We want to thank Guilford First Selectman Joe Mazza for his leadership to save the once-pristine Lake Quonnipaug. The Friends of Lake Quonnipaug group alerted Mr. Mazza of its concerns last fall that the lake, used by more than 20,000 people annually for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and boating, was being choked out by weeds over most of its 117 acres, and recently in areas that historically had not been affected before. The lake’s deterioration was now affecting not only the recreational lake users, but also the diverse wildlife, including four endangered bird species.

After our meetings with State Senator Ted Kennedy and state representatives Vincent Candelora and Sean Scanlon, Mazza instructed Environmental Planner Kevin Magee and Parks & Recreation Director Rick Maynard to submit a proposal to the State Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, to begin cleanup of invasive weeds in Lake Quonnipaug. Guilford was notified that it received the largest grant, $20,000, that will be matched by the town to start tackling the invasive weed problem this year.

Though it will eventually take a major effort to restore Lake Quonnipaug to its pristine state, the grant is a very important first step to ensure Lake Quonnipaug is properly maintained annually so it continues to serve our town and other residents of the state. Special thanks also go to Greg Bugbee of the Connecticut Agricultural Experimentation Station for his continuing support of our lake over the years.

Lake Quonnipaug is a community treasure, one of the most biodiverse lakes in the entire state. With the assistance of the thousands of the people who use and love Lake Quonnipaug and a sustained effort by the town and state, it will eventually be back to its pristine condition.

Joan Stettbacher

Pat Taylor

Duane Orloske

Friends of Lake Quonnipaug Board