July 16, 2026
Lake George, NY (July 16, 2026) – During its upcoming 2026 Annual Meeting on August 8, the Lake George Association (LGA) will highlight the partnerships, investments and individuals who help protect Lake George’s world-renowned water quality and clarity.
In addition to keynote presentations from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton and internationally recognized freshwater scientist Dr. Peter Gleick, the LGA Annual Meeting will recognize recipients of several major conservation investments and present two of the organization’s highest honors for environmental stewardship and leadership.
“Protecting Lake George has always been a collaborative effort,” said LGA President & CEO Dr. Brendan Wiltse. “This year’s Annual Meeting is an opportunity not only to discuss the future of freshwater protection, but to recognize the organizations, municipalities and individuals whose leadership continues to deliver measurable results in support of a clear and clean Lake George.”
Lake George Association investments supporting critical water quality initiatives, scientific research and community-based solutions will be recognized. In total, over $1 million in LGA grant funding to partners through LGA’s Lake Impact Fund will be highlighted, including but not limited to the Jefferson Project, Lake George Park Commission, Town of Bolton and Town of Lake George, and dozens of property owners that have received wastewater homeowner grants through the Lake Impact Fund.
The Annual Meeting will also honor two individuals whose dedication has significantly advanced the protection of Lake George water quality and clarity.
John Strough, Supervisor of Town of Queensbury, will receive the James D. Corbett Award, presented to individuals or organizations whose leadership represents the highest level of commitment to protecting Lake George’s water quality. Under Supervisor Strough’s leadership, the Town of Queensbury has been at the forefront of municipal Lake protection efforts, particularly wastewater and stormwater management, with the goal of reducing nutrient loading into the Lake. Strough was also a driving force behind, and leading voice in support of, the Mandatory Boat Inspection Program to combat aquatic invasive species from entering Lake George.
Tim Shudt, Village of Lake George Wastewater Treatment Plant Chief Operator, will receive the LGA’s Irving Langmuir Award for Excellence in Stewardship and Development, recognizing his outstanding leadership in managing the new Village of Lake George Wastewater Treatment Plant, which has had lasting positive impacts on Lake George water quality.
“John Strough has been a longtime partner of the LGA and a leader of important regulations to protect Lake George,” said Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky, PE. “Tim Shudt's livelihood is water quality, and he works everyday to protect Lake George as the licensed operator at the Lake George Village Wastewater Treatment Plant. It is our honor to recognize these dedicated individuals for their commitment to our communities, and to protecting Lake George water quality.”
The 2026 Annual Meeting will also feature the first major public discussion of the LGA’s recently adopted 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, outlining the organization’s future direction for science, policy, advocacy and community engagement.
The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is strongly encouraged. Learn more and register: https://lakegeorgeassociation.org/LGA-AnnualMeeting.
About the Lake George Association (LGA)
Founded in 1885 as the nation’s first lake conservation organization, the LGA represents thousands of constituents as one unified voice speaking for the protection of the Queen of American Lakes. Through science, solutions, community mobilization, strategic partnerships and advocacy, the LGA leads a Continuous Cycle of Lake Protection that safeguards Lake George’s water quality and clarity forever. Together as a community, we are the Voice of Lake George. Learn more: https://lakegeorgeassociation.org.
