LGLC Event Raises $230,000 for Land Protection Projects

For Immediate Release: August 1, 2017

Bolton Landing, NY – On July 28, 2017, more than 240 guests attended the Lake George Land Conservancy’s 18th annual Land and Water Conservation Celebration which brought in more than $230,000, exceeding the fundraising goal for the evening. All funds raised will go towards making a lasting and substantial impact on Lake George. Additional funds were raised through a lively silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and LGLC merchandise sales.

To date, the annual event, which is the LGLC’s primary benefit dinner and auction, has generated over $2.4 million towards the LGLC’s programs that protect the land that protects the lake. These funds have allowed the LGLC to purchase lands vital to protecting water quality.

Three significant land conservation projects that were specifically funded that evening include the Protection of Wing Pond within the Indian Brook/Northwest Bay Initiative, the Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob Preserve Restoration Project, and a new and exciting project in the south basin, East Brook at French Mountain.

Indian Brook
The Indian Brook/Northwest Bay Initiative focuses on protecting the land that protects the water quality of Indian Brook, one of the top ten tributaries of Lake George. Studies indicate that the tree canopy and streamside habitat of Indian Brook are currently substantially impacted.

Funds raised during the evening are going towards the protection of Wing Pond, a clean and pure body of water which flows directly into Lake George and is an invaluable resource for land protection. Nestled in the lands of Indian Brook tributaries, Wing Pond is a prime example of pristine land that protects the lake and a unique representation of the work of the LGLC. This parcel is also surrounded by state lands and is an ideal location for wildlife habitat as well as various species of flora and fauna.

Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob Restoration Project
This restoration project is made up of three phases, beginning at the base of the preserve and continuing to the summit with a holistic approach to preserve management. The first phase consisted of creating a solid base with a complete renovation and expansion of the parking lot at the preserve. The renovation is controlling erosion and limiting stormwater runoff, as well as limiting the number of visitors to the preserve in an effort to ensure the health of the land.

Improved educational signage represents the second phase of the project, which will enhance visitors’ understanding of the LGLC’s efforts watershed-wide. In addition, the signage will explain the Pilot Knob property’s key importance in protecting the lake and the unique ecosystems surrounding it. Finally, full restoration and hardening of the steep, overused trail will take place to prevent further erosion and to limit stormwater flow into the lake; this will also greatly decrease long-term maintenance costs and improve the overall condition of the preserve.

East Brook at French Mountain
The gala was successful in raising the $75,000 needed to purchase 12 acres that contains 500 feet of the main branch of East Brook before it flows into Lake George. Located at the base of French Mountain, East Brook is one of the major tributaries of Lake George and this valuable stretch of stream acts to filter water before it drains directly into the lake. The protection of this critical property will allow the land to continue preventing salt, septic and other storm water from entering Lake George at the sensitive Million Dollar Beach area. The LGLC’s action to protect this land presents an immediate, lasting and natural solution to protecting the lake’s water quality. By partnering with both a willing landowner, the LGLC will protect this pristine parcel and stream corridor from development while adding a positive resource to the town and economy.

These projects, as well as other ongoing efforts led by the LGLC are resulting in the permanent protection of stream corridors, shoreline, ridges and forests around Lake George, all of which help to protect the water quality of Lake George.

The LGLC thanks the many businesses, families, and individuals who participated by volunteering, attending, donating items for the silent auction, and generously contributing to the overall success of the evening. These names, as well as pictures from the event, are posted at https://lglc.org/events-and-programs/conservation-celebration.