If you weren’t able to attend, our partner organization, the Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI), recently presented an excellent webinar highlighting a collaborative research project with the Upper Saranac Foundation focused on lakeshore biodiversity on Upper Saranac Lake.
AWI is conducting a multi-year study examining how different shoreline management practices influence wildlife diversity and habitat use. The research includes surveys of birds, mammals, and amphibians along shorelines with varying levels of human alteration. In addition to monitoring on state lands, twenty-six Upper Saranac Lake residents are participating directly by hosting wildlife cameras and other monitoring equipment on their properties.
The webinar, presented by Michael Glennon of the Adirondack Watershed Institute at Paul Smith’s College, offers fascinating insights into how shoreline practices affect local ecosystems. It also explains how this research will help inform improved shoreline protection guidelines and provide an empirical foundation for a Lake Wise–style program in New York. The ultimate goal is to engage lakeside communities in stewardship practices that benefit both wildlife and water quality across the Lake Champlain Basin.
Beyond the science, the presentation is engaging and accessible for all ages—perfect to watch with kids or grandkids. There’s even a memorable cameo by a one-eyed raccoon that has quickly become a fan favorite.
We highly recommend taking the time to watch this informative and enjoyable webinar.
Watch the recording here: https://www.uvm.edu/seagrant/research-webinar-lakeshore-biodiversity-informing-lake-wise-approach-adirondacks