CELORON, NY – Chautauqua County welcomed community members, scientists, policymakers, and environmental stakeholders this past Saturday for the 2026 Chautauqua Lake Symposium, held at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel. The annual event continues to serve as a cornerstone for collaboration, uniting partners committed to protecting and enhancing the long-term health of Chautauqua Lake.
This year’s symposium featured a strong lineup of expert presenters, including Dr. Rob Richardson of North Carolina State University, Dr. Allison Hrycik of the Jefferson Project, representatives from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy, the Chautauqua Lake Partnership, the Chautauqua Lake Association, and AJ Reyes, Chautauqua Lake Manager with GEI Consultants.
After a challenging 2025 season, the Symposium offered an opportunity to share new strategies with the public and highlight innovative approaches aimed at improving lake conditions for the 2026 season.
A central theme throughout the event was continued coordination under the new leadership of AJ Reyes, reflecting Chautauqua County’s commitment to a unified and strategic approach to lake stewardship. Presenters emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, resource sharing, and maintaining forward momentum through collaboration.
“Each year, this symposium reminds us that progress on Chautauqua Lake depends on strong partnerships and a shared commitment to doing what’s best for the lake and our communities,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “We are seeing real momentum as we continue to align science, funding, and local expertise. Our focus remains on delivering measurable results while ensuring that every stakeholder has a voice at the table.”
Wendel also expressed appreciation for all presenters and participants.
“I want to sincerely thank Dr. Richardson, Dr. Hrycik, AJ Reyes, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy, Chautauqua Lake Partnership, and the Chautauqua Lake Association, as well as all community members who attended. Your involvement, insight, and collaboration are what drive innovation and keep this work moving forward,” continued Wendel.
Chautauqua County extends its gratitude to all participating organizations, presenters, and attendees for their continued dedication, as well as to the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel and its staff for their outstanding hospitality in hosting the event.
Residents and stakeholders who were unable to attend—or those wishing to revisit the discussions—can watch the full symposium recording and access presentation materials online at:
https://chautauquacountyny.gov/chqlake
Explore the presentations below by clicking on each presenter’s name:
- Dr. Rob Richardson – North Carolina State University
- Dr. Allison Hrycik – Jefferson Project
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
- Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy
- Chautauqua Lake Partnership
- Chautauqua Lake Association (no presentation slides)
- AJ Reyes – Chautauqua Lake Manager, GEI Consultants
These resources provide an opportunity to further engage with the information shared during the symposium and stay informed on the important work taking place across our region.
As planning and coordination continue, County officials encourage the public to stay informed and engaged in ongoing efforts to support the health and sustainability of Chautauqua Lake.
