As most of us know, the future of our pristine lake is dependent on several local government and volunteer organizations working together.

For those visiting our fair shores this summer, we wanted to bring your attention to the war constantly being waged against invasive species: the chief culprit being Eurasian Milfoil. Left unchecked it can literally suffocate a lake.

Two lake organizations -- The Schroon Lake Association (SLA) and the East Shore Schroon Lake Association (ESSLA) -- watch over our little slice of paradise.

Working with experts, they oversee the safe removal of milfoil and educate the public about what to look for. If you are visiting us for the first time, you should check out the Schroon Lake Watershed Plan, which is a terrific read about the history of lake, what’s at stake and what the future holds.

This week The East Shore Schroon Lake meets this Friday, July 27, at the Pottersville Fire Station at 7.30 pm. The agenda includes introducing new officers and a presentation by Aquatic Invasive Management (AIM), ESSLA’s aquatic invasive control team, on their successes in the battle against invasive species in the Warren County section of the lake.

Also invited is the Adirondack Ecologist (AE), who takes care of the lake in the Essex County section of Schroon and works with the Schroon Lake Association.

An ESSLA lake steward will also share their experience on the frontlines. And speaking of stewards, ESSLA’s Rich Nawrot is looking for volunteer Lake Stewards to fill in the weekends of July 28, August 24 thru 26, August 31, September 1 thru 3. Just for a two hour time slot. ESSLA’s paid Stewards will be heading off to college. Call 518 494-8061 if you can lend a hand.

Got lake news? Tell us in comments or send us an email at schroonlaker@me.com