Managing the Watershed
The Lake Management Committee (LMC) monitors lake water quality and recommends actions to minimize nuisance weeds and algae, reduce shoreline damage and avoid introduction of invasive species. The LMC contracts with a lake consultant and aquatic management firm for weed surveys, water testing and treatment applications.
Overview and Best Practices
Lakeside homeowners, dock and marina users, and anyone within the watershed (the area from which water flows into the lake) all impact the quality of Copake Lake. YOU can help to protect Copake Lake by preserving or mimicking natural processes in the watershed, so that water flowing into the lake stays as clean as possible.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO HELP PROTECT THE WATERSHED
FIVE PRINCIPLES TO FOLLOW (from the NYS-Department of Environmental Conservation)
- 1Imitate nature.
- 2Keep slopes gentle.
- 3Employ live, "soft armoring" whenever possible.
- 4Mix it up.
- 5Keep it small and simple. Read More
SANDY BEACHES WILL HARM THE LAKE AND ITS WILDLIFE.
Consider leaving the majority of your shoreline natural as wildlife habitat and erosion control, rather than stripping the vegetation and adding sand. Read More about maintaining lake shorelines and beach tilling.
U.S. COMMUNITIES ARE WORKING TO RESTORE SHORELINES TO THEIR NATURAL FORM.
FALL CHECKLIST
As the days get shorter, the air crisper, and the leaves fall upon the lake, many of us are preparing to leave the lake until next Spring. As we begin packing our bags, we MUST keep in mind those important steps we take that will contribute to the safe keeping of the lake over the winter months.
SPRING CHECKLIST
Maintain Your Septic System
Shoreline Clean-up Tips
Smart Lawn Maintenance Techniques