Lake Protectors

17 | Capturing Lake George: Luke Dow’s Story

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 14:00:30 +0000

This week on Lake Protectors, we’re joined by Luke Dow of The Lake George Steamboat Company and Luke Dow Photography as he shares his family’s local legacy, his passion for photographing Lake George, among other things, and his commitment to keeping its waters clean. Discover how Luke’s work on the lake and behind the lens reflects a deep dedication to preserving Lake George’s natural beauty. Listen now!

Show Notes:

Luke Dow Photography (http://lukedowphotography.com/)

Luke Dow Photography Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LukeDowPhotography/)

Luke Dow Photography Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/luke_dow_photography/?hl=en)

Music by King Pong (Soundstripe code TFNLHDOXAOLPOTYZ)

16 | Fall & Winter Safety in the Adirondacks with Forest Ranger Chelsea Geyer

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:56 +0000

As the seasons change around Lake George, so do the ways we enjoy the outdoors, and the precautions we need to take. In this episode, we’re joined by New York State Forest Ranger Chelsea Geyer to talk about staying safe during fall and winter adventures. From hiking and sharing the woods safely during hunting season to preparing for shifting weather, Ranger Geyer shares practical tips to help you explore responsibly and protect both yourself and the environment. Listen now!

Show Notes:

NYS Forest Rangers (https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/public-safety/forest-rangers)

Become a Forest Ranger (https://dec.ny.gov/about/employment/explore-career-descriptions/forest-ranger-1)

Music by King Pong (Soundstripe code 3QSCT6U7ZJA2TMSD)

15 | How the Lake George Chamber Champions the Lake

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:00:12 +0000

In this episode of the Lake Protectors Podcast, we’re joined by Megan Seeley, Marketing Director for the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce, to explore the vital connection between a healthy lake and a thriving local economy. Megan shares what the Chamber does to support the region, the resources it offers to residents and visitors, and why protecting Lake George is essential, not just for the environment, but for the future of tourism and business in the area. Listen now!

Show Notes:

Lake George Chamber (https://lakegeorgechamber.com/)

Music by King Pong (Soundstripe code JZBNA7FYBOLW4EHP)

14 | The Fight Against Marine Debris

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:00:37 +0000

This week, we're joined by Ashley Sullivan, Executive Director of the Rozalia Project, an inspiring organization focused on removing marine debris from waterbodies and protecting water quality through hands-on action and public education. From aboard their sailing vessel, American Promise, Ashley and her team travel the New England coast conducting beach cleanups, engaging communities, and gathering critical data to reduce pollution in our waterways. Tune in to learn how their science-based approach is making a real difference and how you can be part of the solution, whether you're lakeside or oceanside.

Show Notes:

Rozalia Project (https://www.rozaliaproject.org/)

Music by King Pong (Soundstripe code EAM55BQYSATE0BQL)

13 | Clean, Drain, Dry: The Battle Against Invasive Species in Lake George

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 04:00:36 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Marshall from the Lake George Park Commission to discuss the Lake George Boat Inspection Program. Ben talks about the origins of the program and how it's grown to become a crucial tool in the fight against invasives. With five strategically located inspection stations, the program ensures that boats, trailers, and equipment arriving in Lake George are free of harmful species like Eurasian watermilfoil. Tune in for this insightful conversation on the ongoing efforts to keep Lake George beautiful and invasive-free!

Show Notes:

LGPC Contact (https://lgpc.ny.gov/contact)

LGPC Boat Inspections (https://lgpc.ny.gov/lake-george-boat-inspections)

Inspection Stations (https://lgpc.ny.gov/inspection-station-locations)

Music by King Pong

12 | How Hands-On Learning Shapes a Generation of Environmental Stewards

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with the Executive Director of Camp Chingachgook, Jine Andreozzi, to talk about the power of outdoor education in shaping the next generation of environmental stewards. Serving over 2,000 kids and teens each year on the shore of Pilot Knob, the camp offers everything from hiking and sailing to stream science and art- giving young people a hands-on connection to nature outside of the classroom. Jine shares how these experiences create core memories, develop new skills, and inspire a deeper sense of responsibility for the changing world around us.

Show Notes:

Camp Chingachgook (https://www.lakegeorgecamp.org/summer-programs)

Floating Classroom (https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/floating-classroom)

Music by King Pong

11 | The LGA’s Summer Events Lineup

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week, we’re diving into all the exciting events the Lake George Association has planned for the 2025 summer season. From parties to fundraising events to community science programs, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved!

Show Notes:

LGA Events https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/events

Music by King Pong

10 | Lake George: A Pioneer in Smart Lake Technology

Wed, 07 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week, we dive into the Jefferson Project—a collaborative effort between Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), the Lake George Association (LGA), and IBM that's turning Lake George into the smartest lake in the world. Our guests, Mark Lucius and Maria Pelusi, break down how cutting-edge sensor networks, ultra-high-frequency data modeling, and advanced forecasting tools are helping us better understand and protect our beloved Lake George. To learn more, join us in Lake George on May 15th for the LGA’s annual Lake Protector Summit featuring our keynote speaker, Dr. Kevin Rose, Director of the Jefferson Project.

Show Notes:

Jefferson Project Live Dashboard (https://www.jeffersonproject.live/)

The Jefferson Project at Lake George (https://dfwi.rpi.edu/jefferson-project-lake-george)

9 | Beneath the Surface: Plant Surveys and Underwater Wonders with Nick Rowell

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

This week, we sit down with Nick Rowell from Warren County Soil & Water for a deep dive—literally and figuratively—into the hidden wonders beneath the lake’s surface. Nick shares his unique perspective as a diver, having spent 12 years conducting plant surveys in and around Lake George. Shout out to the “School of Bob” Bombard for teaching him everything he knows about plant identification! We explore the innovative use of video to document underwater ecosystems, and Nick reveals some fascinating stories from his dives. Tune in for a journey into the depths of Lake George!

Show Notes:

A Freshwater Perspective ( https://warrenswcd.org/lake-bottom/)

Warren County Soil & Water Contacts (https://warrenswcd.org/contact/)

Music by King Pong

8 | Hemlocks Under Siege!

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Join us this week as we welcome Tammara Van Ryn, recently retired Director of the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP), and an expert in invasive species management across the six-million-acre Adirondack region. Tammara shares her passion for protecting our natural landscapes and discusses the challenges posed by invasive species, particularly the notorious hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). Tune in to learn how you can get involved in protecting Lake George and Adirondack forests and ensure the longevity of these incredible ecosystems. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

Show Notes:

iMap invasives (https://www.imapinvasives.org/)

HWA Monitoring Weekend (https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/events)

Adkinvasives.com (https://adkinvasives.com/)

Pesticide applicator list (https://adkinvasives.com/data/files/Documents/Terrestrial%20Contractors%20List%202023%20WEB.pdf)

Forest Pest Hunters (https://www.adkinvasives.com/Get-Involved/Volunteer/Forest-Pest-Hunting)

Volunteer with APIPP (https://www.adkinvasives.com/Get-Involved/Volunteer/)

Music by King Pong

7 | A New Era: Dr. Brendan Wiltse Takes the Helm at the LGA

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brendan Wiltse, the brand-new Executive Director of the Lake George Association. Dr. Wiltse shares his journey to Lake George and his vision for the lake and the LGA. Emphasizing the LGA’s Science to Solutions approach, we chat about bridging the gap between research and actionable environmental protection strategies. Tune in to hear how Dr. Wiltse is working to protect Lake George while addressing the growing pressures of climate change and helping other communities implement sustainable solutions.

Show Notes:

Experimental Lakes Area (https://www.iisd.org/ela/)

LGA Names New Executive Director (https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/news-events/news/lga-names-new-executive-director)

Mirror Lake Progress Highlighted at Annual Salt Summit (https://www.adirondackexplorer.org/stories/mirror-lake-progress-highlighted-at-annual-salt-summit#:~:text=Salt%20concentrations%20in%20Mirror%20Lake,Lake%20Placid%20are%20paying%20dividends.)

Music by King Pong

6 | The Goldfish Dilemma: When Pets Become Pests

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On a spring day in 2023, Lake George Mayor Ray Perry was out for a walk through the West Brook Conservation Park when he spotted goldfish in one of the stormwater retention ponds. In this episode, Jim Lieberum from the Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District returns to tell us the story of a released aquarium pet and how that became an active infestation threatening the lake. In this engaging discussion that highlights the intersection of environmental stewardship and community action, we’ll learn about the complexities of managing invasive species and the importance of proper re-homing and disposal of non-native animals and plants.

Show Notes:

Adirondack Explorer: Lake George Takes a Creative Measure to Combat Invasive Goldfish

5 | Safety vs Water Quality: Finding a Balance with Chris Navitsky

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome back and Happy New Year, Lake Protectors! This week, we are joined by Chris Navitsky, the Lake George Waterkeeper, to talk about road salt and the impact it has on water quality. While road salt is necessary for safety, excessive use leads to environmental problems, including chloride accumulation in water, which disrupts lake turnover, harms aquatic life like zooplankton, and affects local infrastructure. Join us as we chat about the LGA’s Science to Solutions approach and community efforts that are making a real difference in the fight to protect Lake George and beyond. We will also hear from Craig Sandmann of Hilltip, a sponsor of the Salt Summit and manufacturer of snow and ice removal equipment.

Show Notes:

Road Salt Reduction: https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/act-now/reduce-salt

The Trouble with Road Salt: https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/science-protection/citizen-science/trouble-winter-road-salt

Salt Summit Sponsor: HillTip: https://www.hilltip.com/en/

Salt Summit Sponsor: Henderson Products: http://www.hendersonproducts.com/

Music by King Pong (Soundstripe code 0CFI5NR6LGQL6PLH)

4 | Stormwater Runoff with Jim Lieberum: “It all starts in the watershed”

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week we are joined by Jim Lieberum from the Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District to talk about stormwater! Learn what it is, why it matters for the ecosystem and practical things homeowners can do to help mitigate stormwater runoff on their property. Tune in to learn how we can all be better stewards of the land and make meaningful improvements for our environment. Remember, if everyone does a little better, we’ll all benefit! Don’t forget to like and subscribe!

Show Notes:

Cornell Extreme Precipitation

Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District

Music by King Pong

3 | What is the Septic Inspection Program? with Randy Rath

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we’re joined by Randy Rath, a seasoned expert with over 23 years at the Lake George Association, now serving with the Lake George Park Commission (LGPC). Randy shares his insights on the vital Lake George Park Commission Septic Inspection Program launched in 2023, designed to protect our beloved Lake George. We discuss the inspection process, what homeowners can expect, and the importance of maintaining septic systems to enhance water quality. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review to help spread the word about protecting our precious lake!

Show Notes:

Septic Program FAQs

2023 Septic Program Final Report

Septic Inspection Map

Lake Impact Fund

Warren County Septic Replacement Grant

Washington County Septic Replacement Fund Program

Essex County Septic System Replacement Grant

Music by King Pong

2 | The Lake Impact Fund Grant Program

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to Lake Protectors! In this episode, we sit down with the LGA’s Managing Program Director, Monika LaPlante to dive into the newly launched Lake Impact Fund—a brand new grant program designed to support our local community. This program is crucial for residents facing failed septic systems that impact the water quality of our beautiful Lake George. This episode is a must-listen for anyone living in the Lake George watershed who is committed to protecting our lake and community.

Don't forget to like and subscribe!

Show Notes/Links:

Grants: Lakegeorgeassociation.org/lake-impact-fund

Questions? Email grants@lakegeorgeassociation.org

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/7zFXA1uHCwU

Music by King Pong

1 | It’s Going to Take a Village to Protect This Lake with Dr. John Kelly III

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Lake Protectors! Join us as we sit down with Dr. John Kelly III, a passionate advocate for Lake George and the newly elected Board Chair of the Lake George Association. With a rich background in academia and a storied career at IBM, Dr. Kelly has deep roots in the Lake George community and a lifelong connection to its waters. Join us as we discuss the delicate balance of protecting this complex ecosystem, the impacts of climate change, and the critical role each of us plays in safeguarding the future of Lake George.

Tune in and discover how we can all be Lake Protectors! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

Show Notes/Links:

Road Salt Reduction

Boat Inspection Program

Jefferson Project

Music by King Pong