welcome to summer on the lakes
June 2020
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We trust that you and your families are staying healthy and safe.
Summer is here! The water temperature is over 77 degrees and heading up.
We want to bring you up to date on several items of interest to the Bolton Lakes community.
Spring Seminar
Due to the continuing Covid-19 crisis we did not have a spring seminar. We hope that by the fall we will be able to have our usual meeting. We will let you know as the date gets closer.
Cyanobacteria Bloom This May
This spring (starting around May 19th) the lakes had an unusually high amount of visible algae, including significant cyanobacteria. Several submissions came in through the FBL Invasive Plant Reporting Tool (https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/report-a-suspicious-plant.html) reporting cyanobacteria blooms on both lakes. Some cyanobacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to pets and people. Last year FBL got a grant from the Connecticut Federation of Lakes to purchase a Cyanoscope testing kit. This spring Paul Weisser used the microscope and software to determine that the cyanobacteria in our lakes is primarily Dolichospermum. These cyanobacteria do produce harmful toxins. Other algae tests that FBL conducted showed the presence of Chlorella and Chlamydomonas; these are non-toxic green algae.
A dog playing in Middle Bolton Lake became sick and, after a blood test by a local vet, it was determined the dog had microcystin toxins, the toxin produced by cyanobacteria. The dog has recovered at home. The owner contacted the DEEP (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection) and the district health department. The water was tested, and the level of cyanobacteria was below the level that the state uses to determine if public advisory signs are needed. But, out of an abundance of caution, the state did post signs warning that people should be aware that there are cyanobacteria in the water, and they should not swim in ugly water. After the posting of the signs, the water was tested over a two-week period and each time the level of cyanobacteria was significantly below the level that is considered harmful. The signs were taken down.
The bottom line is that cyanobacteria are always in the lake. In the spring there is a combination of an increase in nutrients through over fertilizing, pollen and runoff from spring rains; the heating of the lake water causing a uniform water temperature distribution; high winds that cause the water in the lake to mix; and warmer weather. These create good conditions for bacteria to grow and when they grow exponentially there is a bloom. Don’t swim or let your pets play in water that looks green.
Since this algae problem has subsided both lakes have shown a remarkable increase in clarity. Secchi depth (the deeper the clearer) has been in the 4-meter range on the lower lake and 3.5 meters on the middle lake. Several residents have reported easily seeing both bluegills and bass forming spawning pools in the shallows off their docks. The channel catfish are still around, but our older fish populations may be making a comeback. While we enjoy the clear water, we must remember that aquatic plants respond to the increased light and will grow well. These plants produce oxygen, which is essential for the lake, but we must remain vigilant for the invasive species that clog the water and force out the good plants. Of high concern among these problem plants is curly leaf pondweed with its lasagna noodle leaves. Please keep an eye out for this one (as well as other suspicious plants) and report them as soon as you see them.
Semi-monthly Monitoring
FBL is once again doing semi-monthly monitoring of the lakes. If you are interested in joining us on the water to do testing, drop an email to us at fbl@friendsofboltonlakes.org and we’ll include you on our mailing list.
Article in the Boston Globe Magazine
On May 28th the Boston Globe Magazine published a wonderful article titled “Escape to these hidden lakes of New England” that included our Bolton Lakes. Jeff Harder’s article was well received; thank you to all the FBL members that provided information for the article.
Link to article
Membership Drive
Our membership drive is ongoing. So far approximately 50% of our membership from 2019 has rejoined in 2020; we also have some new members who joined this year. If you have rejoined, thank you. If you have not yet rejoined, we encourage you to do so using either our online form or by downloading, printing and mailing a membership form. Both options are available here:
https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/become-an-fbl-member.html
Change of address
FBL changed its email address to fbl@friendsofboltonlakes.org . If you have us in your contact list under the old email, please update the listing.
Welcome Brochure
We have updated the welcome brochure that we leave with the towns. It can also be found on our website. There is information about the lakes and how to be a good watershed citizen; it is informative reading even for long time lake residents. The link to the brochure is:
https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/uploads/3/0/0/0/30007939/welcome_brochure_2020_fbl.pdf
Monthly Board Meeting
Again, the FBL board urges each and every member to join the conversation at a monthly board meeting, held at 6:30 PM on the third Wednesday of each month. Currently we are convening the meeting online using ZOOM until the COVID19 crisis passes. Please let us know your interest and we will send you an invitation to the meeting.
Thank you,
The Friends of Bolton Lakes
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We trust that you and your families are staying healthy and safe.
Summer is here! The water temperature is over 77 degrees and heading up.
We want to bring you up to date on several items of interest to the Bolton Lakes community.
Spring Seminar
Due to the continuing Covid-19 crisis we did not have a spring seminar. We hope that by the fall we will be able to have our usual meeting. We will let you know as the date gets closer.
Cyanobacteria Bloom This May
This spring (starting around May 19th) the lakes had an unusually high amount of visible algae, including significant cyanobacteria. Several submissions came in through the FBL Invasive Plant Reporting Tool (https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/report-a-suspicious-plant.html) reporting cyanobacteria blooms on both lakes. Some cyanobacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to pets and people. Last year FBL got a grant from the Connecticut Federation of Lakes to purchase a Cyanoscope testing kit. This spring Paul Weisser used the microscope and software to determine that the cyanobacteria in our lakes is primarily Dolichospermum. These cyanobacteria do produce harmful toxins. Other algae tests that FBL conducted showed the presence of Chlorella and Chlamydomonas; these are non-toxic green algae.
A dog playing in Middle Bolton Lake became sick and, after a blood test by a local vet, it was determined the dog had microcystin toxins, the toxin produced by cyanobacteria. The dog has recovered at home. The owner contacted the DEEP (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection) and the district health department. The water was tested, and the level of cyanobacteria was below the level that the state uses to determine if public advisory signs are needed. But, out of an abundance of caution, the state did post signs warning that people should be aware that there are cyanobacteria in the water, and they should not swim in ugly water. After the posting of the signs, the water was tested over a two-week period and each time the level of cyanobacteria was significantly below the level that is considered harmful. The signs were taken down.
The bottom line is that cyanobacteria are always in the lake. In the spring there is a combination of an increase in nutrients through over fertilizing, pollen and runoff from spring rains; the heating of the lake water causing a uniform water temperature distribution; high winds that cause the water in the lake to mix; and warmer weather. These create good conditions for bacteria to grow and when they grow exponentially there is a bloom. Don’t swim or let your pets play in water that looks green.
Since this algae problem has subsided both lakes have shown a remarkable increase in clarity. Secchi depth (the deeper the clearer) has been in the 4-meter range on the lower lake and 3.5 meters on the middle lake. Several residents have reported easily seeing both bluegills and bass forming spawning pools in the shallows off their docks. The channel catfish are still around, but our older fish populations may be making a comeback. While we enjoy the clear water, we must remember that aquatic plants respond to the increased light and will grow well. These plants produce oxygen, which is essential for the lake, but we must remain vigilant for the invasive species that clog the water and force out the good plants. Of high concern among these problem plants is curly leaf pondweed with its lasagna noodle leaves. Please keep an eye out for this one (as well as other suspicious plants) and report them as soon as you see them.
Semi-monthly Monitoring
FBL is once again doing semi-monthly monitoring of the lakes. If you are interested in joining us on the water to do testing, drop an email to us at fbl@friendsofboltonlakes.org and we’ll include you on our mailing list.
Article in the Boston Globe Magazine
On May 28th the Boston Globe Magazine published a wonderful article titled “Escape to these hidden lakes of New England” that included our Bolton Lakes. Jeff Harder’s article was well received; thank you to all the FBL members that provided information for the article.
Link to article
Membership Drive
Our membership drive is ongoing. So far approximately 50% of our membership from 2019 has rejoined in 2020; we also have some new members who joined this year. If you have rejoined, thank you. If you have not yet rejoined, we encourage you to do so using either our online form or by downloading, printing and mailing a membership form. Both options are available here:
https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/become-an-fbl-member.html
Change of address
FBL changed its email address to fbl@friendsofboltonlakes.org . If you have us in your contact list under the old email, please update the listing.
Welcome Brochure
We have updated the welcome brochure that we leave with the towns. It can also be found on our website. There is information about the lakes and how to be a good watershed citizen; it is informative reading even for long time lake residents. The link to the brochure is:
https://www.friendsofboltonlakes.org/uploads/3/0/0/0/30007939/welcome_brochure_2020_fbl.pdf
Monthly Board Meeting
Again, the FBL board urges each and every member to join the conversation at a monthly board meeting, held at 6:30 PM on the third Wednesday of each month. Currently we are convening the meeting online using ZOOM until the COVID19 crisis passes. Please let us know your interest and we will send you an invitation to the meeting.
Thank you,
The Friends of Bolton Lakes
cyanobacteria warning lifted - lakes are fine 6/6/20
Both lakes were tested again this week for cyanobacteria and both lakes came back clean. The health departments that govern the lakes lifted the warning about letting children and pets swim in the lakes. The warning signs at the launches and other access points have been removed.
We will have a more complete discussion of what happened in the summer newsletter.
We will have a more complete discussion of what happened in the summer newsletter.
Algae Blooms MBL and lBL - not a current problem
Alert (5/29/20) from Kim Welch, Bolton Lake Commissioner:
Unfortunately both Lower Bolton and Middle Bolton Lakes have documented cyanobacteria algae blooms based on last week's water testing samples. As a result, the CT Eastern Highland and North Central Health Districts have recommended a health notice be posted. The CT DEEP has issued and posted the signs. The image shown below reflects the actual signs used for this purpose.
The lakes remain open for recreational activity but such activities should not occur where algae is visible. Keep dogs out of the water.
Cyanobacteria conditions can change rapidly, therefore weekly water testing will continue while algae is visible. This algae can produce toxins that could pose a health risk to people and dogs when they are exposed to excessive algae. While these algal conditions exist, please be alert and avoid areas with visible cyanobacteria or algae concentrations and/or scums in the water as well as on the shore and keep dogs out of the water. Please be aware that dogs tend to be more susceptible to cyanotoxins than humans because they often drink lake water and may lick their fur after swimming through a dense cyanobacteria accumulation, which concentrates cells in their bodies potentially resulting in a sick dog.
Regards
Kim Welch
Bolton Lake Commissioner
lake@boltonct.org
Here is a link to the Department of Health and DEEP guidance statement on cyanobacteria:
https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Departments-and-Agencies/DPH/dph/environmental_health/BEACH/Blue-Green-AlgaeBlooms_June2019_FINAL.pdf?la=en
FBL will send out more information next week once another round of testing has been completed.
Stay safe, stay lake vigilant and stay healthy.
Unfortunately both Lower Bolton and Middle Bolton Lakes have documented cyanobacteria algae blooms based on last week's water testing samples. As a result, the CT Eastern Highland and North Central Health Districts have recommended a health notice be posted. The CT DEEP has issued and posted the signs. The image shown below reflects the actual signs used for this purpose.
The lakes remain open for recreational activity but such activities should not occur where algae is visible. Keep dogs out of the water.
Cyanobacteria conditions can change rapidly, therefore weekly water testing will continue while algae is visible. This algae can produce toxins that could pose a health risk to people and dogs when they are exposed to excessive algae. While these algal conditions exist, please be alert and avoid areas with visible cyanobacteria or algae concentrations and/or scums in the water as well as on the shore and keep dogs out of the water. Please be aware that dogs tend to be more susceptible to cyanotoxins than humans because they often drink lake water and may lick their fur after swimming through a dense cyanobacteria accumulation, which concentrates cells in their bodies potentially resulting in a sick dog.
Regards
Kim Welch
Bolton Lake Commissioner
lake@boltonct.org
Here is a link to the Department of Health and DEEP guidance statement on cyanobacteria:
https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Departments-and-Agencies/DPH/dph/environmental_health/BEACH/Blue-Green-AlgaeBlooms_June2019_FINAL.pdf?la=en
FBL will send out more information next week once another round of testing has been completed.
Stay safe, stay lake vigilant and stay healthy.
covid-19
FBL reached out to both Vernon and Bolton leadership to ask if there is anything FBL can do at this time. Vernon was appreciative of the offer. Bolton asked us to pass along some information.
From Sandy Pierog, First Selectman, Town of Bolton:
"Thanks for the offer. Helping us reach as many residents as possible would be of great assistance right now.
You can ask your members to be sure they:
Stay safe, everyone.
The Friends of Bolton Lakes
From Sandy Pierog, First Selectman, Town of Bolton:
"Thanks for the offer. Helping us reach as many residents as possible would be of great assistance right now.
You can ask your members to be sure they:
- Sign up for CT alerts from the state at: www.ctalerts.gov.
- Sign up for the e-mailed Bolton Bulletin at https://bolton.govoffice.com/index.asp?SEC={76FAA039-AE70-4EDF-B2F4-3CA467479711}&Type=QUICKFORM.
- Watch for info on how to participate in public meetings from home on our web page bolton.govoffice.com .
- Check out our guide to doing business with the town during the health crisis- https://bolton.govoffice.com/vertical/Sites/%7B30EEBA3C-BE1C-42AE-911F-0E304A672785%7D/uploads/COVID19_Bolton_Operations_Manual_3.20.2020_12-00pm(1).pdf ."
Stay safe, everyone.
The Friends of Bolton Lakes
2020 membership drive
The 2020 membership drive has begun. We hope you will join us or renew your membership now. We continue to offer an online renewal option - you can renew by credit card or PayPal as an alternative to filling out and mailing a registration form. You can access these options with the "Join or Renew" link below.
We have tried to anticipate some of your questions in our Membership FAQs page at the link below (and in the menu). Because FBL is a registered public charity, many employers will match your membership dues and other contributions. We encourage you to apply for a matching gift if your employer offers one.
Join or Renew
Membership Frequently Asked Questions
We have tried to anticipate some of your questions in our Membership FAQs page at the link below (and in the menu). Because FBL is a registered public charity, many employers will match your membership dues and other contributions. We encourage you to apply for a matching gift if your employer offers one.
Join or Renew
Membership Frequently Asked Questions
winter newsletter
Over the last decade Friends of Bolton Lake hosted many educational and delightful events for our membership. The Officers and Directors of FBL thank all of you for your unabated support and your participation with your organization. It is the membership that keeps this organization afloat. As we embark on the next decade, I can report that the wind is blowing securely in our sails. This will be the decade of our organization’s formative years.
The FBL goals for 2020 are a bit aggressive but we are trying to get a foothold on the important issues of watershed management.
FBL continues to represent its members and 2019 demonstrated those efforts.
Please welcome Ute Winebrenner to the FBL board as its treasurer. I again urge and challenge everyone to stay involved with FBL and attend at least one monthly meeting during 2020. The meetings are held in the Notch Building 106 Notch Road, Bolton at 6:30 PM on the third Wednesday of each month.
We have lots of important goals to achieve this year; let’s achieve them together.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Happy New Year
David Forrest, President FBL
The FBL goals for 2020 are a bit aggressive but we are trying to get a foothold on the important issues of watershed management.
- Secure a fiduciary for a grant that will allow funding for developing a Bolton Lakes Region Watershed Plan.
- Continue to seek state funding for the Hatch Hill culvert [dam] renovation. The design was approved by Vernon and the DEEP Division of Dams and Dam Safety in 2018. The project permitting and State Bond Commission funding are two of the final steps in the process. There are many pieces to this request for proposal and FBL is poised to stay involved.
- Bring together the stakeholders of the Bolton Lakes Watershed to develop an effectively managed drawdown program. The program would promulgate a set of protocols for maintaining the seasonal water levels of the State-owned impoundments that lay within the Towns of Vernon and Bolton, CT. Further, the program would establish a long-term strategy that could mitigate the known upsurge of invasive plants and other non-native species that are infiltrating the lakes.
FBL continues to represent its members and 2019 demonstrated those efforts.
- FBL said goodbye to Joyce Stille, Bolton’s Town Administrator. She was a valuable asset to FBL and was supportive of many of the programs. Josh Kelly is replacing her and has pledged to continue support. FBL also said farewell to Paul Weisser, FBL Treasurer/Membership Chair/Communications Chair and to board member Jeff Phelon.
- The Connecticut Federation of Lakes awarded FBL a grant to purchase equipment that will monitor Cyanobacteria in the lakes and allow FBL to share data with a collaborative studying algae blooms.
- The Spring Seminar presented by UCONN faculty and their graduate student on the results of the Atlantic White Cedar deep soil sampling was well received.
- An FBL portal was developed for use by board members and those with need-to-know to offer a platform for maintaining a historical record of documents, photos and FBL institutional knowledge and governance.
- FBL supported HB6637 Boat Stamp Fee. FBL testified at the Environment Committee’s hearing in support of the bill. It was later passed by the legislature.
- The Annual Fall Forum was a workshop by the Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Station environmental research team. They demonstrated how to identify invasive plants in the lakes.
- Invasives such as fanwort and milfoil continue be on FBL’s radar. We are working to find ways for early detection and remediation methods. That includes the Suspicious Plant Reporting Tool on the FBL website. If you see something, report something.
- FBL continued to monitor and test the water quality and clarity in the Bolton Lakes and report the finding to the towns and North East Aquatic Research.
- FBL facilitated meetings with towns and state officials that resulted in the suspension of the 2019 stocking of channel catfish in the Lower Bolton Lake
- The Friends of Bolton Lakes are, in collaboration with the Bolton Lakes Watershed Advisory Committee, pursuing grants to create a management plan for the three Bolton Lakes and its watershed. We are working to obtain the cooperation of the four watershed towns; Bolton, Vernon, Tolland, and Coventry, the North Central Conservation District, and the Connecticut DEEP. We can report good progress toward this important goal.
- FBL was awarded second place in Bolton’s Christmas Tree challenge for nonprofits.
Please welcome Ute Winebrenner to the FBL board as its treasurer. I again urge and challenge everyone to stay involved with FBL and attend at least one monthly meeting during 2020. The meetings are held in the Notch Building 106 Notch Road, Bolton at 6:30 PM on the third Wednesday of each month.
We have lots of important goals to achieve this year; let’s achieve them together.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Happy New Year
David Forrest, President FBL
Friends of Bolton Lakes available on amazon smile
What is Amazon Smile? AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon with the same products, prices, and shopping features as Amazon.com. The difference is that when you shop on AmazonSmile, the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to the charitable organization of your choice.
You get to AmazonSmile by going to smile.amazon.com. The first time you go to the site, you can select a charity to donate to - in this case, Friends of Bolton Lakes. This does not change any of your other Amazon settings. You can bookmark smile.amazon.com to make sure you are using the smile website. You will see Amazon Smile in the upper left-hand side of the browser window. There is also a separate Amazon Smile app if you shop at Amazon from your phone.
Thank you. If you have any questions, please use the Contact Us menu selection.
You get to AmazonSmile by going to smile.amazon.com. The first time you go to the site, you can select a charity to donate to - in this case, Friends of Bolton Lakes. This does not change any of your other Amazon settings. You can bookmark smile.amazon.com to make sure you are using the smile website. You will see Amazon Smile in the upper left-hand side of the browser window. There is also a separate Amazon Smile app if you shop at Amazon from your phone.
Thank you. If you have any questions, please use the Contact Us menu selection.
sixth annual bolton lakes watershed community forum and member meeting at newhoca lodge - 10/22
The Sixth Annual Bolton Lakes Watershed Community Forum for the towns of Bolton, Coventry, Tolland and Vernon took place on Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at Newhoca Lodge, 195 Grier Road, Vernon, CT. The forum was well-attended. The FBL Board appreciates the interest of the community.
For the sixth year, the Friends of Bolton Lakes (FBL) brought together residents, town representatives and non-profit organizations to become better informed about and discuss the activities that improve and preserve the Bolton Lakes and its surrounding watershed.
The forum followed immediately after the Friends of Bolton Lakes annual members' business meeting, which began at 6:30 p.m.. All FBL members were invited to attend from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.. A by-law change was recently approved unanimously by the FBL Board. The change provides a more effective means to govern as Directors of FBL when scheduling conflicts arise. This change was approved by the FBL members in attendance. In addition, current directors seeking re-election and a new board member were approved.
The forum included the following:
If you have questions or comments, please use the Contact Us menu selection.
FBL Presentation
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station presentation
For the sixth year, the Friends of Bolton Lakes (FBL) brought together residents, town representatives and non-profit organizations to become better informed about and discuss the activities that improve and preserve the Bolton Lakes and its surrounding watershed.
The forum followed immediately after the Friends of Bolton Lakes annual members' business meeting, which began at 6:30 p.m.. All FBL members were invited to attend from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.. A by-law change was recently approved unanimously by the FBL Board. The change provides a more effective means to govern as Directors of FBL when scheduling conflicts arise. This change was approved by the FBL members in attendance. In addition, current directors seeking re-election and a new board member were approved.
The forum included the following:
- A brief update on the FBL activities during 2019;
- A presentation on techniques and processes to identify the aquatic plant population in the lakes;
- Briefings on the Friends of Bolton Lakes and the Bolton Lakes Watershed Conservation Alliance activities;
- Time for public discussion on lakes and watershed concerns;
- Light refreshments and social time to spend with your neighbors.
If you have questions or comments, please use the Contact Us menu selection.
FBL Presentation
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station presentation
Friends of bolton lakes has a new email address
Please be advised the the email address for Friends of Bolton Lakes has changed to fbl@friendsofboltonlakes.org. Because of this change, notifications from FBL may end up in your junk or spam mail. Please add this address to your contacts to ensure you don't miss any lake updates. Thank you.
Update on Aquatic plants in lower and middle bolton lakes
Aquatic plants are a necessary and natural part of the lake ecosystem. Many plants co-exist peacefully with other species and with the people that enjoy the lakes. Some, however, are invasive. While any aquatic plant has the potential to become a nuisance, invasive species are far more likely to do so. They out-compete native plants and can proliferate explosively to disrupt the ecology and recreational use of the lakes.
The attachment provides updated information on the aquatic plants in the Bolton Lakes with a focus on the invasive species found in the lakes. We also discuss two potential invaders, hydrilla and water chestnut. While they are not yet in the Bolton Lakes, they are present in nearby lakes and ponds and pose the risk of turning up here. We ask everyone to be on the lookout for them and report any sightings promptly.
Hydrilla is perhaps the most worrisome invasive plant. According to the Centre for Agriculture and Bio-Sciences International: “[Hydrilla] is one of the most troublesome aquatic weeds in the world.” Hydrilla has been found in the Connecticut river and in nearby Coventry Lake where it was discovered in 2015.
According to New York’s Invasive Species Information website, “[Water chestnut] can form nearly impenetrable floating mats of vegetation … [that] can severely limit light penetration into the water and reduce or eliminate the growth of native aquatic plants beneath the canopy.”
Water chestnut has been found in Vernon in Tankerhoosen, Dobsonville and Talcottville ponds. Because those ponds are so close, the risk of it finding its way to the Bolton Lakes is high. It is unrelated to the water chestnuts commonly used in cooking.
The document linked below has important information that should be of interest to all residents and lake users. It provides more detail on hydrilla and water chestnut and information on the other plants, currently of concern in the lakes. These include curly-leaf pondweed and mudmat in Lower Bolton Lake, and fanwort and variable-leaf milfoil in Middle Bolton Lake. It includes links to authoritative online information and tells how to report any invasive or suspicious plants you see.
Thank you for your interest in the Bolton Lakes and for any monitoring assistance you can provide.
Link to document containing updated information on aquatic plants in MBL and LBL
The attachment provides updated information on the aquatic plants in the Bolton Lakes with a focus on the invasive species found in the lakes. We also discuss two potential invaders, hydrilla and water chestnut. While they are not yet in the Bolton Lakes, they are present in nearby lakes and ponds and pose the risk of turning up here. We ask everyone to be on the lookout for them and report any sightings promptly.
Hydrilla is perhaps the most worrisome invasive plant. According to the Centre for Agriculture and Bio-Sciences International: “[Hydrilla] is one of the most troublesome aquatic weeds in the world.” Hydrilla has been found in the Connecticut river and in nearby Coventry Lake where it was discovered in 2015.
According to New York’s Invasive Species Information website, “[Water chestnut] can form nearly impenetrable floating mats of vegetation … [that] can severely limit light penetration into the water and reduce or eliminate the growth of native aquatic plants beneath the canopy.”
Water chestnut has been found in Vernon in Tankerhoosen, Dobsonville and Talcottville ponds. Because those ponds are so close, the risk of it finding its way to the Bolton Lakes is high. It is unrelated to the water chestnuts commonly used in cooking.
The document linked below has important information that should be of interest to all residents and lake users. It provides more detail on hydrilla and water chestnut and information on the other plants, currently of concern in the lakes. These include curly-leaf pondweed and mudmat in Lower Bolton Lake, and fanwort and variable-leaf milfoil in Middle Bolton Lake. It includes links to authoritative online information and tells how to report any invasive or suspicious plants you see.
Thank you for your interest in the Bolton Lakes and for any monitoring assistance you can provide.
Link to document containing updated information on aquatic plants in MBL and LBL
the american red cross has issued the following safety tips for a heat wave
- NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR PETS ALONE IN ENCLOSED VEHICLES.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
- Postpone outdoor games and activities.
- Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Check on those who do not have air conditioning, or who spend time alone.
- Check on animals frequently, and make sure they have plenty of cool water.
- Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household.
- Those without air conditioning should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day at places such as libraries, theaters, and shopping malls.
important notice - mbl herbicide treatment - friday 7/19 - water- use restrictions will apply
The Friends of Bolton Lakes has been informed that Middle Bolton Lake will be treated for variable-leaf milfoil this week on Friday morning, July 19th. As in the past, temporary water-use restrictions will be in place following the treatment. Please see the notice below and the link to the treatment poster for details.
NOTIFICATION OF AQUATIC TREATMENT
MIDDLE BOLTON LAKE – VERNON, CT
In accordance with the Connecticut DEEP, Pesticide Division notification requirements, portions of Middle Bolton Lake in Vernon will be chemically treated with US EPA/ CT DEEP registered herbicides to control nuisance aquatic plants on Friday, July 19th. The lake will be treated with Reward (Diquat). Do not use the water for the following purpose(s) until the date and time noted below: Swimming restricted until 1:00pm on July 19th, Livestock watering: July 21st, Direct Drinking/Cooking: July 23rd, Irrigation: July 25th. There are no restrictions for boating and fishing. These water use restrictions do not apply to wells situated around the lake. Prior to treatment, the lake shoreline will be posted with signs warning of these temporary use restrictions.
This work is being performed for the Town of Vernon. Treatments are conducted pursuant to permits issued by the CT DEEP. Information on the specific date of application may be obtained from the person named below. The treatment is being performed by the state licensed firm SOLitude Lake Management of Shrewsbury, MA. Contact: Dominic Meringolo (508) 865-1000.
Link to treatment poster
NOTIFICATION OF AQUATIC TREATMENT
MIDDLE BOLTON LAKE – VERNON, CT
In accordance with the Connecticut DEEP, Pesticide Division notification requirements, portions of Middle Bolton Lake in Vernon will be chemically treated with US EPA/ CT DEEP registered herbicides to control nuisance aquatic plants on Friday, July 19th. The lake will be treated with Reward (Diquat). Do not use the water for the following purpose(s) until the date and time noted below: Swimming restricted until 1:00pm on July 19th, Livestock watering: July 21st, Direct Drinking/Cooking: July 23rd, Irrigation: July 25th. There are no restrictions for boating and fishing. These water use restrictions do not apply to wells situated around the lake. Prior to treatment, the lake shoreline will be posted with signs warning of these temporary use restrictions.
This work is being performed for the Town of Vernon. Treatments are conducted pursuant to permits issued by the CT DEEP. Information on the specific date of application may be obtained from the person named below. The treatment is being performed by the state licensed firm SOLitude Lake Management of Shrewsbury, MA. Contact: Dominic Meringolo (508) 865-1000.
Link to treatment poster
2019 REQUEST FOR CHANNEL CATFISH LAKE MONITORING ASSISTANCE
The Friends of Bolton Lakes (FBL) is asking for your help in monitoring Channel Catfish in Lower Bolton Lake. The vigilance of FBL members and fishermen who reported smaller, possibly juvenile Channel Catfish in Lower Bolton Lake enabled us to alert the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to the possibility that Channel Catfish might be spawning in Lower Bolton Lake. Some Columbia Lake residents have reported that Channel Catfish might be spawning in nearby Columbia Lake.
DEEP suspended Channel Catfish stocking in Lower Bolton Lake after the severe algae bloom in 2012. Between 2007 and 2012, DEEP stocked over 17,000 yearling Channel catfish, a non-native species, into the lake. DEEP netted small Channel Catfish in Lower Bolton Lake during its September 2017 survey. DEEP testing to determine the age of the fish found that the fish they caught were spawned before 2012, the last year of stocking. Although DEEP agreed not to stock Channel Catfish into Lower Bolton Lake in 2019, DEEP wants to resume stocking next year in the spring of 2020. Last October, DEEP indicated that, if stocking is resumed, 700 adult fish might be stocked every 2 years, but nothing has been finalized.
Yearling Channel Catfish between 9 and 12 inches long were stocked into the lake from 2007 to 2012. The fish should grow at a rate of roughly 2 inches per year, but the growth rate has been less than this. Given that the most recent stocking took place in 2012, any Channel Catfish caught in Lower Bolton Lake less than 16 inches in length could have been spawned in our lake.
We are asking you to please forward any evidence you have of Channel Catfish spawning in Lower Bolton Lake.
1. If you observe any nesting sites of the Channel Catfish, please notify us and provide the location.
2. If you catch Channel Catfish less than 16 inches long, please take a photo and measurements to share with FBL, wrap the fish in aluminum foil, put it in your freezer, and contact FBL so we can have the channel catfish tested to determine its age. The smaller the fish, the more likely it was spawned in Lower Bolton Lake.
3. If you have observed a reduction of bass, pickerel or other fish populations in Lower Bolton Lake following the introduction of channel catfish, please email us and share your observations.
4. We are interested in feedback regarding your thoughts on the issue of resuming Channel Catfish stocking in Lower Bolton. Please send your photos, observations, and comments to FBL, friendsofboltonlakes@comcast.net.
You might find the illustrations below helpful in identifying Channel Catfish. Note that unlike Brown and Yellow Bullheads, Channel Catfish have a distinctly forked tail.
Thank you.
DEEP suspended Channel Catfish stocking in Lower Bolton Lake after the severe algae bloom in 2012. Between 2007 and 2012, DEEP stocked over 17,000 yearling Channel catfish, a non-native species, into the lake. DEEP netted small Channel Catfish in Lower Bolton Lake during its September 2017 survey. DEEP testing to determine the age of the fish found that the fish they caught were spawned before 2012, the last year of stocking. Although DEEP agreed not to stock Channel Catfish into Lower Bolton Lake in 2019, DEEP wants to resume stocking next year in the spring of 2020. Last October, DEEP indicated that, if stocking is resumed, 700 adult fish might be stocked every 2 years, but nothing has been finalized.
Yearling Channel Catfish between 9 and 12 inches long were stocked into the lake from 2007 to 2012. The fish should grow at a rate of roughly 2 inches per year, but the growth rate has been less than this. Given that the most recent stocking took place in 2012, any Channel Catfish caught in Lower Bolton Lake less than 16 inches in length could have been spawned in our lake.
We are asking you to please forward any evidence you have of Channel Catfish spawning in Lower Bolton Lake.
1. If you observe any nesting sites of the Channel Catfish, please notify us and provide the location.
2. If you catch Channel Catfish less than 16 inches long, please take a photo and measurements to share with FBL, wrap the fish in aluminum foil, put it in your freezer, and contact FBL so we can have the channel catfish tested to determine its age. The smaller the fish, the more likely it was spawned in Lower Bolton Lake.
3. If you have observed a reduction of bass, pickerel or other fish populations in Lower Bolton Lake following the introduction of channel catfish, please email us and share your observations.
4. We are interested in feedback regarding your thoughts on the issue of resuming Channel Catfish stocking in Lower Bolton. Please send your photos, observations, and comments to FBL, friendsofboltonlakes@comcast.net.
You might find the illustrations below helpful in identifying Channel Catfish. Note that unlike Brown and Yellow Bullheads, Channel Catfish have a distinctly forked tail.
Thank you.
Report on the Sediments Nearby the Atlantic White Cedars in Upper Bolton Lake - wednesday, may 22 - 7:00 p.m.
Given the north-to-south waterflow among the Bolton lakes, the health of the upper lake affects both the lower lakes. At 7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2019, at the Notch Road Municipal Center, 106 Notch Road, Bolton, recent UConn graduate Connor Mitchel and his faculty advisor, Will Ouimet, presented the results of their investigations into the sediments in the northern reaches of Upper Bolton Lake. The team made three visits to the lake. Following a reconnaissance visit in fall 2018, the team made two over ice-trips to collect through-ice cores and ground-penetrating-radar measurements.
The project was proposed to the Bolton Lakes Watershed Conservation Alliance (BLWCA) by Debbie Surabian of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. BLWCA, which facilitated the work, contacted Dr. Robert Thorson who arranged for UConn's participation.
The presentation was well attended. Additional information will be posted as available.
The project was proposed to the Bolton Lakes Watershed Conservation Alliance (BLWCA) by Debbie Surabian of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. BLWCA, which facilitated the work, contacted Dr. Robert Thorson who arranged for UConn's participation.
The presentation was well attended. Additional information will be posted as available.
Connor Mitchel, his UConn advisor Will Ouimet, and Peter Van Dine of FBL.
51st ANNUAL BOLTON LAKE SUNFISH REGATTA - 5/19
The Bolton Lake Sailing Club held their 51st annual sunfish regatta on Lower Bolton Lake Sunday, May 19th.
Link to more information.
Link to more information.
volunteers received lake monitoring training
FBL has had an active, ongoing, water-quality monitoring program for the Bolton Lakes since 2014. Now Northeast Aquatic Research (NEAR) has asked for our help in collecting additional data from Middle Bolton Lake. In turn, we requested volunteers to attend lake monitoring training in order to participate in our ongoing three-lake monitoring program.
The work involves taking measurements and collecting water samples in shallow water near the boat launch and spillway, and in deeper water. The intent is to learn more about the flow of nutrients between the lakes.
The Town of Vernon, understanding the importance of this work, sponsored a training session by NEAR for the volunteers. The training was held April 17th. Thank you to those who volunteered and attended the training.
The work involves taking measurements and collecting water samples in shallow water near the boat launch and spillway, and in deeper water. The intent is to learn more about the flow of nutrients between the lakes.
The Town of Vernon, understanding the importance of this work, sponsored a training session by NEAR for the volunteers. The training was held April 17th. Thank you to those who volunteered and attended the training.
Bolton Meeting to review Lower Bolton Lake held 3/25
On Monday, March 25th at 7:00 PM at Bolton Town Hall the Town of Bolton held a public meeting focused on Lower Bolton Lake. Dr. George Knoecklein of Northeast Aquatic Research presented the results of last year’s studies and follow-on plans for 2019.
Summary of the meeting
Meeting presentation
Summary of the meeting
Meeting presentation
Map available showing locations of curly-leaf pondweed in lbl
Winter Newsletter available
Annual bolton lakes watershed community Forum - Monday, 10/22
The Friends of Bolton Lakes held their Fifth Annual Bolton Lakes Watershed Community Forum at Bolton Town Hall on Monday, October 22.
Forum speakers included:
The FBL annual member meeting was held prior to the forum. Agenda items included election of directors and the annual treasurer’s report. Two board members had their terms extended - Shelly Jewell and Leona Crosskey. The members elected two new board members - Jason Seacat and Paul Senk.
The forum was well attended. The speakers were informative and there were lively discussions about the presented topics. If anyone is interested in committing some of your time and talent to working with the FBL on behalf of the community and the lakes, there are occasionally short-term projects where we need volunteers. Currently those include working on the rain garden, fall and spring clean-up, and boat launch ambassadors. Boat launch ambassadors educate boaters about checking their boats for weeds as they come into the boat launch areas. If you are interested in helping the FBL or if you are on the fence and would like more information, we urge you to contact us.
Presentations:
FBL Forum 2018
LBL Aquatic Survey
CT DEEP - Hatch Hill Dam and other projects
Forum speakers included:
- Shelly Jewell, President FBL, who presented FBL activities, accomplishments, and plans;
- Greg Bugbee, Principal Investigator in the Agricultural Experiment Station’s Invasive Aquatic Plants Program reported the results of their 2018 Lower Bolton Lake aquatic plant survey;
- Ray Frigon, Supervising Environmental Analyst in DEEP’s Water Planning and Management Division provided an update on the planned Hatch Hill dam improvements as well as information on their role in dam projects throughout the state.
The FBL annual member meeting was held prior to the forum. Agenda items included election of directors and the annual treasurer’s report. Two board members had their terms extended - Shelly Jewell and Leona Crosskey. The members elected two new board members - Jason Seacat and Paul Senk.
The forum was well attended. The speakers were informative and there were lively discussions about the presented topics. If anyone is interested in committing some of your time and talent to working with the FBL on behalf of the community and the lakes, there are occasionally short-term projects where we need volunteers. Currently those include working on the rain garden, fall and spring clean-up, and boat launch ambassadors. Boat launch ambassadors educate boaters about checking their boats for weeds as they come into the boat launch areas. If you are interested in helping the FBL or if you are on the fence and would like more information, we urge you to contact us.
Presentations:
FBL Forum 2018
LBL Aquatic Survey
CT DEEP - Hatch Hill Dam and other projects
find a suspicious aquatic plant? it is now easier to report it.
We have a new method for finding out what the plant is:
It is very difficult to completely eliminate invasive aquatic plants once they become established. As a result it is crucial that residents, fishermen, and boaters remain vigilant as they enjoy the Bolton Lakes on a daily basis.
If you spot an aquatic plant you suspect is non-native or invasive in Lower, Middle or Upper Bolton Lake, including Cedar Swamp, use our new Suspicious Plant page to report it.
Benefits of the new method:
Link to:
Connecticut’s Aquatic and Wetland Invasive Plant Identification Guide
Fanwort Identification Information
It is very difficult to completely eliminate invasive aquatic plants once they become established. As a result it is crucial that residents, fishermen, and boaters remain vigilant as they enjoy the Bolton Lakes on a daily basis.
If you spot an aquatic plant you suspect is non-native or invasive in Lower, Middle or Upper Bolton Lake, including Cedar Swamp, use our new Suspicious Plant page to report it.
Benefits of the new method:
- It's quick and easy.
- You can report a suspicious plant with your phone when you see the plant (take a photo and fill out the form on the FBL site) or by using your computer (upload a photo to the form on the FBL site).
- The suspicious plant form enables you to enter all required information to help identify suspicious plants.
- You should still gather the sample and refrigerate it in a ziploc bag with enough water to keep it moist in case follow-up is needed.
Link to:
Connecticut’s Aquatic and Wetland Invasive Plant Identification Guide
Fanwort Identification Information
lower bolton lake health advisory lifted
Kim Welch, the Town of Bolton’s Lake Commissioner, has announced that the Eastern Highlands Health District has lifted the health advisory on Lower Bolton Lake. The lake is open for all uses.
hatch hill dam
There was no construction in 2018. Bids will be taken this summer, and construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2019.
Middle bolton lake - no health alert - LBl alert still in effect
You may have noticed signs at the Hatch Hill boat launch and Newhoca Park announcing a health alert for Middle Bolton Lake. These signs were put up in error. There is no health alert for Middle Bolton Lake. Unfortunately, the health alert for Lower Bolton Lake remains in effect. The erroneous health alert for Middle Bolton Lake was also reported in the Journal Inquirer.
On September 6th the North Central Health District corrected the signage at the access points to Middle Bolton Lake and issued an updated health alert that correctly reports that the current algae bloom is confined to Lower Bolton Lake. While we discourage portaging over the dam from Middle to Lower Bolton Lake, the signage at Middle Bolton serves to warn lake users who might cross into Lower Bolton Lake unaware of the algae bloom there.
On September 6th the North Central Health District corrected the signage at the access points to Middle Bolton Lake and issued an updated health alert that correctly reports that the current algae bloom is confined to Lower Bolton Lake. While we discourage portaging over the dam from Middle to Lower Bolton Lake, the signage at Middle Bolton serves to warn lake users who might cross into Lower Bolton Lake unaware of the algae bloom there.
notice regarding lower bolton lake algae bloom 9/5/18
Kim Welch, the town of Bolton’s Lake Commissioner, has reported that the current bloom in Lower Bolton Lake is blue-green algae. This type of algae poses health risks to people and pets.
The complete text of the alert issued by the Eastern Highlands Health District is included below. Please be attentive to the lake-use restrictions spelled out in the alert.
More information on blue-green algae blooms can be found here on Connecticut’s Department of Public Health’s website.
The complete text of the alert issued by the Eastern Highlands Health District is included below. Please be attentive to the lake-use restrictions spelled out in the alert.
More information on blue-green algae blooms can be found here on Connecticut’s Department of Public Health’s website.
spring seminar wednesday may 23, 2018 - 7:00 pm
The Spring Seminar was held on Wednesday, May 23rd at 7:00 PM at the Notch Road Municipal Center, located at 106 Notch Road in Bolton. The seminar featured a talk by Cynthia Stevens of the Ball Pond Advisory Committee in New Fairfield, Connecticut. Cynthia described their experience with introducing sterile grass carp to control Eurasian Water Milfoil and Southern Naiad in Ball Pond.
In addition, the meeting included an update on the status and plans for addressing the fanwort found in Middle Bolton Lake.
Link to fanwort presentation
In addition, the meeting included an update on the status and plans for addressing the fanwort found in Middle Bolton Lake.
Link to fanwort presentation
lower bolton lake informational meeting March 29, 2018 7:00 p.m.
There was a public informational meeting on Thursday, March 29th, 7:00 P.M. at the Bolton Town Hall (222 Bolton Center Rd, Bolton, CT) regarding the continued work at Lower Bolton Lake. Consultant George Knoecklein of Northeast Aquatic Research reviewed 2017 activities and findings and future follow-up.
Click here to see the 2017 Lower Bolton Lake Report.
Click here to see the 2017 Lower Bolton Lake presentation.
Click here to see the 2017 Lower Bolton Lake Report.
Click here to see the 2017 Lower Bolton Lake presentation.
Tick populations on the rise - know what to do
As predicted, the tick population has increased. be aware of what to look for and what to do it you find a tick. The Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station provided an informative document.
CAES Tick Repellent Fact Sheetcaes_tick_repellent_fact_sheet.pdf
CAES Tick Repellent Fact Sheetcaes_tick_repellent_fact_sheet.pdf
AQUATIC pLANT sURVEY
The Friends of Bolton Lakes conducted their annual aquatic plant surveys of Lower and Middle Bolton Lakes on 7/20-21/2016. The surveys were performed from pontoon boats circumnavigating the lakes and following up on guidance from lake residents. The great majority of responses to our request for input came from Middle Bolton Lake residents whose concerns included the proliferation of milfoil, pondweed, lily pads, cattails, and phragmites.
The top-level finding is that at the time of the survey Lower Bolton Lake was generally clear of obstructive plants but Middle Bolton Lake has experienced prolific growth of both native and non-native aquatic plants.
The key changes noted in the Middle Lake are:
We submitted samples of the most prevalent pondweed in Middle Bolton Lake to both Northeast Aquatic Research (NEAR) and the CT Ag Station. Both identified the weed as Potamogetan Bicupulatus, also known as “snailseed pondweed.” Unlike milfoil this plant is not likely to spread through fragmentation but it is a prolific seed-producer. A link to a photo looking into one of its beds, taken by a lake resident, is below.
We forwarded our report to Joyce Stille and Kim Welch at the Town of Bolton, John Ward and Steve Krajewski at the Town of Vernon, and Dr. George Knoecklein and his team at NEAR.
Further, we requested that the Town of Vernon ask Dr. Knoecklein to look into the current Middle Lake situation as soon as possible to determine what may have caused the dramatic change in the conditions there and what might be done to address it.
The documentation of our surveys is attached. In the report you will find maps showing the routes taken on Lower and Middle Bolton lakes and tables of the plants spotted at each observation point.
Thanks to all who provided input to help focus our survey and for your continued support.
The top-level finding is that at the time of the survey Lower Bolton Lake was generally clear of obstructive plants but Middle Bolton Lake has experienced prolific growth of both native and non-native aquatic plants.
The key changes noted in the Middle Lake are:
- A significant increase in water clarity well above historical norms;
- widely distributed rapid growth of pondweed and re-growth of variable leaf milfoil;
- obstruction of some waterfront properties by phragmites/cattail beds and lily pads.
We submitted samples of the most prevalent pondweed in Middle Bolton Lake to both Northeast Aquatic Research (NEAR) and the CT Ag Station. Both identified the weed as Potamogetan Bicupulatus, also known as “snailseed pondweed.” Unlike milfoil this plant is not likely to spread through fragmentation but it is a prolific seed-producer. A link to a photo looking into one of its beds, taken by a lake resident, is below.
We forwarded our report to Joyce Stille and Kim Welch at the Town of Bolton, John Ward and Steve Krajewski at the Town of Vernon, and Dr. George Knoecklein and his team at NEAR.
Further, we requested that the Town of Vernon ask Dr. Knoecklein to look into the current Middle Lake situation as soon as possible to determine what may have caused the dramatic change in the conditions there and what might be done to address it.
The documentation of our surveys is attached. In the report you will find maps showing the routes taken on Lower and Middle Bolton lakes and tables of the plants spotted at each observation point.
Thanks to all who provided input to help focus our survey and for your continued support.
As a concerned group of citizens, FBL is dedicated to preserving our lakes (Lower, Middle and Upper Bolton Lakes) and watershed through research, education and public awareness. These lake ecosystems are major natural resources for the Towns of Bolton, Vernon, Coventry and Tolland. Sustaining their environmental quality is the joint responsibility of FBL, these Towns and the State of Connecticut.
Lake Emergency Contacts
To report boating accidents or illegal activity on DEEP property (Boat Launch) call the DEEP at
860-424-3333.
To report trespassing, illegal activity on Town property (beach at Indian Notch) call State Police Resident Trooper at 860-643-6060.
Sewer Emergency Contact info - BLRWPCA (Bolton Lakes Regional Water Pollution Control Authority)
Emergency number during Bolton Town Hall business hours: 860-649-8066 x6111
Emergency number off-hours: 860-375-0112
Routine questions or problems: 860--649-8066 x6111
Lake Emergency Contacts
To report boating accidents or illegal activity on DEEP property (Boat Launch) call the DEEP at
860-424-3333.
To report trespassing, illegal activity on Town property (beach at Indian Notch) call State Police Resident Trooper at 860-643-6060.
Sewer Emergency Contact info - BLRWPCA (Bolton Lakes Regional Water Pollution Control Authority)
Emergency number during Bolton Town Hall business hours: 860-649-8066 x6111
Emergency number off-hours: 860-375-0112
Routine questions or problems: 860--649-8066 x6111