Chautauqua Lake groups aim for new collaboration

The boards of the Chautauqua Lake Association and Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy recently held their first-ever joint meeting.

The aim was to discuss how a change in the approach to watershed problems and lake management could take place. The change is the possible consolidation of the two organizations, along with the Chautauqua-Conewango Consortium (CCC), an affiliated Waterkeeper Alliance.

According to officials from both boards, the outcome of the meeting represents an important step forward. The CLA and the CWC formed a special joint committee with the authority to address specific aspects of the consolidation of the three organizations. The potential consolidation aims to streamline operations and create a more cohesive effort to protect and manage Chautauqua Lake and the area’s watersheds.

“Our three organizations already work closely together, coordinate public communication and sit on each other’s boards. This meeting represents the next logical step in our efforts to protect and enhance our region’s natural resources,” said CLA Chairman John Ford. “We are excited to explore a more unified structure that could increase our impact and efficiency.”

The collaborative approach discussed at the meeting is motivated by a shared commitment to maintaining the ecological health of the region and addressing complex issues affecting Chautauqua Lake and its watersheds. “Protecting the integrity and beauty of Chautauqua Lake and our area’s watersheds is critical to the long-term ecological health and economic well-being of the Chautauqua region,” said CWC Board Chair Rebecca Nystrom. “Because a strong science base and a shared environmental ethic underpin the mission and work of each of our organizations, we are confident that collaboration will deliver valuable synergy and exciting new efficiencies in protecting and managing the lands and waters of our region.”

As the next steps unfold, members of a special joint committee will continue to explore the specifics of consolidation, keeping each entity’s unique missions and objectives in mind while working toward a more streamlined and effective structure.

“This venture provides an excellent opportunity to collectively take lake and watershed management to a new level, maintaining a healthy Chautauqua Lake and watersheds while strengthening the area’s economy,” said Douglas Conroe, executive director of the CLA.

By potentially consolidating resources and expertise, CLA, CWC and CCC will be better positioned to implement comprehensive programs, increase public awareness and optimize field operations for both immediate and long-term benefits to the Chautauqua Lake region.

“I am thrilled by the potential opportunity to bring three exceptional organizations together under what will be a strong shared mission,” said Whitney Gleason, CWC Executive Director. “By joining forces, we strengthen our ability to tackle environmental challenges, with both the accountability of a nationally accredited land trust and the powerful advocacy and global resources of a Waterkeeper. Together we can achieve a new level of impact for our lake, our watershed and the future of our community.”

As the territory’s current official Waterkeeper affiliate, the Chautauqua-Conewango Consortium serves as a voice for the protection of the region’s water in the Western Pennsylvania and Western New York service area, including Chautauqua Lake.

“This is exciting news. The consortium supports this process and will encourage the collective voice we can bring to the future of this region’s waters and watersheds.” said Jane Conroe, chair of the consortium.

Chautauqua Institution is also committed to pursuing sustainable, science-based solutions to improve the water quality of Chautauqua Lake.

“The agency is excited that these vital organizations are considering ways they can best mobilize together to use all we learn about Chautauqua Lake to implement science-based solutions for the lake’s present and future,” said Michael Hill, president of the institute. . “We are proud to be a partner with these organizations through our shared work in caring for Chautauqua Lake and its watershed and look forward to supporting them on this journey.”