Preservation
Crystal Lake has been recognized by Yankee Magazine as having the best beach in the state of Vermont and by Travel & Leisure as having one of the Top 25 best beaches in the country. We want to continue to receive these accolades for our treasured glacial lake.
The Crystal Lake Preservation Association (CLPA) has been hard at work for over 20 years to preserve Crystal's natural beauty by eradicating and controlling aquatic invasive species such as Eurasian watermilfoil (milfoil).
Nuisance Control
One key element of aquatic nuisance control is preventing the spread of watermilfoil via boats. The CLPA implemented a summer Greeter Program via the Vermont Public Access Greeter Program to slow the spread.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the CLPA employs paid staff to greet every boat. Greeters are present from 6am - 6pm each day. Each greeter must attend the day-long training via the Vermont Public Access Greeter Program.
Boat Access Greeter Duties
Learn more about the Vermont Public Access Greeter Program and US Fish & Wildlife Clean, Drain, Dry.
Nuisance Control
The CLPA uses volunteers to identify and monitor new or spreading Eurasion watermilfoil. Once identified the CLPA will hire Rob Patton, aka Swampguana to erradicate the milfoil using various techniques, including diver-assisted suction harvesting (DASH) effective for localized control.
The costs for suction harvesting can exceed $1,200 per visit.The Crystal Lake Preservation Association relies on generous donations to fund suction harvesting and other eradication programs.
The Crystal Lake Preservation Association relies on the generous donations of NEK residents, lake property owners, visitors, and fans of Crystal Lake to educate people about Eurasian Watermilfoil and fight invasion. Donations go directly CLPA’s Aquatic Nuisance Control efforts and education programs.