What are the Major Environmental Issues Facing the Lake?
The lake is affected by nonpoint source pollution from agriculture (pesticide and fertilizer use, manure production, and sedimentation resulting from poor tillage practices), residential land use (septic systems, lawncare, and construction), and streambank erosion. Contaminants from these sources include: sediment, nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), pesticides, bacteria (total and fecal coliform), viruses, and protozoa (Giardia and Cryptosporidium). The lake is considered to be oligotrophic, meaning it is nutrient poor and has low levels of phosphorus. Who are the Stakeholders? U.S. Environmental Protection Agency City of Syracuse Town of Skaneateles Village of Skaneateles Town of Spafford Town of Scott Town of Semproniu Town of Niles Town of Owasco Town of Marcellus Cayuga County Health Dept. Cortland County Health Dept. Onondaga County Health Dept.
