President’s Message 2007

I am amazed at the generosity and passion of the people of Clear Lake to protect and preserve. Kasota Island, Spangler Grove and Koeneman Lake are tangible proof. The spirit of the Island Project ripples to our lake shores. Quiet contributions from visionary residents have resulted in “developable” land preserved in natural state.

Land conservation and stewardship drives the mission of our all-volunteer group. Island ownership will be a major responsibility for us. The formation of the Kasota Island Management Board, under the Conservancy’s umbrella, will provide structure and resources to meet that task. Your contributions, managed by the Steuben County Community Foundation, will help not only to acquire, but also maintain and preserve the Island in its present state. We want to make sure the eagles who have visited the Island the last two winters return.

We are working on a number of projects where families have indicated a willingness and intent to donate significant parcels of Clear Lake property to us – so long as it will never be developed. We can provide that assurance. We appreciate your trust in us.

On a bright note, the Clear Lake Knee-High Naturalist Program held last summer was a resounding success. Our board agreed to sponsor next year’s sessions with even broader financial support. Thank you Angie, Josie and Megan for a great idea.

On a dimmer note, our latest water test detected an unacceptable level of phosphorus in the sample. According to Dr. Pete Hippensteel, the biggest source of the contaminant is lawn fertilizer. In order to prevent pollution, we need to use phosphorous-free fertilizer and be judicious in its application. Avoid application if the forecast calls for rain, and, if you use a service, direct them to do a soil test and follow the above.

Your Conservancy has grown from an inspired idea in 1991 to a significant force in shaping the Lake’s future fifteen years later. Strong Boards and great support from you have enabled us to preserve that which makes Clear Lake special. We sincerely thank you.

Paul R. Federspiel, President
 

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