Have you ever noticed where Cornell’s water supply comes from? Did you know that during certain times of the year, it is unsafe to swim in Cayuga Lake? Andy Zepp discussed the answers to these questions and more about how land trusts in upstate New York protect the environment and our well-being. Zepp explained how land trusts acquire land to prevent development. Preventing development in Tompkins County, for example,  saves the county money and protects our water supply. By restricting urban or agricultural development, the amount of runoff chemicals and sediment is prevented from reaching creeks and Cayuga lake. Cornell receives its water from Fall Creek, and higher pollutants in the water require stronger water filtration systems that become increasingly more expensive. These same pollutants are generally prevented from reaching creeks by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. However, in late summer as more pollutants enter creeks and streams, harmful bacteria build up in Cayuga and form a murky green film. This film is toxic to humans and can kill small animals if consumed in high doses. However, as the land trust gains support and protects more land around the Cayuga watershed, these bacteria are less likely to form, and the lake will be safer for recreation.