Save Colyer Lake Restoration Project Underway

Despite a winter chill throughout Central Pennsylvania, work to restore Colyer Lake continues in Centre County through Save Colyer Lake Inc.

Currently, contractors are collecting materials and readying the site for repair work, while outlining projects to refurbish the lake bottom.

“It is wonderful to see the dirt flying,” says Tom Kistler, president of Save Colyer Lake Inc. “The future of Colyer Lake looks secure. Each day that passes brings us closer to the lake being fully restored.”

Generous support from local businesses and individual donors also continues to help the project evolve.

The Wildlife for Everyone Endowment Foundation provides administrative backing and fundraising support for Save Colyer Lake Inc. The foundation established a tax-deductible outlet for supporters to contribute funding to help recreate the lake as a popular boating and fishing destination for residents and visitors to Centre County. The site is located approximately 11 miles east of downtown State College and Penn State University making it a popular destination. It’s the only usable lake of its size within close proximity to the area.

While officials haven’t set an estimated date of completion of the Colyer Lake project, contactors did arrive onsite a few weeks before Christmas. Through the fall, limestone rock from the Route 322 widening project was donated by a state contractor and the collection of trees for underwater “fish structures” began. Ideally, much of the work on the lake’s bottom will be completed during the winter months while the muddy lake bottom is frozen solid. This also includes liming the lake’s floor to adjust its pH level.

The liming project perhaps best demonstrates the commitment of local business leaders to sustain the lake’s future as a valuable community resource. Graymont of Pleasant Gap donated 300 tons of lime, while trucks from State College-based Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. were used to haul it in. Additionally, the lime will be spread by Scott’s Landscaping at a significantly discounted price, which will be covered by the Centre Hall Farm Store.

“All of these companies are directly involved in helping to improve the habitat for fishing while the lake is down and under reconstruction,” Kistler says.

The organization still has approximately $40,000 available for use thanks to other community donations. After meeting with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, Save Colyer Lake Inc. elected to commit $10,000 of those funds to underwater improvements. The remaining $30,000 will be used for above-water improvements around the site. More than $140,000 remains in total received donations for the project, however, $100,000 is allocated for payment to the state for its involvement.

The Wildlife for Everyone Endowment Foundation was established to provide permanent private support for wildlife habitat enhancement, wildlife research and education, land preservation, and for the establishment of a wildlife research and education center in State College.

More information about the foundation, visit www.wildlifeforeveryone.org.