The committee, established by legislation, is comprised of a diverse membership ranging from watershed organizations to businesses. The RAC has several subcommittees which are examining diverse topics such as protected rivers, water allocation, watershed management, and recreational access. Representatives on this committee act as liaisons between the various department programs to facilitate efficient coordination of efforts on river and watershed issues. Past monthly agendas have included discussions on solid waste management, potential recreational access, and river restoration projects. Watershed Management Success Story - Candlewood Lake Eutrophication Abatement Many of DEP's early watershed management efforts focused on lake water quality.
Candlewood Lake is a good example.
Candlewood Lake in southwestern Connecticut covers 5,420 acres and is the state's largest recreational lake. Around 1980 warning signs of degrading water quality appeared - algal blooms and Eurasian water milfoil infestations. A watershed study concluded that residential development was the culprit. Implementation of a watershed management program began on the 1980's to reduce runoff of sediments and nutrients. The program emphasized best management practices for septic systems, lawn and garden care, stormwater management , erosion controls and shoreline vegetation.