"Promoting the understanding and comprehensive management of lakes, ponds and watershed associations."
Connecticut Federation of Lakes
Our Mission:
To work with you and for you for healthier lakes and watersheds on local, state and even federal levels.
What the CFL has to offer you:
- A powerful advocate in lake matters on the state and local levels. The CFL is the eyes, ears and voice for Connecticut lakes and ponds.
- A "been there, done this" exchange of experience and case studies with people who have hands-on knowledge of milfoil, lake chemistry and zebra mussels, etc.
- A resource in the development of lake restoration and watershed protection programs according to up-to-date management strategies and techniques.
* A provider of education programs and workshops annually.
About the CFL
Everyone agrees that healthy lakes are highly valued natural assets and resources that are extremely attractive for seasonal and year round living. Towns that have lakes know that their recreational offerings promote tourism that brings significant revenues to town business and property tax collections. These lakes are, however, as fragile as they are precious.
The CFL was formed in 1995 to help individuals, steering committees or established lake associations with needed guidance, advice and support. In addition, the CFL hopes to promote a partnership amongst the many lake and pond organizations so that Connecticut lakes can speak with a unified voice and have better advocacy with state and federal agencies.
The CFL board members are committed volunteers who likely have had first hand experience in dealing with lake issues or know someone who does. Since some board members are professional lake managers, and others have master and doctorate credentials in limnology, the CFL can and does help.
The CFL distributes newsletters full of technical information, lake profiles, management tips, and news from the DEP. Also, the CFL works with the Governor to designate an annual Lakes Awareness Week, hosts day-long educational programs for CFL members and other interested parties, and sits on the DEP's Water Bureau Advisory Committee. In June of 2000, the CFL did an excellent job developing and hosting a 3-day meeting of the New England Chapter of NALMS (North American Lake Management Society) at UConn. It was well attended and highly praised by the delegations from the other New England states.
While lakes in Connecticut have not been neglected, they have not received adequate preventive medicine. In other New England states, the political climate and citizen grassroots activity have pushed through bigger and better programs for lakes. Connecticut must do more; lakes need a voice. If you have enthusiasm and passion for your lake and watershed, please join the CFL. With your help, the CFL will continue to make a difference.
