FBL WINTER NEWSLETTER
President's Corner: I hope this letter finds you well during what has been a cold and snowy winter. With the beauty of fresh snow blanketing our community, many of us have taken advantage of the season by enjoying activities like ice fishing and ice skating on the lakes. It’s wonderful to see so many residents making the most of the winter months, but I want to remind everyone to always use caution when venturing out onto the ice. Conditions can change quickly, and safety should always be the top priority.
While winter has its own charm, I know many of us are eagerly looking forward to the arrival of warmer days. Before we know it, we’ll be enjoying sunshine, swimming, kayaking, and spending time on the water once again. The changing seasons are a reminder of how fortunate we are to have such a special place to enjoy year-round.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about the lakes, I encourage you to reach out to the FBL Board of Directors. Your input is invaluable as we continue working to protect and enhance the Bolton Lakes for everyone.
Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable season,
Jason Seacat
President, Friends of Bolton Lakes
Membership: FBL encourages all residents and visitors to the Bolton Lakes Region to join FBL. Membership in FBL provides you with periodic newsletters, email blasts of important information, forums with informative speakers, and strong advocacy with the towns and the Department of Energy and Environment Protection (DEEP). Also, your dues support the FBL’s continuing monitoring of the water quality of our lakes. Your membership dues are our main source of working capital. Memberships run from January through December each year, while the sign-up period runs from October through the end of the following September. So, if you joined in October 2024 or later, you are a 2025 member. Please renew or start your membership on our online membership page found here or by mailing in the membership form with your membership check. Thanks for your support!
Become an FBL Member
Spring Forum: We are still working to secure a speaker for the spring. Once we have determined a date, you will get an email.
Changes to AIS boating stamp: Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants and animals that disrupt ecosystems and economies by outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity, and damaging industries like fishing and tourism. Connecticut has taken measures to combat AIS through regulations, public awareness, and prevention methods such as the “clean, drain, dry” approach for boaters.
A key change in 2025 involves the AIS Stamp, previously funded through boat registration fees. Under new regulations, boaters must purchase the AIS Stamp separately through the DEEP Sportsmen Licensing System. Two options are available:
Our lakes have received grants funded by the AIS stamp.
Bolton Greater Together Community Fund Grant: The Bolton Greater Together Community Fund has once again awarded FBL a grant. This $4,975 grant will be used to replace and upgrade equipment essential for monitoring the condition of Lower Bolton Lake. Two years ago, BGTCF funded the purchase of a cyanoscope, which FBL now utilizes to track harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the lake. Peter VanDine played a key role in securing both grants.
While winter has its own charm, I know many of us are eagerly looking forward to the arrival of warmer days. Before we know it, we’ll be enjoying sunshine, swimming, kayaking, and spending time on the water once again. The changing seasons are a reminder of how fortunate we are to have such a special place to enjoy year-round.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about the lakes, I encourage you to reach out to the FBL Board of Directors. Your input is invaluable as we continue working to protect and enhance the Bolton Lakes for everyone.
Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable season,
Jason Seacat
President, Friends of Bolton Lakes
Membership: FBL encourages all residents and visitors to the Bolton Lakes Region to join FBL. Membership in FBL provides you with periodic newsletters, email blasts of important information, forums with informative speakers, and strong advocacy with the towns and the Department of Energy and Environment Protection (DEEP). Also, your dues support the FBL’s continuing monitoring of the water quality of our lakes. Your membership dues are our main source of working capital. Memberships run from January through December each year, while the sign-up period runs from October through the end of the following September. So, if you joined in October 2024 or later, you are a 2025 member. Please renew or start your membership on our online membership page found here or by mailing in the membership form with your membership check. Thanks for your support!
Become an FBL Member
Spring Forum: We are still working to secure a speaker for the spring. Once we have determined a date, you will get an email.
Changes to AIS boating stamp: Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants and animals that disrupt ecosystems and economies by outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity, and damaging industries like fishing and tourism. Connecticut has taken measures to combat AIS through regulations, public awareness, and prevention methods such as the “clean, drain, dry” approach for boaters.
A key change in 2025 involves the AIS Stamp, previously funded through boat registration fees. Under new regulations, boaters must purchase the AIS Stamp separately through the DEEP Sportsmen Licensing System. Two options are available:
- Individual AIS Stamp ($7 per person) – Assigned to an individual and displayed on their Sportsmen Conservation License (no decal).
- Vessel AIS Decal ($25 per boat) – Covers all operators of a registered vessel and serves as an Individual AIS Stamp for the purchaser. A decal must be affixed to the vessel.
Our lakes have received grants funded by the AIS stamp.
Bolton Greater Together Community Fund Grant: The Bolton Greater Together Community Fund has once again awarded FBL a grant. This $4,975 grant will be used to replace and upgrade equipment essential for monitoring the condition of Lower Bolton Lake. Two years ago, BGTCF funded the purchase of a cyanoscope, which FBL now utilizes to track harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the lake. Peter VanDine played a key role in securing both grants.
FBL SOCIAL EVENT - SATURDAY 9/14 12-4 INDIAN NOTCH
Our FBL social event was held on Saturday, 9/14 at Indian Notch Park.
Many members and friends attended. There was delicious pizza, gelato, lawn games, kids' games and activities, trivia and prizes.
The weather was beautiful, and everyone had a good time meeting and connecting with neighbors from around the lakes.
Thanks to all who came out to join us!
Pictures from the event
Many members and friends attended. There was delicious pizza, gelato, lawn games, kids' games and activities, trivia and prizes.
The weather was beautiful, and everyone had a good time meeting and connecting with neighbors from around the lakes.
Thanks to all who came out to join us!
Pictures from the event
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.