What's up with water quality?

Newfound Lake is known for it's excellent water quality. After spring storms created a sediment plume in Newfound Lake, water quality is front and center in the minds of many. Why does water quality matter, and just how good is Newfound's water quality? Here's a breakdown:

Why does water quality matter?

Water quality affects everything from the plants and animals of the watershed, to the strength of the local economy, to property values and lake recreation. Poor water quality also increases the risk of harmful cyanobacteria blooms.

How do we measure it, and what does it tell us?

NLRA staff and volunteers monitor water clarity, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll between May and October. Together, these measurements paint a picture of how healthy the lake is and highlight any pollution issues. We then use this information to guide our conservation efforts.

Is Newfound really one of the cleanest lakes in the state/country?

It's true that Newfound has excellent water quality, and is one of the cleanest lakes monitored by the UNH Lakes Lay Monitoring Program (let's keep up the good work!), but it is impossible to rate it against all lakes. There are no standardized methods to measure water quality in all of New Hampshire's lakes or lakes across the country.

Will stormwater pollution from the spring storms continue to affect water quality over the summer?

We will likely see the effects of spring storms in our water quality measurements throughout the summer, and will also be on high alert for emerging issues like toxic cyanobacteria blooms. Find water quality updates and measurements throughout the summer at: NewfoundLake.org/water-quality.

What can I do to protect Newfound's water quality?

1) Stop stormwater pollution on your property. Get in touch with us for a free stormwater assessment and find more stormwater resources at: https://newfoundlake.org/small-scale-stormwater/

2) Support our work. Join or renew your membership today.

3) Volunteer! We are in need of lake and tributary monitors for the summer. Email Paul@NewfoundLake.org or learn more at: NewfoundLake.org/volunteer.

Newfound EcoTours are Open!

EcoTours are open for the summer season! Soak in the sights and sounds of Newfound Lake on a two-hour boat tour, getting a closeup look at everything we work to conserve.

Upcoming NLRA Events

When You Gotta Go...

Human waste pollutes Newfound Lake, lowering water quality and creating potentially harmful conditions for swimmers and recreators. If you're planning a day on your boat on Newfound, here's a helpful list of boater-friendly public bathrooms:

1. Avery-Crouse Town Beach. The portable toilet is located next to The Big Catch Restaurant.
2. Cummings Town Beach. The portable toilet is located on the western side of the beach.
3. Wellington State Park. Portable toilets are available a short distance from the state park boat launch.
4. Grey Rocks Conservation Area. There is a portable toilet located adjacent to the boat launch. Please note Grey Rocks is open to nonmotorized boats only.
5. Idle-A-While Antiques and Ice Cream. From the boat dock, follow the stairs up to their public portable toilet.

Remember: pet waste pollutes too! Have bags on hand for your adventure buddy and a plan for lake-friendly disposal.

Get Ready for NH Gives!

Mark you calendars for New Hampshire largest day-of-giving. Be a part of it by making a donation to NLRA during NH Gives on June 6th and 7th.

Pasquaney Garden Club Annual Plant Sale

June 3, 8am-12pm

Minot-Sleeper Library

35 Pleasant St, Bristol, NH

Alexandria Roadside Cleanup

June 3, 10am

Alexandria Conservation Commission

47 Washburn Rd, Alexandria NH

Community Breakfast

June 10, 7:30-10am

Masonic Lodge

61 Pleasant St, Bristol, NH

Hebron Fire Department 75th Anniversary Celebration

June 10, 9am-5pm

37 Groton Rd, Hebron, NH

Outdoor Concert

June 10, 7-9pm

The Purple Pit

28 Central Square, Bristol, NH