Weed killer proposed for Waneta, Lamoka Lakes

WANETA, LAMOKA LAKES—The Lamoka-Waneta Lakes’ Association and Schuyler County is proposing to treat 79 acres total across the two lakes and Mill Pond with a weed-killing agent by mid-May.
The group said they propose using a chemical called Renovate, in either liquid or granular form. The chemical has been used in the lakes previously to treat the invasive species Eurasian milfoil. The request is being reviewed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Linda Vera, DEC citizen participation specialist, explained there has been some discussion about Schuyler County requesting a five-year permit, but the state has not received such an application at this time.
Water samples were taken from the two lakes and pond last August, showing the continued growth of milfoil. This follows the most recent treatment of Waneta and Lamoka last summer, 2012.
The lakes association said if this year’s application is approved, treatment will be conducted over a two-day period in early or mid-May. The chemical application includes 12.4 acres of northern Lamoka Lake and 32 acres of Mill Pond. The treatment of Waneta Lake will cover 7.5 acres at the north and easterly portion and 27.1 acres on the southern end.
Affected residents will be notified before the treatments and of any water use restrictions by letter. Notices will also be posted at public access points and at area town halls. According to the lakes’ association, people should not consume water treated with Renovate until the concentration falls below 50 parts per billion. Swimming and bathing are prohibited for three hours following application, but there are no restrictions on fishing or fish caught in the area.
Water samples will be monitored for 120 days or until the chemical concentrations fall below a certain level. The Lamoka-Waneta Lakes group will provide water as needed to persons affected by restrictions. Residents can request potable water for up to 30 days following treatment.
For more, contact Dennis Fagan (Waneta Lake) at 607-292-3687 or Gordon Shafer (Lamoka Lake) at 607-292-6276.