Cayuga Lake Watershed Network
Program Committee (formerly Outreach Committee)
Conference Call
November 17, 2010

Present: Dale Baker (Chair), Roxy Johnston, Rebecca Ruggles, Judy Pipher

1. Reflections on Fall Conference October 23, 2010

All considered the conference a success. Around 50 participants, the food that Darby and Roxy (IO) obtained was great. A number of new members joined the Network.

2. Spring Conference

Discussed possibility of redoing the Wetlands conference in the spring – at Montezuma. At the last Wetlands conference, Tom Jasikoff, Wildlife Refuge Manager at Montezuma, suggested that if we made it joint with the Refuge they could attract a wide audience. We need to discuss with Keith Tidball, and the Board. Dates such as April 2, 9, 16 suggested. Need to avoid Easter weekend (Easter is the 24th).

Other subject possibilities – AES, Septics, Dashboard (initial presentation early in 2011), other. Discussed hydrofracking, and concern that new governor and new attorney general might not address. Discussion on fraudulent way that landowners were convinced to sign leases for land use. They were referring to conventional gas drilling, not hyrdofracking. How can landowners get information concerning legal issues? There have been several presentations on the experiences in PA and effects on forests, streams, wildlife. Need unbiased information for citizens. Rebecca and Dale will look over the internet.

3. Coordination

We discussed better coordination with the Issues Cte and Hilary. Judy provided Hilary with lists from past Lakefest organization which will be replicated for conferences etc. We discussed dates for Sunset on Cayuga, and possibility of another venue than Lakewatch. Judy and Dale proceeding on that. Also discussed coordination with FLI and Seneca Pure Waters, both of which have adopted aggressive stances.

Complaints levied on website not being up to date, and other issues related to website. Suggest that complainant speak directly to Judy unless there is a Board decision for massive change (which will cost money and which Judy will not do).

4. Sunset on Cayuga

A date and venue have been decided upon for the 2011 Sunset. October 8, 2011 (a Saturday) at Wells College. Judy, Dale and John Mawdsley visited the location and spoke with personnel.

Next meeting is a joint planning meeting with Issues Cte. in December (cancelled because of weather). Changed to January 11.