Senator Young Announces $115,000 in State Funding to Clean and Preserve Cattaraugus County Waterways

Grants will help ongoing dredging and debris removal efforts, fight against invasive species

ALBANY – Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-Olean) announced today she has secured state assistance for necessary dredging and invasive species prevention in Cattaraugus County’s waterways.

As part of this year’s state budget, Senator Young successfully obtained two $30,000 grants to cover the cost of dredging Conewango Creek and Thatcher Brook. The Senator also secured a $25,000 grant for Lime Lake, to assist with the lake’s ongoing battle against invasive aquatic species, and $30,000 for dredging and debris removal at dams within the county.

“These grant funds are exciting news for the area residents and visitors who utilize our local lakes, rivers and creeks. Lime Lake and the other waterways provide recreational opportunities and play an important role in the local economy. This funding will go a long way toward keeping the lake open and healthy and allowing residents to enjoy all the area’s magnificent year-round water sport activities,” said Senator Young.

Assemblyman Joe Giglio (R,C,I- Gowanda), who has joined Senator Young in advocating for the local lakes and streams, said, “Our lakes, creeks and streams are constantly in need of work including dredging, removing of debris, fighting off invasive species and general efforts to maintain healthy waterways. Particularly, maintenance of Conewango Creek and Thatcher Brook is critical to prevent massive flooding which costs homeowners and taxpayers millions of dollars. I’m proud to have worked with Senator Young to secure this funding in the budget, and I know that it will go a long way toward protecting our waters for the general benefits of the residents of our communities.”

Officials at Cattaraugus County’s Department of Public Works said they were elated by the news, calling it critical to their ongoing efforts to improve the area’s public waterways.

Joseph Pillittere, Commissioner of Public Works for Cattaraugus County, said, “This funding will assist local communities in keeping their waterways clean, clear and free of debris. It's an excellent investment in our natural resources, which improves our quality of life and attracts people to the area.”

Lime Lake, located near the Town of Machias, is a natural, spring-fed lake that provides angling opportunities for a variety of fish and brings significant recreational boat traffic during the summer months.

Conewango Creek and Thatcher Brook, both of which are prone to flooding, will each receive $30,000 for dredging and debris removal. The final $30,000 grant will assist the county with other dredging and debris removal efforts.

“Cattaraugus County waterways, with their unique features and qualities, are irreplaceable treasures. Our local lakes and rivers bring economic investment into our communities, helping to grow our small businesses and support the local tax base. Having healthy and vibrant waterways is crucial to the continued growth and progress of the county,” Senator Young said.