A 15Th Anniversary Report About Lake Champlain's Restoration

PROGRESS 2006 A 15th Anniversary Report about Lake Champlain’s Restoration

WHAT’S INSIDE:

What’s a Basin? 1

Welcome 2

Local Connections 3

Monitoring & Research 4

Algae & Phosphorus 5

Human Health & Toxins 6

Nuisance Species 7

The Lake The Lake & You 8 Champlain Basin Lake Champlain Timeline 2-8 A look at key events since the Lake Champlain planning process began in 1990. Sutton QUÉBEC Philipsburg

Richford Chazy St. Albans

Plattsburgh ins

MountaStowe Burlington

Adirondack Lake Mountains Champlain Lake Placid Montpelier Elizabethtown What’s a Basin?

Green Port Henry Middlebury Lake Champlain receives more than 90% of its water from rain and snowmelt that washes over the landscape Ticonderoga into rivers that ﬂ ow to the Lake. This land is known as the SCALE Lake’s drainage basin or watershed. Lake Champlain’s 1 in. = 24 mi basin spans 8,234 square miles from the Adirondacks to 1 cm = 18 km Lake Rutland the Green Mountains. It includes portions of New York, George Vermont, and the Province of Québec. Pollutants on the landscape—like fertilizers, pesticides, oil, and sedi- Whitehall ments—are washed into the Lake via rivers. That’s why

Champlain we must include the land and waters of the entire basin Canal when protecting Lake Champlain. Learn about how you can help on page 8. NEW YORK VERMONT 2 Welcome

LCBP A partnership for Lake Champlain...

The fi fteenth anniversary of the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) is a great time to review our accomplishments and focus on the challenges to protect Lake Champlain. In the 1970s and 80s a growing awareness of the Lake’s pollution problems prompted research at University of Vermont and Plattsburgh State. Soon after, the Lake Champlain Com- mittee, a nonprofi t lake advocacy group, led the call for New York, Vermont and Québec to adopt common phosphorus reduction goals and to work together to achieve them. The 1988 Memorandum of Understanding, signed by the governors of New York, Vermont and the Premier of Québec, did just that and established Citizen Advisory Committees. To provide Federal funds to address pressing lake problems, the US Congress passed the Lake Champlain Special Designation Act of 1990, establishing the LCBP and mandating a comprehensive lake management plan. Opportunities for Action was fi rst endorsed in 1996. In 2003, the Plan was updated and endorsed by all the partners in New York, Vermont and Québec and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Since 1991, the LCBP has received federal funds, mostly through the EPA, to assist state and local governments, and non-governmental orga- nizations with plan implementation. The implementation is overseen by the Lake Champlain Steering Committee. Seven US federal agencies and the International Joint Commission are partners in our implementation efforts. The New York and Vermont governors and the Premier of Québec have increased the attention and support for our collective tasks as well. Our Congressional delegation is a powerful caucus for the lake, sustaining and expanding our funding. Through the LCBP’s local grant programs, nearly $3 million has enabled hundreds of The historic Crown Point bridge over Lake Champlain. organizational and community partners to improve the watershed. New research is under way at universities and colleges. Lake-wide monitoring, funded by LCBP, lets us know how the Lake is doing and guides our budgeting priorities. More citizens than ever before are changing their habits to keep the lake clean. Looking back on 15 years LAKE CHAMPLAIN of action, we are proud of our collective accomplishments. STEERING COMMITTEE This document highlights key events since 1990 through the timeline and more current issues are detailed in the main text. I hope you enjoy the reading, and that you will be inspired to help meet the on-going challenges to Ron Alvarado, USDA Natural Resources Conservation ensure a clean lake and healthy economy for the future. Service (NY) Randall Beach, NYS Dept. of Economic Development – Bill Howland Gerard Boutin, QC Ministère de l’Agriculture, des LCBP Program Manager Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation Eugene Brickman, US Army Corp of Engineers Une association pour le lac Champlain... Stuart Buchanan, NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Le quinzième anniversaire du Programme de mise en valeur du lac Champlain (LCBP) est le moment tout indiqué Gina Campoli, VT Agency of Transportation pour revoir nos réalisations et focaliser sur les défi s qu’il nous reste à relever pour protéger le lac Champlain. Dans les an- Canute Dalmasse, VT Agency of Natural Resources nées 1970 et 1980, la sensibilisation croissante aux problèmes de pollution du lac a donné lieu à des travaux de recherche à Mario DelVicario, US Environmental Protection l’Université du Vermont et à SUNY Plattsburgh. Un peu plus tard, le Comité du lac Champlain, groupe de pression à but Agency Region 2 non lucratif, a invité les États de New York et du Vermont ainsi que la province de Québec à adopter des objectifs communs Judith Doerner, USDA Natural Resources Conserva- en matière de réduction de la concentration en phosphore et à unir leurs efforts pour les atteindre. Le protocole d’entente de tion Service (VT) 1988, signé par les gouverneurs des États de New York et du Vermont et par le premier ministre du Québec, a justement Larry Forcier, University of Vermont concrétisé cette volonté et mené à l’établissement des comités consultatifs de citoyens. Afi n d’injecter des fonds fédéraux destinés à la résolution des problèmes urgents qui menaçaient le lac, le Congrès Buzz Hoerr, VT Citizens Advisory Committee and Edu- cation & Outreach Committee américain a adopté en 1990, la Loi sur la désignation spéciale du lac Champlain (Lake Champlain Special Designation Act), établissant le LCBP et demandant que soit mis en œuvre un plan exhaustif de gestion du lac. Le plan Perspectives Bruce Hyde, VT Dept. of Tourism & Marketing d’action (Opportunities for Action) a été endossé pour la première fois en 1996. En 2003, le Plan a fait l’objet d’une Ronald Jackson, NY Citizens Advisory Committee mise à jour et a été endossé par tous les partenaires des États de New York et du Vermont, le Québec, de même que par John Krueger, Cultural Heritage and Recreation la Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) des États Unis. Depuis 1991, le programme a reçu, principalement par Advisory Committee l’intermédiaire de l’EPA, des subventions fédérales, visant à soutenir les gouvernements des États et les autorités locales, David Lane, VT Dept. of Agriculture ainsi que les organisations non gouvernementales dans la mise en œuvre du Plan. Celle ci est maintenant supervisée par le Jean-Pierre Laniel, QC Ministère des Ressources Comité mixte sur la gestion du lac Champlain. Naturelles et de la Faune Sept agences fédérales et la Commission mixte internationale se sont jointes à nous en tant que partenaires des efforts Steven Lanthier, NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets de mise en œuvre. Les gouverneurs des États de New York et du Vermont et le premier ministre du Québec ont augmenté leurs préoccupations et support face à nos responsabilités collectives. Notre délégation au Congrès est un puissant interv- Daniel Leblanc, QC Ministère du Développement Durable, de l’Environnement et des Parcs enant en faveur du lac, en ce qu’elle veille au maintien et à la croissance des subventions allouées. Grâce au programme de subventions locales du LCBP, près de 3 millions de dollars ont permis à des centaines de partenaires organisationnels et Pierre Leduc, QC Citizens Advisory Committee communautaires d’améliorer le bassin hydrologique. De nouveaux projets de recherche sont en cours dans les universités et Kenny Miller, Mayor of Clarenceville, QC les collèges. Un suivi de la qualité de toute l’étendue du lac, fi nancé par le LCBP, nous tient au courant de l’état du lac et Gerald Potamis, US Environmental Protection Agency, nous guide dans l’établissement de nos priorités budgétaires. Les citoyens sont plus nombreux que jamais à modifi er leurs New England habitudes afi n de protéger la santé du lac. Lorsque nous jetons un regard sur les gestes posés au cours des 15 dernières an- Robert Reinhardt, NYS Offi ce of Parks, Recreation and nées, nous tirons une grande fi erté de nos réalisations collectives. Historic Preservation Le présent document résume l’évolution du LCBP à travers un calendrier chronologique représenté sur chacune des Dave Tilton, US Fish and Wildlife Service pages, et les préoccupations d’actualité y sont détaillées dans le texte principal. J’espère que vous aurez plaisir à en prendre Mary Watzin, Technical Advisory Committee and connaissance et qu’il vous inspirera à collaborer à l’atteinte des défi s constants que constitue le maintien de la santé du lac et University of Vermont d’une saine économie pour l’avenir. NOTE: Two local government seats in NY and VT are vacant and will be fi lled this fall. – Bill Howland Directeur de Programmes, LCBP

Lake Champlain Timeline... This timeline highlights key events, progress, and even setbacks (such as LCBP begins Champlain Basin the discovery of zebra mussels in the Lake), since the Lake Champlain Lake-Wide LCBP local grants funding water Education Initiative Basin Program planning process began in 1990. It is our hope that even Monitoring program begins chestnut removal established to provide Program begins. funding projects. more progress towards a clean Lake will be made in the future. on Lake. teacher workshops.

1990 1991 1992

Lake Champlain (LC) First LC Management First public input Special Designation Act Conference convenes LCBP-funded Lake meetings for Lake LCBP ofﬁ ce by US Congress calls for to begin the planning sediment toxins Champlain manage- opens in Grand a comprehensive Lake process. study by UVM and ment plan begin in Isle, VT. management plan. PSU researchers New York (NY) and begins. Vermont (VT).

IMAGE CREDITS: GARY RANDORF, LCBP PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM Local Connections 3

CBVBM Since 1992, the LCBP has awarded nearly $3 million in grants to local nonproﬁ ts and communities for cleaning-up streams, increasing lake and river access, preventing pollution, managing nuisance plants and animals, and revitalizing cultural heritage sites.

The LCBP’s grants are part of the total Vermont Section 319 Grants. In 2003, the federal dollars committed to Lake Champlain Vermont Clean & Clear Initiative was started since 1992. In 2006, roughly $9.7 million in to help fund the Lake Champlain phospho- federal funding will be used for programs ad- rus TMDL implementation (a plan to reduce ministered by the US Department of Agricul- phosphorus loads required by the US EPA). ture–Natural Resource Conservation Service, Quebec passed the 2003-2009 Phosphorus Re- Québec school children explore the Missisquoi Bay US Geological Survey, US Fish and Wildlife duction Action Plan, which conﬁ rms its priori- watershed through a program created by the Service, and the US Environmental Protec- ties for Missisquoi Bay. Private sources, such Missisquoi Bay Basin Corporation, an LCBP partner. tion Agency, among others. as the Waterwheel Foundation, support many The US Army Corps of Engineers began watershed projects as well. Linking to teachers, supporting watershed restoration projects in The LCBP’s local grants support many the Basin in 2004. Army Corps projects are recreational and cultural initiatives, such as students and parents underway in Lake George, Keene and Platts- Wayside Exhibits, Lake Champlain Bikeways, burgh, New York, and South Burlington and the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, and the Since 1992, 600 teachers have participated in the LCBP-established Champlain Basin St. Albans, Vermont. For more information, Lake Champlain Birding Trail. Improvements Education Initiative (CBEI). These educa- visit www.lcbp.org, or call 917-790-8727. to lake side trails, beaches, and boardwalks tors help students explore the watershed Learn about the LCBP’s federal partners at have also been funded. A new database at and participate in hands-on community www.lcbp.org/federal.htm. www.lcbp.org/grant_search.aspx will help lo- projects, thus creating a new generation The lake management plan, Opportunities cal groups share information about projects. of lake stewards. The students, in turn, for Action, also leverages many other state, The LCBP is also taking a lead role in teach their parents about the Lake. The provincial and local funding sources for Lake planning for the 2009 400th Anniversary CBEI partners are: Adirondack Park Visi- Champlain projects. Major sources include Commemoration of Samuel de Champlain’s tor Interpretive Center, Shelburne Farms, the 1996 New York State Bond Act and arrival to the Lake. Audubon Vermont, ECHO, Lake Champlain Committee, National Wildlife Federation, UVM Watershed Alliance, and Vermont DEC (Project WET).

Students in Québec are diving into Missis- quoi Bay issues through the “Clear Water Musketeers” educational program run by the Missisquoi Bay Basin Corporation. Since 2004, more than 420 students have participated.

The LCBP has operated the Resource Room within ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain since it opened in 2003 (and at its previous incarnation the Basin Science Center). This science museum and aquarium includes 100 hands-on interac- tive exhibits and over 60 native species of live ﬁ sh, amphibians, and reptiles. Visit www.echovermont.org or call 1-877- ECHOFUN.

The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum (LCMM) helps the public and students explore the Lake’s storied history and LCBP grants have supported many different types of projects in the watershed. Clockwise from upper nautical archeology. The LCBP helped fund left: Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, water quality an underwater survey by the LCMM that monitoring by the Missisquoi River Basin Associa- located more than 75 previously unknown tion, the Colchester Bike Causeway construction, shipwrecks in the Lake. Visit www.lcmm. and riverbank restoration on the Poultney River by org or call (802) 475-2022. the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps.

IMAGE CREDITS: LCBP, MRBA, LOCAL MOTION, VYCC

Lake Champlain Timeline... Citizens form the The LCBP helps fund Friends of the Wetlands acquisition a study of the Lake’s Lake Champlain Target phosphorus Zebra Winooski. By 2006, strategy starts with growing cormorant Basin Science Center levels agreed upon by mussels more than 36 water- LCBP funds. As of 2005, population—a concern opens on Burlington NY, VT, and Québec (QC) found in shed and river groups 8,000 wetland acres to anglers and wildlife waterfront. under Water Quality Lake. are active in the Basin. are protected. biologists. CORMORANT Agreement. 1993 1994 1995

LCBP-funded walleye and LC Bikeways begins. In The LCBP’s Economic Public input meet- Nonpoint pollution LC Paddlers Trail St. Albans Bay lake sturgeon studies are 2006, the network includes database study sum- ings for draft Lake study funded by LCBP begun by Lake phosphorus completed. a 363-mile route around marizes the value of management plan to identify sources of Champlain Commit- study the Lake and along the a clean lake to busi- attended by more polluted runoff. tee and Champlain completed. Kayak Club with Richelieu River to Chambly, nesses, residents, and than 600 people. LCBP support. QC, and 35 theme loops. local communities. LAKE STURGEON

IMAGE CREDITS: SEA GRANT, USFWS PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM 4 Monitoring & Research

LCBP Just like a doctor’s visit provides people with information for health decisions, Lake Champlain and its tributaries are monitored to as- sess their health. Scientists and citizens test the water, conduct ﬁ sh surveys, and monitor for hazards like blue-green algae toxins and invasive plants and animals. The LCBP relies on this data and research to inform all aspects of the program, from funding decisions to management actions.

Since 1992, the LCBP has funded lake- have changed dramatically over time due to wide water quality monitoring by the Ver- nonnative fi sh introductions, loss of spawn- mont and New York departments of environ- ing habitats and historic over fi shing. Trout mental conservation. Fifteen on-lake sites and salmon populations are recovering with and water near the mouths of 18 tributaries stocking, but walleye and sauger are declin- are sampled. Measurements taken include ing. Nonnative threats include alewife, which phosphorus levels, temperature, dissolved were confi rmed in the Lake last year, white oxygen, chlorophyll-a, phytoplankton (algae), perch and white crappie. Fish tissue is also zooplankton, and zebra mussels. Visit www. tested for PCB and mercury toxins. Read more A researcher takes a water sample to look for blue-green vtwaterquality.org/lakes/htm/lp_longterm. about the toxins in fi sh on page six. algae (cyanobacteria) on Lake Champlain. htm for more information. Québec agencies monitor Missisquoi Bay and its tributaries. QC MNRF In 2000, the LCBP and its partners began an Pike River extensive monitoring and research program for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) which 2 affect northeastern Lake Champlain. Read 1 more about these potentially toxic algae on Great Chazy 3 River Missisquoi page six. River Little Ninety-two fi sh species live in Lake Chazy River Champlain’s watershed. Assessing their health 5 4 Lamoille is important to both anglers and Lake scien- 6 7 River Saranac tists. A healthy fi shery also supports fi shing River tournaments, which in turn boosts the local 8 Salmon River economy. Fish catch surveys by the US Fish Little AuSable and Wildlife Service, the states, Québec, and River 10 9 Winooski universities indicate that fi sh populations AuSable River River 11 A scientist from the Québec Ministry of Natural LaPlatte Resources and Wildlife checks out a bowfi n. River LAKE CHAMPLAIN Boquet 12 Lewis Creek MONITORING SITES River 1 Missisquoi Bay Little Otter Lake and watershed research 13 Creek 2 Missisquoi Bay Central 3 Alburgh Center Although past programs, such as the Lake Champlain Studies Cen- Putnam Otter 4 St. Albans Bay ter at the University of Vermont in the 1960s, provided important Creek Creek data, research funding has increased since the LCBP sponsored its 14 5 Point au Roche fi rst study in 1991. Today, more than 60 LCBP-funded reports have 6 Cumberland Bay been published, covering topics from lake sturgeon to sea lamprey 7 Inland Sea to urban runoff control. Recent reports are online at www.lcbp. 8 Malletts Bay org/pubsdata.htm. 15 9 Burlington Harbor Numerous other entities perform and fund lake research, includ- 10 Main Lake Poultney ing the Lake Champlain Research Consortium, the Lake Champlain River 11 Shelburne Bay Research Institute at Plattsburgh State, UVM’s Rubenstein Ecosys- Mettowee 12 Diamond Island tem Science Laboratory, and the Adirondack Research Consortium. River Researchers from the University of Québec have contributed to our 13 Cole Bay knowledge of Missisquoi Bay. Since 1999, Lake Champlain Sea Grant The tributaries shown are monitored 14 Crown Point at their mouths. has connected the Lake to additional federal funding for research. 15 Benson Landing

Lake Champlain Timeline... Ben & Jerry’s “Phish Water chestnut plants NY’s Clean Water/ Food” ice cream debuts. found on South River LCBP sponsors the LC LCBP becomes ex-ofﬁ cio Clean Air Bond Act The band Phish donates (close to Missisquoi Bay). Maritime Museum’s member of the Federal begins funding LC their proﬁ t-share to Québec launches a quick underwater archeo- Aquatic Nuisance Species clean-up projects. clean-up projects in the and effective response to logical survey. Task Force. watershed. control the spread.

1996 1997 1998 WATER LC becomes a “Sister CHESTNUT LC Management LC becomes a Lake Champlain LCBP Ofﬁ ce in Lake” with Lake Ohrid in Plan, Opportunities “Sister Lake” to Byways begins with Grand Isle burns, Macedonia and Albania. for Action signed by Lake Toba in funds from the following the ice Lake Champlain Maritime Museum By 1998, the LC planning Governors of NY and Indonesia. Federal Highway storm. raises an anchor from the HMS Con- process is recognized as VT and the US EPA. Administration. ﬁ a n c e , which fought in the Battle of a world-wide model for Plattsburgh (War of 1812). cooperation.

IMAGE CREDITS: LCBP, BEN & JERRY’S, VT DEC PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM Algae & Phosphorus 5

In 2009, the region will commemorate the 400th Anniversary of What are the top priorities* the arrival of the explorer, Samuel de Champlain. This same year for Lake Champlain? is also the target for Vermont and Québec to meet their phosphorus • Phosphorus inputs must be reduced to reduction goals. Although the public commitment to reach this goal is decrease the impact of algal blooms on stronger than ever, adequate funding for effective actions is essential. people and aquatic animals. • Toxic contamination must be prevented Algae blooms and aquatic plant growth in to protect public health and ecosystems. the Lake are exacerbated by too much of the • Risks to humans from water-related nutrient phosphorus. The bays and segments health hazards, such as blue-green algae, of the Lake are monitored to see if they meet pathogens and mercury/PCBs in fi sh, must the water quality targets for phosphorus that be minimized. were agreed upon by New York, Vermont and Québec in 1993. Although many conditions, • Aquatic nuisance species must be such as shallow, warm water contribute to managed and controlled to reduce their algal blooms, as phosphorus levels go down Fertilizer—whether it’s from spread. New introductions should be pre- cow manure or lawncare runoff vented. these blooms should eventually decrease. —contributes to the Lake’s Today, about 90% of the phosphorus phosphorus problem. enters the Lake from the landscape—lawn and agricultural fertilizers are common QUÉBEC MISSISQUOI BAY sources. Only 10% is from wastewater 2001-05 Average = 45 Target = 25 (sewage) treatment plants, compared to ISLE LA MOTTE 2001-05 Average = 14 30% when the LCBP started in 1991. The Target = 14 total wastewater phosphorus discharge ST. ALBANS BAY from plants in Vermont and New York is 2001-05 Average = 30 below the lake-wide limit set in the 2002 Target = 17 How is the Lake doing? Lake Champlain Phosphorus TMDL (a plan CUMBERLAND BAY Can I Swim in Lake Champlain? Can I Eat the to reduce phosphorus loads required by the 2001-05 Average = 12 NORTHEAST ARM US EPA), although treatment upgrades are Target = 14 2001-05 Average = 20 Fish? What about blue-green algae, zebra Target = 14 mussels, water chestnut…? These are ques- still needed at some facilities. In Québec, tions the LCBP often hears from the public. water cleanup programs have enabled eight Last year, we issued the State of the Lake municipalities in the Missisquoi watershed MAIN LAKE MALLETTS BAY 2001-05 Average = 11 2001-05 Average = 9 2005 to answer 20 common questions. to build wastewater treatment facilities at a Target = 10 Target = 10 Read it at www.lcbp.org/lcstate.htm or call cost of $24 million (previously the resi- 800-468-5227 for your copy. dents used septic). *Highest four priorities listed in the management Reducing phosphorus runoff from BURLINGTON BAY PORT HENRY 2001-05 Average = 13 plan for Lake Champlain. agricultural sources, back roads, and sub- 2001-05 Average = 15 Target = 14 Target = 14 urban/urban areas is now the priority. For IMAGE CREDITS:LCBP, PUGET SOUND ACTION TEAM example, the LCBP continues to support SHELBURNE BAY a program to help New York farms access 2001-05 Average = 13 funding for runoff management. New 2006 SOUTH LAKE A Target = 14 funding from the International Joint Com- 2001-05 Average = 39 Target = 25 PHOSPHORUS REDUCTION mission will be used to help small farms in AVERAGE, STATUS AND TRENDS the Missisquoi watershed create nutrient OTTER CREEK 2001-05 Average = 14 management plans. A recent LCBP-funded Target = 14 This graphic illustrates progress towards project by the National Wildlife Federa- SOUTH LAKE B reducing phosphorus levels in Lake Cham- 2001-05 Average = 53 tion developed a manual for towns about Target = 54 plain to meet the water quality targets. the links between residential and commer- Based on 2001-05 data, three lake seg- All data is in ments always met targets (Cumberland cial growth, water quality and stormwater micrograms/liter discharge. In 2005, the City of South Bur- Bay, Shelburne Bay and Burlington Bay) NY VT and four never met targets (Missisquoi lington created the Basin’s fi rst stormwater Bay, St. Albans Bay, Northeast Arm and utility to manage runoff. 5- YEAR Never met Sometimes Always met STATUS targets met targets targets South Lake A). Trend analyses from 1990- The LCBP is also funding a land use 2005 show that nine segments have no change study to update the phosphorus TREND Phosphorus No trend Phosphorus increasing detected decreasing signifi cant trends (yellow wavy line), three loading estimates for different land uses in segments have increasing phosphorus NOTE: The 5-year status is whether the segment never, sometimes, or always met its the Basin (agriculture, forest, urban). targets from 2001-2005. The trend is based on a statistical analysis from 1990-2005. (red up arrow) and one segment has de- The data is from the LCBP/VTDEC Long-Term Monitoring Program. creasing phosphorus (green down arrow).

BLACK-CROWNED CWICNY forms to Cumberland Bay Lake Champlain Timeline... NIGHT HERON assist NY farms with remediation removes more than 140,000 Blue-green algae toxins LCBP begins pollution prevention. tons of PCB-contami- reported in Lake after two U. of Vermont Wayside Exhibit Rubenstein State of VT River nated sludge from dogs die from ingesting LC Birding Interpretive Ecosystem Science Basin Planning the Bay’s bottom at a algae. Severe blooms Trail is Signage Program. Laboratory opens. Initiative begins. cost of $35 million. found in Missisquoi Bay. established. 1999 2000 2001

National Park Service Valcour Bay Champlain 2000 LC Sea Grant Approval of the LC Basin First targeted heritage corridor study Research news series by WPTZ begins in NY Aquatic Nuisance Species phosphorus of the Champlain Valley Project raises a begins. In 2006, this and VT. Management Plan makes reductions reached, released. cannon used in award-winning series the LC Basin eligible for mostly through the 1776 Battle runs as Champlain USFWS funds for control sewage treatment Missisquoi Bay Basin Corporation of Valcour for Connection. programs. plant upgrades. starts in Québec. restoration.

IMAGE CREDITS: USFWS, LCBP PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM 6 Human Health & Toxins

LCBP With its 2003 update of the management plan, the LCBP responded to the public by elevating water-related health hazards to a high priority concern for lake management. Preventing pollution from toxins continues to be a high priority and steps are being taken to understand and prevent new sources of toxins.

QC MDDEP In 1991, the LCBP funded a Lake Cham- plain sediment toxins study by University of Vermont and Plattsburgh State researchers. It showed that Cumberland Bay, Outer Malletts Bay and Burlington Harbor all exceeded federal guidelines. In 2001, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) completed dredging PCBs (poly- chlorinated biphenyls) from Cumberland Bay (off Plattsburgh). Recent data shows a decline Blue-green algae at its worst. This bloom About 54 public beaches and countless private beaches in PCB levels in the sediment. It is likely that developed in August 2005 on Missisquoi Bay. dot Lake Champlain’s shoreline. Communicating accurate the PCB-related consumption advisories in information about health risks is a top priority of the Lake brown bullhead, American eel and yellow management plan. perch will be lifted, once fi sh tissue samples are analyzed for PCB levels. Pollution preven- Swimming and fi shing in tion work is on-going in Outer Malletts Bay PCBS IN CUMBERLAND BAY and Burlington Harbor. Lake Champlain SEDIMENTS BEFORE AND Many programs prevent pollution AFTER DREDGING In 1999, blue-green algae toxins became a from ever reaching the Lake. NYSDEC’s public concern when two dogs died from This graphic illustrates the PCB levels found in “CleanSweep” program works with businesses poisoning. To date, these blooms have sediment samples from Cumberland Bay, before and farmers to safely dispose of pesticides. been problematic mainly in the north- and after dredging. In the before graphic, 22 sites Other successes include mercury thermometer eastern part of the Lake. To understand exceeded 50 parts/million of PCBs. Afterwards, exchanges, helping farmers to safely exchange blue-green algae sources and communi- no sites were found to be that high and only one old mercury manometers for new electronic cate risks to the public, the LCBP and its site was in the range of 15-20 parts/million. devices, and outreach to dentists about safely partners began extensive monitoring and research in 2000. Monitoring summaries BEFORE DREDGING: PCBs in core samples disposing mercury. Mercury is the most com- in parts/million (ppm) mon toxic contaminant in the Basin. for all of Lake Champlain are posted on the Vermont Department of Health (www. < 10 ppm In 2005, the LCBP initiated a collabora- healthvermont.gov) for swimmers and oth- 10 -15 ppm tion of scientists to investigate “new genera- er Lake users. Another health department 15 - 20 ppm tion toxins” in the Lake. These potential program is working with Town Health 20 - 50 ppm toxins include pharmaceuticals, personal care offi cers to test for blue-green algae toxins. > 50 ppm products, common fi re retardants, and even Québec also routinely monitors Missisquoi caffeine. The work-group will also develop a Bay and posts advisories. comprehensive lake-wide toxic management plan. More public information is also now avail- During 2006 and 2007, the US Geologi- able about hazards from pathogens, such Wilcox dock cal Service will screen some locations on the as E. coli. For example, Burlington, South breakwater Lake for these toxins. Another LCBP-funded Burlington, and the Town of Colchester post beach closure information online AFTER DREDGING: Cumberland study is researching the impacts of agricultural (visit www.lcbp.org/swim.htm for links). Bay herbicides on Lake Champlain. Fishing is usually great on the Lake, but Lake people should be cautious about how Champlain much fi sh they eat, especially women of childbearing age and children. Vermont, New York and Québec monitor fi sh for mercury and PCB toxins. The results are used by health departments for the Lake’s fi sh consumption advisories (online at YELLOW PERCH Wilcox dock www.lcbp.org/fi shadvs.htm).

breakwater DATA SOURCE: NYSDEC

Lake Champlain Timeline... The Windmill Point lighthouse in Alburgh, ECHO at the NY Hudson- VT is relit. By 2004, all of Cormorant Fulton-Champlain VT’s Clean and Clear VT accepts 60% and QC accepts Leahy Center LC’s historic lighthouses control starts Quadricentennial Action Plan begins to 40% of the responsibility for for Lake are relit and replicas are on some LC Commission fund the Lake Champ- reducing phosphorus loads to Champlain installed on Burling- islands. begins. lain phosphorus TMDL Missisquoi Bay under new opens. ton’s breakwater. requirements. agreement. 2002 2003

Update of Opportunities VT and QC agree to Clean Marine The Daniel Patrick Moynihan The Lake Champlain for Action management accelerate phosphorus Engine Initiative Lake Champlain Basin Program phosphorus TMDL plan endorsed by NY, reduction efforts, with for LC signed to Act of 2002 authorizes funds is ﬁ nalized by the VT, QC, and US EPA. It is the goal of meeting promote the sale of up to $11 million/year to VTDEC and NYSDEC printed in French and them by 2009. of less-polluting continue the implementation and submitted to the English. QC enacts its Phosphorus engines. of Opportunities for Action. US EPA. Reduction Action Plan for Missisquoi Bay. IMAGE CREDITS: SID COUCHEY/CUMBERLAND HEAD TOMORROW PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM Nuisance Species 7

LCBP Although nuisance species like Eurasian watermilfoil and water chestnut have thrived in parts of Lake Champlain for decades, the terms exotic species and nonnative became household words with the arrival of zebra mussels in 1993. Today, the LCBP and its partners are working to manage the spread and impact of six priority nonnative species and prevent the introduction of many more.

As of 2006, zebra mussels are found in decreased the Lake acreage that needs me- nearly all of Lake Champlain, but fortunately chanical harvesting. In 2005 and 2006, spo- they have only spread to two inland lakes in radic water chestnut infestations were found A harvester loaded with water chestnuts motors to in the north Lake in Vermont and Québec. a launch where the plants will be loaded onto dump the Basin (Lake George and Lake Bomoseen). trucks and hauled away for composting. Outreach about identifying zebra mussels and Fortunately, quick responses were launched other exotics, as well as information about to remove the plants, thanks to coordination boat washing to prevent the spread of these among the programs and volunteers. What nuisance species plants and animals, is a major goal of the Lake In 2005, alewives were found in the Lake. cause the most problems? Champlain Basin Aquatic Nuisance Species Biologists and anglers are concerned that Management Plan (2005). This plan makes the this exotic ﬁ sh will threaten native forage Species already in or on the shore of Basin eligible for funding from the US Fish and game ﬁ sh. In 2006, an LCBP workshop Lake Champlain: and Wildlife Service for control programs. invited representatives from other alewife- Since its inception, the LCBP, along with infested lakes to discuss possible impacts here Alewife Eurasian watermilfoil the US Army Corps of Engineers, Vermont (summary available at www.lcbp.org). Next Zebra mussel Japanese knotweed and New York, has funded water chestnut summer, the LCBP will fund a boat-launch Purple loosestrife Water chestnut control by the Vermont DEC and The Nature steward program to prevent the further spread Conservancy. Consistent funding has greatly of all invasive species in and out of the Basin. Potential invaders to the Lake:

Eurasian ruffe Round goby SMELT Hydrilla Quagga mussel Rusty crayfi sh Fishhook water fl ea Spiny water fl ea

Photos and proﬁ les of these plants and animals are online at www.lcbp.org/nuis- sum.htm.

ALEWIFE What about sea lamprey?

The Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program coordinates Phrag- Although certainly a nuisance, recent re- mites (left) and other invasive plant removal from sensitive habitats. A diet of invasive alewife instead of native smelt may cause repro- search suggests sea lamprey may be native ductive failure in lake trout and Atlantic salmon (above). to the Lake, having been left here by the IMAGE CREDITS: LCBP, B. PIENTKA Champlain Sea, some 10,000 years ago. A control program led by the Lake Champ- Native plants and animals lain Fish and Wildlife Cooperative continues to manage their populations. Research USFWS More than 300 birds, 20 amphibian, and 56 mammal funded by the LCBP has also investigated species, as well as many rare plant communities live in the feasibility of several non-chemical al- the Lake Champlain watershed. Some animal species ternatives, such as nest raking and stream are faring well, including the common loon, peregrine barrier dams. falcon and osprey, which were recently removed from Vermont’s endangered and threatened species list. Other species, such as native mussels, are severely threatened by nonnative species. Fragile habitats are SEA LAMPREY also threatened by aggressive nuisance plants. COMMON LOON The LCBP is a member of the Lake Champlain Ecosystem Team, which is comprised of experts from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, state and provincial wildlife agencies, nonproﬁ ts, and university researchers. This “team” meets regularly to address emerging threats to native species and to consider how lake management activities affect the entire Lake ecosystem.

Lake Champlain Timeline... The International Middlebury College National Wildlife Joint Commission unveils a new depth Federation and The City of South US Army Corps recommends map of LC, which uses Reciprocal NY-VT partners begin Burlington creates begins funding removing the data taken during the ﬁ shing license for bald eagle restora- the Basin’s ﬁ rst watershed resto- Missisquoi Bay underwater survey. LC enacted. tion near Lake stormwater utility. ration projects. causeway. Champlain.

2004 2005

The Lake Cham- VT Lake Champlain LC Maritime Navy Memorial LCBP Releases Alewife ﬁ sh New Missisquoi plain Committee Quadricentennial Museum launches dedicated on State of the conﬁ rmed in Lake. National Wildlife initiates voluntary Commission meets canal boat replica Burlington Lake report. Refuge visitor Lake Protection in Burlington. Lois McClure. waterfront. The Nature Conservancy center opens. Pledge campaign. releases a Lake Champlain SAMUEL DE biodiversity plan. CHAMPLAIN IMAGE CREDITS: LCBP, USFWS PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM 8 The Lake & You

MRBA From volunteer watershed groups, to farmers reducing runoff to waterways, to new state and federal programs, there is promise for the future. Lake Champlain, however, is a complicated ecosystem, and it will take time to respond to clean-up efforts. Commitments must continue and grow to tackle the major issues facing the Lake.

The LCBP and its partners are committed 7. Inspect Your Boat: Remove mud, plants to continue implementing the management and animals from boats and trailers between plan and issuing reports, such as this one, to launches and sanitize the bilge to keep nui- detail our progress. The commitment to the sance species from spreading.

Lake, however, begins with area residents, LGWC business owners and visitors. Try these ten River clean-ups, like this one by the Missisquoi River Basin simple tips at home and at the water: Association, are great volunteer opportunities for all ages.

1. Test Your Turf: Test your lawn and garden before you fertilize. You may need less than Citizen voices for the Lake you think or none at all! The LCBP is advised by three “Citizen 2. Make a Dish-wash Switch: Most automat- Advisory Committees (CACs)” in New York, ic dishwashing detergents still contain phos- Vermont and Québec. These volunteers phorus. Switch to a phosphate-free version. have led the charge on many Lake initiatives. For example, the New York CAC fi rst 3. Look for Leaks: Leaking oil, anti-freeze called for a reciprocal New York/Vermont fi shing license on the Lake and in 2003 it and gas can pollute the Lake, so keep your The Lake George Watershed Conference created this boat became a reality. The Vermont CAC advo- engines tuned and recycle your oil. wash station to help boaters prevent the spread of nuisance cated strongly for the 2009 phosphorus species to Lake George. Boaters can also clean their boat at home before moving it between waterbodies. reduction target. Québec’s CAC is linking 4. Leave it on the Lawn: Let your mowed Vermont and Québec farmers to share ex- grass clippings serve as mulch. This adds nutri- pertise on pollution reduction. All CAC and ents and decreases the need for watering. 8. Scoop the Poop: Pick up pet waste and LCBP meetings are open to the public. throw it in the trash or toilet to keep it from 5. Check the Septic: If not properly main- washing into the Lake. Contact the LCBP tained, your septic system may pollute the Lake with harmful E. coli bacteria. 9. Don’t Trash Toxics: Look for key words Contact us to stay current with LCBP proj- like, Warning! Danger! Poison! Caution! on ects, read our newsletter, fi nd more details about the programs in this publication, or household products, including cleaners, 6. Only Rain in the Stormdrain: Never pour share your concern about the Lake! any fl uids into stormdrains—many drain di- paints, bug sprays, and hobby supplies. Take rectly into waterways. these items to a hazardous waste depot—do MAIN OFFICE not throw them into your regular trash! 54 West Shore Road Grand Isle, VT 05458 10. Get Involved: Volunteer with a local Phone: 800-468-5227 or 802-372-3213 watershed group and attend public meetings Website: www.lcbp.org about water issues—let your love of the Lake Email: [email protected] be heard! LCBP RESOURCE ROOM AT ECHO 1 College St. Burlington, VT 05401 Phone: 802-864-1848 ext. 109 Vermont farmers have been visiting (open weekdays & weekends) agricultural clubs in Québec to learn about how they can form similar sustain- able agriculture clubs in Vermont to better protect water quality. CBVBM

A ﬁ fteenth anniversary celebration for the Lake Champlain Basin PROGRESS 2006 WAS PRODUCED UNDER US EPA GRANT #X7-97105501-0, IN Program and its partners will be held on the afternoon of October COOPERATION WITH THE NEW ENGLAND INTERSTATE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL COMMISSSION (NEIWPCC). ADDITIONAL COPIES PROVIDED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF 20th. For more details contact the LCBP or visit www.lcbp.org. THE US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS. THE VIEWS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE POSITIONS OF THE US EPA, THE USACOE, OR NEIWPCC. DESIGN: NICOLE BALLINGER, LCBP PUBLICATION DATE: 10/06

Lake Champlain Timeline...

$300,000 in funds to Draft Strategic NY Governor proclaims Looking ahead... support Missisquoi Bay Plan for VT Lake annual Adirondack Park clean-up appropriated Champlain Quad- Invasive Species Aware- The LCBP will continue its vital role coordinating the Opportuni- by International Joint ricentennial Com- ness Week the second Commission. mission released. week of July. ties for Action implementation. Upcoming efforts include taking a lead role in the Quadricentennial Commemoration of the 400th 2006 anniversary of Samuel de Champlain’s 1609 exploration of the EURASIAN Lake and working with Vermont and Québec on the accelerated WATERMILFOIL phosphorus reduction timeframe. The LCBP will also work with its LCBP’s ﬁ rst annual LC partners to identify and reduce toxins, communicate health risks Farm Award recognizes Governor proclaims pollution prevention annual Vermont Clean to the public, and stop the spread of nuisance species through on three farms in NY, Water Day the second rapid responses to new infestations. VT, and QC. Saturday of every June.

IMAGE CREDITS: LCBP, VTDEC PROGRESS 2006 - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM