2024 Harvesting

Harvesting on Otisco Lake is one of the many ways we are working to reduce the appearance and effects of the invasive weeds in the lake. Harvesting plays a crucial role in the conservation and overall health of Otisco Lake. As a significant source of drinking water for nearby communities and a thriving ecosystem, maintaining its water quality is vital. Effective harvesting practices promote a balanced ecosystem and mitigate potential issues that could arise from excessive plant growth.
One key benefit of harvesting is the control of invasive aquatic vegetation, such as Eurasian watermilfoil and curly-leaf pondweed. These invasive species can rapidly propagate, outcompeting native plants and disrupting the lake's natural balance.

Through targeted harvesting, these plants are removed before they can overtake the lake, safeguarding native aquatic flora and fauna.

In 2024, OLPA hired two companies to harvest on the lake, CNY Harvesting and Otisco Lake Weed Harvesting. Both harvesters were on the lake throughout the summer focusing on areas that were considered “weed intensive”. Members of OLPA/Save Otisco identified areas of concern by reviewing map data and visual evaluation to develop the map. Otisco Lake Weed Harvesting focused in the Narrows, due to the boat’s limitations on suctioning in deeper waters. Once the weeds were suctioned, a conveyer was used to move the weeds from the boat to the dumpsters. The conveyer was very effective in streamlining the removal of the weeds from the boat to the dumpsters. The other harvester was able to focus in other critical areas.

(Watch video below of weed removal with conveyor belt)