Welcome to the Lake Champlain region’s only bi-state citizens’ organization solely dedicated to protecting the health of the lake and accessibility to its waters.
The Lake Champlain Committee (LCC) has a 48-year history of science-based advocacy, education and collaborative action. We take a whole-lake approach to issues that affect this natural treasure, which boasts nearly 600 miles of shoreline in New York, Vermont and Quebec.
No matter how you choose to enjoy Lake Champlain, we invite you to explore this Web site to learn more about the lake's health, current ecologic challenges, and ways to access its resources, including the Lake Champlain Paddlers' Trail. As you explore, we hope you'll consider how you can personally make a positive impact on the quality of its water and ecosystem.
Latest Updates ~ click on the titles for the full article
LCC Discusses Flood Impacts on VPR VT Edition
LCC Staff Scientist Mike Winslow and Burlington Free Press environmental reporter Candy Page discuss the short and long-term impacts of the flooding and the interest that's been kindled in "flood control" with VPR's Jane Lindholm.
IJC To Examine Lake Flooding – Again
The International Joint Commission (IJC) has been asked to develop a plan of study concerning the record flooding of Lake Champlain and its tributaries, and of the Richelieu River which occurred in Spring 2011. In letters from the Governments of the United States and Canada, IJC is being asked to develop a study proposal which would examine the causes and impacts of flooding, as well as the full range of measures to prepare for, prevent and mitigate such impacts. MORE
The Farm Bill and the Lake
On March 9, 2012 a field hearing of the House Agriculture Committee convened in Saranac Lake, NY to hear from agriculture producers on their views of the Federal Farm Bill. Every five years Congress has to reauthorize the federal Farm Bill. The current version expires at the end of September, so this year’s reauthorization coincides with an election year. The labyrinthine complexities of the bill are stupefying, but three areas stand out in their importance to protecting water quality in Lake Champlain: conservation programs, supply management, and support for diversified agriculture. MORE
Air Your Views on Pollution Control in Missisquoi Bay
The International Joint Commission (IJC) will hold public hearings about a recently completed report identifying critical source areas of phosphorus loading to Missisquoi Bay. The hearings will be held at 7 PM on Tuesday May 1 at the St. Armand Quebec Community Center and Wednesday May 2 at the Swanton Vermont Village Municipal Complex. MORE
Cold Water Caution
Even if air temperatures seem balmy, the lake takes much longer to warm up. Additionally, strong currents and springtime debris are potential marine hazards this time of year. Lake Champlain temperatures are still in the 30s. If you are immersed in water that cold, exhaustion and unconsciousness can set in after 15 minutes. MORE
Water Conservation Tip
As the weather warms we are more likely to turn to a nice cold drink of water to quench our thirst on a hot afternoon. Fill a pitcher and keep it in the refrigerator rather than running the tap until the water cools every time you need a drink. Doing so saves energy, saves water, and helps protect Lake Champlain. MORE
Stormwater Management Update
Pollution loading from developed lands remains one of the most difficult sources of phosphorus to control. The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) recently released two requests for proposals for studies that could improve management of developed lands in the New York portion of the watershed. One project would outline a program to better manage New York back roads. MORE
Mapping Our Natural Resources
The Lake Champlain Committee has been working with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources to help map aquatic natural resources in Vermont. The work is part of a larger project to produce a statewide map and supporting database identifying the lands and waters that support high priority ecosystems, natural communities, and habitats worthy of conservation or restoration. MORE
Nature Note: Driftwood
Spring is a great time for finding driftwood on the shores of Lake Champlain. The wood can come from trees along forested shorelines that were undermined by wind and wave erosion, but more commonly it is delivered by streams and rivers entering the lake. Once in the lake, driftwood can remain afloat for long periods of time. In Oregon’s Crater Lake one piece of 9 meter long driftwood known as ‘the Old Man of the Lake’ has been floating around since at least 1896. MORE
April 22 - Go Out for Earth Day
Go out for Earth Day – outside that is. Take a stroll, a hike, a bike ride, a paddle, a run, or go fishing in the great outdoors. Breath some fresh air, take in the sunshine – or the rain, watch the stars. Commune with nature. Getting out into the greenery can boost your mood and your health. Research indicates that spending time in forests and nature areas helps people recover from stress and fatigue. MORE
April 27 - Cat Walk for Water to Benefit LCC
Stylists and students from O'Briens AVEDA Institute and O'Briens' salons are teaming up to produce a fun night of hair and fashion to raise money for LCC! Students will create looks based on themes of Earth, Air, Fire and Water and dress each model from head to toe in recycled garments. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 8:00 on Friday, April 27 at Club Venue in Colchester on Porter's Point Road. MORE
May 14 - 18 Way to Go Week
Way to Go is an annual program co-founded by LCC to promote the use of cheaper, healthier, earth-friendly alternatives to driving alone. Individuals, businesses, schools, and organizations can all participate. Sign up online and your pollution, gas and money savings will be calculated and you'll be entered into a drawing for great prizes! MORE
May 16 Living With Vermont's Rivers
Join us for a beginner-intermediate conference on river science issues specifically designed for municipal officials, consultants, contractors, legislators, curious citizens, watershed group members and farmers. Using case studies, speakers will discuss the various aspects of what makes rivers stable - or unstable - such as: gravel extraction, roads and bridges, agricultural practices, downtown development, stormwater, dams and flood plains. MORE
May 19 and 20 Lake Champlain Bridge Grand Celebration
Activities will span the weekend and both sides of the bridge, with programs taking place at Chimney Point and Crown Point historic sites. Stop by LCC's table for paper and paint and share your artistic vision of a clean lake. Other celebration events tentatively include a gala opening ceremony, hometown grand parade from Vermont to New York, a Farmers' Market, fireworks and more! MORE
June 1 Champlain Valley Clay Symposium
Delve into the rich history of clay soils and the agricultural, engineering, and environmental challenges they pose at the Champlain Valley Clay Symposium on June 1. MORE
