Founded in 1885, the Lake George Association is the nation's first lake conservation organization, working for over 140 years to protect Lake George's water quality through science, community partnerships, and public education programs.
Protecting Lake George Since 1885
The Lake George Association has spent more than a century building the partnerships, science, and programs needed to keep the lake healthy. In 2021, the Lake George Association merged with The FUND for Lake George, combining resources and expertise under one shared mission: protecting the lake many call the Queen of American Lakes for generations to come.
Science-Driven Solutions for Lake Health
The Lake George Association's work is guided by research from partnerships including the Jefferson Project and the Lake George Waterkeeper program, with additional input from a Council of Science Advisors and the volunteer efforts of Community Scientists. Five focus areas guide this work:
- Reducing road salt pollution
- Preventing the spread of invasive species
- Monitoring and preventing harmful algal blooms
- Addressing the impacts of climate change
- Managing stormwater and wastewater pollution
Boaters play a role too. Trailered boats launching on Lake George must pass through a mandatory inspection and decontamination station between May 1 and October 31, a requirement that has helped keep new aquatic invasive species out of the lake since 2014.
Lake Protectors and Community Partnerships
The Lake George Association brings businesses and residents into its protection efforts through several initiatives:
- Lake Protectors: Launched in 2021, this program invites property owners, businesses, and organizations throughout the watershed to take direct action against the lake's greatest threats.
- Business Compact: Published in 2021 by the Association's Council of Business Advisors with support from more than 100 area businesses, this document affirms Lake George's role in the regional economy and pledges support for its protection.
- Basin-wide programs: The Association has founded or supported initiatives including the Lake George Septic Initiative, the Road Salt Reduction Initiative, and the West Brook Conservation Initiative for stormwater management.
Membership and Support
Membership donations help fund the Lake George Association's protection work. Members must be 18 or older, and membership supports:
- Clean drinking water for nearly 75% of homes in the Lake George watershed
- A tourism economy valued at more than $2 billion, supporting 8 million visitors each year
- Watershed property values collectively worth more than $10 billion
Individual and business memberships are both available, along with options for planned giving and stock or wire transfer donations.
The Floating Classroom on Lake George
Since 1991, the Lake George Association's Floating Classroom has introduced visitors to the ecology and science of Lake George aboard the Rosalia Anna Ashby. Programs typically run in the summer months, with school groups joining in the spring and fall. Two options are offered:
- All About Lake George: A two-hour introduction to the lake's ecosystem
- All About Water Quality: A 90-minute program focused on the science behind the lake's clarity
Both depart from the dock at the end of Lower Amherst Street in Lake George Village. Reservations are required in advance.
Signature Events Each Year
The Lake George Association hosts several key events each year in support of its mission:
- Summer Gala: The Association's signature fundraiser, held at The Sagamore Resort
- New York State Salt Summit: Brings together policymakers, scientists, and industry professionals to discuss science-based solutions for reducing road salt pollution statewide
- Annual Meeting: A free, public event featuring updates on the Association's work
Visit the Lake George Association
Located at 2392 State Route 9N in Lake George, NY, the Lake George Association welcomes members, volunteers, and visitors who want to learn more about protecting the lake.
Visit their website to learn more!