CLA To Begin Buoy Removal

In preparation for winter, the CLA will be removing the Hazard, Navigation, and Speed buoys from the lake starting next week. If you are still going to be out on the lake, please take the necessary precautions.
FirstLight Announces Annual Drawdown of Candlewood Lake
"FirstLight Power (FirstLight), the owner and operator of the Rocky River pumped hydroelectric station, will conduct a drawdown of Candlewood Lake, which includes Squantz Pond. In consultation with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Candlewood Lake Authority the drawdown season will begin December 1 and run until the opening of fishing season in April 2022. Water levels will fluctuate throughout the season and will drop to minimum pond levels to expose invasive Eurasian Water Milfoil to freezing temperatures, which helps to reduce the annual proliferation of the plant during the recreational season. Due to unknown weather patterns, exact dates and associated lake levels are not available.

Homeowners are therefore strongly encouraged to remove their structures, boatlifts, and docks from Candlewood Lake prior to the winter season to prevent ice damage along the shoreline. All work planned to occur along the shoreline requires prior permitting from FirstLight, who can be contacted at lake.permits@firstlightpower.com."

While this year's drawdown was originally scheduled to be shallow, we are working with the stakeholders to determine the exact depth based on the evolving milfoil and zebra mussel situation in Candlewood Lake.
Don't Rake Your Leaves Into the Lake!
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Did you know that raking your leaves into the lake can lead to greener water and algae blooms next summer? Leaves and other plant material (like grass clippings) contain nutrients that algae love, and need to grow. By raking leaves into the water, you are helping to make the lake a better environment for green and blue-green algae growth!

This year, when you're raking your yard, rake or blow your leaves away from the lake, and (after jumping into the pile a few times) add them to your compost pile or bag them for proper disposal. If you use a landscaping service, make sure to let them know too! Let's work together to do everything we can to protect Candlewood Lake in our backyards.
Grab a New CLA Paddlecraft ID Sticker to Prevent Your Craft From Getting Lost!
Did you know that if you're out on a manually propelled vessel (e.g. kayak, SUP, canoe, etc.) between October 1st and May 31st you are required to wear your PFD? Visit the online CT Boater's Guide for full rules and regulations.
Paddlecraft ID Stickers are now available! You can find them at Park and Recreation offices in Danbury, Brookfield, New Fairfield, New Milford, and Sherman. NOTE: Please check your Park & Rec. hours.

Be sure to complete with a permanent marker and stick to your kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard in a visible location. Enjoy and be safe!