The Lake Champlain Committee recently received a grant from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Ecosystem Restoration Program to provide design modifications for a stormwater pond in the Crosby Farms neighborhood of Vergennes.The pond has been identified as needing remediation by a stormwater mapping project conducted by Vermont DEC and in the City of Vergennes Municipal Plan. The existing pond receives stormwater runoff from the area around Bowman Road, Green Meadow Acres, and Booska Court, and can provide improved water quality treatment with some redesign.
The grant will cover initial project planning with the intention of seeking subsequent DEC funding for construction updates to the pond that will improve treatment of stormwater in the neighborhood and better manage local flooding issues.The initial grant of $10,430 will cover the initial design plan. Once that's complete LCC will apply for additional state funds to implement the project.
“LCC consistently seeks opportunities to roll up our sleeves and tackle problems that will make a difference in water quality,” said LCC Executive Director Lori Fisher. “We look forward to working with the City of Vergennes to help address their stormwater issues.”
LCC worked closely with the City of Vergennes to develop the grant, and will continue to collaborate with localofficials throughout the project. The City will be responsible for the management of the stormwater pond.
“We greatly appreciate the assistance of LCC in getting grant funding to address this pressing problem in Vergennes,” said City Manager Mel Hawley.
"The City of Vergennes is fortunate to have the LCC bring its expertise to this project. This area is identified in the City's Municipal Development Plan as needing attention and through the LCC's efforts I am confident we can resolve this problem," said Planning Commission Chair Shannon Haggett.
About the Lake Champlain Committee
The Lake Champlain Committee (LCC) is a non-profit environmental advocacy organization dedicated to protecting Lake Champlain’s health and accessibility.They work to protect and restore water quality, safeguard natural habitats, foster stewardship and ensure recreational access. LCC was founded in 1963 by New York and Vermont citizens and has played a role in every major lake issue, from preventing a nuclear power plant on the Charlotte, Vermont shore to developing an international water quality agreement to reduce nutrient pollution.
Vergennes, VTMarch 31, 2015- The Lake Champlain Committee