Document Library

START HERE

Welcome to the Bolton Lakes Region - A Guide for Residents & Visitors (2020) - Contains helpful info and important contact information
Caring for Our Lakes - A brief guide outlining practical steps residents can take to protect and improve the health of the Bolton Lakes, including managing runoff, reducing pollutants, and maintaining septic and sewer systems
Introduction to Lake Monitoring - An overview of the Bolton Lakes Watershed Monitoring Program, explaining its goals, methods, and the role of volunteers in tracking lake conditions and providing early warning of environmental issues

INVASIVES

Northeast Aquatic Research Presentation on Invasive Plants (2016) - A presentation by Northeast Aquatic Research summarizing invasive aquatic plant species in the Bolton Lakes, including their impacts, recent management efforts, and guidance on identification and control
NY Invasive Species Information: A species profile describing invasive organisms, including identification, impacts on ecosystems, and information on spread and management
Connecticut’s Aquatic and Wetland Invasive Plant Identification Guide - A comprehensive guide to identifying invasive and potentially invasive aquatic and wetland plants in Connecticut, with species descriptions, maps, and guidance on recognition and reporting
Fanwort Presentation (May 2018) - Presented at the FBL 2018 Spring Forum
Aquatic Plants in the Bolton Lakes: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - An overview explaining the role of aquatic plants in lake ecosystems, highlighting the benefits of native species, the risks of invasive plant overgrowth, and the importance of reducing nutrient pollution and preventing plant spread

SCIENCE REPORTS

WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLANS

Bolton Lakes & Watershed Management Plan, Draft (April 7, 2022) - Final version submitted to DEEP, incorporating most of the public comments and suggestions made by residents

PRESS

MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCES & INFORMATION

Fish Kill Information - Reports of dead fish in the lake have been attributed to a common cold-weather phenomenon known as a “fish kill,” caused by low oxygen levels in winter, especially under ice cover. Smaller or weaker species, such as bluegills, are often affected due to reduced oxygen from plant decay and limited photosynthesis
North American Lake Management Society - A nonprofit organization focused on protecting and managing lakes and reservoirs by connecting scientists, professionals, and community members, and promoting research, education, and best practices in lake and watershed management
Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Request (February 2021) - A project outline describing planned activities to monitor, manage, and control aquatic invasive species in the Bolton Lakes, including surveys, treatment strategies, and ongoing efforts to protect water quality and recreational use
Rain Garden Design Guide by University of Connecticut
Rain Garden Basics by Washington State University Extension
Building a Rain Garden by University of Minnesota Extension
Rain Garden Plant List by Three Rivers Rain Garden Alliance