This year has been busy. And, each year, the CLA looks for additional funding opportunities and grants to support lake needs and to allow for improved services. For example, new fundraisers and an expanded dredging program provided CLA with extra income that prevented implementing further program reductions beyond the reductions during the past several years, given the economic realities. The CLA is managed by an all-volunteer board of directors that operates with an imperative to stay within a balanced budget to ensure uninterrupted future services.

The CLA Board of Directors recently announced a significant development — Heather Nolan-Caskey has stepped into the expanded leadership role as general manager, succeeding former Executive Director Doug Conroe. Nolan-Caskey’s wealth of experience in office management, in-lake operations and community service initiatives, along with her oversight of the CLA Watercraft Steward Program, now in its 10th year, instills confidence in the future of Chautauqua Lake. Her enthusiasm for making a positive impact and emphasis on collaboration are promising signs for the community.

Monday, the CLA urgently called for operators and barge crew workers to join the team and help finish out the summer season. The workday runs Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and pays $15.75-$18.50 depending on experience. If you’re ready to make a difference, apply online at https://chautauqualakeassociation/employment/ today.

CLA’s unique services have helped maintain safe waterways for lake users. They go beyond the norm, removing debris and clearing clogged navigational lanes when such conditions have developed. In addition, they offer a one-of-a-kind shoreline service that assists lakefront owners with shoreline cleaning and also provide weed disposal services to businesses and homeowners as they clear their lakefront.

Photo courtesy of Chautauqua Lake Association The Chautauqua Lake Association Board of Directors recently announced that Heather Nolan-Caskey has assumed the expanded leadership role as general manager, with responsibilities for in-lake operations, community service initiatives and to oversee the CLA Watercraft Steward Program.

CLA is not just a stand-alone group. They are committed to educating the public through their website and via Facebook (Meta). By participating in many community programs, including Conservation Days, lake events, and service club presentations, their full-time staff is continually educated with new trends and techniques. This commitment ensures they provide the most cost-effective and efficient ways to maintain their equipment and manage the annual plant growth in Chautauqua Lake, a challenging issue this year. Visit https://www.chautauqualakeassociation.org for more details.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Aug. 15-16: Innovative Outdoors Walleye Challenge (Dunkirk), $500 entry, Jim Steel, 716-481-5348; https://innovative-outdoors.com/.

Aug. 17: Chautauqua Lake Bassmasters 2025 Bass for Cash Open II, 6a.m. to 2 p.m., Prendergast Boat Launch. $200 Entry. Tournament Director: 716-708-0330.

Aug. 22-23: WNY Walleye Association; Lake Erie Walleye Tournament; $250 entry, Fish Donkey format, Rick Malik, 716-548-8219 or Ron Kucinski, 716-545-5925.

Aug. 30: Labor Day Shoot, Hanover Fish & Game, sporting and 5-Stand, NSCA registered, 780 Overhiser Road, Silver Creek, N.Y.; 716-934-4028.