Save Otter Lake

Otter Lake: A Pristine Natural Resource Facing Challenges

For over 60 years, Otter Lake has been a cherished retreat for residents of Hopkins County, offering serene opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and connecting with nature. Yet, this beloved lake faces challenges that threaten its future due to the complexities surrounding the maintenance of its dam.

The Challenge of Shared Responsibility

The dam's upkeep has long been a contentious issue due to unclear ownership responsibilities, involving local homeowners, public utilities, and government roads. The Kentucky Energy and Environmental Cabinet's stance is that all parties bear equal maintenance responsibility. This has led to the State bringing suit against a number of different parties, which threatens the community's financial stability, the lake's existence and perhaps even the ability to deliver public utilities to residents on the far side of the lake.

Community and Legal Mobilization

Despite the absence of formal ownership or direct responsibility, the community around Otter Lake has rallied together, raising over $37,000 to fund legal efforts to defend the lake and challenge the state's approach to enforcement. This fund supports not only the legal battle but also contributes towards ensuring the dam's safety and operational integrity.

Hopkins County's Role

It's important to note that after a circuit court's ruling that the Hopkins County Fiscal Court is an owner of the dam, they have played a significant role in supporting the cause. In recent months, the court has joined local residents in undertaking maintenance tasks and very importantly, commissioned a study to assess the dam's structural stability and viability.

These actions are crucial steps toward addressing the state's concerns. Yet, to date, the EEC's legal team has refused to acknowledge any improvements. In an effort to prevent local residents from presenting proof that shows improvements made to the dam, the state's attorney argued in court to labeling local residents who enjoy the lake as "trespassers" with no standing in the lawsuit. This is ironic because the state's attorney had originally included the property owners association in the lawsuit with intent to levy a $1,000 day fine against property owners.

Otter Lake Conservation Society, Inc. (OLCS)

In response to these ongoing challenges, the Otter Lake Conservation Society, Inc. (OLCS) was established as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization. OLCS is dedicated to the long-term protection, enhancement, and restoration of Otter Lake and its dam. By focusing on water quality, dam stability, and the reduction of governmental burdens, OLCS aims to preserve this natural gem for future generations.

Join the Effort

We call on you to join our efforts in preserving Otter Lake. Your support, whether through donations, advocacy, or spreading the word, can make a significant difference.

If you find it within your ability to contribute, all donations to OLCS are tax deductible.

Follow our journey and contribute to our cause by following us on the Save Otter Lake - Facebook Page.

Together, we can navigate these challenges and ensure Otter Lake remains a treasured resource for all to enjoy.

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