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Protecting Seneca Lake: Steve Bromka’s Story

GENEVA, N.Y. – Steve Bromka grew up in Ovid, where his early memories of Seneca Lake were shaped by summer swims at Willard and Sampson State Parks with his mother. Even then, he was struck by the lake’s beauty and serenity. During college, he worked as a summer hire at Sampson State Park, deepening his appreciation for the lake and planting a seed for the future. “I remember saying to myself, ‘Someday I’ll come back and find a place on this lake.’”

A Career of Service—and a Return to the Lake
After leaving the area, Steve started his career as a Department of the Army Civilian Supply Chain Analyst. But even as he built his professional life elsewhere, Seneca Lake was never far from his thoughts. Years before retirement, he and his wife purchased a lot in Lakeshore Landing in Romulus with the goal of building a home overlooking the water. Today, they enjoy quiet evenings on their deck, a glass of wine in hand, soaking in the ever-changing sunsets and the calm that only the lake can offer.

Giving Back Through Conservation and Connection
Some of Steve’s favorite memories include helping stock the lake with trout as part of the South Seneca Sportsmen’s Club’s annual fish stocking program. “It felt good to give back in a way that supports the lake’s ecosystem,” he says. In the warmer months, you can often find Steve and his wife on their pontoon boat, floating with a good book or taking in the peaceful rhythm of the lake. “Those summer days are a gift—and sunset cruises, especially with a glass of Boundary Breaks wine, are pure serenity.”

Why He Supports Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association
Steve supports the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association (Pure Waters) because of its mission to preserve, protect, and promote the lake’s water quality. “God has given us this beautiful lake, and it’s our responsibility to care for it,” he says. “Pure Waters is made up of passionate, dedicated volunteers working hard on initiatives that make a real difference.”

Volunteer Leadership and Lifelong Learning
As a volunteer himself, Steve has served on the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) monitoring team and is preparing to join the Stream Monitoring Program. He’s also a past board member and has contributed through the Finance and Organizational Development Committees.

“I’ve attended several educational events and galas—there’s always something new to learn,” he adds. “Whether it’s water quality science, the lake’s topography, or sustainable practices through programs like Lake Friendly Living, Pure Waters helps deepen your connection to the lake.”

A Call to Action for Fellow Lake Lovers
“To be honest, I wish more people who live near the lake would take a proactive role in supporting Pure Waters. Whether through volunteering or financial support, we all have a role to play,” Steve says. “Supporting this organization isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a meaningful way to ensure this lake remains a treasure for generations to come.”

Learn more about Pure Waters

To learn more about volunteering: https://senecalake.org/volunteer-opportunities/
To learn more about donating: https://senecalake.org/giving/

Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is a 501(c)3 organization committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting the abundant resources of the largest Finger Lake. Seneca Lake is a source of drinking water, recreation, and economic opportunity for the greater community and its visitors. Our programs and partnerships make it possible to monitor water quality, educate the public, and evaluate threats to ensure the a healthy future for Seneca Lake and those who depend on it.