Magee’s bill protecting local waterways and boosting tourism becomes law
Assemblyman Bill Magee (D-Nelson) announced that legislation he authored designating Cazenovia Lake and Chittenango Creek as inland waterways for the purposes of waterfront revitalization has been signed into law by the governor (Ch. 140 of 2018).
“Central New York is home to some of the most beautiful creeks, rivers and lakes in the state, and protecting these local waterways is essential to strengthening the surrounding communities,” Magee said. “I’m always looking for ways to help our municipalities and grow the region’s economy, and this law does that.”
Cazenovia Lake is nearly four miles long and sits in a valley created during the last glacial period. The village of Cazenovia is located on the southeastern tip of the lake. Lakeland Park, a central piece of the village’s economy, garners the attention of local residents and visitors alike, especially in the summer months for its beautiful waterfront, swimming beach and boat launch.[1] Designating the lake as an inland waterway will strengthen efforts to protect it from many emerging threats, including an invasion of Eurasian watermilfoil that is outcompeting native vegetation.[2]
Chittenango Creek, which runs from Nelson Swamp to Oneida Lake, is one of the most popular trout fishing streams in Central New York. The creek also features a 167-foot waterfall within Chittenango Falls State Park, a stunning landmark that brings in thousands of tourists each year.[3] Protecting the water quality of this trout stream and maintaining public access to the waterfall are essential to both permanent residents and visiting tourists, noted Magee.
The law allows Cazenovia and other surrounding municipalities to apply for state and federal funding to protect the waterways as well as boost infrastructure, fishing and local recreational activities nearby to better promote tourism.
Governor Signs Valesky bill to designate Cazenovia Lake and Chittenango Creek as inland waterways
Legislation sponsored by Sen. David J. Valesky that would add Cazenovia Lake and Chittenango Creek to the definition of inland waterway was signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo July 31. This designation will allow municipalities located along those waterways to apply for waterfront revitalization funding.
“This bill will help protect these natural resources as well as provide opportunities for funding and grant resources,” Valesky said.