Upper Saranac Lake is now proud to be a certified Loon-Friendly Lake! This recognition, awarded by the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC) through its Adirondack Loon-Friendly Lake Certification Program (LFLCP), highlights our commitment to community-based environmental stewardship aimed at protecting loons and their aquatic habitats.
In collaboration with the ACLC, the Upper Saranac Foundation (USF) is actively addressing many of the challenges loons face in our watershed, including:
- Loss of nesting habitat caused by shoreline development.
- Human disturbance of nesting loons and their families.
- Injuries from fishing line entanglement, boating accidents, predation, and territory conflicts.
- Flooding of nests due to changes in water levels.
- Lead poisoning from ingestion of lead fishing tackle.
- Environmental pollutants like mercury and flame retardants, which bioaccumulate and threaten loon health.
This program supports lake associations and the USF by providing supplies, training, and project guidance to ensure the protection and continuation of breeding loon populations for years to come.
The Upper Saranac Foundation achieved Loon-Friendly Lake Certification through a series of initiatives, including:
- Protecting and monitoring loon nesting sites
- Participating in the loon banding program
- Maintaining and promoting the Fishing Line Recycling Program
- Educating the community about loons through publications, social media, and outreach by our Watershed Stewards
This certification reflects our shared dedication to safeguarding loons and preserving the ecological integrity of Upper Saranac Lake. Together, we can ensure that loons continue to thrive in our Adirondack waters.
