Each participating lake association is a member of NYSFOLA, a not-for-profit coalition of lake associations and others interested in lake management. NYSFOLA was founded in 1983 and presently serves nearly 200 lake associations as well as individual and corporate members.

Citizen volunteers from NYSFOLA-member lake associations are responsible for collecting biweekly water quality data and samples from June through October. In 2005, nearly 100 lakes participated in the program. Samples are collected from surface waters (epilimnion) for shallow lakes. Bottom, or hypolimnion, samples are collected from deeper lakes. Parameters include water temperature, transparency, conductivity, pH, color, phosphorus, nitrogen, Chlorophyll a and calcium.

Water samples are sent to a state certified laboratory (currently Upstate Fresh Water Institute in Syracuse, NY) for analyses. These results and other lake measurements are forwarded to NYSFOLA and NYSDEC. Each participating lake receives a report highlighting the year’s sampling results. In addition, results are stored electronically to allow for comparison of historical data and current conditions. This allows changes and trends in water quality to be observed and predicted for CSLAP lakes. Ultimately, CSLAP participation provides NYSDEC and NYSFOLA lake associations with a basis for making management decisions.

In order to ensure that the data collected is of the highest caliber, all volunteers are trained to adhere to procedures set forth in the CSLAP Sampling Protocol. Lakes are asked to commit to a five year sampling regimen. Hence, a firm commitment from volunteers and lake associations is required prior to enlisting in the program.