2006 Alert: Curlyleaf Pondweed Identified in Lake Waramaug

Summer 2006: Director's Letter | Conditions/Water Clarity | Lawn Fertilizer | Summer Intern | Land Preservation | Boat Inspection | Legislative Action Needed | Weed Free Zone | PDF of this newsletter

Fall 2008

   
 

LWTF Focuses on State Park Erosion

The Task Force has observed a deterioration of the shoreline protection system in small sections of the 3,000 feet of lake frontage at the Lake Waramaug State Park. We believe natural wave and ice action aided largely by large motor boat waves have caused these incipient breaches which are certain to expand unless the problem is addressed.

The US Department of Agriculture who designed this erosion prevention system recently at the request of the Task Force examined the State Park shoreline and developed recommendations to improve these conditions. "Honeycombed" concrete blocks embedded in this shoreline by the State in the mid-1980's have for many years stabilized this actively used shoreline of the Lake. But now some blocks have shifted and are sagging into the lake. The Task Force has arranged a meeting with the State Park superintendent to discuss the USDA's improvement and maintenance recommendations and to encourage the State to take action to reverse the deterioration.

   

Stocking Stuffers: 1000 New Brown Trout

As part of an ongoing LWTF program to stock Lake Waramaug with environmentally friendly fish, 1,000 brown trout were introduced to our lake in early November. Brown trout will reduce the population of alewives, a positive result since alewives feed on zooplankton, which tend to reduce the growth of algae. To be certain the fish we stock will be able to consume alewife as soon as released, we have stocked brown trout 10" to 12" in length (18" to 24" when the inevitable fishermen's exageration is applied).

Invasive Plant Council Gains Momentum

The Connecticut Invasive Plant Council is a program to prevent and control the spread of invasive species that has been promoted by the Task Force. Executive Director, Tom McGowan has been a member of the Council since its inception representing the Task Force and the interests of Connecticut lakes. The program is finally gaining momentum. The state is close to hiring an Invasive Plant Coordinator and a new grant program has been announced that which will provide funds to towns for the purpose of removing and controlling both land and aquatic plants.

Seeing Green? September Algae Bloom Arrives

Although not entirely unexpected and certainly not unprecedented, an algae bloom arrived in Lake Waramaug during the second week of September, a somewhat disappointing development in light of the excellent water clarity levels that had been reported earlier in the summer. The bloom added a cautionary element to an otherwise upbeat "State of the Lake" presentation at the annual joint meeting of the Task Force and the Lake Waramaug Association on September 14th.

The Task Force's limnologist, Dr. Robert Kortmann, made a thorough examination of lake conditions on Wednesday, September 17th and characterized the algae bloom as "modest", and the likely result of a "mixing down" to a depth of about 5.5 meters of the two top water layers, previously separated (or stratified) by water temperature. This mixing down is a precursor of lake turnover, which usually occurs in both spring and fall as a result of air changing the temperature of the top water layer, and which can result in nutrients coming to the surface and promoting algae growth. The bloom may persist for several weeks but is not likely to intensify.

Tom McGowan, the Task Force Executive Director, also noted that the heavy rains associated with tropical storm Hanna probably contributed to the problem by washing harmful nutrients into the lake and through wind-accelerated mixing of water layers.

Mr. McGowan also shared a comment from the Task Force's founder, Janet Bates, that the occasional green cloud can have a silver lining -- they remind us that, where water quality and clarity are concerned, the job is never really done.

   

Dishwashing Detergent Alert:

ARE YOU ARE USING A PHOSPHATE BASED DETERGENT?
Switch To A "0" Phosphate Detergent And Help Save The Lake

Algal growth in Lake Waramaug is almost directly proportional to the availability of phosphorus in the lake water. High levels of phosphorus also support native and invasive weed growth in the lake.

Lawn fertilizers, erosion sites, run off from roads and paved surfaces, leaking septic systems, leaves that wash into the lake and decay, goose and other animal droppings are all sources of phosphorus. With the cooperation of everyone living in the watershed we continue to make progress in controlling and reducing these phosphorous sources.

We are adding another source to this no-no list – phosphate based dishwashing detergents!

For many years State laws in Connecticut and across the country have banned or strictly limit the percentage of phosphate in laundry detergents but not dishwashing detergents. Phosphorus from these detergents were reaching the ground water and in areas near lakes flowing into the lake water feeding more and more algae and weed growth.

When the Task Force formed in 1975 one of its first educational campaigns was to get watershed land owners to stop using phosphate laundry detergents. Flyers were sent to all lake area landowners encouraging the use of an "Arm and Hammer" detergent which at the time was one of the few generally available non-phosphate laundry detergents. We had great cooperation.

...one pound of phosphorus can grow 700 pounds of algae!

Now we believe that dishwashing detergents are adding to phosphorous levels in Lake Waramaug. The limits on phosphates in dishwashing detergent were not included in the laundry detergent legislation and automatic dishwashers -- not the norm in the 70’s -- are in almost every home near the lake today. The law allows up to 8.7% of dishwashing detergent (by volume) to be phosphorous. This may not seem like much until you realize that one pound of phosphorus can grow 700 pounds of algae!

Above right is a list of the phosphate content in different brands of dishwashing detergent. Phosphate is not a necessity when it comes to getting things clean. If your store does not carry a non phosphate brand just ask for it. If customers started requesting these products, they would quickly be made available.

Note: For further information, check out these links:
http://www.assabetriver.org/take-action/prevent-pollution/detergents
http://www.grist.org/advice/ask/2006/09/20/phosphates/
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/green-dishwashers/index.html
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/03/ask_treehugger_whats_the_dirt_on_phosphate-free_soaps.php

You can also download a PDF of this Dishwashing Detergent Allert.
   

Save the Lake – "Leaf It Alone"

Fall is here, and the leaves are already falling. When you have to rake up leaves, aren’t you always amazed at how many leaves come off a single tree and the size of the piles it takes for a good fall leaf clean-up?

As pretty as they are, each leaf that washes into the lake releases a little nutrient storehouse. As the leaf decays it releases nutrients including phosphorous. Leaves raked or blown into the lake during fall clean-up will accelerate next year's shoreline algae and weed growth. Just what you don’t want! If you hire people to rake your yard near the lake or feeder streams, please instruct them to make sure that leaves are removed or put in a compost area well away from the water.

To learn more about leaf composting, see:
http://clean-water.uwex.edu/pubs/pdf/home.managlt.pdf

Winning the Curlyleaf Pondweed Battle

We are in our second year of removing the invasive Curlyleaf Pondweed [download our identifying PDF] and are encouraged by our progress.

This summer, Dr. George Knocklein laboriously surveyed every foot of the lakeshore in a canoe, discovering small patches (sometimes onlt a few plants) of the pondweed. Bruce Lockhart and his diver team followed up by removing the plants by hand and by covering two larger spots with a special plastic bottom barrier that prevents plant growth.

George and the Task Force will remain vigilant in our effort to eradicate this invasive plant from Lake Waramaug.

Precautions Preceding Major Rain Events

The recent heavy rains caused by tropical storm Hanna should alert shoreline land owners to some basic precautions that can be taken to protect lake water quality.

Check downspouts and direct runoff from roof or sump pumps away from the lake and through wooded areas and heavy vegetation wherever possible. If you have dirt or gravel driveways or other steep and erosion-prone sites, have hay bales and stakes ready to stabilize eroding areas.

Summer Water Clarity Was Excellent

Everyone seems pleased with the overall lake clarity this summer.

Last fall our science advisor, Dr. Robert Kortmann, was optimistic that Waramaug would have better lake clarity in 2008 - and he was right! On April 23rd we recorded 10.2 feet and on June 2 the lake clarity was 14.2 feet - one of the "top ten" clarity readings we have had in June since we began keeping records in 1977. By mid-July clarity levels had declined to 8.5 - 9 feet, but that is still very good for this time of year.

The most recent Secchi disk readings, from August 14th, indicated a range from 10.4 feet near Arrow Point to 11.6 feet at a point off of route 45 near the New Preston end of the lake. These are also excellent results for this time of year.

There is some significant surface water algae, of the type that "migrates" up and down in the water column, but this is not considered a bloom condition.

The reasons cited by Dr Kortmann for his correct prediction last fall were:

Summer 2008

   
 

May Water Clarity Is Very Good

 Secchi disk reading for May showed a clarity level of 14 feet. Spring levels are normally better than summer and fall levels since algae has yet to develop but, even by springtime standards, this is a very good reading.

Curlyleaf Pondweed

 Curlyleaf Pondweed, an invasive plant initially discovered in Lake Waramaug two years ago, has returned this spring. One large plant and three smaller patches were discovered through regular Task Force monitoring. The good news is that previous infestations, treated last year through hand-pulling techniques, do not seem to have re-appeared. Monitoring for this and other invasive species will continue through the summer, and the Task Force is prepared to act quickly to contain any new infestations.

Prevention is the most important factor...
    
Clearly, prevention is the most important factor in keeping our lake free of invasive plants. The thorough inspection of boats entering the lake is critical, as is avoiding the purchase of non-native, invasive plants anywhere in the lake's watershed.

Residents and recreational users of the lake are encouraged to call the Task Force at (860)868-0331 if you encounter suspicious growth in the water.

Layer-Air System Is Up and Running

The Task Force's Layer-Air systems are now in operation for the summer. The construction of the new Washington boat launch facility required that the Task Force fund, design and build new housing for the compressor which powers the systems, delaying startup for about two weeks. However, due to the relatively cool and wet spring, Task Force limnologist Dr. Robert Kortmann believes that there has been no loss of effectiveness due to the delay.

Alewives Are Smarter Than We Thought

A Task Force sponsored experiment to show alewives the way out of Lake Waramaug by attracting them with low-voltage lights at the south end of the lake has not, as yet, achieved the desired result. Alewives are harmful to the lake because they eat zooplankton, which in turn feed on algae. The Task force will adjust the methodology and retry the experiment in the fall.

Gardening Tips

Lawns within 200 feet of lakes or streams should not be fertilized. The reason is that fertilizer application, be it chemical or organic, can act as a pollutant and cause physical impact to adjacent wetlands or watercourses.

   
If you must apply a fertilizer, be sure to use a zero phosphate product.
If you have a problem lawn, and feel you must apply a fertilizer, be sure to use a zero phosphate product (the middle number should be "0"). If you have a lawn service, ask to see the names of any soil amendments they may be using. Children and animals playing on lawns treated with pesticides or herbicides are put at risk, and no lawn is worth that.

   
The Kent Greenhouse has stocked a zero phosphate fertilizer and South Farms Nursery in Goshen carries a good line of organic products (North Country Organics). Also look for Scotts Champion 13-0-44 Potassium Plus or Greenview 27-0-12. Look at Lawn to Lake for more tips.

Consider adding native plants to your lawn area. For ideas, please visit our buffer planting at 149 West Shore Road. After four years, it has become a natural looking country landscape, doing its job as a native habitat for many insect and bird species, filtering runoff and preventing erosion. A list of the plant materials used there can be found in a box at the site, or you can download a PDF of the list of plants.

Spring 2008

Curlyleaf Pondweed | Layer Aeration System | Alewives | CT Federation of Lakes | 2007 Monitoring Report

   
Merganser ducks on Lake Waramaug; photo by Wendy Panikker
It's a little late and a little wet, but spring has nonetheless arrived at Lake Waramaug, as evidenced in part by the arrival of diving Merganser ducks in late March.

The Task Force was on the lake shortly after the ice melted, ready to put into action both continuing programs and new initiatives for the monitoring and preservation of the lake's water quality.

Curlyleaf Pondweed

Curlyleaf Pondweed was discovered in Lake Waramaug in 2006, the first such invasive plant to be positively identified in the lake. In 2007, Lockhart Environmental Services was retained to remove the plants using non-chemical methods.

Bruce Lockhart and his team along with Dr.George Knoecklin will continue this spring to conduct a close inspection of the "hot spots" where we removed curlyleaf last year. We will also inspect the entire shoreline looking for curlyleaf or signs of any other invasive plants.

...a difficult and expensive process
    
As much curlyleaf as possible was removed last year but that doesn't mean we won't find any this year. As you can imagine, the hand removal by divers of a small underwater plant in muddy conditions is an extremely difficult and expensive process. We must be patient and persistent. We expect that we are likely to find more curlyleaf this year and are prepared to continue the hand removal process.

Layer Aeration Systems Start-Up

Improvement/Repairs to the Frost system on Arrow Point were completed by the Lake Waramaug Interlocal Commission in March and the system will be up and running on schedule as soon as our scientists tell us that the lake has "turned over" (which is usually about June 1).

It is hard to believe, but the Arrow Point system has been in operation from June to October every year since 1983. Over the past several years the Interlocal Commission has funded various repair and maintenance improvements to keep this system in good operating shape. Our original investment for the construction of this system was about $125,000 and it has served the lake very well for many years. With a little care we expect it to continue to benefit the lake for many more years to come.

The two Layer Aeration systems near Route 45 are powered by a compressor at the Washington Boat Launch, which is being renovated as part of the three town agreement for the inspection of boats. The building that housed the compressor was removed to provide space for the expansion of the boat ramp and the Task Force has been working with the Town of Washington to construct a new compressor building.

The Town of Washington First Selectman Mark Lyon and the town land use and park and recreation commissions have been very supportive of our effort to construct this new small building. They recognize that this compressor is vital to the continued improvement of the lake. However, this has not been an easy task and the cost projections for constructing the new building are much higher than we anticipated.

Showing Alewives the Door

Alewives eat zooplankton (which in turn eat algae) and are therefore injurious to water quality. The Task Force's limnologist Robert W. Kortmann has developed an experimental strategy to reduce the Alewife population. Low-voltage lights will be submerged in the lake near the Washington Beach outlet to determine whether the alewife can be attracted to the outlet and encouraged to swim downstream. If the experiment shows promise, a more permanent illumination system may be warranted.

Connecticut Federation of Lakes

Connecticut Federation of Lakes, which fosters communication between and pools the resources of many local organizations to promote healthier lakes and watersheds, on local, state and federal levels.

Two New Board Members

The Task Force is delighted to welcome two new members to the Board of Directors: Margaret Griner and Kirby Mullen.

Annual Monitoring Report for 2007

Following is an executive summary of the 2007 Lake Waramaug Monitoring Report from Robert W. Kortmann of Ecosystems Consulting Service, Inc. issued on February 5, 2008:

2007 Observations

   
2008 Forecast

Several observations lead to a relatively optimistic forecast for Lake Waramaug in 2008. The lower than normal increase in nutrients and phytoplankton during the fall of 2007 may carry over to the spring of 2008. Winter 2007-08 has exhibited more typical weather patterns, ice cover, snowpack etc. Although limited by available light during the winter, diatom productivity may reduce nutrient availability as the lake develops stratification. The observed large-bodied cladocera population (which has not been seen since 2004) may also suggest a population increase and increase in grazing rate.

Although a prediction of lake conditions during the summer of 2008 is difficult, all indications are positive for continued lake quality improvement.

End-of-Summer 2007 Updates

On Sunday September 16, a joint meeting of the Lake Waramaug Association and the Lake Waramaug Task Force was held at the Lake Waramaug Country Club. Attendees heard a generally positive report on several fronts, including water quality and clarity; the ongoing threat from existing and potential invasive species; safety and progress on the Washington Boat Launch project.

An announcement was made of an extremely generous gift from John A. Griner III to the Task Force to create a land preservation and protection fund. Sadly, only four days after the joint Association/Task Force meeting, John Griner, who had fought courageously against the grip of cancer, passed away. John loved Lake Waramaug and was one of our greatest supporters. He will be sorely missed not only here but in so many other places for his good works, his great charm and enormously positive attitude.

   
The Task Force also announced the placement of a bench and plaque at its buffer planting site on West Shore Road acknowledging the extraordinary inspiration and leadership of Janet M. Bates. She is pictured here, enjoying said bench.

Some highlights from the meeting:

Washington Boat Launch: Washington's First Selectman Dick Sears announced that although bids on the project came in higher than expected, work will continue on schedule due to the generosity of the Lake Waramaug Association which will fund a $60,000 budget shortfall. The project is the key to the success of the agreement between the State of Connecticut and the Lake's three towns (Washington, Warren and Kent) to insure inspection of motorboats and prevent the spread of invasive plants.

Invasive Species: Task Force Chairman Tom McGowan gave an update on the Curlyleaf Pondweed eradication program, which continues to be successful without the use of chemicals. Mr. McGowan also warned of the spread northward of Hydrilla (see www.invasive.org/eastern/biocontrol/7hydrilla.html) and the need for continuing vigilance with respect to Eurasian Watermilfoil.

He also warned that this year growth of the invasive plant Fanwort suddenly accelerated in Bantam River and the Bantam Lake system. Little Pond, a part of the Bantam River system and a beautiful water body on the grounds of the White Memorial Foundation, is now choked with Fanwort. This heightens the need to guard against boat movement between Bantam Lake and all other water bodies.

On a positive note McGowan reported that the State is finally about to start up a State invasive plant prevention program. The State legislature finally passed a bill which was effective July 1 authorizing the creation of a special account in the State DEP budget for the control of invasive species. One million dollars ($500,000 for each of the next two years) was approved for deposit in this account. The bill states that the funds shall be used for the purposes of controlling invasive species, including, but not limited to, employing an invasive species coordinator, developing an early detection and rapid response policy, and educating the public regarding invasive species.

He also announced that there will be a gathering of area lake and pond organizations on October 12 at the Woodridge Lake Clubhouse. The Task Force, working with the Connecticut Federation of Lakes, has organized this regional lake meeting to both educate and improve communications between lake organizations, especially in the common fight against invasive aquatic weeds. For more information on this contact Tom McGowan at 868-0331.

Presentation on the Science of Saving Our Lake: Dr. Robert Kortmann, the Task Force's limnologist, gave an educational presentation on the status of the lake, how the current systems we employ work to restore water quality and ideas for future restoration programs.

Summer 2007

Message from Tom McGowan | Curlyleaf Pondweed Battle | State Approves Funding | Lake Conditions & Clarity | Transitions

Message from Tom McGowan

Dear Friends of Waramaug:

The Task Force is very pleased to report that this summer after a long winter of careful preparation and a thorough spring invasive weed clean up Lake Waramaug is looking and feeling much better!

As you will read in this issue the Task Force spent the past two months surveying the lake for the invasive plant Curlyleaf Pondweed and, with the help of a specialized diving team, virtually every one of these non native weeds we could find has been pulled from the lake bottom!

We feel fortunate to have accomplished this without the use of a chemical application. It was a time consuming and expensive project and we are not done yet!

We are pleased to report the legislature finally approved funding for a State Invasive Plant Program and Coordinator. It has taken 3 years to accomplish this goal but was worth the effort. An effective statewide invasive plant prevention program will benefit Waramaug and all Connecticut lakes.

Our fight to maintain and restore lake water clarity continues. After enjoying steady water clarity improvement during the 1990’s and early 2000’s we are concerned that progress has stalled over the past two years. In response to this we are stepping up our lake monitoring and research program and are funding two special water clarity projects.

This year we will continue to encourage more land preservation. We will also focus on forging relationships with the area land trusts and the Lake Association to educate and facilitate donations of land and conservation easements.

We would like to thank all our 2006 donors. While many Connecticut lakes continue to decline, your generosity has enabled the Task Force to improve Waramaug’s water clarity and stave off an invasive weed threat. We have much more to do, so please give generously.

Sincerely yours,

Thomas A.J. McGowan, Executive Director

Curlyleaf Pondweed Battle: Task Force Wins Round One

 We are pleased to report that we have had great success in controlling the invasive plant curlyleaf pondweed. Not knowing how much new growth we would find this spring we worked all winter to develop alternative plans designed to meet all possibilities.

Our Goal: Act quickly and aggressively to stop the spread of this invasive which if not controlled could fill lake shorelines.

Our Strategy: Develop non-chemical removal alternatives but at the same time apply to the State for a permit to apply an EPA approved chemical treatment - if necessary.

Our advisors recommended the use of chemicals, the same that is being used to control invasive plants at Bantam Lake, because they expected to find a robust pond weed growth this year at Waramaug. The Task Force has never resorted to the use of chemicals in its many years of restoring the lake and we very much hoped we would not need to start now.

Survey Shows Less Pond Weed Than We Expected!

You can’t imagine just how delighted we were to find that when spring arrived our scientists at first could not find ANY curlyleaf pondweed! Despite all warnings that it would be the first plant to sprout in the lake and should be visible in early April we detected NONE until May 3rd.

We found a sizable grouping of plants deep in the cove on the west side of Arrowpoint, as expected. But the plants at that time were no more that 4 - 6’ high. We conducted several follow up inspections and found none on the State Park shoreline where it had been observed in 2006. Patches of plants were found in a number of locations along the North Shore Road shoreline, at Arrowpoint and the area near the Warren Town beach. Based on these surveys we were confident that we could tackle the curlyleaf problem with non-chemical methods.

Non-Chemical Removal Plan Launched

Last winter we conducted extensive research on the alternatives for non-chemical removal methods and interviewed potential contractors. We met with the Inland Wetland Commissions in Warren and Kent and were given permission to remove curlyleaf by hand pulling, use of filter fabric or hydro-suction methods.

In the spring we engaged Bruce Lockhart of Lockhart Environmental Services to conduct the curlyleaf plant removal project. Bruce, a former Executive Director of the Candlewood Lake Authority, is an experienced diver who specializes in removal of undesirable lake plants. He has experiencein all the areas we selected: diver hand pulling, laying filter fabric and he owns a powerful underwater "vacuum" or hydro-suction system designed to remove plant and soft sediment from lake bottoms.


Chris Shaw from Lockhart Environmental hand-pulling curlyleaf pondweed from the mouth of a small stream that flows into Lake Waramaug.

Hand Pulling. Since late May, Bruce and his team have been laboriously hand removing the curlyleaf pondweed from Lake Waramaug. Using snorkeling gear they carefully worked the affected shorelines swimming at the surface "hovering" over the plant beds and pulling plants individually. The pond weed, roots and all, were immediately bagged, placed on the shoreline for drying and then removed for disposal. Bruce reported even better news that we acted quickly enough so that about 90% of the plants they pulled had not yet formed turions, the seeds for next year’s plants.

Aquascreen. In February we ordered 11 rolls of 7’ x 100’ Aquascreen, a micro-porous filter fabric manufactured in Canada designed to control undesirable water plants. Spread over larger beds of plants this plastic fabric blocks sunlight killing the offensive plants. The fabric’s micro holes allow lake bed gases to escape which prevents it from billowing up and being dislodged by wave and wind action.

Bruce outfitted each Aquascreen roll with a permanently balanced weighting system along the fabric edges to ensure the Aquascreen will sink and remain in place. He also designed a handy system for rolling out each unit of the fabric. These modifications added to our expense but improved not only ease of installation but also removal. Aquascreen is very durable and with proper care and storage we expect to be able to use it for many years.

We are currently evaluating laying Aquascreen in a very shallow shoreline not far from the Warren Town beach where Bruce discovered a sizable bed of the curlyleaf. Hand pulling here is not possible because the water is too shallow for the divers to "hover" and pull. Neither can they walk and pull plants because foot movement disturbs the sediment which clouds the water thereby obscuring the view of the plants.

Using the Aquascreen here offers the opportunity to monitor the effectiveness of the screen, and the rate of build up of debris on top of the screen and its ability to stop the turion seeds from sprouting.

Resurvey and Follow up. As this is written Bruce and his team are completing the hand removal process to be followed up with another shoreline survey. He will examine all shallow areas of the lake to ensure we have not missed an infected area. Curlyleaf pondweed typically dies off when the hot weather arrives in earnest so before long this summer’s removal work will be done.

The Future. We are under no illusions that this year’s success ends our work. Pulling weeds from an often murky "underwater garden" almost insures divers will miss some weeds. Inevitably some turion seeds will remain in the lake sediment ready to give rise to another (we hope much reduced) set of curlyleaf plants next year. Accordingly we will continue to actively monitor the likely sites of newly emerging plants and be prepared next year to conduct this removal operation again.

State Approves Funds for Invasive Plant Detection/Control Program

 At the end of this year’s session the legislature approved and Governor Rell signed a bill authorizing 1 million dollars ($500,000 a year for each of the next two years) to implement the recommendations of the State Invasive Plant Council and establish a State program to combat the spread of both terrestrial and aquatic invasive plants.

Approval of this funding after three years of effort is a great victory for the Connecticut Federation of Lakes and all lakes and ponds in the State of Connecticut.

These funds will permit the State to hire an Invasive Plant Coordinator who will coordinate the invasive plant functions of the various State agencies. The Coordinator will also develop educational, training and a rapid response program designed to control the spread of invasive plants.

At long last it also provides the funding needed to enforce the law passed four years ago banning the sale and transport of invasive plants. This enforcement work will fall primarily to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and the State Department of Agriculture.

Although no specific amount of this fund is earmarked for grants these funds can also be used to support a grant program to Towns with aquatic invasive plant removal and control projects.

Tom McGowan, Executive Director of the Task Force who is a member of the Invasive Plant Council, said, "We have all our area legislators to thank for backing this bill and finally getting it passed, especially Sen. Andrew Roraback who helped us get this started and stuck with it for the past three years. Now we need to get this program up and running and stop these plants from moving between lakes."

Lake Conditions and Plans for Improving Water Clarity

 Water clarity this spring was similar to the pattern experienced for the past two years. In late May the visibility was recorded by our scientists at about 11 feet but by the end of June clarity had dropped to just under 8 feet. On June 27th the scientists observed a mild algae bloom. Pending confirmation from the laboratory this appears to be anabaena which is a stringy shaped, green filamentous algae.

Troubling Trends
While 8 feet of clarity is certainly acceptable we are concerned about this early algae start and disappointed that over the past two summers we have not enjoyed the same level of average annual water clarity experienced in the prior three years. Dr. Kortmann has observed that the mild winters such as we had this past winter have encouraged an earlier start to algae growth in Connecticut lakes. Little or no snow cover on the ice permits greater light penetration, warms the lake water column and helps jump start algae growth in the spring.

Overall, Kortmann is concerned about the change in spring, summer and fall transitions. For example the past two years we had an extended summer and a short fall. These trends favor prolonged lake algae growth and reduction in overall water clarity.

Recommendations for Improvements
This winter the Task Force studied Ecosystems Consulting Services’ annual report and discussed its findings and recommendations with Dr. Kortmann. On this basis the Board increased this year’s lake monitoring budget and approved two special projects designed to combat these troubling trends:

  • Layer Air Systems    Ecosystem’s divers will more closely monitor the operation of the two Layer Air systems and depending upon the lake conditions will make adjustments to the air ports in these installations. Ports allow the scientists to regulate the return flow of cool well oxygenated water to specific levels in the lake to improve the performance of the systems.

  • Ash Swamp    Increased monitoring of Ash Swamp where the positive interplay and "kidney" benefit between the lake and the swamp may be diminishing. The invasive plant loose strife continues to clog the swamp despite the efforts of Ash Swamp neighbors who are trying to save the swamp.

  • Frost Site    Authorized modifications to the Arrowpoint "Frost" hypolimnetic withdrawal and circulation system to improve its operational capacity. This system injects over 2 million gallons of cool, well oxygenated water into the lake every day. It also takes phosphorous from the lake and "binds" it to the lake’s natural iron, rendering it unavailable to feed algae growth. To enhance these benefits Dr. Kortmann will install a small compressor and make other improvements that increase water circulation, enhance oxygen injections and bind more phosphorus.

  • Alewife    Alewife stocked in the lake by the State in the 60’s harvested the lake’s zooplankton which robbed the lake of the natural predator of lake algae. For 20 years the Task Force has stocked the lake with large brown trout that feed on and help suppress the alewife population. There has been some improvement in the zooplankton population but much more needs to be done. Dr. Kortmann will research additional methods to accelerate restoring the natural balance of zooplankton in the lake. We will report on his recommendations in the fall.

    Transitions

     Recently we were greatly saddened with the loss of our Board member Ernest Emerling of Warren. A board member since 2003 Ernest was a very talented man who loved the lake and made many good friends here. He was always willing to help in any way to achieve our goals and we will miss him dearly.

    After living and raising a family on the lake for too many years to recount -- Kay Brush, our quiet and effective Board member of 15 years, has resigned and moved to Princeton, New Jersey. Kay and her late husband Graham were always great supporters and helpers with the work of saving the lake and we were so fortunate to have them on our side. After a farewell lunch with her long-time friends and Board members Kay has packed off to Princeton. We hope that she comes back to visit often.

    Winter 2006/07

    Curlyleaf Pondweed Eradication and Control | Annual Ecosystem Report | State DEP Agreement & Washington Boat Launch | State Aquatic Control Program Needed | Director's Report

    Curlyleaf Pondweed Eradication and Control

    Curlyleaf Pondweed, an aggressive, non-native aquatic plant with the potential to cause serious damage to the lake, was discovered in June of 2006 at locations along the east side of Arrow Point and near the Lake Waramaug State Park. For more background, see the Special Report.

    The Task Force has been diligently researching alternative methods for dealing with this threat. The two most likely strategies are: 1) A careful and well-monitored application of the herbicide Aquathol to the larger areas of infestation, and 2) The use of a filter fabric (benthic barrier) to cover and eradicate smaller areas of infestation.

    A combination of the two methods, with a thorough post-analysis to measure their relative safety and cost-effectiveness, is also a possibility. In addition, hand-pulling of the plant in small areas will be utilized.

    The unusual growth cycle of Curlyleaf Pondweed (it can actually begin growing under the ice in winter) gives the plant a competitive advantage over native plants. Consequently, the Task Force will be monitoring the situation in early spring and implementing eradication strategies in April.

    For more details on this and other subjects, see Tom McGowan's Executive Director's Report, below.

    Annual Summary Report from Ecosystem Consulting Service

     The Task Force has received the annual Summary report for 2006 from Dr. Robert W. Kortmann and Christopher Mayne of Ecosystem Consulting Service, Inc.

    Not surprisingly, the lake receives mixed reviews for the year, as stated below:

    The report points primarily to aberrant weather patterns which "seem to be becoming the norm". Mild winters with little or no ice cover, periods of intense heat during the summer, periods of very heavy rain and an unusually warm September/October are the recent patterns that appear to promote algae growth.

    In addition, there has been a marked increase in the population of large alewives, which reduce zooplankton which, in turn, limit algae growth.

    Recommendations for 2007 include alewife management plans (already begun with a recent stocking of larger fish), maintenance of the Arrow Point Treatment system and optimization (and perhaps expansion) of the Layer Aeration systems along Route 45.

    For full details, you can download a PDF of the 2006 Summary Report.

    State DEP Agreement and Washington Boat Launch

     On Monday, January 22, 2007, the Zoning Commission of the Town of Washington approved plans for the Washington Boat Launch. This action completes the land use approvals phase of the project, the most important feature of the three-town agreement with the state to insure proper regulation and inspection of boats entering the lake.

    The Task Force, along with the Lake Waramaug Association and other groups, has worked aggressively in support of the plan for years, considering it critical to the long-term ecological health of the lake.

    The Task Force would like to thank all of the environmental groups, volunteers, public officials and scientists who continue to support this crucial project.

    "Ounce of Prevention": The Need for a State Aquatic Control Program

     It is illegal in Connecticut to sell or transport non-native, invasive aquatic plants that can infest and seriously damage our state's lakes. That's the good news.

    Unfortunately, there is little or no enforcement of the laws or even a program for educating the public and the nursery industry about the threat. Meanwhile, invasive plants continue to deepen their hold and new, more aggressive species such as Hydrilla are being introduced.

    Connecticut lakes are in immediate need of a state program to slow the spread of these weeds, and the Connecticut Invasive Plant Council (of which Tom McGowan, Executive Director of the Task Force is a member) has a proposal before the state legislature.

    It's Bill Number 282 introduced by our State Senator Andrew Roraback and State Representative Clark Chapin and it needs the vigorous support of all who are concerned about the health of our lakes. This bill calls for an appropriation of $500,000 to establish a position of Invasive Plant Coordinator in the State Department of Environmental Protection, to create a fund for "rapid response" to new invasive plant threats, funds for inspectors from the DEP and Dept of Agriculture who will visit nurseries, plant and pet stores to prevent sales of invasive plants, and grant funds for towns and non profit organizations who need it to control the spread of invasive plants

    Neighboring New England states have acknowledged the problem and created effective programs, proving that the costs pay for themselves many times over by avoiding later eradication expenses.

    You can download a PDF of the State's Invasive Plants Council 2006 Annual Report for more details.

    Lake Waramaug Task Force, Inc. Executive Director's Report - January 23, 2007

     1. Lake Waramaug Boat Launch Plan. The Town's plan for renovation of the boat launch (and continuation of the invasive weed boat inspection program) has been approved by the Inland Wetland Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals (granting a variance to exceed the maximum coverage allowed - allowance is 15% for this site, existing is 26%, proposed is 35% and future needed may be as much as 43%). It has been reviewed by the Town Planning Commission which issued a favorable report, and has just been approved for a Special Permit by the Zoning Commission. We are pleased that this phase of the project can now proceed; it has been 11 years in the making.

    Dr. Kortmann testified before the Inland Wetland Commission on behalf of the Task Force comparing the town launch improvement plan to the State's plan for a major boat launch at the State Park. He made this comparison under the "prudent alternative" assessment requirement of the Inland Wetland Regulations. I have attended and presented on behalf of the Task Force at both the Inland Wetland public hearing and the ZBA public hearing, and also testified at the Zoning Commission hearing.

    At this time we do not have certainty regarding operation of our compressor (to run our two LayerAir Systems) during the time of the construction of the launch and for the long term. Under the current plan we are relying on the Town constructing another building to house among other things our compressor. But that proposal is yet to be developed and may take a long time to gain approval. First Selectman Sears is examining alternatives that will permit the compressor to continue to operate during and after construction.

    2. Curlyleaf Pondweed Action Plan. The application to the State DEP for a permit to apply Aquathol to eradicate curlyleaf has been completed by ACT, signed by myself on behalf of the Task Force and submitted to the DEP.

    We have been gathering as much information as possible on the effects of Aquathol for the benefit of Arrowpoint residents. A US Corp of Engineer study and other studies show no adverse impacts on well drinking water. But we may need to test nearby wells before and after to provide the assurance that residents are seeking. Hydrotechnologies is examining the DEP application and may be able to provide a "risk assessment" for residents.

    We continue to examine the possibility of using filter fabric to cover the affected area at Arrowpoint as an alternative to the use of Aquathol but we are not getting bidders to respond to this proposal. Bob Kortmann has suggested considering using a mini dredging system which can be purchased for about $9,000. We are looking into that as well.

    We will need to decide on the best approach and get on the agenda of the local inland wetland commissions in February or March to explain our plan. We do not need a permit for Aquathol treatment from the inland wetland commissions but may need a permit for use of the filter fabric.

    I have asked Dr. George Knoecklin to reserve time to assist ACT in completing the early spring survey to document the location of the curlyleaf pondweed beds at Arrowpoint, the State Park and the North Shore Road shoreline.

    3. ECS Annual 2006 Report. Dr. Kortmann's annual report presents a number of new recommendations for our consideration for 2007. I will review this report and provide highlights at the meeting.

    Dr. Kortmann will attend the February meeting of the Board to review and discuss his findings and recommendations. (Note: you can review the mini dredge equipment that he recommends for our consideration near the end of the report. This is the same piece of equipment that he suggests we consider using to eradicate the curlyleaf pondweed.)

    4. Invasive Plant Program. I presented the results of the invasive plant survey and report completed with the research assistance of Jamie Hicks to the State Invasive Plant Council and to State legislators at the December meeting of the Invasive Plant Council. A copy of that report is on file.

    Sen. Andrew Roraback, Rep. Clark Chapin and others have sponsored a bill to provide funding for a State Invasive Plant coordinator. Rep. Roberta Willis has voiced her support. A hearing will be held some time in February in Hartford. Citizens need to continue to voice support for this bill with our legislators. It would be nice to see all our area legislators supporting this initiative including Rep. Craig Minor who represents Warren who is also on the Environment Committee.

    5. Shoreline Development Reviews. At the request of the Washington Beach Club site I met with Club members and their engineer at the Club site and discussed their plan to expand their parking lot.

    They propose to fill a swale between the Warren town beach parking lot and the Club's parking lot to provide for additional on-site parking needs. Currently Club members are parking along the narrow private road to the Club when their small parking lot is full.

    This swale is a regulated inland wetland. They propose to use a subsurface porous paver for the base of the parking lot and cover this with gravel and soil and grass to allow for infiltration. I pointed out issues that will need to be addressed as they develop a detailed site plan including: projecting the future potential development impact within the sub-watershed, determining if this meets the town zoning regulation maximum impervious surface limits, providing a pre- and post-rain garden type of catchment and filtration system to improve filtering and treatment of the water into and out of the new parking area, etc. We will review the final plan when it is available.

    Respectfully submitted,

    Thomas A.J. McGowan, Executive Director

    Fall 2006 Alert

    Curlyleaf Pondweed, an Invasive Aquatic Plant, Identified in Lake Waramaug!

     In mid-June our invasive plant specialist, Dr. George Knoecklein, identified this plant in locations on the State Park shoreline and on the east side of Arrow Point and Willow Point along North Shore Road. These locations were then entered into a digital Global Positioning System (GPS) device for future monitoring. Because these locations are far removed from the Washington boat ramp we are confident curlyleaf did not enter Waramaug through the boat ramp or slip past our boat inspection program.

    Despite our best efforts to keep Waramaug free of invasive aquatic weeds we are faced with a serious problem. Since curlyleaf's unique life cycle gives it a competitive advantage over native plants, we must control and if possible, eradicate this plant from the lake as soon as possible. We are now focused on preparing and implementing a comprehensive attack early next spring when this plant is most vulnerable. We have been working with Aquatic Control Technology and have developed a preliminary plan of attack. Detailed information on these issues are contained in a Special Report.

    The bottom line is we know eradication of curlyleaf pondweed will take at least three years and will be costly. Our draft three-year budget is in a range of between $110,000 and $145,000. A final budget will not be possible until:

    At the Lake Waramaug Association meeting on September 17, the Task Force director Tom McGowan and our invasive plant advisor Marc Bellaud of Aquatic Control Technology gave presentations detailing the challenges we are facing in our efforts to eradicate curlyleaf pondweed.

    The Task Force will need to raise a substantial sum over its regular operating budget this coming year to finance the expense of eradicating curlyleaf pondweed from Lake Waramaug. Please consider this in your plans for your year end donation to the Task Force.

    Summer 2006

    Director's Letter | Conditions/Water Clarity | Lawn Fertilizer | Summer Intern | Land Preservation | Boat Inspection | Legislative Action Needed | Weed Free Zone | You can also download the full PDF of this newsletter.

    Director's Letter

    Dear Friends of Lake Waramaug:

    Each year at Waramaug we must deal with a different set of "gremlins" who like to throw stones in the path of our progress in restoring and protecting Lake Waramaug and its watershed.

    Here we explain more about this year’s chief "gremlins" -- the weather pattern (again) and the legislature. Our weather problems are the unusual lack of ice cover in the winter and constant May and June rain. Our State legislature in this past legislative session simply took no action on a comprehensive bill designed to strengthen a much needed state program to stop the spread of invasive water weeds.

    At the same time each year we have new "lake heroes" -- people who make major contributions to help us reach our goals. This year we have the pleasure of telling you about the largest land preservation donation in the history of Lake Waramaug! Lake Waramaug and its watershed is an important and complex resource. It is the State’s second largest natural lake with a surface area of 692 acres and an average depth of 25 feet. The lake borders three towns, has a 14 square mile watershed and has been called one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Protecting this special resource is a time-consuming and costly job that requires:

    We have made progress on all these fronts, but cannot afford to rest on our laurels. The lake environment is constantly changing and the "gremlins" always pitching new stones in our path.

    Please give generously to support the efforts to preserve this wonderful lake.

    Sincerely,

    Thomas A.J. McGowan, Executive Director & David Robinson, Treasurer

    Little Ice Cover This Winter + Heavy Rains This Spring: Does it Spell Summer Trouble?

    It is perhaps more difficult this year than ever to predict lake conditions in the coming months. Our chief science advisor, Dr. Kortmann, observed that the unusual absence of full lake ice cover this past winter could mean the lake will warm earlier than usual, perhaps jump-starting algae growth. Adding to this concern is the wash-off from the deluge of rain in May and early June.

    Our scientists report that through the end of May lake conditions are stable and in line with recent year trends. Clarity in May was 6 feet with good oxygen levels and no other alarming findings reported by the scientists. But June started off with a "gully-wumper" of a rain storm, followed by another heavy rain event on June 7. This type of storm washes sediment and algae-feeding phosphorus into the lake from farms, lawns and roads. It will be one or two weeks before we know the effect of these rains on lake clarity.

    What we do know is that the level of phosphorus in the Spring has been higher in recent years than in the past. This is an important factor and it has translated into a "leveling" of the water clarity in recent years as shown in the chart above.

    We are watching phosphorus trends closely and will keep you posted with additional mailings and postings on our web site.

    Lawn Zero Phosphorus Fertilizer

     Phosphorus does not break down well in soil thus it ends up in the groundwater that flows into the lake.   Because Waramaug is already phosphorus nutrient rich (which causes excessive algae and aquatic weed growth) we strongly discourage use of lawn fertilizers near the lake.

    ...we strongly discourage use of lawn fertilizers...
    		    
    On any lawn near the lake or a feeder stream property owners should use "zero percent" phosphorus fertilizer. The middle number on the bag is the phosphorus amount (e.g. 27-0-3). It is available if you ask for it at your lawn supply outlet or tell your applicator you want only lake friendly "zero percent" phosphorus fertilizer.

    Lake Saving Lawn Care Practices:

    Summer Intern James Hicks

     This summer a student intern, James "Jamie" Hicks, an undergraduate student at Duke University and lake area resident, will be helping the Task Force. In addition to conducting weekly lake monitoring and shoreline surveys of the lake for invasive weeds he will work on several special projects. One involves talking with lake leaders around the State to gather information on the spread of invasive lake plants for presentation to legislators this fall.

    Lake Area Land Preservation:
    The Greatest Gift for Future Generations

     In recent years generous lake area land owners have donated valuable properties for permanent preservation. This includes:

    Add to these the State’s purchase of 66 acres overlooking the lake to expand the Mt. Bushnell State Park in New Preston and we can now see real progress toward our dream of protecting critical open spaces that will preserve water quality and the scenic beauty that makes Waramaug one of the world’s most beautiful lakes.

    Recently this goal received another huge boost -- the permanent protection of 65 acres of land off North Shore Road in Warren through a gift to the Weantinoge Heritage land trust! This is without a doubt the largest parcel of land ever protected near the lake shore and one of the most scenic and historic properties on the lake.

    The gift is in two parts. The first piece, now owned by the land trust, preserves 27 acres of undisturbed wetlands and mature forest along Hawes Brook, an important feeder stream entering the lake after passing under North Shore Road.

    The second piece, a 38 acre parcel, is protected under an agricultural and conservation easement donated to the trust. It preserves the high land above homes on North Shore Road from Hawes Brook almost to Arrow Point and protects outstanding scenic and environmentally rich lands including scenic fields and farm soils, mature forests and valuable wildlife habitat.

    Systems are Running and Hank’s on the Job

    Our main defenses, the Waramaug in-lake systems, were turned on in early June. Hank Vallely continues to monitor the operation of these two in-lake Layer Aeration systems. Both are located near Route 45. Hank will also continue to check boats entering the lake for invasive plants for the Town at its boat launch at the Washington beach.

    Washington’s Boat Inspection is Saving the Lake

     The major reason Waramaug has, until recently, avoided invasive plants is the Town of Washington’s invasive weed boat inspection program. The protective value of a boat inspection was validated in a recent report on a state-wide program in New Hampshire.

    Last year New Hampshire paid 149 boat inspectors called "Lake Hosts" who worked with 167 volunteers to inspect 25,798 boats at public boat launches throughout the State. 785 boats (3.1%) were found to be carrying vegetation. Most were benign native, but invasive plants were discovered and removed from boats entering at six lakes.

    The report states "With the removal of these invasive plants from boats and trailers about to launch on a public water body, Lake Hosts played a vital role in sparing these lakes from infestations of invasive plants that can seriously compromise a lake’s ecological, recreational, and economic value."

    A primary goal of the New Hampshire "Lake Host" program is to teach boaters where to look for plants on their boats and trailers, and impress upon them the importance of conducting self-inspections every time they enter, and leave, a water body. The report concluded that "the number of boats with plant "hitch-hikers" was down slightly this summer over last year indicating that boaters are getting the message about the importance of inspecting their boats."

    A study by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station demonstrated that invasive plants typically first take hold near a boat ramp. Connecticut needs an inspection program at all its public boat launches to control the spread of invasive plants.

    Boat Inspection and Cleaning Procedures for Preventing Spread of Invasive Plants

    More Legislative Action on Invasive Plants Needed

     We hope the facts in the Hicks report will encourage the legislature to fund a full-time State Invasive Plant Coordinator and put more teeth into the State law banning invasive plants. Last year a bill to do this was left on the floor of the legislature!

    Everyone concerned about Connecticut lakes needs to tell their legislators: "Give Connecticut a fighting chance to stem the tide against invasive aquatic weeds. Pass this bill in the fall and give Connecticut what every other New England State already has -- a State invasive plant education and prevention program. Connecticut cannot afford to do less."

    Andrew W. Roraback (R-District 30)
    State Senator; Assistant Minority Leader
    P.O. Box 357, 455 Milton Rd.
    Goshen, CT 06756
    Residence: (860)491-8617
    Capitol: (800) 842-1421
    Work Phone: (860)489-6880
    Andrew.Roraback@cga.ct.gov

    Mary Ann Carson (R-Kent)
    State Representative; Assistant Minority Leader
    39 Fleetwood Drive
    New Fairfield, CT 06812
    Residence: 203-746-4782
    Capitol: 1-800-842-1423
    MaryAnn.Carson@housegop.ct.gov

    Craig Miner (R-Warren)
    State Representative
    P. O. Box 1061
    Litchfield, CT 06759
    Capitol: 1-800-842-1423
    Craig.Miner@housegop.ct.gov

    Arthur O’Neill (R-Washington)
    State Representative
    1468 Bucks Hill Road
    Southbury, CT 06488
    Residence: 203-264-3951
    Business: 203-264-3112
    Capitol: 1-800-842-1423
    Arthur.ONeill@housegop.ct.gov

    Shoreline "Weed Free Zone" Demonstration Project

     The Waramaug restoration program has improved water clarity -- allowing greater light penetration along shorelines. The downside of our success is there are more native shoreline weeds. Better clarity means greater light penetration, allowing plants to root at greater depths. Lake surface algae is blown into "wind fetch" corners on the shoreline where it collects on weeds creating such unpleasant conditions that some lake owners are considering applying chemicals or dredging their shorelines.

    In response, the Task Force asked Dr. Kortmann to devise alternative non chemical, ecologically friendly methods to create a weed free zone on a lake shoreline for swimmers and boaters. Dr. Kortmann has developed promising concepts which we will test this summer. If the results are positive we will recommend use of these low environmental impact, less costly options next year.

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