Goup seeking area funds to combat milfoil

MORRISTOWN — The group fighting invasive weeds on Black Lake is hitting the road in search of funding.

U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer told locals during his Sept. 2 visit that they wouldn't get off scot-free in efforts to rid the lake of Eurasian milfoil. Taking those words to heart, waterfront homeowners and businesses will seek funding from the six lake-bordering towns, St. Lawrence County and chambers of commerce.

"We need to have a commitment from local governments," said Thomas A. Nichols, county legislator and chairman of the Black Lake Invasive Weeds Committee.

Mr. Schumer, D-N.Y., toured the lake to show support for the cause.

He announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will analyze the problem and draft plans to manage the dense weed that makes fishing and navigation difficult on the 25-mile-long, shallow lake. Federal funding is available, but a local contribution is likely.

"It's a thing that will be phased in over the years," Mr. Nichols said. "I anticipate that we'll work with planning and soil and water to go after grants and deal with sections of the lake."

A report by an environmental consultant hired by Black Lake residents and businesses estimated that it will cost as much as $30 million for long-term control of the weeds.

Milfoil is believed to have existed in the lake for 20 years and is likely to have been introduced unintentionally by a boater or as part of something dumped into the water.

Control is difficult and expensive, costing up to $2,000 an acre, according to one study. Removing the weeds mechanically is problematic because native plants that combat milfoil also are yanked. Aquatic bugs that eat milfoil have been used with some success.

Town, county and chamber contributions will depend on the source of federal and state funding. Upper-level public assistance often requires local contributions, such as 10 percent or 15 percent.

The committee will seek funding from Hammond, Morristown, Oswegatchie, DePeyster, Macomb and Rossie. The less-populated towns with smaller budgets may be asked to offer in-kind services such as dump trucks and crews for hauling weeds away, Mr. Nichols said.

A likely source for county funding is the government's share of the gaming compact between the state and St. Regis Mohawk Tribe.

The money, which has been increasing annually as business picks up at the Hogansburg casino, is reserved for economic development projects and treating gambling addictions.

There's bound to be debate. The casino funds already have been eyed for cooperative promotions with the tribe and funding an expansion of the Massena airport.

The Army Corps is expected to visit and report next year, after which work will begin.