Featured from Buffalo News  

As part of this year’s State of the State address, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul pledged to dedicate vital resources to help protect and rehabilitate some of our region’s most precious waterways – including Chautauqua Lake. 

This is welcome news for those who visit and make Chautauqua County their year-round home, but also for those who understand the importance of New York’s beautiful lakes to the state’s culture, ecosystem, and economy. Each is a vital part of our identity, and we applaud Hochul’s push for science-based conservation efforts to improve these treasures for generations to come. 

But to assure that this focus finds funding in the final budget, now is the time to educate lawmakers and the public about the state of our lakes, their impact on our lives, and how now’s the time to make their preservation a priority. 

Simply put, the state of Chautauqua Lake is significantly impaired. Thanks to 2023 findings from the Jefferson Project, we know that invasive weeds, harmful algae blooms, and an increase in nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations are threatening its future. 

Negating this threat is not only important for the body of water; it’s essential for our economy. According to the Chautauqua Institution’s Economic Contribution Analysis report (released in spring  2023), the economic impact of the tourism industry with the Chautauqua -Allegany region is nearly $600 million, including more than 11,000 jobs and a tax impact of more than $73 million. Much of this is attributed to attractions, resorts and recreation on Chautauqua Lake. As its water continues to deteriorate, so would the lake’s substantial financial benefit to its region and residents. 

Significant intervention from state, federal and nonprofit partners is now needed to implement comprehensive nutrient reduction strategies, study changes and work on a series of innovative initiatives to bring our cherished lake back from the brink. 

This starts with state funding for these measures. We hope that the state Senate and Assembly agree with Hochul’s desire to fund this project, and we look forward to working with her to ensure healthier, sustainable waterways for everyone. 

Dr. Michael E. Hill is president of Chautauqua Institution