Lake Conesus

 Tonight I’m the guest of Ray Case, a lakeside resident and secretary/tech guru for the Conesus Lake Association. He’s a retired engineer who now puts his experience in technology, analysis, and common sense to work in protecting this beautiful lake.

I have only to wheel my boat across Ray’s yard to be on the water tomorrow

I was prepared to pepper him with questions about septic systems and waste water management, only to learn that Conesus is surrounded by its own ‘municipal’ system. The four townships around the lake collaborated years ago, installed 26 pumping stations around the lake, all of which feed a wastewater treatment facility outside of the basin.

One of the 26 pumping stations - this one's on Ray's property

This is not to say that the lake isn’t challenged by invasive species and algae blooms. It is. But to learn that four townships and one county collaborated on an environmental infrastructure project like this suggests that it can be done.

It was a long drive today, and it will be good to be on the water tomorrow. I’ll try to clock 18 miles around Conesus by 1 PM, then load the car back up for a loop around Hemlock, another 15. Hemlock is a pure reservoir – no houses, no camps, no nuttin’, so it will be an ‘all natural’ afternoon, for sure.

Ray’s given me the best possible start, and his commitment to this place and to environmental education is terrific. ‘No two of these lakes are the same,’  Ray said as he described Conesus’ specific challenges. ‘But,’ I should have countered, ‘the qualities of knowledge, commitment, and stewardship for the future sure seem to be a common thread for the people – like you – who try to keep what we’ve been given.’

Ray, you’re a hero. Thanks!    

A great meeting and educational facility

And Peg, post this page so people can see what you have to do every night! You’re a heroine!

Love!