SYRACUSE — Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon today announced Otisco Lake a “No-Wake Zone” effective immediately. The emergency declaration requires a 5 milesper-hour speed limit to minimize erosion caused by record high waters.
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, “”Just as with Skaneateles Lake, Otsico Lake  is a vital drinking water source for the region. Now more than ever, we need to protect these resources from nutrient loading that leads to harmful algal blooms.” McMahon continued, “A special thank you to Legislator Abbott-Kenan, Otisco Lake Preservation Association, and the residents of Otisco Lake for their advocacy to protect this lake.”
In the past week, the Otisco Lake watershed has seen nearly seven inches of rain from various storms that have pushed the lake to record high levels. These high water levels not only increase the opportunity for erosion, but subsequently add sediment and nutrients to the lake which are known to increase the likelihood of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). Limiting the speed on the lake is intended to reduce this possibility.
The Executive Order takes effect immediately. It calls for a $250 fine for any violation of the speed restriction. The order will be rescinded once lake levels have returned to normal seasonal levels. Enforcement of the order will be through the respective County Sheriff’s.