Hyde Lake
Much of this information is from the Hyde Lake: Lake Management Plan produced by Dr. Richard Lamb, Center for Earth and Environmental Science, SUNY Plattsburgh, July 1999.
- Introduction
- Limnology
- Water Quality
- Weed Growth
- Fisheries
- Wildlife
- Soils
- Wetlands
- Septic Systems
- Public Access
- Regulatory Environment
Introduction
Hyde Lake is located in the Town of Theresa, Jefferson County, New York. One of the seven Indian River Lakes of the North Country, it covers 197 acres with water depth of 15-20 feet. The outlet from Hyde Lake flows southward through a large wetland, through the Perch Lake Wildlife Preserve and then into Lake Ontario. Until February 2005 (Stream Restoration Project) the lake level was maintained by a combination of man-made and beaver constructed dam.
Limnology
Hyde Lake is a shallow water, eutrophic lake. Eutrophic lakes are characterized by high nutrient levels, an abundance of aquatic vegetation, and low water clarity due to algae growth. It is a natural condition occurring as a result of the lake's shallow depth and its mud bottom. Man introduced pollutants from septic systems, storm water runoff from developed areas, and sewer treatment plant effluent can contribute to the nutrient load, and accelerate weed and algae growth. It is unkown how much of the nutrient load of Hyde Lake is man induced.
Water Quality
Little recent water quality data is available for Hyde Lake. Some sampling was done in the lake in 1989. Results were in the range safely below the 200 fecal coliforms required for compliance with state health standards.
The general observation of shoreline residents is that water quality is generally good, but that clarity has diminished somewhat over time. more algae has been apparent in recent years, especially toward the end of summer.
Weed Growth
According to lakeshore residents, aquatic vegetation has increased significantly in recent years. Milfoil has reportedly proliferated and spread to all areas of the lake.
Fisheries
Hyde Lake supports a warm water fishery. The lake is home to a variety of fish: bass, sunfish, bullhead, walleye, northeren pike, muskellunge and crappies - to name a few. The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has stocked Hyde Lake.
Wildlife
Loons, osprey and ravens are know to inhabit the shoreline area of Hyde Lake. Loon tremolos can be heard throughout the day and night. Loons mate for life, with the pair returning annually in the spring to nest and produce offspring. Young loons can often be seen in the water riding on top of their mother's back. No attempt should ever be made to catch or chase the loons.
Loon nesting sites are generally found along shorelines a few inches above the water level. Destruction of shoreline habitat can cause the disappearance of Loons.
Raven nests are found in the cliffs bordering the east side of the lake.
Beaver can often be seen swimming in the lake. They make their presence known by splashing their tails in the water when they sense danger and by diving under the water. Until 2005, the beaver dams, reinforced by residents, maintained the water level of the lake.
Soils
The soils that underlie much of the shoreline area are classified as having severe limitations for septic systems and for dwellings because of shallow depth to bedrock. Because they are loam texture soils, they would be satisfactory for septic systems in those locations where the bedrock is deeper and the slope is not steep, provided that leach fields are placed a satisfactory distance from the lakeshore. (New York State standards require a minimum 100 feet setback from watercourses.) In steeper areas, and in particular where bedrock is close to the ground surface, septic systems are prone to malfunction
In the soil conditions found around the perimeter of Hyde Lake, it is very possible that sewage effluent from conventionally constructed leach fields could be adding to the nutrient load of the lake. Effluent could flow through the thin soil layer, not be adequately treated before reaching bedrock, and thence flow along the top of the bedrock into the lake.
Wetlands
A large New York State regulated wetland, identified as T-4, exists at the southern end of the lake. The outlet channel flows through the wetland. The area of regulation by NYS DEC includes a 100 feet buffer surrounding the delineated wetland. In addition, there is a small wetland shown on the National Wetlands Inventory map near the northeastern tip of the lake.
Septic Systems
All residences surrounding Hyde Lake Road utilize on-site septic systems. The Save Hyde Lake Association has not been involved in a septic system testing program. As a consequence it is unkown if any household septic systems are malfunctioning, or if fecal wastes or greywater is reaching the lack through improper disposal practices.
Because aging septic systems are subject to failure, especially when located on poor soils and steep slopes such as found at Hyde Lake, or when camps are expanded or converted to year around residency, it is recommended that septic systems be dye tested periodically. The NYS DEC sponsored Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP) recommends testing every two years.
Public Access
There is a state boat launch located off County Route 26. Access is limited to watercraft with motors of 10 h.p. or less, including jet skis.
Regulatory Environment
Hyde Lake lies within the Town of Theresa. Land use and development is regulated by the Town of Theresa zoning ordinance. Any new building or change in the use of property must obtain a permit from the town. Please note that these ordinances are created for the protection and preservation of the environment of Hyde Lake. The Save Hyde Lake Association asks all landowners to be aware of the regulations and to abide by them so that future generations will be able to enjoy the lake as much as we do now. Town of Theresa contact information