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News from Newfound

Newfound Faces a New Challenge

Ice-in on Newfound Lake

Ice-In on Newfound Lake

Posted 1/22/26

The lake was fully covered by ice beginning January 3rd, the earliest ice-in date since 2019. Along with recreational opportunities, ice cover plays an important role in keeping Newfound Lake healthy.

Tufted titmouse sitting on a tray feeder.

Winter Bird Feeding

Posted 12/22/25

Backyard bird feeding is a rewarding way to connect with nature and support non-migratory birds during the toughest months of the year.

Stormwater flows into the lake.

Winter Rain and Water Quality

Posted 12/22/25

After weeks of cold and snow, the Newfound Watershed experienced warmer temperatures and rain. Winter rainstorms come with unique challenges, especially when rain falls on snow or frozen ground.

Person spreads ice melt across driveway.

It's Salt Season

Posted 12/5/25

Salt is an important tool for keeping roads, parking lots, driveways and walkways safe in winter, but it also pollutes waterways. Under current state and federal guidelines, a teaspoon of salt is enough to permanently pollute five gallons of…

Winter track and sign

Discovering Wildlife Across the Newfound Watershed Through Animal Track and Sign

Posted 12/5/25

As snow settles across the fields, forests, and wetlands, it becomes a clean slate—ready to record the movements of the animals who share our landscape.

Northern lights shine over Newfound Lake

Gratitude for the Darkness

Posted 11/18/25

As November nights grow longer, we’re reminded of the quiet beauty of dark skies—crystal-clear views of the moon, stars, and unlit hillsides. This is a perfect time to reflect on the value of darkness, not just for now, but year-round.

View of Bear Mountain

Protecting Land to Protect Water Quality

Posted 11/11/25

One of the best ways to protect the quality of the water in Newfound Lake is to conserve the lands surrounding it. Forests and fields soak up rainwater like a sponge, filtering it into the ground before it picks up pollution and runs into waterways.

Students hang a camera in the forest.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Watershed Stewards

Posted 11/11/25

Through hands-on science and community collaboration, NLRA connects local students to the ecosystems that protect Newfound Lake.

AmeriCorps Watershed Steward installs a nearshore monitoring tile.

Shoreline Monitoring Wraps Up Second Season

Posted 10/24/25

With nearly 40 years of data, Newfound Lake’s overall water quality is excellent. But nearshore areas face unique challenges. Now in its second year, our shoreline monitoring program is providing new insights to guide future conservation efforts.

Potential harmful cyanobacteria

Staying Alert for Cyanobacteria

Posted 10/10/25

Residents recently reported a potential harmful cyanobacteria bloom on Newfound Lake. Their report allowed NLRA to respond promptly, and testing confirmed it was harmless.

Lake-Friendly Tips for Closing Up Camp

Posted 10/10/25

As summer winds down and the leaves start to change, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your property—not just for the cold months ahead, but for the spring to come.

A spiny water flea balanced on a fingertip.

Invasive Species Update

Posted 9/19/25

The invasive spiny water flea was discovered in Newfound Lake this week. NLRA has monitoring in place to determine the impact.


The Monitor

NLRA’s biannual publication, highlighting stories from the watershed and insights into current conservation efforts.