Just nine short years ago, Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation was formed to make certain that what we have enjoyed as young people and adults will be here for our children and grandchildren. When meeting with the leadership of Save Colyer Lake, Inc., it was clear for WFEEF to become a partner with this project.

For almost 50 years, Colyer Lake has been a popular spot for outdoor activities in Centre County such as boating, fishing, hiking, viewing wildlife and relaxing near water. This man-made lake has always been a popular spot for picnics with families and friends.

"This was one of my favorite places to come out and visit in the summer, ride my bike around and fish," said Scott Seeder, secretary of Save the Lake, Inc. and environmental and water resources engineer.

During the 1960's, The Fish and Boat Commission acquired lands, designed and built an earthen dam on Sinking Creek to create a fishing and boating area for the Centre Region. What began as a 77 acre lake with a maximum depth of 38 feet today has shrunk to less than 30 acres and 17 foot depth.

After an annual dam inspection was performed in 2012, the report was filed that Colyer Lake was unsafe by current required standards of safety. A mandatory water release was ordered entailing a total draining of the lake. This spring, the PFBC, owners of the lake, began draining this Potter Township site

County residents drew up plans to save Colyer Lake and founded Colyer Lake, Inc. In just a few short months, this organization has collected over $100,000 in verbal pledges. While this is just a small amount towards an estimated $6.8 million cost of renovating the new dam and eroded spillway, the group hopes that the state would give Colyer Lake greater priority once funds become available.

"Our focus is to raise public awareness and support," stated Centre County President John Thomas King Kistler, the group's president. This support can be demonstrated through people signing petitions and donating money to this cause.

Like many who are supporting this project, Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation wants to make sure this resource will be here for the residents and visitors to our area.

"WFEEF was formed to protect all 467 species of wildlife and their habitat in Pennsylvania," added Russ Schleiden, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "We are excited to partner with Save Colyer Lake, Inc. to ensure this natural area will be here for our generation and generations to come."

With this partnership, Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, provides an avenue for Save Colyer Lake to accept tax-deductible contributions. WFEEF has set up a special fund to accept tax exempt contributions for Save Colyer Lake, Inc.

Donations can be made online. 

9/16/2013