Lake Management and conditions

The Lake is very important assest our community. The Lake Advisory board is monitoring the Lake’s health and conditions.  The following links are information directly related lake conditions and the boards actions to improve them.

• Annual and Presidential Lake Draw Down
• Water Conditions Formally “How’s the Water”
• Flotsam or Debris in the lake
• Geese Control Patrol

Draw-down as a Lake  Management Tool

The lake draw down commences with the opening of the sluice in mid October 2004. The sluice gate was closed in mid-February and the lake returned to its normal level by mid May. In general, the amount of precipitation an area will receive each year can be quite predictable; however, there are always exceptions to the general rule. The Lake Advisory Board monitors the prevalent weather patterns and the affect it has on the lake level. The plan at this time is to repeat the draw down schedule activity in a similar manner this coming fall. The benefits of a draw down are many. such as the reduction of ice damage to lake shore structure such as seawalls, docks and boat houses.

Presidential Year Draw Down/ Enhanced

This has been discussed in the past as a method, every four (4) years, to lower the lake level beyond the normal 17 to 23 inches depending on the amount of precipitation in the fall. This would help home owners who want to repair seawalls, docks and other maintenance items. Originally we looked to upgrade the current dam structure or create an additional outlet. 

This proved too costly and fraught with regulatory issues to be practical. An inexpensive solution to acheive the same result is needed; we will be researching this issue further over the winter months. More information will be provide well in advance of any enhanced drawdown.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Flotsam and jetsam are 18th century terms used to refer to debris in the ocean. Technically, flotsam referred to materials that unintentionally end up in the sea as a result of a shipwreck. Jetsam referred to materials and goods that a crew would purposely throw overboard in an attempt to lighten the ship during an emergency.

In the modern day, flotsam and jetsam can also be found in Lake Mahopac. Some of the debris in the lake is a result of the winter freeze  “liberating” docks and lumber from the shoreline. Natural materials such as trees and branches also wind up in the water as the result of the winter storms. It’s a good idea to keep a keen eye out for these hazards when boating in the early spring.

Last summer the lake committee oversaw the removal of a large willow tree that had drifted into the west cove and become lodged in mud, posing a hazard to swimmers, skiers and boaters. With the help of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Carmel Town Highway Department, the 65’ willow was towed to the Mahopac Beach Restaurant parking lot and removed from the lake. Our thanks to property owner Mike Barile for permitting the use of the restaurant parking lot for the operation.

Early this June, new pressure treated lumber escaped from a dock construction sight as a result of a sudden afternoon storm. These substantial planks were removed before any serious damage resulted.

Whether intentional or not, materials do find their way into the lake’s water. We encourage everyone to do their part in removing trash, bottles, cans, tree limbs or whatever is found. Inform the Carmel Police (845-628-1300) of any large items that represent a safety hazard. Thanks in advance for doing your part to keep our lake safe and clean.