The resolution supporting herbicide use passed at the March 13 Lakewood Village Special Board meeting, but the recent Post-Journal coverage highlighted a lengthy explanation for the singular “no” vote.

The dissenting information cited risks that only exist under extreme, unmanaged conditions to undermine what is actually a safe and highly regulated practice. Such misinformation stokes division in the community – a counterproductive dynamic that stands in contrast to the growing collaboration between lake groups. In the interest of clarity, I submit the following based on my participation on the CLP Board:

– Dedicated Resources: The CLP is an all-volunteer organization that is dedicated to improving the health of Chautauqua Lake. 100% of funds are directed to this goal, including engagement of certified professionals for herbicide management and world-class scientific oversight.

– Fiscal Economy: As a key part of an integrated management framework, aquatic herbicides are an effective and cost-efficient tool for controlling dense invasive populations. By reducing plant biomass chemically, we reduce the pressure on mechanical harvesting capacity, allowing our collective budgets and equipment to be used more effectively across the entire lake.

– Proven Effectiveness: Annual NCSU surveys show treatment generally leads to a decrease in invasive density and an increase in native plants. Even the 2025 Oneonta survey report – historically critical of herbicides – credits selective treatments with restoring native diversity in the south basin. Looking forward we hope to follow the Alliance-sponsored long term management strategy in cooperation with our sister lake organizations to achieve lasting results.

– Safety First: We primarily utilize premium products like ProcellaCOR and Clearcast, which are leaders in selectivity and environmental safety. All applications are professionally managed under the strict oversight of NYSDEC and detailed information is kept up to date on our webpage for public reference.

– Nutrient Cycling & HABs: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are driven by nutrients, heat, and still water conditions, not herbicides. By treating invasive species early in their life cycle, we prevent the massive natural die-offs of plants like Curly-leaf Pondweed in July, which would otherwise release far more phosphorus during peak bloom season. It should be noted that the Jefferson Project has not detected nutrient spikes that would support either event as a prominent driver.

– Commitment to Nutrient Reduction: The CLP initiated the original tributary studies that justified local sediment reduction projects. We eventually loaned our sensors to the Jefferson Project to avoid duplicating efforts, but our commitment to nutrient reduction remains a top priority.

To learn more, visit CHQLAKE.ORG.

Jackie Damore writes on behalf of the Chautauqua Lake Partnership board of directors.