Loan, funds help Finger Lakes Museum

Workers install siding on the Finger Lakes Museum & Aquarium's Creekside Center.

Branchport

With the award of $400,000 in new funds, the Finger Lakes Museum & Aquarium is alive and kicking for the spring and summer.

The semi-retirement of the FLMA creator John Adamski for reasons of health, did have an effect on the momentum of the project which had caused some to question the certainty of the museum’s future.

FLMA Executive Director Natalie Payne says the museum has secured a low interest $200,000 loan from the Finger Lakes Economic Development Center as matching funds for a $200,000 grant that will be directed to the completion of the Creekside Center barn, covering operating expenses, and rebuilding the line of credit for promised state funds.

The Creekside Center is now being enclosed with tongue & groove pine siding donated by Rogers & Tenbrook Inc., a home improvement center in Dansville. Windows, an entry door, and materials for two sliding doors were also included in the gift.

Volunteering their work on the siding are Jim Weld, Mike Saxton, Dean Hitchcock, and Project Manager Jim Higgins.

Once the ADA compliant gangway to Sugar Creek has been completed in June, Payne says the FLMA will host a series of paddling events for the public to enjoy.

• Paddling events

~ Community Paddling Days: June 25, July 16, Aug. 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

~ Eco-Paddles: July 22, Aug. 12, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

~ Sunset Paddles: June 24, July 15, Aug. 19: 6-9 p.m.

~ Keuka 5K Paddle: Aug. 6

The FLMA is also seeking volunteer guides and experienced kayakers and canoers to assist at the event, especially any who are N.Y.S. certified outdoor guides. Additional information about each event posted on the FLMA website next week.

• The Branchport Farmers Market is held on site from 4 to 7 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 27.

• Plan viewing

From June 21 to Sept. 1, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors are welcome to stop by the FLMA site to learn more about the progress to date and future plans.A portion of the building will be open for the public to view renderings and work completed.

• Wetlands

The FLMA plans to open their wetlands, the Townsend-Grady Wildlife Preserve, to the public in July.

The boardwalks have not yet been built, but the pathways will be groomed and some signage will be in place.