It has been six years since the first Shoreline Management Plan for Candlewood, Lillinonah, Zoar and the Housatonic River was implemented, which means that FirstLight has created a new draft up for review. 

The Candlewood Lake Authority says this document affects all the residents with property around the lake, as well as those who care for the lake's health. The new SMP will be submitted by March 27th. FirstLight will then submit a draft for FERC review and approval.  

Anyone can review and compare the new draft document with the current plan to prepare for a public hearing that FirstLight will hold at a later date. 

Many aspects of the document are relevant to property owners, including fee and enforcement structure for all applications, permits, and shoreline uses.  The plan also details vegetation removal guidelines, mooring permit requirements and how deeded rights are registered and organized by FirstLight.  The document also outlines measurements and guidelines for new dock installations, pathway installations, retaining wall and rip/rap installations, and more shoreline uses, as well as the fees that will accompany applications for these uses.