The boards for the Chautauqua Lake Association and Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy recently held their first-ever joint meeting.

The purpose was to discuss how a change in addressing watershed issues and lake management could occur. The change is the possible consolidation of the two organizations, along with the Chautauqua-Conewango Consortium (CCC), a Waterkeeper Alliance Affiliate.

The meeting’s outcome marks a significant step forward, according to officials from both boards. The CLA and CWC formed a special joint committee authorized to address the specifics involved in consolidating the three organizations. The possible consolidation aims to streamline operations and create a more cohesive effort to protect and manage Chautauqua Lake and the area’s watersheds.

“Our three organizations already work closely, coordinating public communications and serving on each other’s boards. This meeting represents the next logical step in our efforts to protect and enhance the natural resources in our region,” said John Ford, CLA board president. “We’re excited to explore a more unified structure that could bolster our impact and efficiency.”

The joint approach discussed in the meeting is motivated by a shared commitment to maintaining the region’s environmental health and addressing complex Chautauqua Lake and watershed issues. “Protecting the integrity and beauty of Chautauqua Lake and our area’s watersheds is critical for the long-term ecological health and economic wellbeing of the Chautauqua region,” said Rebecca Nystrom, CWC board chair. “Because a strong scientific foundation and shared environmental ethic underlie the mission and work of each of our organizations, we are confident that collaboration will provide valuable synergy and exciting new efficiencies in protecting and stewarding the lands and waters of our region.”

As the next steps unfold, members of a special joint committee will continue to examine the specifics of consolidation, keeping in mind the unique missions and goals of each entity while aiming for a more streamlined and effective structure.

“This undertaking presents an excellent opportunity to collaboratively raise lake and watershed management to a new level of preserving a healthy Chautauqua Lake and watershed along with enhancing the area’s economy,” said Douglas Conroe, CLA executive director.

By potentially consolidating resources and expertise, CLA, CWC, and CCC will be better positioned to implement comprehensive programs, enhance public awareness, and optimize field operations for both immediate and long-term benefits to the Chautauqua Lake region.

“I’m thrilled for the potential opportunity to bring together three exceptional organizations under what will be a strong shared mission,” said Whitney Gleason, CWC executive director. “By joining forces, we strengthen our ability to tackle environmental challenges with both the accountability of a nationally accredited land trust and the powerful advocacy and global resources of a Waterkeeper. Together, we can achieve a new level of impact for our lake, our watershed, and our community’s future.”

As the area’s current official Waterkeeper affiliate, the Chautauqua-Conewango Consortium serves as a voice for protection for the region’s water in its service area of western Pennsylvania and Western New York, including Chautauqua Lake.

“This is exciting news. The consortium supports this process and will encourage the collective voice that we can bring for the future of this region’s waters and watersheds.” said Jane Conroe, consortium chairperson.

Chautauqua Institution is also committed to pursuing sustainable science-based solutions to improve the water quality of Chautauqua Lake.

“The institution is excited that these vital organizations are thinking about ways they can best mobilize, together, to use all we’re learning about Chautauqua Lake to implement science-based solutions for the lake’s present and future,” said Michael Hill, institution president. “We have been proud to be a partner to these organizations through our shared work of caring for Chautauqua Lake and the watershed and look forward to supporting them in this journey moving forward.”