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Newfound Science Pub | A Year in the Life of a Lake: How Seasons Shape Our Water

  • Wednesday, February 18, 2026
    PM – 7 PM

Events

Newfound Lake Inn
1030 Mayhew Turnpike, Bridgewater, NH (directions)

Dinner and drinks available from 5pm. Program begins at 6pm.

How does water quality shift throughout the year? Lakes in New Hampshire are constantly changing with the seasons. As water warms in summer and cools in fall, lakes form layers and later mix again, changing how oxygen and nutrients move through the water. These natural cycles influence water clarity, plant and algae growth, and when cyanobacteria blooms are most likely to occur.

Join us as we take a closer look at what happens in a lake over the course of the year, from ice-out in spring through the heat of summer and back into cool weather again. We’ll explore how seasonal changes affect water quality, why some years bring more challenges than others, and how understanding these patterns can help us make better decisions about how we use and protect our lakes.

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About Georgia Bunnel:
Georgia Bunnell is the Exotic Species Program Coordinator and a limnologist with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES). She earned her Master’s degree in 2025, studying how nutrients and cyanobacteria change throughout the year in New Hampshire lakes.

Before joining NH DES, Georgia worked for five years with the University of New Hampshire Lakes Lay Monitoring Program, where she helped monitor water quality in more than 50 lakes across the state. Her work brings together on-the-water experience and research-based insight into how lakes change over time.

About Newfound Science Pub:
Newfound Science Pub is an interactive way to connect with experts in science and conservation. Discuss current issues, ask your burning questions, and share your perspective while enjoying food and drinks in a casual, social setting. Space is limited and advance registration is required. This event is free to attend. Attendees purchase food and drinks. Review the menu.