In an effort to preserve valuable natural habitats and a treasured community resource, the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation is proud to support the Somerset County Conservancy's effort to save Somerset Lake.

The lake boasts a diverse bird population, varied natural habitats and immense opportunities for outdoors recreation.

Congruent with the mission of the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation, the Somerset County Conservancy is committed to preserving and conserving the important outdoor areas and resources of Somerset County. It has established the Somerset Lake Action Committee to oversee coordination of a campaign to raise awareness for the future of Somerset Lake and solicit support.

According to the Somerset County Conservancy, in the spring of 2012 a leak was discovered at the base of the dam supporting Somerset Lake's existence. The dam also failed to meet new federal safety regulations.

After receiving designation as a high risk dam, the Fish and Boat Commission lowered the lake level by 6 feet. Yet, there remains concern that lake could be drained completely because of the failing dam. Funding is currently not allocated to fix the dam at Somerset Lake and it is among a group of 9 lakes across Pennsylvania in desperate need of funding.

Entering into its second decade of existence, the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation continues to provide all wildlife enthusiasts with a way to show their commitment to all species of wildlife in Pennsylvania and their habitat.

The foundation has already raised more than $2 million for projects across the entire Commonwealth, including in Somerset County.

In 2007, the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation donated 30 acres of land in Shade Township to the Game Commission. The wetland property was used to augment State Game Lands #93, adjacent to the Flight 93 Memorial. This public land serves as critical habitat for wildlife and protects the flight path and view for the Flight 93 National Memorial. 

Similarly, the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation recognizes the importance of Somerset Lake as a community resource within the region. The lake has served as a home to more than 250 species of birds and is an important site for migrating waterfowl in the spring and fall. Lower water levels have already impacted the fish population within the lake and emptying the lake would destroy a home for musky, bass, walleye, carp and more. Finally, outdoors enthusiasts use the lake and its surrounding property for boating and hiking.

More information is available on the Somerset Lake website. Donations allocated for this project should be directed to the Somerset County Conservancy.

3/23/2015