Updates from the work of 2025
By Rob Dintruff, KLA President
At the end of 2024, the message in this space articulated challenges we face and changes to be made. A year later, a member might reasonably ask – did we make those changes and meet those challenges?
Maintaining the water level – We said that more frequent drought and extreme precipitation events would challenge us. Drought conditions from August to October caused the lake level to drop 7.56 inches below the lower limit of the target range. For many who struggled with low water, the drop probably felt much greater. Two separate teams are currently developing ways to gather data on stream (inflow) rates and weather patterns to aid decision making by those who control the outlet gate settings in Penn Yan. Look forward to some new and very interesting graphs and data calculations on the KLA website in 2026.
Lake water sampling and testing – We did just what we said we would: Reduced the number and frequency of lake sampling sites and applied the saved resources to look for contaminants entering the lake. In doing so, we found some high levels of bacteria. However, in all honesty, we don’t fully know what it means or what we can do about it. Not yet. This becomes a 2026-2027 challenge and a matter for expert analysis with specialists who work with the KLA.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) – Keuka had more HABs in 2025 than in 2024, but still fewer than most of the Finger Lakes. We also had many more shoreline monitors searching for HABs. We said we were studying HABs to understand them better and we are making progress. This past summer, we found HABs after a combination of factors such as heavy rains followed by warmer weather and calm waters. It is important to identify HABS but also important to understand their impact on water clarity, the food chain and even foam formation. We are providing assistance to those who are doing that work.
A NYS law requiring a boating safety certificate – This law is now in effect and we helped raise awareness of it in cooperation with local law enforcement teams including Marine Patrol Officers. Safe boating education is a continual challenge so you can expect further emphasis on this in 2026 and beyond.
The KLA and our Board serve our members, but also a broader community of residents and visitors to the area along with anyone who cares about and wants to preserve and protect Keuka Lake. Your trust in us along with your contributions and volunteer efforts allow us to continue this work for the benefit of all.
From all of us at the KLA, we wish you a joyous holiday season and a happy and healthy 2026.
Rob
