Yorktown Inaugurates Project to Restore Mohegan Lake

July 19, 2023 – Yorktown inaugurated a new environmental project that will help restore the health of Mohegan Lake.

Town officials cut a ribbon on Saturday for an aeration device that will revive the struggling lakes’ natural cleaning abilities.

“The Town Board is committed to protecting and improving our environment,” said Supervisor Tom Diana. “This new air pumping system will give Mohegan Lake a breath of fresh air that will improve the water quality and help wildlife.”

In April, the Town Board awarded Lake Savers LLC (doing business as EverBlue Lakes) a contract of $341,205 to install the aeration system at Mohegan Lake. The aeration system will eliminate harmful nutrients, compost and pollutants that stimulate weed and algae growth.

The aeration system is the latest effort to protect Mohegan Lake. In 2020, the Town replaced the Mohegan Avenue retaining wall, a $936,000 infrastructure project that included new erosion- and sediment-control devices.

Mohegan Lake has high levels of phosphorus, and blue-green algae blooms harmed the water quality for decades. The toxic algae blooms force officials to close swimming beaches. High levels of the toxins can cause diarrhea, vomiting, skin, eye or throat irritation, allergic reactions, and breathing difficulties, according to the state Department of Health.

Last year state Sen. Pete Harckham delivered a $100,000 state grant for the Mohegan Lake Improvement District and Town of Yorktown to help pay for the installation of a new aeration system.

Mohegan Lake is a natural waterway of 103 acres, approximately one mile long. The lake allows swimming, boating and bass fishing.