Lake flooding presents a mixed bag for the animals of the region. Some fish species will likely benefit from the extra area for spawning. In particular, pike, pickerel, and carp spawn in shallows along the shore and the extra water increases the area they can access. Ducks have been feeding in flooded fields also taking advantage of the space available to them. Mosquitoes should flourish with all the extra water available to them for breeding. Many animals are less lucky. Fish and other animals taking advantage of the high water can become trapped when the water finally does recede. High turbidity from all the silt and sediment flowing in makes it more difficult for animals that hunt in the water by sight to see their prey. Many mussels may have been smothered by all the extra sediment washing into the lake. Read...
The unprecedented flooding and high lake levels have closed beaches and access areas and submerged Trail sites. LCC is working with state and municipal officials and private landowners to assess the damage to the 39 Trail locations. Several sites may remain closed for the summer due to shoreline damage. In order to provide as accurate information as possible for the 2011 season, our annual publication will be delayed until late June. We regret the delay but want to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible for safe paddling. Read...
The Vermont legislature joined seven other states in regulating the use of phosphorus fertilizer on lawns. LCC has long-advocated for this important step in reducing pollution to Lake Champlain. In 2003 we spurred an investigation of lawn phosphorus levels throughout Vermont that found 60% of lawns tested statewide and 76% of Chittenden County lawns already had too much phosphorus. We helped organize and have been active in the bi-state Lawn To Lake program that promotes use of no-phosphorus fertilizers. During last summer and fall we met with the Vermont Agencies of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce, and Senator Ginny Lyons to pave the way for the bill.
The legislation prohibits spreading of lawn fertilizer on impervious surfaces, between October 15 and April 1, or within 25-feet of a waterbody. Phosphorus can only be used in fertilizers if a soil test demonstrates it is needed or if a lawn is just being established. Stores that sell phosphorus fertilizer need to display information about its impacts on water quality. Eliminating phosphorus from lawn fertilizer prevents the pollutant from ever being imported to the watershed. Read...
Way to Go is an annual program co-founded by LCC to promote the use of cheaper, healthier, more earth-friendly alternatives to driving alone. Individuals, businesses, schools, and organizations can all easily participate. Just pledge to get to work, school or play by walking, biking, carpooling, taking the bus or telecommuting at least one day May 16 - 20. Help make a difference in our air and water quality by signing up online! Your pollution, gas and money savings will be calculated and you'll be entered into a drawing for great prizes - IPods, a cordless electric mower, snowboards, overnight stays, bus passes, gift certificates, and more! Whether you live in the Lake Champlain Basin year-round or just visit here occasionally, we hope you'll join in the event... Read...
You can support the Lake Champlain Committee’s work and have a fun night out eating expertly prepared rustic Italian food this Wednesday at Three Tomatoes Trattoria. The restaurants work directly with small family farms in Vermont and New Hampshire helping to preserve local food traditions and sustain community agriculture and the region’s rural character. One dollar of every entrée sold on Wednesday May 18th will support LCC’s science-based work for a healthy, accessible lake. The evening pairs great food and atmosphere with a great cause. Choose from restaurants in Burlington, Williston, or Rutland, Vermont or Lebanon, New Hampshire... Read...
Lake Champlain reached new heights this spring, cresting at 103.2' on Friday, May 6th, shattering the previous record high level in May of 1869 (~102.1’). High water has inundated homes, displaced people, closed roads, triggered mudslides, and washed sewage, litter and debris into the lake. As of this writing, tons of sediment are flowing into Lake Champlain as wind, waves and high water erode stream banks and lakeshore. The Lake Champlain Ferry from Essex to Charlotte is closed because the landing is under water. The ferry at Crown Point is still running but Vermont roads to the ferry are closed on the south and are restricted to one lane from the north. Amtrak service from Montreal to Schenectady, NY has been interrupted. Traffic along the Route 2 causeway between Grand Isle and Colchester is reduced to one lane as work crews repair damage. Damages are expected to be in the millions. Both Governors Cuomo and Shumlin have declared states of emergency for portions of the lake shore. The Canadian Forces have been called out to assist in flooded areas north of the border... Read...
