Doc. #2009-
CAYUGA LAKE WATERSHED NETWORK
Steward's Report
June 15, 2009
Wells College, Aurora NY

I want to let you know that we are getting some big projects completed at our Wells College office and elsewhere within the Network, and alert you to several upcoming events that we hope you'll want to take part in.

Right now I, our summer intern Jade Cassalia, and office manager Rachel Singley are:

* Sending out our new aquatic weeds booklet draft asking for reviews by June 26.

If you'd like to help and have not yet heard from us, please let us know and we'll send you a copy.

* Preparing a membership renewal mailing - wait until you see our letter describing all of our recent accomplishments and upcoming events.

We're busier than you may have realized!

* Preparing the newsletter for layout, printing and mailing.

We have articles written by Doug Haith, John Mawdsley, Rebecca Ruggles, Rachel Singley, Ruth Richardson, me, and more!

Doug Haith and colleagues' important new study will be posted to our Web site soon: "Estimation of Nutrient and Sediment Loads to Cayuga Lake Using the GWLF Watershed Model." We'll send out a press release about it when our newsletter goes to the printer.

Ronda and the Marketing Committee have made great strides in preparing for our Sunset on Cayuga fundraiser on September 26. We are asking Board members to assist by obtaining major ($200-500 value) items for the silent auction, smaller items for the raffle; to sell a minimum of ten tickets (we can mail you yours, if you so request), and to help publicize the event. Once we in the office have our present three big projects out of
the way, we will focus on organizing the publicity and ticket sales aspects of this great event. Please note that on their own initiative, staffers Jade and Rachel are hunting down some big-ticket items for the auction/raffle! We need YOU TO DO THIS TOO.

Events coming soon for your Enjoyment & Edification:

June 25: "The Ups and Downs of Cayuga Lake," a talk by hydrogeologist Bill Kappel., Thursday June 25 at 7 pm, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Why does the level of Cayuga Lake waters fluctuate throughout the year?

What and who controls the changes in lake level and why?

Bill Kappel, a hydrogeologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, will answer questions about the seasonal variations in the level of Cayuga Lake. Bill includes a historical water-level perspective on Cayuga Lake -- its ups and downs, natural and man-made. Come learn about the hydrology, geology, and
history of Cayuga Lake. This program is jointly sponsored by the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network, and the Cayuga Lake Watershed Intermunicipal Organization. This event will be presented at
other watershed locations in coming months, TBA.

July 11: Network Office Open House, Zabriskie Hall, Wells College 5-8 pm.

Your Network staff will host an open house for attendees of the annual Aurora Fest, a summer festival held annually in Aurora Village and on the Wells College campus. We hope that Network Board members and committee members, family and friends will join us, and maybe help with some nice local beverages, treats etc. Contact Jade or Rachel for information!

July 21: Cookout at the Tidballs' instead of a July Board meeting

From John M: We are holding a social event for the Board and Committee members plus their partners, and family members if you wish, on Tuesday the 21 July from 6-9pm at Keith Tidball's farm on Route 89 just north of Canoga.

Keith is providing home grown beef and lake fish (if caught) and we will provide beer and soft drinks. Could you bring a dish or wine please? The dish should be a salad, vegetarian dish or other suitable side dish or a dessert.

Directions will be provided nearer the event. Can you let me know if you can make it and how many people you are bringing and what type of dish you are planning to bring, by the 10th July if possible please. This will replace the normal Board meeting.