Leaser Lake Heritage Foundation Vice Chairman Carl Zvanut led the September meeting in the absence of Chairman George White.

After opening formalities, Lehigh County Conservation Officer Lee Creyer provided an update on the progress of Leaser Lake.

He said surveyors have completed an "as-built" survey and the Department of Environmental Protection will sign off on the project to repair the leaking dam shortly.

In about five to six weeks, a gradual fill of the lake will commence.

If all goes well, trout will be stocked next year, with bass the following year and blue gills next.

Eventually, fingerlings of all species of fish deemed appropriate for the lake will be stocked.

Only trout fishing will be allowed next year.

Creyer said it will be about five years until all fish are legal size.

Leaser Lake is the largest project in the state and will cover 117 acres when full.

There is no formal dedication program set to date but it is possible one will be held next year.

Arnold Metzger reported that his son, Randy, and Randy's ninth grade class at Blue Mountain High School planted approximately 500 seedlings of various species of trees in one section of the lake property.

A walking trail, when completed, will completely encircle the lake.

The Kempton Lions Club will be actively engaged in the construction of a floating pier to allow handicapped individuals access to the lake for fishing.

There has been a proposal set forth to honor all donors involved in the project but the exact method has not been decided.

Creyer also said a new boating regulation will be in effect starting Nov 1.

All individuals in watercraft less than 16 feet in length, which includes kayaks and canoes, must wear life vests.