What can this seasonal surge of water tell us, and why does it matter?
Spring snowmelt brings one of the largest annual surges of water, and pollution, into Newfound Lake. Runoff carries fine sediment that clouds the water and excess nutrients that can fuel algae and bacteria growth.
By monitoring these peak events, NLRA gains critical insight into what’s entering the watershed and where better stormwater pollution management can make a difference.
Recently, Conservation Program Manager Paul Pellissier collected water samples from the Cockermouth River and Atwell Brook, the largest source of sediment in the Newfound Watershed. The difference was striking: Atwell Brook alone contributes an estimated 670 tons of sediment each year—more than all other monitored pollution sites combined.
The good news: NLRA has received funding from the NH Department of Environmental Services to begin addressing this issue. Stay tuned as we work toward solutions that protect Newfound’s water clarity.
Watch the video to learn more about what these water samples reveal.
Have you noticed erosion or runoff on your property this spring? See how you can stop its impact at NewfoundLake.org/small-scale-stormwater.