Canadarago Lake Improvement Association

Named OCCA’s ‘Conservationists Of Year’

COOPERSTOWN – Citing their commitment to protection and preservation, the Otsego County Conservation Association today announced the Canadarago Lake Improvement Association has been named OCCA” Conservationists of the Year.”

“CLIA is being recognized for outstanding leadership, teamwork, and dedication,” said OCCA President Vicky M. Lentz, “and for its proactive approach to the protection and preservation of Canadarago Lake’s freshwater heritage for future generations.”

Earlier this year, CLIA began a Lake Steward program aimed at preventing the spread of invasive species.  The association is currently in the final stages of completing the Canadarago Lake Watershed Protection Plan, the first of its kind for Canadarago Lake.

The association was nominated by Pam Lea, a former member of the OCCA board.

The award ceremony is part of OCCA’s Annual Dinner and Meeting, to be held at Holiday Inn Oneonta/Cooperstown on Monday, Nov. 17.

At the dinner, OCCA will also present a Special Recognition for Lifetime Achievement to Edward Wesnofske for his contributions toward environmentally and economically sound solid waste solutions for Otsego County. Wesnofske was nominated by Otsego County Representatives James Powers and Keith McCarty

This event includes a silent auction fundraiser as well as a presentation by Allen Nichols, president of the New York Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation, on efforts to save and restore the American chestnut tree. Reservations, $35 per person, are required by Monday, Nov. 10. For more information, e-mail admin@occainfo.org or call (607) 547-4488.