Our Lake Futures & Finances Now Depend on A Wing and A Prayer

Complacency has the advantage of ignoring the reality around us, allowing us to focus our energies and enjoyment elsewhere … but the consequences of doing so can be disastrous. Case in point: aquatic invasive species (AIS) currently reside in waters both in and around Candlewood Lake and, if ignored, represent a clear and compelling danger to our Lake’s ecosystem, our recreational enjoyment of these waters, and our regional and personal ‘economies’ as well. (Some estimate a 15-20% ‘hit’ to real estate prices if these demons breach defenses … and since such defenses are not currently in place, much less firmly on the drawing board, we’re winging it and our prayers won’t hold sway.)

Without resident concern, active engagement, and sufficient funding, the noose tightens. While remedial actions are in place to help stem Candlewood’s milfoil (think carp and deep drawdowns), we have not mounted the essential defenses to keep zebra mussels and their brethren at bay. Enter hydrilla – described by those in the know as ‘milfoil on steroids’ – this alien, aggressive species has now infected waterbodies elsewhere in the State, including the CT River. And, inevitably, the list goes on … and grows exponentially given AIS fertility/expansion rates, the effect of climate change, and careless transient boaters who can accelerate AIS spread and thus the potential, irreversible consequences to treasured waters.

Fortunately, sprigs of hope are on the horizon: increased CLA attention is now being directed at defense and decontamination strategies; opportunities to engage DEEP are being explored at the Lake level; and now, in the halls of the CT Legislature, a bill is gaining traction that holds promise on the funding front. Such a bill contemplates the infusion of funds to help prevent, control and remediate damage by AIS (and potentially blue-green algae) from across the State through a modest, user-fee structure involving resident and non-resident boaters plus provision for voluntary contributions.

This draft bill – termed ‘CT Proposed Bill #6637’ -- is now in early discussion within the Environment Committee and, once members are comfortable as provisions evolve, it is destined to be aired in a Public Hearing where both verbal and written testimony are invited. Unfortunately, only 5-days advance notice will be given of the Bill’s text and Public Hearing date so all those concerned and supportive are urged to stay abreast as the Bill’s provisions are refined and a Hearing date set, which will likely be 2-3 weeks hence (periodically ‘Google’ the evolving Bill, as referenced above).

In the interim, and since significant, alternative funding sources are virtually non-existent at the Federal, State and local levels, please give active consideration to such a Statewide fund devoted to protecting against the potential ravages of AIS, and frame your case for backing such a measure. If our waters and those across CT are to be successfully defended, such a Bill is an essential step to making that happen. By engaging in the dialogue, you can help sustainable AIS funding become a reality.