April, May, June, 2020 Edition
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It’s Spring-the beginning of “the season” on Leesville Lake. This issue of “Living the Dream on Leesville Lake” is all about transitioning from Winter to Spring and the beginning of Summer. Another transition is that we have a new LLA EMagazine Editor-see more about this below.
The residents of Leesville Lake include a diverse group of delightful people who hail from all over the United States and bring a vast amount of talent to our lake communities. Resident professions and career experience include: business owners; gardeners; government workers; attorneys; scientists; production workers; plumbers and electricians; homemakers; realtors; MDs and PHds; engineers, I.T. experts; educators; musicians; artists; a landscape architect, a recording artist/storyteller, military retiree/veterans, and more.
Leesville Lake is surrounded by Pittsylvania, Bedford and Campbell counties. Resident communities include: Runaway Bay (Lynch Station); Eagle Pointe Shores (Pittsville/Gretna); Heron Landing (Gretna); Playcation Retreat (Gretna); Brumfield (Pittsville), Sunset Bay (Gretna), and The Landing at Leesville Lake (Pottsville); Quatrone (Bedford); Sportsman’s Point (Bedford); Tuck-A-Way (Bedford); Stoney Creek (Campbell); Falcon Ridge (Pittsylvania); Mountain View Shores (Pittsylvania); Meadow Shores (Pittsylvania); Parker’s Landing (Pittsylvania); Staunton View Farms (Pittsylvania).
This quarterly digital Magazine,“Living the Dream at Leesville Lake” is published by the Leesville Lake Association and offers an update of current events, activities and lifestyle at Leesville Lake.
Leesville Lake Members can expect to find the latest edition in their Email in-boxes at the beginning of each quarter: January-March; April-June; July-September; and October-December.
Inside This Issue:
- A Message from Dave Rives, LLA President: “Welcome to the End of Winter and the Start of a New Lake Season”
- The Next General Membership Meeting: April 11, 2020 featuring Officer Cory Harbour, Conservation Police Officer-Virginia Department of Game and Inland FisheriesCANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
- The 2020 Leesville Lake Calendar of Events
- Meet our New LLA EMagazine Editor: Diane Hewett
- The AEP Team who Keeps our Lake Clean: “All About the AEP Barge and the Crew who Keeps our Lake Clean” by James M. McGlothlin, AEP Lake Crew Supervior
- Learn what the LLA Does & How You can Become a Member
- LLA Treasurer’s Report from Treasurer, Mary Loiselle
- Water Quality Committee Report from Chair, Tony Capuco
- Debris Committee Report from the LLA Debris Committee
- Navigation Committee Report from Chair, Joe Humphrey
- Safety Committee Report from Chair, Gerry Caprario
- Beautification Day Committee Report from Chair, Dannie Smith
- Richard Beaton, Long-time Leesville Lake Resident and LLA Board Member Writes: “The Legacy of Smith Mountain Gap”
- Consider Becoming the New LLA Membership Committee Chair
- Two Wonderful Leesville Lake Marinas: Tri-County Marina, Camp Ground and Grill & Leesville Lake Marina, Pool and Grill
- Complete List of the 2020 LLA Board of Directors & Chair
- The LLA 2021 Calendar: How to Submit Your Photos
- LLA Website Archives: LLA Meeting Minutes & LLA Newsletters
- Thank you to Leesville Lake Service-Provider Members
- A Note From the LLA EMagazine Editor, Randy Weiss: “Leaving Leesville Lake with a Cornucopia of Joyful, Grateful Memories”
Top Photo: Leesville Lake in Spring is a beautiful place to be. Time to clean off the barbecue, safety-check the boat, and get ready for Beautification Day on June 13th.
Bottom Photo: Robert Hiss, Bedford County Administrator poses for a photo with LLA Vice President, Tracy Pauley at the well-attended January 11, 2020 Membership Meeting.
Note: If you have any difficulty viewing content or photos, please click on “view this Email on your browser” located at the very top of this EMagazine
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A Message from Dave Rives, LLA President:
“Welcome to the End of Winter and the Start of a New Lake Season”
One thing about living in Virginia that I have always enjoyed is the changing of the seasons. That dependable cycle: cold-warm-hot-warm-cold, kinda nice when you realize all of the new and exciting things each season brings. Well this year we really didn’t have much of a winter. Some cold days, but many warmer than normal … whatever “normal” is. I guess I’m getting old, but I really didn’t mind not having to shovel the driveway all season.
I offer to you the key items your Association will be focused on in 2020:
- Ensure safety on the lake
- Ensure good water quality with minimal debris
- Continue to improve our relationship with AEP/APCo, holding them responsible to operate the Project in accordance with their FERC (Federal Energy Regulating Commission) license requirements
- Continue to work collaboratively with the Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission
This next item is a significant key to our success. Whether dealing with AEP/APCo, the press, the various county administrations, TLAC or the public in general … numbers matter. We count on your continued support not just financially but more importantly your involvement to keep the Leesville Lake Association an important voice regarding our lake.
- Increase membership and involvement
Membership: If not a member now, join the Association and encourage others to do the same. It’s the best $25 you can spend to make your voice heard regarding this lake we all love. The Executive Committee of the Association will be calling on the HOA presidents or a representative of each subdivision over the next couple of months to get feedback and solicit help in working with the Association.
Get involved: Whether as a Director, a committee member or a participant at Beautification Day, find a role that is aligned with your interests and join in.
Attend Meetings: We are focused on getting interesting guest speakers, hearing concerns from our membership and having a little fun at our meetings. At the last two meetings we’ve had great representatives from Pittsylvania and Bedford Counties, we’ve shared information and had a nice social time after the meeting. Also, who can resist free pizza or chili?
We had over 50 members at the January meeting and that might be a record for a meeting in January. Thanks to all that attended! In April we’ll have a representative from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries as our guest speaker.
The Annual Meeting and Picnic is on July 11 where we will conduct our annual business (approve the budget, elect Directors, etc.) and enjoy each other’s company over a delicious meal. In October we hope to get a representative from Campbell County to speak and listen to our concerns.
We have accomplished a great deal over the years in working to make and keep this lake a special place. Thanks to everyone active now and especially to those that blazed the trail before us. But we’re not done. Don’t just sit on the sidelines … please join in.
See you on the water … Dave
Photo: The Rives family enjoying S’mores on a Winter evening
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The April 11, 2020 General Membership Meeting
CANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
An Invitation to All Leesville Lake Members and Prospective Members
The Leesville Lake Association is dedicated to providing pertinent information to our lake communities. The General Membership Meetings offer an informative and engaging way of bringing members together to socialize and to learn a bit more on how government and community leaders affect our respective communities.
When: April 11, 2020 CANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
Time: 10:30 AM
Stay for Lunch After the Meeting
Where: The Altavista Train Station (adjacent to the Staunton River Library Parking Lot in Altavista)
Guest Speaker: Officer Cory Harbour, Conservation Police Officer from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF)
Why This Meeting is Important
The purpose of this important meeting reflects LLA’s mission in creating and ensuring strong and enduring relationships with all of the surrounding State and County Agencies, County Administrators, Supervisors and other relevant personnel, as well as for individual citizens to learn what these essential people have to offer and how to connect with them.
The motto of the DGIF is: CONSERVE. CONNECT. PROTECT.
The DGIF has been a steward of the outdoors since 1916, leading in wildlife conservation and inspiring people to value the outdoors and their role in nature. At this meeting, LLA members will learn what these public service officials do to protect our lake community and help to keep our lake and surrounding area safe.
From and About Officer Cory Harbour
Agenda:
I will be addressing the following topics and am open to questions from the LLA attendees
- CPO responsibilities
- Heavy debris
- Boating safety
- Fluctuating water levels
- Laws pertaining to operating SUP, kayak, canoe, safety requirement, alcohol
- Theft awareness
- Buoy education
- Sunken boat education
- Boat accident reporting
- Fish stocking updates
- From: Campbell County, Rustburg graduate. Continued to Longwood University graduate
- Married 6 years (together 13 years)
- Father to 1 daughter (3 years old)
- Hobbies: Time with family, church, cooking, everything outdoors (hunting, fishing, hiking, running, camping), Harley Davidson, golf, soccer
Professional Bio:
- Conservation Police Officer, Nearly 4 Years
- This is a perfect combination of getting to work in a dynamic/independent environment while getting to serve the community, protect natural resources, and promote public safety
- I Always wanted to be a Game Warden and was lucky enough to finally get the opportunity Being a CPO is a dream job for me.
- Local accounting firm, 3 years (motivation to pursue CPO career)
- Nuclear power plant repair/maintenance, 2 years
Photo:
Officer Cory Harbour, DGIF Conservation Police Officer
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The 2020 Leesville Lake Calendar of Events
The Leesville Lake Association runs on a fiscal year from September 1st through August 31st, and includes a year full of activities. The specific event dates for 2020 are listed below and the ones that are pertinent to April, May & June are highlighted in yellow below.
Board Meetings
The LLA Board Meetings are open to all LLA members (see note below)
February 13, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
March 12, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
May 14, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM**
June 11, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
August 13, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
September 10, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
November 12, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
December 10, 2020: Staunton River Library, Altavista- 6:30 PM
Note: All LLA members may attend Board Meetings since they are open meetings. However, only Board Members may vote on actions being taken.
Membership Meetings
The LLA Membership Meetings are open to all LLA/prospective members (see note below)
April 11, 2020: Altavista Train Station 10:30 AM CANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
Speaker: Officer Cory Harbour, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
July 11, 2020: Annual Meeting and Picnic-Leesville Lake Marina (more info forthcoming)
October 10, 2020: Altavista Train Station 10:30 AM-Program to be Announced
Note: The General Membership Meetings are designed to give All LLA members/prospective members and opportunity to gain further knowledge about the Association and its activities, and to become active in its pursuits.
Beautification Day(s)
Save the Date: June 13, 2020 (more information forthcoming)
Meeting Location Information
** Staunton River Library – 500 Washington St, Altavista, 24517 * 434.369.5140
*** Altavista Train Station – Washington St, Altavista 24517 (Adjacent parking to library)
**** Leesville Lake Marina- 2736 Washington St, Gretna, 24577 * 434.324.8500
Vessel Safety Check and Boating Safety Classes
Vessel Safety Check (VSC)
April 25, 2020 * Contact Gerry Caprario for details at safety@leesvillelake.org
Description:
Following a format that is used nationally by both United States Power Squadrons and US Coast Guard Auxiliary, the vessel being examined is checked as to presence and condition of items of legal and safety requirement. This can be done in the water or on the trailer, at the backyard, driveway, garage or marina. The whole process normally takes about 20 minutes. The inspector has been certified by either USPS or USCGAux and must maintain a minimum number of inspections annually to retain his certification.
The inspection also considers the overall condition of the boat and certain rules apply as to the size of the boat and geographical location. Boats being used on the ocean have some different needs than those on Leesville Lake.
Please be aware that the inspector is an adviser and not an enforcer and as such has no legal powers. He/she is available to answer questions and also to suggest changes and modifications. A sticker is presented to affix to the boat upon a successful VSC. This sticker will show any Marine Police, Game Warden that the boat owner has a positive interest in maintaining the vessel in a safe condition.
The Leesville Lake VSC can take place at one of the local marinas or at your own dock.
Boating Safety Classes
Contact Gerry Caprario for details at safety@leesvillelake.org
April 18, 2020: Altavista Train Station
May 16, 2020: Altavista Train Station
Description:
Each state has a National State Boating Law Administrator who is responsible for what his title says. These administrators have their own organizations that produce a comprehensive set of guidelines that are fairly standard throughout the U.S. (Allowances are made for boaters who trailer their boats to visit other states.)
The Safety Classes are usually taught at no or minimal cost by USPS or USCGAux instructors who are certified as such. However there are private individuals who have been certified that teach this class at a larger cost. There are also on-line courses.
The Leesville Lake class takes about 8 hours and covers all aspects of basic boating: legal requirements; safety; weather; navigation; piloting; rules of the road, etc. This Safety Class requires pre-reservations to ensure sufficient class supplies.
Photo: Be sure to mark your calendar with April, May and June, 2020 LLA events
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Randy Weiss is Delighted to Introduce Diane Hewett,
The New Editor of “Living the Dream at Leesville Lake” EMagazine
As my husband Jim and I move from Leesville Lake to Tucson, Arizona, I am so pleased to introduce Diane Hewett to our Leesville Lake community. Diane and I met under unique circumstances. She and her husband, Davis actually purchased our LL home! This was the most friendly, up-close-and-personal sale/purchase of a home that ever was. Jim and I are happy to call Diane and Davis our newest friends. Diane is an experienced editor and writer, and I am certain that she will bring her own excellent style to our newsletter.
Diane’s position as Editor will officially begin for the July, August, September 2020 LLA EMagazine.
In Diane’s words:
I was raised in different mid-west cities before coming to Virginia as a teenager. I attended James Madison University, majoring in Business Management. I have two biological sons and two stepsons.I retired from the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia, where I served as Administrator. In that position I was excited to have opportunities to write stories and articles on local history and in 2011, I wrote and published a book called, “Chesterfield County Chronicles:
Stories from the James to the Appomattox”.
My husband, Davis, and I are excited to begin our own new chapter called, “Retirement at Leesville Lake.”
Photo: Please welcome Diane and Davis Hewett to Leesville Lake
Diane can be reached at newsletter@leesvillelake.org
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All About the AEP Barge and the Crew who Keeps our Lake Clean by James M. McGlothlin, Lake Crew Supervisor (aka Mark McGlothlin)
A Note from Editor, Randy Weiss:
Mark McGlothlin has been a dedicated and respected friend to Leesville Lake. I am so pleased that he has consented to write this piece so that you can get to know him and the AEP crew. Please remember to give them a wave or a thumbs-up as they pass by your home on their barge.
A Bit About Our Crew Members
Our crew is made up of six fulltime AEP employees two of which just joined our crew in October, 2019.
Tommy Howard is the crew foreman and our most experienced member. Tommy has been with the company for just over 26 years and has spent his entire career with the Lake Crew. Tommy laughs about it and says “I’ve been on the lakes longer than many of the residents have.” When he is not on the water working he enjoys hunting, fishing and spoiling his grandchildren.
Following closely behind (in years of service that is) is Emmett Thompson, better known by all as ET. ET has been with the company for 25 years and like Tommy has also spent his entire career with the Lake Crew. Boy, that’s quite a bit of experience between those two! This past summer if the barge was working on Leesville Lake, it’s a good bet that ET was at the helm. Outside of his family and his church, ET likes to sing. He sings in church regularly and many days he entertains us out on the barge with a song or two.
Cortland Frederick has been with us since February, 2019 and has become a very important member of our team. Although a young man compared to some of us, he came with a wealth of experience. His father is a well know contractor on Smith Mountain Lake so as you can imagine, he was operating boats, barges and equipment before he even had a driver’s license. In his off time Cortland enjoys water sports and hanging out with friends.
One of our newest members is Matt Cutchins. Matt hales from Henry County where he worked as a heavy equipment operator for a grading and paving company for many years. The other new member is Jeremy Wimmer. Jeremy grew up on a farm on Bent Mountain in Roanoke County. He worked for Western Virginia Water Authority as a heavy equipment operator for several years. Both Matt and Jeremy are doing extremely well in their new positions and are fast becoming a very valuable asset to our team. We are still getting to know these guys so there is not much to share about them at this time.
That leaves me, Mark McGlothlin. I have been with AEP for just over 38 years with the last 14 in the Hydro Department. When I was offered the supervisor position with the Lake Crew just over three years ago I was thrilled with the opportunity. It has not been without challenges but has been very rewarding. These guys are without a doubt among the best group of people I have ever worked with in all my years with AEP.
What I Like and Dislike Most About My Job
About 90% of the time I think we would all say, what’s not to like! We are outside, on the water, working with the best equipment and the best people in one of the most beautiful places in the world. With that in mind, I have a couple of favorite sayings that I use on the guys now and then.
“All this AND you’re getting paid too?” or “You know, there are a whole lot worse things in the world that you could be doing for a living“. Usually someone will come back with “Yep, it’s not a bad gig“.The 10% that would fall into the dislike column would have to be the weather. If only it were sunny and 70 degrees every day. But unfortunately it’s not. Rain, snow, heat and cold all present challenges. But none more so than the wind. Have you have ever been out on the lake on a windy day and tried to put your boat back into a slip or on a trailer? It can sometimes be difficult. Now just imagine trying to maneuver a craft that is 84 feet long, 30 feet wide and weighs in around 140,000 pounds.
It was amazing to me the first few times I operated the barge just how much a slight breeze would affect navigation. This is why on windy days you will not find us working in close proximity to docks and piers. Instead we will try to find a stretch of shoreline or a cove where we can work until the wind subsides. This job can be extremely dangerous. Add a little bad weather and it can become even more so.
The safety of our crew is our highest priority followed by protection of our equipment and personal property. One of the things we are most proud of is the fact that we have removed hundreds of tons of debris over the years and have done so with no lost time accidents or injuries to our crew, no accidents involving the public and no damage to anyone’s personal property. Although we have dinged more than a few props. We attribute these successes to knowing when and where we can operate and when we just shouldn’t be out on the water at all. Oh, and a good weather app.
A Bit About Our Equipment
The barge was manufactured by Robishaw Industries in Houston, TX. It is comprised of several sections all together making it 30 feet wide and 60 feet long. The push boat is called a J-Boat and is 24 feet in length. It was manufactured by J&J Boatworks in Madison, IN. The two large poles on each side near the front of the barge are called spuds. Each spud is 20 feet long and weighs 1600 pounds. They are primarily used in shallower areas to stabilize the barge while we are working with large logs or where there is a large quantity of debris. The track hoe is a Caterpillar 308 E and weighs in at 20,000 pounds. It has a lifting capacity of approximately 8,000 pounds.
You would think that could handle just about anything but we have had several large logs/trees that we could not lift directly onto the deck. For those we have to grapple them at one end and pull them up onto the deck a little at a time. We also utilize a 24- foot pontoon boat. This is used for crew transportation and for tracking down solitary items that may be several miles from where the barge is currently working and securing them until we have the barge in that area. Our guys also developed a devise that we call “The Push Gate”. The push gate is attached to the front of the pontoon and can be used to help coral smaller items and push them to the barge for removal.
The Most Interesting/Unusual Thing We Have Removed from the Lake(s)
Surprisingly we don’t get much in the way of unusual items. A lot of footballs and basketballs. A few lawn chairs and inflatable toys. The occasional wayward dock. We have removed quite a few animals that have gotten into the water but unfortunately did not make it back out. Mostly deer, but we have also removed several cows and groundhogs.
What We Would Like for Our Lake Residents to Know
To the many residents that have given their assistance to our efforts by securing items to the shore until we are able to remove them, thank you! While we very much appreciate your assistance. But please, only do so if you can do it safely. To the many people that have passed by on boats and PWC’s while we are working and gave us a thumbs-up, thank you. To those that have actually stopped to say things like, nice job, keep up the good work or thanks for all you are doing, thank you. This small gesture means a lot to our guys. It lets us know that what we are doing is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.
Last but certainly not least, thank you, Randy for the opportunity to do this article. We hope that your readers enjoy it as much as I enjoyed helping write it. May everyone stay safe and warm this winter and we’ll see you on the water next spring!
REMEMBER: A PFD CAN’T SAVE YOUR LIFE IF YOU DON’T WEAR IT
Photo: The AEP Lake Crew at Work on Leesville Lake
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Learn What the LLA Does & How You Can Become a Member
The Leesville Lake Association is intent on welcoming all lake residents and recreational lake users as members of the LLA. Please reach out to your friends and neighbors who enjoy Leesville Lake in any capacity to join the Leesville Lake Association.
The Leesville Lake Association is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that was formed in August 2003 to promote stewardship of Leesville Lake by:
- Monitoring and protecting water quality
- Assisting clean-up of waters and shorelines
- Assisting in safe recreational use such as creating and maintaining mile markers and navigational aids, including a detailed map of the lake in conjunction with AEP
- Assisting in economic development
- Fostering optimum water levels.
Additionally, the LLA board members and committee chairs maintain consistent, on-going relationships with essential agencies such as TLAC (Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission) and AEP (Appalachian Electric Power). These relationships are critical in protecting the safety and overall high quality of Leesville Lake. Board members and committee chairs and their teams are all volunteers who need the support of a solid membership backing their efforts. Please consider yourself as part of the team and become a LLA member.
The annual membership dues are $25 and they are tax deductible.
To join, please visit www.leesvillelake.org/join-us and choose one of these two options:
1.) Print and Mail the Membership Application with your check for $25 to Leesville Lake Association P.O. Box 68, Altavista, VA 24517
2.) Pay On-line with a credit card via the Membership Application
The Leesville Lake Association encourages recreational users of the lake as well as community members to support the work of our association along with lake residents. If you are already a member, the LLA thanks you. If you are not yet a member, please join today.
* If you, your business, or your HOA would like Membership Application Flyers for distribution to your community, please contact Diane Hewett at newsletter@leesvillelake.org
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LLA Treasurer’s Report from Mary Loiselle
Happy Spring…Our relatively mild winter has passed (no snow!) and we’re onto the next season on Leesville Lake.
It’s been the quiet season for finances but over the winter the tax return for FY 2018-2019 was filed, an internal inspection of the books by the finance committee was conducted (all is well), and the board created an Operating Reserve Fund of $50,000 and wrote a policy for it.
The busy financial seasons are coming up. Beautification Day, T-shirts, the Annual Picnic and Member Appreciation Day, water quality testing and management, ordering calendars and invoices to be mailed for member dues will keep me and the finance committee busy over the next few months.
Reminder: dues are billed once a year for the period of the fiscal year-September 1 through August 31. If you’re reading this and haven’t paid dues recently, please send a check for $25 to LLA, PO Box 68, Altavista, VA 24517 or pay online at www.leesvillelake.org and then to “Quick Links“
Also: I would dearly love to work with a Membership Chair-please consider this meaningful and much needed position
Photo: Mary definitely knows how to “live the dream at Leesville Lake”
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Water Quality Report from Chair, Tony Capuco
As in past years, results from our water monitoring of Leesville Lake in 2019 indicate that the quality of the water is consistent with that of a maturing lake. By all water quality criteria it would be categorized as mildly eutrophic. For those interested, the 2019 water quality report has been posted on the Leesville Lake Association website:
https://leesvillelake.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Final-2019-Leesville-Lake-Report-Final
To briefly summarize, the summer of 2019 was wet and had an impact on water quality. The quality of water in the upper portion of the lake was worse than normal, likely due to Smith Mountain Lake Dam operations – in particular, due to frequent pumping of poor quality water from the Pigg River into the tail waters of Smith Mountain Lake followed by release from the dam. Excluding the region near the mouth of the Pigg River, Leesville Lake itself was within state standards for E. coli throughout the season, but had higher total phosphate than desirable, exceeding state standards. We will need to determine if phosphate content remains high in the coming years.The Pigg River continues to be the greatest threat to the quality of water in Leesville Lake. During the 2019 season, the E. coli content at the mouth of the Pigg River clearly exceeded state standards for bacterial content of water for recreational use.
In 2019, we continued to evaluate water quality on the Pigg River. By sampling multiple sites on three dates during the fall, we again confirmed that the river is impaired. Importantly, we evaluated the source of the contamination. At Rocky Mount, there was severe contamination by bacteria of human origin. This was greatly diluted by the time it reached Leesville Lake and consequently does not pose a significant health risk on the lake.
Below Rocky Mount, cattle and deer appear to be the major contributors of bacteria into the river and entering the lake. Strategies to decrease input from farms and woodlands need to be evaluated. This is not an easy task as compliance with state guidelines for waste and nutrient management is largely voluntary and contribution from wildlife can only be managed by buffer zoning on hillsides.
In light of the human waste issue at Rocky Mount, we provided our findings to the health department and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. The issue is being investigated, but we have not received an update on their findings. We will make further inquiries in order to protect the health of visitors to the Pigg River near Rocky Mount.
For the 2020 season, we intend to continue our monitoring efforts on both Leesville Lake and the Pigg River. We are seeking financial support for the Pigg River work. This effort helps to ensure the continued health of our lake and enjoyment by its residents and frequent visitors.
Wishing you an enjoyable 2020 Season on Leesville Lake,
Tony Capuco, Water Committee Chair
David Waterman, Water Quality Member & Thomas Shahady, University of Lynchburg
Tony Capuco
wqc@leesvillelake.org
 
Left Photo: Tony Capuco and Water Quality Committee member, Dave Waterman diligently take water samples from Leesville Lake and the Pigg River
Right Photo: Tony Capuco delivers a Water Quality report to Leesville Lake members at a recent Membership Meeting
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Navigation Report from Chair, Joe Humphrey
Last year we installed the first three hazard buoys identifying shoals and rocks on the Pittsylvania side of the lake. After almost a year two of the buoys unfortunately broke loose from the anchor chains. Fortunately, the buoys were recovered, the likely failure mechanism has been identified and those buoys will be reinstalled in the near future.
As previously reported, we’ve submitted a request to TLAC to assist with identifying the actual GPS coordinates for our next set of six hazard buoys to be installed on the Bedford County side of the lake. TLAC will also assist with preparation of the permits required from Bedford County and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
The six hazards identified on the Bedford County side of the lake include four shoals, the “rock” at mile 9 and a significant tree stump at approximately mile 15. This very large submerged stump as well as a smaller one sit just below the surface with the lake level at approximately 605 ft. elevation. The stump appears to be 20-30 feet off the shore. We suggest all boaters be very cautious when navigating around the 15 mile mark.
Paula Shoffner, Executive Director, TLAC, continues to be very helpful with the application process and we very much appreciate her efforts. We hope to have this next set of six hazard buoys installed on the Bedford County side of the lake sometime this Spring.
Anyone interested in assisting with the activities of our Navigation Committee, please contact me.
As always, please navigate our lake safely!
Photo: The Navigation Committee monitors all areas of the lake for potential hazards and make the appropriate corrections
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Debris Committee Report
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The Debris Committee members are Gary and Pam McMillan, Jim and Wanda Riccione, Frank and Barb Podrebarac, and Rob Johnson
As part of APCo’s license with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), APCo has several Technical Review Committees (TRC) established to monitor and consult on their activities and projects associated with the lake.
These committees are made up of various stakeholders focusing on varying interest. The Leesville Lake Association (LLA) has a representative on each TRC. One such TRC focuses on APCo’s Debris Management Plan. Meetings for each TRC are held annually.
Additionally, APCO is required to submit an annual debris management report to FERC by April 1st. APCo submitted their 2019 annual report to all TRC members on February 28 for their review. Comments are due back by March 29.
The report is currently under review by the LLA Debris Committee. Some highlights from the APCo report:
- 8 high-flow events (high flow from tributaries feeding the Project) occurred associated with the SML Project in 2019. This compares to 14 events in 2018 and 4 in 2017
- There were 494 debris reports for the Project in 2019. Of those, 163 were recorded for Leesville Lake. In 2018 there were 231reports submitted for Leesville Lake and 153 in 2017.5882 tons of debris were removed from the SML Project in 2019. This is a Project record.
- 5882 tons of debris were removed from the SML Project in 2019. This is a Project record. Of that total, some 3,120 tons were removed from Leesville Lake. Note: that means that over 50% of the debris removed came from the Leesville, a lake which is one-fifth the size of Smith Mountain.
- A total of 310 tons of debris were removed by VDOT and the Friends of the Rivers of Virginia (FORVA) at the Power Dam Bridge on the Pigg River. This debris was discovered by the LLA Water Quality team during one of their sampling sessions. LLA reported the information to APCo at that time and they took the lead in attempting to capture the debris before it made its way to the lake.
The 2020 Annual Meeting for the Debris Management Plan TRC is scheduled for March 18. At that meeting we will be discussing the 2019 Annual Report and APCO’s ongoing efforts regarding the Pigg River. Updates to follow.
As always, we stress the importance of everyone submitting debris reports anytime you see debris issues on the lake.
How to Report Debris
We strongly request that all residents and boaters of Leesville Lake to Email complaints and STILL-photos regarding lake debris to both of these on-line addresses:
* debris@lvl.us.com (TLAC-Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission
* lvlakedebris@leesvillelake.org (LLA Debris Committee)
Please include the following in your Email:
- Your name, address, phone number and/or Email (if Email, include a statement as follows: “I give TLAC/AEP permission to contact me by Email”). This information is critical because AEP historically has, and should respond to you regarding your complaint, so we wish to assure that they have your correct contact information.
- Mile Marker Number of debris locale or a landmark or address that would describe the area
- Still-photos only are accepted (Do not send videos or other formats)
- Please send only one complaint per specific incident, per family.
There is an email template available on the LLA Website. Look under “Quick Links–Debris Reporting.” That link will draft an email in which you can fill in the details.
Your participation is greatly needed, and we urge you to alert our committee and TLAC every time you recognize unsightly debris in your locale. If you have any comments, suggestions or questions, (other than photos/complaints which should be sent to the e-mail address above), please contact us.
Photo: The AEP barge crew strives to keep Leesville Lake clean and safe
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Safety Committee Report from Chair, Gerry Caprario
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An Ardent Reminder of Items, Topics, Thoughts & Suggestions About Boat Safety
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Hi Folks. Here is a quick reminder about all the items, topics, thoughts, and suggestions that have been sent to you in the past but important to re-visit.
- Have you checked your trailer lights and tires?
- What about the axle bearings and the winch?
- Are your mooring lines frayed? Are any splices, knots and bends in good order?
- How about the anchor line? Any shackles that need attention?
- Ask for a Vessel Safety Check
Note: The above mentioned lines all attach to the old Leakin’ Lena by way of cleats. When was the last time they received any thought?
- Do you have a boarding ladder?
- Have you inspected your life jackets lately? Rips, frays, damaged straps?the last time you orally inflated it and checked for softness after 24 hours? Don’t forget to check the Owner’s Manual for cartridge replacement date. (Remember, it counts in the required total only if you are wearing it.)
- First Aid kit in good order?
- Hypothermia
As we are still in the season of winter and, almost spring, please be mindful of Hypothermia. Here is a link to more information from the folks at United States Power Squadron:
http://www.theensign.org/uspscompass/compassarchive/compassv1n1/hypothermia.htm.
Be mindful that even though the outside air temperature may feel nice, if you find yourself in the water, your core will quickly cool down and this could be a major problem.
Ready to have fun?
Last question: “What did I forget?”
Enjoy! Gerry Caprario
Gerry Caprario
safety@leesvillelake.org
Photo: Gerry Caprario’s excellent advice is an asset to all who enjoy Leesville Lake
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LLA Beautification Day Committee Report from Chair, Dannie Smith
Greetings from mile marker 8.
We’re already making plans for Beautification Day, 2020.
We have been collecting tons of driftwood and other debris at several drop-off sites-one more effort to keep Leesville Lake safe and beautiful. We had 30 cubic yard dumpsters at both marinas and the Runaway Bay HOA ramp. We have also coordinated with the AEP barge operators near the Brumfield area. Last year’s Beautification Day we collected over 100 tons with the help of the AEP barge operators.
Please enter Saturday, June 13 on your calendar. Everybody can have a role in helping to make this the best Beautification Day ever. We need boats for towing logs to the drop-off sites and helpers at the drop-off sites. We’re planning to have a loader chainsaw at each site.
Other positions include boat crews for boat operators who need a ‘first mate’ or two; helpers at the drop-off sites. We also need cheerleaders who will work on the sidelines.
Please consider coming out for some team-work and fresh air. More hands on the net makes for easier work and more fun. We need boats for towing logs to the drop-off sites and helpers at the drop-off sites. We’re planning to have a loader chainsaws at each site.
There will be more details and info later.
Thank you for your support and encouragement.
Dannie Smith
beautification@leesvillelake.org
Photo: Dannie Smith doing one of the thing he loves best-boating on Leesville Lake
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“The Heritage of Smith Mountain Gap”
by Richard Beaton, Long-Time Leesville Lake Resident and LLA Board Member
There are three valuable Native American archaeological sites just down stream from the Smith Mountain Gap. The re-licensing of APCo by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) determined that the sites are eligible to be on the National Register but are threatened by operations of the dam. Therefore APCo had to develop a mitigation plan to do something to either protect or recover the sites. A company named Terracon is currently doing the work with lake logistics provided by the APCo debris pontoon.
Paleolithic (15,000 BC to 8,000 BC) and Archaic (8,000 BC to 1,200 BC) people spent time at two of these sites labled 44PY152 and 44PY7. The site labeled as 44PY43 was used during the Late Woodland (900 AD to 1600 AD) period. All are located in Pittsylvania County buried by alluvial deposits generated as a result of the river’s rapid flow thru the gap then droping out sediments in an area of gentle flow. PY7 is on a shoal at the mouth of Tanker Creek east of the picnic area. PY152 is on the down stream end of the same shoal. Another highly eroded shole located about 2000 ft further east is the location of PY43.If a tree falls in the woods and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does. The archaeologist’s job is to try to figure what it sounded like by the study of the area where the tree fell many years later. The acquisition, dating, evaluation, and cataloging of artifacts from sites like these is a means to this end. Who were they? Where did they come from? What were their lives like?
The prehistoric hunter-gatherers of Virginia were skilled geologists as well as skilled wildlife biologists, botanists, and meteorologists. Those that lived during the Paleolithic and Archaic times where nomadic, living and traveling a territory 30 to 40 miles in radius in family groups prehaps numbering 25 individuals. They walked the river valleys staying at sites until local food supplies were exhausted then moved on. They may have visited sites in a seasonal round execpt quarry sites that would have been visited when certain tools needed replacing. Some tools were made of stone found only at special sites and transported between sites while others would be made locally most anywhere, used then left behind when they moved on.
Smith Mountain gap most likely served as a stopping point to or from various lithic sources with chert, jasper, and chalcedony outcrops to the west and silicified slate to the east, the gap being an easy way to transverse the mountian. During May and June Atlantic salmon would run the river providing an extra food source.
One theory is the easy-to-identify gap site was a meeting place for trade and socializing. They came from as far away as the Atlantic coast (40 mi further to the east during the ice age than now) following the Roanoke River westward and the Mississippi and Ohio valleys traveling the Kanawha, New and Roanoke rivers eastward to trade seal skins, seashells, and unique forms of stone. Several family groups would meet at predetermined times to have a party. Adolescents comming of age would take mates outside their family group. Next year they might meet a new grandchild for the first time.
A few spear points found at Smith Mountain Gap are similar to those found at Cactus Hill, located on the Nottoway River in Sussex County about 40 miles south of Richmond. In those Ice Age times Albemarle Sound was not inundated thus making the Nottoway a tributary of the Roanoke, and part of the same watershed. So the two sites may represent two sectors of the same macro-band settlement pattern.
Cactus Hill deposits are made of sand thus easly eroded where as Smith Mt site is not, making it likely that there may be deeply buried undisturbed living areas from the first peoples of North America still there. Work at Cactus Hill was instrumental in reviving the idea that humans may have come to the Americas across the North Atlantic from what is present day France, called the Solutrean model. Thus, Smith Mt Gap is a valuable site that may offer an independent verification or negation of this theory.
 Photo: Richard Beaton working at LLA Beautification Day, 2019
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Wanted: Leesville Lake Membership Chair & Committee Members
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Leesville Lake Association Membership Committee/Chair Job Description
Recruit New Members:
- Attend local gatherings with LLA materials and membership applications, e.g., Uncle Billy’s Day in Altavista.
- Write a quarterly report for the E-newsletter (see update/communicate below), including soliciting the assistance of current members in finding new members.
- Reach out to all HOAs and subdivisions on and near the lake, maintaining contact to hear about new homeowners
- Work with local chambers of commerce and other outreach groups.
Update & Maintain Database of Current and Expired members:
- Keep names, addresses and spellings of each correct and up-to-date.
- Send thank you notes for donations.
- Send welcome packet.
- Obtain trinkets for giveaways.
- Respond to inquiries.
- Maintain property owners list
Update & Communicate:
- Monthly reporting – statistics of total members, new members, activities planned for next month for recruiting and outreach.
- Write quarterly article for E-newsletter.
- Provide monthly reports at the Board of Directors and General Membership Meetings.
- Provide information and review draft of LLA calendar for accuracy.
- Assist with planning General Membership Meetings to encourage attendance by members.
LLA Board Members are standing by ready to welcome and work with the new Membership Chair
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Please contact President, Dave Rives for more information
president@leesvillelake.org
Photo: Working with great people for a great purpose is a rewarding and fulfilling experience
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Leesville Lake 2021 Calendar Committee Request
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We all take photos of friends, family, fish, birds, and even selfies at our homes and/or on the lake. Please send your best photos that can be considered for the 2021 LLA Calendar. We are constantly looking for new images so we can get a head start on the 2021 calendar. Any picture of the lake, people in/on the water, fishing, relaxing, wildlife…your creativity is appreciated. Please send/upload your photos to calendar@leesvillelake.org
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| Photo: It is so rewarding and fun to see your photograph in print |
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Two Wonderful Leesville Lake Marinas:
Gasoline, Food, Entertainment
Tri County Marina, Campground & Grill & Leesville Lake Marina, Pool & Grill
Tri County Marina, Campground & Grill
Thomas Bradner, General Manager * 434.369.5126 * TriCountyMarina@gmail.com * Facebook
1261 Sunrise Loop, Lynch Station, VA 24571 * Mile Marker 5
Open: Weds & Thursday: 9 AM-5 PM; Friday: 9 AM-7 PM; Saturday: 9 AM-11 PM; Sunday: 9 AM-6 PM.
Call to Confirm Hours
Closed: Monday and Tuesday * 24-Hour Call Service (for lake emergency or gas) 434.369.5126
Entertainment: (Call or see Facebook Page for event details)
Food: Burgers, Fries, Sandwiches, Pizza, and More
Other: (Call or See Facebook Page for Event Details)
Leesville Lake Marina, Pool & Grill Chip and Lisa Zimmerman, Owners * 434.324.8500 * 2736 Marina Drive, Gretna, VA 24557
Open: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM-7 PM; Friday: 11 AM-9 PM; Saturday: 10 AM-8PM; Sunday: 9 AM-6 PM.
Call to Confirm Hours
Pool: Call for Seasonal Information
Entertainment: Call for Information
Food: Burgers, Fries, Sandwiches, Fish and Chips, and More
Other: Gas, Watercraft Rentals, Private Event Venue
Leesville Lake Marina Tri-County Marina  
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Complete List of 2020 LLA Board of Directors & Committee Chairs
David Rives – Director/President, Executive Committee Chair & TLAC Representative
president@leesvillelake.org * 804.921.2621
Tracy Pauley – Director/Vice–President, Nominating Committee Chair
vicepresident@leesvillelake.org * 434.509.5401
Phyllis Garlick – Director/Secretary
secretary@leesvillelake.org * 434.944-0632
Mary Loiselle – Director/Treasurer
treasurer@leesvillelake.org * 434.324.6125
Tony Capuco – Director/Water Quality Committee Chair
WQC@leesvillelake.org * 240.994.8931
Gerry Caprario – Director/Water, Safety & Education Committee Chair
safety@leesvillelake.org * 434.656.9082
Dannie Smith – Director/Beautification Day Committee Chair
beautification@leesvillelake.org * 434.841.9313
J W Burton – Director
boardatlarge2@leesvillelake.org *434-610-2107
Richard Beaton – Director
boardatlarge1@leesvillelake.org * 434.656.3302
Frank Podrebarac – Director
communication@leesvillelake.org * 434.324.7690
Chip Zimmerman – Director
boardatlarge3@leesvillelake.org * 559.970.2479
Joe Humphrey – Director/Navigation Committee Chair
navigation@leesvillelake.org
Dave Waterman – Director/Communication Committee Chair
webmaster@leesvillelake.org
Julie Moore – Finance Committee Co-Chair
Anne Waterman – Finance Committee Co-Chair
Diane Hewett – LLA Newsletter Editor
newsletter@leesvillelake.org
Ready-to-be-Filled – Membership Chair
Photo: A great group of people dedicated to a wonderful lake |
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LLA Newsletter Archives: LLA Meeting Minutes & LLA Newsletters
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Thank you to Leesville Lake Service Provider Members
There are so many stellar people who can be depended on to assist Leesville Lake residents in all sorts of ways. Thank you to the service providers below for becoming LLA members as well as providing valuable services to our lake communities.
Reg Anderson, ABR, GRI Long & Foster Realtors
16869 Moneta Rd., Moneta, VA 24121
RegAnderson@Realtor.com * 540.580.6960
“Selling 2 Lakes, 2 Lake-Lifestyles: “Smith Mountain & Leesville Lakes”
Jeanette Handy Remax Lakefront Reality
16451 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA 24121
Brian Finch Landscaping, Hardscaping, Excavating, Inc.
finchdesigns4U@yahoo.com * 540.875.8844
“Well-Respected Lake-Wide”
The Leesville Lake Association is pleased to offer these resources to its members.
Please contact the service-providers for actual references.
  
Photo: Everyone understands the sense of relief when a competent service-provider fixes something and does it well
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“Why Leesville Lake” from the LLA EMagazine Editor, Randy Weiss
Leaving Leesville Lake with a Cornucopia of Joyful, Grateful Memories
Why Leesville Lake? The answer is simple and eloquent: Serene, Friendly, Intelligent, Clean, Beautiful, and so much more. Whether one lives on the lake or in the beautiful woods surrounding Leesville Lake, food, drink, and community are a huge part of lake-living all year ’round.
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22 years ago my husband Jim and I moved from California to Virginia. At the time, it was a bold and and empowering decision, and over the years, we have marveled at the profound quality of life that living in Virginia has provided us. Moving to Virginia was one of the best decisions we have ever made, and we leave this beautiful state with a cornucopia of bittersweet feelings and emotions, and phenomenal memories of joy and growth.
Our first move was to Charlottesville and since 2008, we have tremendously enjoyed our home at Leesville Lake. Living on a lake has been a most amazing and phenomenal blessing. We often watch “House Hunters” on HGTV where we see people who are moving to beautiful waterfront homes. Invariably we turn to each other and simultaneously glance at the lake view from our living room window, and smile. How many people ever experience such a lifestyle?
People ask us, “Why Arizona?” which is a question we have pondered for the past few years.
Choosing a place to live is a luxurious and intimate decision. It is luxurious when one has the opportunity to live anywhere without financial or familial ties, and it’s intimate because choosing such a place is all about chemistry, perspective i.e. the “feel” of the place, and where one is in each specific stage of their lives.
Simply put, we are ready for mild winters, hot summers, the desert air, and a new adventure. Once again there is a sense of tremendous delight in planning yet another journey, especially in our 44’th year of being husband and wife. We embrace the utter “newness” of this move and are excited and open to all the experiences that will come with it.
The dreams that came true in Virginia and at Leesville Lake are a part of each of us and remain forever in our hearts. Thank you to our wonderful Leesville Lake neighbors and friends. Since we still own property at Leesville Lake, we remain LLA members and I remain a dedicated remote-tutor to Diane, the new LLA Newsletter Editor.
Photo: Randy and Jim Weiss
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Your July-September, 2020 Issue of
“Living the Dream at Leesville Lake” will be Sent in Early July
Our July-September, 2020 issue will include:
Information about lifestyle, current events, resident members, board members and many more features regarding our beautiful lake…Stay tuned.
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Thanks so much for being part of our Leesville Lake Community-The Leesville Lake Association
Photo: Leesville Lake’s resident heron spends some quality time on a dock throughout the year |
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