DEC and CNY Land Trust secure 144 acres to safeguard Skaneateles Lake drinking water

(UI) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and The Central New York Land Trust, Inc. (CNYLT) have joined forces to protect the pristine waters of Skaneateles Lake, a vital drinking water source for 190,000 residents in Central New York.

This strategic land acquisition encompasses 144 acres of land near the lake, ensuring the preservation of both water quality and the long-term accessibility of clean drinking water.

Funded through the State's Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program, this initiative directly enhances water quality, aquatic habitat, and flood risk reduction, while bolstering flood and climate resilience. The acquisition doesn't merely secure drinking water; it safeguards an ecological and recreational treasure for the entire region.

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "New York State is making long-term investments to ensure access to safe drinking water far into the future. The Central New York Land Trust's acquisition of the first of several parcels near Skaneateles Lake will protect the water supply, not only as a drinking water source but also as an environmental and recreational resource for the region."

CNYLT Executive Director Simon Solomon echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of protecting Skaneateles Lake's pristine water quality. He stated, "The water quality of Skaneateles Lake is unmatched in the region, allowing the City of Syracuse to utilize this resource unfiltered. Keeping our drinking water clean has been a continued priority identified by our local government, and this partnership between local and state government, non-profit organizations, and local land trusts continues to be key because it leverages public funds with private dollars."

CNYLT plans to expand its acquisition efforts, securing more parcels near the lake by summer 2024. The 144-acre O'Neill Parcel, acquired for $900,000, was funded in part by the $4 million WQIP Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection grant awarded by DEC. This acquisition plays a pivotal role in protecting Skaneateles Lake, which serves as the primary drinking water source for the City of Syracuse.

This initiative aligns with New York's unwavering commitment to clean water. The WQIP Program, a competitive grant program, funds projects that improve water quality, aquatic habitats, flood risk reduction, climate resiliency, and the protection of drinking water sources. To date, DEC has announced more than $65 million in grants for 51 land acquisition projects.

New York's dedication to clean water infrastructure is evident in the 2023-24 Enacted Budget, which includes $500 million in clean water funding. This investment, proposed by Governor Hochul, brings the total clean water infrastructure commitment to $5 billion since 2017. Under the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, Governor Hochul announced the first funding announcement, making a total of $425 million available, with $200 million in Bond Act funds and $225 million from the state's existing Water Infrastructure Improvement and Intermunicipal Grant programs.

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