| The "Future of Star Lake" meeting on May 29th, presented by the Conservation Commission, the Community Association and the Conservation Trust, was a rousing success. Not only did well over 40 residents attend the meeting, they contributed their ideas and committed their energy to enhancing Star Lake as a recreational opportunity for all.
Three speakers led off the meeting, each briefly outlining the current status of the lake and of projects planned or currently underway to enhance accessibility and use.
JIM CORVEN opened with a summation of the recent Arrowwood Environmental analysis.
The Lake is not polluted.
Currently, the only non native invasive aquatic plant present is curly pondweed
Phosphate levels of the lake have not changed since last checked
Lake plants are decomposing at a rate which increases both nutrient deposits and sediment build up on the lake bottom.
Jim added that State regulations, stemming in part from a large portion of the Lake's designation as a wetland, prevent any dredging, use of sterile fish, and widespread use of herbicide.
JEAN MARIE FITZGERALD then spoke of the Lake's current and potential recreational value, focusing on;
Improvements to the beach area, including a possible playground, increased picnic facilities, shade area and work to prevent storm runoff.
The MHCC will continue to pursue grant funding to support the above projects, as well as organize fund raising for improvements.
PHIL LEONARD talked about ongoing efforts at weed control, including;
Bottom barriers off the the swimming area and the boat launch area.
Hand pulling of weeds, (there are no restrictions on hand pulling)
Continuing to explore a state permit for limited mechanical harvesting.
He also noted the importance of encouraging young families to participate in Lake activities, as well as the planning and implementation of improvements.
KATY STILES, District Manager for the Rutland Natural Resources Conservation District, gave a brief description of Vermont's Lakeshores and LakeWise program, which can give waterside property owners vital information, at no cost, regarding managing their property. https://dec.vermont.gov/watershed/lakes-ponds/lakeshores-lak...
Participants then joined one of 3 groups for further discussion on how to overcome obstacles and concrete next steps to make the lake more usable and fun in 2025 and beyond
Group 1 /Park Recreation Area - discussed and agreed that priorities should include creating a natural playground area, additional seating, landscaping for more shade, a fire pit and a bocce court.
Group 2/ Swimming and Boat Access Area expressed strong interest in opening a 'water pathway' for boaters to navigate. Closer to shore, perhaps even lanes for swimmers who want to do laps. There was support for keeping the swimming and boating areas as free of weeds as possible, using both volunteer hand pulling, mechanical harvesting, (if approved)and increasing the use of bottom barriers.
Group 3/Rest of the Lake - wanted to widen the exploration of mechanical harvesting to open pathways for boaters, explore harvesting of the Water Lilies, composting options and borrowing or sharing equipment from other Vermont lakes.
The Conservation Commission has already submitted to the State an application to allow mechanical harvesting at the boat and swimming access area. We are hopeful that it will be granted. But much still remains to be done.To improve access and enhance recreation opportunities at the beach will, even if grant funding is found to cover some costs, require major investments of time and money. As will even the limited harvesting under consideration.
Generations of Mount Holly residents and their children have enjoyed Star Lake but it will take the commitment of many to ensure that remains an option for generations to come. |
