Newfound Lake Remains Free of Aquatic Invasive Plants
For the fourth consecutive year, NLRA Weed Watcher volunteers have surveyed 100% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline, and once again, no aquatic invasive plants were found!
What are aquatic invasive plants, and why do they matter?
Aquatic invasive plants are non-native plants that can spread rapidly in lakes and ponds. Once established, they can form dense growth that crowds out native plants, changes habitat for fish and other wildlife, and interferes with boating, swimming, fishing, and other recreational activities.
Aquatic invasive plants can be extremely difficult and expensive to control once they become widespread. But when a new infestation is found early, there is a much better chance of containing or removing it before it becomes a larger problem.
That’s where Weed Watchers come in.
A community keeping watch.
NLRA’s Weed Watcher volunteers are trained to recognize potential aquatic invasive plants and keep an eye on the lake throughout the season. By regularly checking the near-shore area, they provide an important early-detection network for Newfound Lake.
This year’s lake-wide survey was the result of months of volunteer monitoring. Weed Watchers surveyed portions of the shoreline throughout the season, then came together for the 2026 Newfound Lake Weed Stampede, an annual event to survey as much of the lake as possible for aquatic invasive plants. Additional surveys in the days following the event helped cover the last remaining areas for 100% coverage.
“Our Weed Watchers are an early-detection network for Newfound Lake,” said Paul Pellissier, NLRA Conservation Program Manager. “Their observations throughout the season give us the best chance of finding an aquatic invasive plant quickly, when there is still an opportunity to respond before it becomes established.”
The work doesn’t stop at 100%.
Surveying 100% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline is a great accomplishment, giving us a lake-wide look at the presence of aquatic invasive plants. But one complete survey is only a snapshot in time. Regular monitoring throughout the season is important for staying on top of changes and catching any new aquatic invasive plants as early as possible.
NLRA encourages Weed Watcher volunteers to check their adopted shoreline, or another favorite stretch of the lake, once each month if possible. Looking carefully at the water and shoreline during a paddle can help identify a new aquatic invasive plant before it has a chance to spread. “Every volunteer paddle adds another set of eyes on the lake,” Pellissier said. “We’re grateful for the time, energy, and commitment our Weed Watchers bring to this work. Protecting Newfound Lake truly depends on a community that is willing to watch, learn, and take action when needed.”
Finding no aquatic invasive plants during this year’s shoreline surveys is great news for Newfound Lake. But it doesn't mean the threat has gone away. Aquatic invasive plants can arrive in a lake when fragments or seeds are accidentally transported on boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment. Once introduced, some species can spread quickly. That’s why early detection, along with preventing their spread in the first place, is so important.
Become a Weed Watcher!
Want to help protect Newfound Lake? Join NLRA’s Weed Watcher program and become another set of eyes on the water. Whether you’re paddling your adopted shoreline or simply taking a closer look during your next outing, your observations can help protect Newfound Lake for years to come. Learn more at NewfoundLake.org/volunteer.
