theLAKER | 23 A story of science and community Terry ’17 and Dorothy ’06 moved to upstate New York in 1998 then settled in Honeoye in 2002. The community’s shallow glacial lake reminded them of the warm water fishery lakes they had known in Minnesota. A few months later, the pea-soup film of a blue-green algal bloom spread across the lake. The cyanobacteria in the bloom secrete a toxin that can make people and animals sick. “That started our interest in improving water quality,” said Terry. Since then, the couple has devoted more than 20 years to stewardship of the 4.5-mile long lake that extends south from the hamlet. They credit Bruce Gilman, professor emeritus, for their interest in water quality. They took his limnology course to learn about inland waters and the unique characteristics of regional lakes. The course included memorable field trips, such as one to Green Lakes State Park in Syracuse. Dorothy, who holds degrees in information technology and accounting, pursued a career in bookkeeping and conservation work. She describes the College as an ideal place for people to continue their education and stay current in an ever-changing world. “We believe you’re never too old to learn,” added Terry, who completed a fish and wildlife degree after retiring as a software engineer. “The word ‘willing’ can be used to describe them,” Bruce said. “They’re willing to learn, willing to accept mistakes and move on, and willing to explore all of the possibilities.” Terry has served as the chairman of the Honeoye Lake Watershed Task Force since 2012 and sits on the Canadice Town Board. Their work includes extensive water sampling and partnering with the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District on many erosion control projects. The work prevents excessive nutrient and sediment buildup in the lake, which can degrade water quality and harm wildlife. Throughout the years, they’ve contributed to field work by deploying buoys with contact information, utilizing thermistor strings to monitor water temperatures across the lake’s stratified layers, and gathering data to address the effects of climate warming on shallow lakes in New York. In addition, they visit and support Muller Field Station, assist in developing research proposals, and share findings at town board meetings. In 2016, the Honeoye Lake Watershed Task Force and partner organizations received a $400,000 grant to restore the Honeoye Inlet. Terry and Dorothy were part of the team that changed the watercourse from a straightened human-made channel to a meandering stream. The twists and turns slow the water flow, letting nutrients filter into the surrounding land and promoting diversity of aquatic life, such as insects, mussels, fish and plants. In late October 2024, state Sen. Pam Helming recognized the couple with the New York State Senate Commendation Award for longtime advocacy for Honeoye Lake. “Honeoye Lake is our passion, both from a fishery standpoint and water quality,” Terry said. “It’s what keeps us going.” – Jaylea Ransom Alumni Association PERKS Basic alumni benefits – available without cost – include the following: • Career services, including networking and interviewing tips and assistance with resume writing and job searches • Use of the FLCC recreation facilities, including the fitness center. Visit flcc.edu/athletics and look for “Fitness and Recreation” in the menu bar. • Access to the Charles J. Meder Library • Membership in the Canandaigua Federal Credit Union • Access to the free discount program for all SUNY alumni • 10 percent off at the FLCC bookstore Premier benefit for alumni donors: For a minimum $100 gift to the Alumni Association Projects Fund, you can audit up to four college credits at no cost (per credit hour cost is now $224). Email alumni@flcc.edu with questions. Dorothy ’06 and Terry ’17 Gronwall pose with the Lake Steward Award they received from the Honeoye Valley Association in 2021. The couple were honored last fall by state Sen. Pam Helming.
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