From 2007 to 2009, OCCA undertook its first major fund drive, the Otsego Lake Challenge, to ensure continued support for major initiatives for the lake: septic system management plan, zebra mussel control, invasive species inspections, riparian buffers, EQIP projects, lake monitoring, and public education regarding these programs – why they are needed and what they accomplish. This effort was boosted by the Lou and Susanna Hager Matching Challenge Grant of $150,000. OCCA board members then worked hard to procure another $230,000, bringing the total raised to $380,000.

FULFILLING THE OTSEGO LAKE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN: KEY CAMPAIGN INITIATIVES

(from the document "The Lake Challenge – A Community Campaign To Protect Otsego Lake")

OCCA played a key role in drafting the Plan for the Management of the Otsego Lake Watershed, which identified nutrient loading as the major threat to Otsego Lake. Since the plan’s adoption, OCCA has made significant progress to reduce the harmful effects of nutrient loading; however, much more remains to be done before irreversible ecological damage occurs. Successful accomplishment of the Lake Challenge Campaign’s fund-raising goals will accelerate and complete key components of OCCA’s major water quality improvement plans for the lake. These plans include:

1. Otsego Lake Septic Systems

2.  Zebra Mussel Control

3.  Invasive Species Boat Inspections

4.  Streamside Plantings/Riparian Buffers

5.  Agricultural Water Quality Program

6.  Monitoring, SUNY Biological Field Station

7.  Education Initiatives

8.  The Susquehanna River Trail

TO VIEW THE ORIGNAL LAKE CHALLENGE CASE STATEMENT, CLICK HERE

LAKE CHALLENGE "OVER THE TOP" CELEBRATION

Susanna and Lou Hager, co-chairs of The Otsego Lake Challenge campaign, invited donors of all levels to an "Over the Top" Celebration on October 11, 2009. The Hagers' $150,000 contribution to the Otsego Lake Challenge campaign was key to the rapid attainment of its goal.

Click here to learn more.