Big plans for stretch of Lake Ontario [Video]

Friday’s celebration in Oswego, where eastern Lake Ontario was officially dedicated as a marine sanctuary, was felt across New York state.

The designation provides shoreline communities assistance with preserving the lake’s history, as well as its ability to draw in people from around the country.

After a seven-year process, a more than 1,700-square-mile section of eastern Lake Ontario is now officially a federal marine sanctuary. The city of Oswego and communities from western Rochester all the way to Cape Vincent are ready to take advantage.

“National Marine Sanctuaries are few because they’re considered extraordinary, special places. And you’re going to hear that word a lot today, special places,” Oswego County Administrator Philip Church said.

Hundreds gatheried in Oswego Friday for the official dedication as a marine sanctuary.

“We’re here today to celebrate because this very rare national recognition presents new opportunities for our communities and our special place,” Church added.

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