FirstLight

The Shoreline Management Plan  for Candlewood Lake, relevant to property owners and associations, outlines several key points that are particularly significant for understanding land use and responsibilities.  Below are important highlights. 

Key Objectives:

Protect and Enhance Public Access and Recreational Opportunities:

Public access points are outlined for potential future enhancements, aiming to balance recreational use with environmental preservation.

Preserve and Enhance Natural Resource Values:

Shoreline land uses are regulated to protect wildlife, water quality, and habitat along the lake. Property owners must comply with rules ensuring that natural resources are not damaged by construction or other activities.

Clarify Shoreline Permit Program and Process:

CLICK to -> Apply for a permit

FirstLight Hydro Generating Company (FirstLight), as the manager of the project, requires property owners to obtain permits for any modifications or new uses along the shoreline, including docks, seawalls, and vegetation removal.

Land Designation:

The lake’s shoreline is divided into various land use categories such as Conservation Lands, Developed Residential Lands, and Undeveloped Residential Lands.

Conservation Lands: Managed for environmental protection, and activities here are limited to soil stabilization and public access improvements.

Developed Residential Lands: Existing uses may remain, but modifications or new uses like community docks or retaining walls need permits.

Undeveloped Residential Lands: Future development is subject to strict oversight, with a focus on preserving natural resources.

Vegetated Riparian Buffers:

Buffer Zones are mandatory along the shoreline to protect water quality and prevent erosion. These zones can range from 50 to 200 feet depending on the land designation, and property owners may be required to maintain or re-establish vegetation in these areas.

Authorization for Shoreline and Land Uses:

Property owners need FirstLight's authorization for any uses within the project boundary, such as installing docks or making structural changes. There are clear guidelines for both Limited Activity Uses (e.g., minor repairs) and Significant Activity Uses (e.g., major modifications, new construction).

Enforcement:

FirstLight has enforcement powers for unauthorized uses, including potential legal action. Any violations, such as unpermitted vegetation removal or construction, could result in penalties or requirements to restore the shoreline.

Fee Structure:

Administrative fees apply to applications for shoreline uses. In some cases, significant activities may require additional reporting and involve higher fees.

Stakeholder Consultation:

The plan includes provisions for continued consultation between FirstLight, local municipalities, property owners, and other stakeholders to ensure shoreline management aligns with broader environmental and recreational goals.

Importance for Property Owners and Associations:

Compliance with shoreline management guidelines is essential for any alterations to shoreline properties.

Permits are necessary for almost all shoreline activities, including vegetation management and structural changes like docks or seawalls.

Environmental Protection is a key focus, with strict rules on maintaining or re-establishing natural buffers and managing stormwater runoff.

This framework ensures that the shoreline and associated properties are managed in a way that balances recreational use, environmental sustainability, and property rights​