Despite a harsh 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," said Save Colyer Lake, Inc. President Tom Kistler. "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 to 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 and is the only usable lake of its size within close proximity to the area.

While officials did not set an estimated date of completion for Colyer Lake, contactors did arrive on site a few weeks before Christmas.

Throughout 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 these winter months while the muddy lake bottom is frozen solid. This also includes liming the lake's floor to adjust the Ph.

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 the bounty. 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 re-construction," Kistler said. "It is exciting. If you have contact with any of these companies, please express your thanks to them for their generous support."

The organization also still has approximately $40,000 available for use in donations thanks to other community donations. After meeting with the 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.

For more information on this and other restoration projects, visit the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation website.

1/26/2015