News from the Mirror Lake Watershed Association (MLWA)
FUNDRAISING RAFFLE for FRAMED PHOTO by TOM BRODERICK
The stunning photo (above) was taken by Tom (Brody) Broderick and donated to the MLWA for our fundraising efforts. Raffle tickets will be on sale for $5 @, or six for $25 until the drawing on December 9, 2024. We are so grateful to Brody for his dedication to MLWA as he also donated proceeds from his beautiful 2024 wall calendar that featured photos of Mirror Lake throughout the year.
OPEN HOUSE, August 7, 5-7 PM at the Northwood Hub on Main Street
You’re invited! As part of Adirondack Water Week, the MLWA is celebrating with an Open House to highlight the importance of keeping Mirror Lake free of invasive species.
Dr. Brendan Wiltse, Chief Scientist at the Adirondack Watershed Institute and Mirror Lake’s most knowledgeable advocate, will explain the risks created by invasive species and outline ways we can prevent them. Dr. Wiltse is an engaging speaker who makes the science of water quality easily understood by the general public.
There will be appetizers and refreshments, and the MLWA will have an opportunity to share what we are doing to maintain the health and beauty of Mirror Lake. We hope to see you there.
SUMMER ON THE LAKE MEANS CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY TIME
This is Mirror Lake’s busiest time of the year, when it is most appreciated and enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. We must all be vigilant. These days many lakes, rivers, and ponds are infested with invasive species that have the potential to harm fish and plant populations, potentially making the water unsafe for swimming.
Aquatic hitchhikers can be impossible to see with the human eye so err on the side of caution and assume gear is contaminated. It will take a concerted effort by everyone to keep Mirror Lake as healthy as it is today.
If you are coming from other bodies of water, please remember to CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY any items you put in the water. Hot water (140 degrees F for at least 30 seconds) and a thorough amount of time for drying or a wipe down with a towel or wipes is important. Details are available at the NY State DEC website https://dec.ny.gov. MLWA contracts with the Adirondack Watershed Institute to have a lake steward stationed at the public beach boat launch all summer. They can assist with cleaning of watercraft between 9 and 5 every day.
Those bringing kayaks, canoes, SUP boards, rafts, etc. from other waters should be conscientious about washing their watercraft.
Fishermen should clean their boat’s bilge areas, bait wells, boots, and gear. Also, be sure you are not using any lead tackle as even a small amount of lead is lethal to our loons. Two died in Lake Placid Lake from lead last year.
Swimmers (especially Ironman swimmers who aren’t swimming in Mirror Lake exclusively) should clean and dry their wetsuits, flippers, and goggles.
COMMUNITY DAY
In June, MLWA was happy to participate in North Elba’s Community Day, a free annual event highlighting our local non-profits and celebrating our sense of community.
At the MLWA booth, we shared information about our work to protect Mirror Lake, Mill Pond, and Mirror Lake’s watershed. There was a fun trivia game with prizes and a chance for the public to meet and speak with board members about what we are up to.
PLEASE REMEMBER
Don’t feed the waterfowl & pick up dog waste. It makes a big difference to the health of the lake.