Otisco Lake Shoreline Protection Project

Case Name:

Onondaga Lake NPL Site

Country:

United States of America

Restoration Types:

Habitat Enhancement; Protection/Acquisition; Recreation

State:

New York

Affected DOI Resources:

Migratory Birds

City:

Town of Otisco

Phase:

Implementation

Project Description

Significant stretches of undeveloped lakeshore are rare in the Finger Lakes and this resource is recognized as a priority for protection in New York State’s Open Space Plan. The 35-acre Otisco Lake Shoreline Protection Project is located at the very south end of the lake, the property features forested wetlands, as well as shallow man-made ponds and open meadows with scattered shade trees. The land hosts significant waterfowl concentrations during migration and is rich in other wildlife. Its relatively level terrain allows for easy access to the lakeshore from nearby Otisco Valley Road. Completion of this project will help maintain water quality and reduce runoff by protecting natural, undeveloped shoreline and expanding stream and shoreline buffers by planting native trees and shrubs. Existing public access to Otisco lake is very limited and this project will provide much needed public access to the lake while also enhancing water quality and habitat for fish and wildlife.