Southwick Lake Management Committee Tackles Shoreline Violations and Prepares for Boat Census
- Meeting Overview:
The Southwick Lake Management Committee meeting addressed several issues, including ongoing shoreline violations at North Pond, plans for a comprehensive boat census, and discussions around funding and maintenance of lake management initiatives. The committee emphasized the importance of collaboration and data collection in addressing these challenges.
01:12During the meeting, a portion of the discussion revolved around the numerous violations recorded during North Pond tours, a matter that has been escalating since May 14th. In total, 32 violations were reported, with littering as a frequent offense. Additionally, incidents of destruction of property, such as cutting down protective plastic snow fencing, were noted. One particular Saturday was highlighted for its high number of violations, with 20 boats found illegally positioned above the high-water mark at King’s Beach. Additional concerns were raised about grills and flotation devices left on the shore.
The committee is considering installing cameras as a deterrent against such activities, although no cameras have yet been set up. Communication with the local police chief was mentioned as a necessary step to enforce regulations, with an urgent call for “boots on the ground” to address these violations. The effectiveness of newly erected no trespassing signs at South Pond was also discussed, with questions about enforcement measures.
25:06Apart from the shoreline issues, the committee is planning a boat census to better understand boat usage on the lake. This initiative is particularly important given reports of lower marina occupancy levels this year. The census is scheduled for mid-July and will require volunteer efforts to cover various ponds effectively.
18:50In addition to these topics, the committee discussed the ongoing management of aquatic plant growth and the implications of recent weather conditions. A scheduled assessment will evaluate the growth rates of plants like hydrilla, which has been growing slower than expected. The committee is also preparing for upcoming treatments to manage plant growth, with plans to proceed in the second week of July, depending on water temperatures.
Funding and financial management were also topics during the meeting. The committee noted a successful reimbursement of $12,269.36 from the U.S. Army Corps for a hydraulic grant, highlighting the effectiveness of the current funding system. However, they also discussed setting aside $125 in the budget as a precaution against potential loss of hydraulic grant funding.
29:05The meeting briefly touched on the conditions of porta-potties around the lake, with reports of inadequate maintenance and the need for better communication regarding service issues. Although these facilities are cleaned twice weekly, there have been complaints about a lack of supplies like toilet paper, prompting calls for improved management and signage to report problems.
Karl J Stinehart
Water Control Board Officials:
E. Michael Coombs, Paul D Murphy, W.K. Phillips, Jr, Scott Graves, Rick Wylot, Norm Cheever, Karen Ann Shute, Deborah E Herath, Eric Mueller, Malcolm DeBay, Richard T Grannells, Michael DeBay, Steve Schmid
-
Meeting Type:
Water Control Board
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
06/26/2025
-
Recording Published:
06/27/2025
-
Duration:
32 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Massachusetts
-
County:
Hampden County
-
Towns:
Southwick
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 07/25/2025
- 07/25/2025
- 116 Minutes
- 07/24/2025
- 07/24/2025
- 92 Minutes
- 07/24/2025
- 07/25/2025
- 52 Minutes