State Senator Pam Helming says she is working with local officials, state agencies, and the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association to address ongoing flooding and shoreline erosion issues along Seneca Lake.
Speaking on FLX Morning with Finger Lakes News Radio, Helming said unusually high water levels and persistent windy conditions have created significant wave action on the lake this year, causing damage to private property and accelerating shoreline erosion.
According to Helming, homeowners along Seneca Lake have reported damage to docks, decks, and other waterfront structures as waves continue to batter the shoreline.
Helming said she recently participated in a conference call with State Senator Tom O’Mara, members of the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association, and other stakeholders to discuss possible solutions and next steps.
The senator noted that Seneca Lake presents unique challenges because responsibility for managing water levels involves multiple entities, making it more complicated than some other waterways in the region.
As a result, Helming said efforts are underway to coordinate a meeting involving state and local stakeholders to better understand how decisions regarding lake levels are made and how responses can be improved in the future.
While acknowledging it may be too late to significantly reduce water levels this season, Helming said officials need to establish a clearer process so action can be taken more quickly when similar conditions arise.
Helming also said she recently raised concerns about flooding during the confirmation process for newly appointed state Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terrence O’Leary. Serving on both the Senate Finance and Senate Rules committees, Helming questioned O’Leary about flooding issues affecting communities across upstate New York, including Seneca Lake, Lake Ontario, Honeoye Lake, and parts of Livingston County.
She said O’Leary demonstrated a strong understanding of the flooding challenges facing the region and expressed confidence that his leadership will benefit communities dealing with high water and emergency response issues.
In addition to flooding concerns, Helming praised O’Leary’s support for volunteer firefighters, saying his experience and understanding of local emergency service needs will be an asset for upstate communities.
