The Lake George Park and Lake George Park Commission were established in 1961(chapter 454). The "Lake George park" includes the bed, waters, islands, and shore of Lake George and all land in the counties of Essex, Warren, and Washington surrounding said lake and situated within specifically defined boundaries. The park encompasses 300-square miles of land and water lying within these three counties and twelve individual municipalities. The Lake George Park Commission was established as a body corporate and politic thereby enabling property owners in the Lake George area to voluntarily enter into agreements and adopt covenants to prevent or control the commercial use of various lands in the area; to negotiate purchases of interests in lands; and to enter into arrangements with the municipalities in the Lake George area to adopt zoning to control commercial land uses.
The commission was revitalized by major changes to sections of the Environmental Conservation Law in 1987 (chapter 617) including the ability to establish rules to protect the water quality of the lake from sewage, stormwater runoff, and other environmental damage. The commission consists of the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, ex officio, and nine members to be appointed by the governor, by and with the advice and consent of the senate. At least two members must reside in the county of Essex, two in the county of Warren, and two in the county of Washington and at least three must be members of a civic, protective, or service association in the Lake George area.
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The Lake George Park Commission is a New York State planning, environmental and public safety agency with special responsibilities for water quality and lake recreation. Boat and dock registrations are the main source of revenue to a special state trust fund that supports the Commission's programs. The commission has enacted and enforces state regulations governing boats, speed, boat noise, anchoring, marinas, moorings, docks, tree-cutting within the park, and storm water runoff from upland development. The commission also is a first responder to pollution concerns; coordinates an Invasive Species Prevention Participating Business Program, an information and referral network of over 60 participating businesses; conducts enforcement and compliance activities that protect the lake; oversees lake water levels and monitors compliance with the dam operating guidelines; administers a program of annual and short term boat and dock registrations; and coordinates with other agencies and organizations.
The commission is also empowered to intervene in proceedings before state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Adirondack Park Agency, on matters affecting the park. The commission promotes the study of the history, historical significance, natural science, and lore of Lake George and the area within the Lake George Park and in cooperation with the State Education Department, works to preserve the historical relics found in or near Lake George.
L.1961, Ch. 454; L.1987, Ch. 617.
