when you are lake-loving gardens nature’s...

Featured in this IssueFrom the Helm........................................ 2Through-Ice Sampling ........................... 3Breaking the Ice ..................................... 4Buoy Data Diversity ................................ 4Summer Programs ................................. 5Summer Programs for children .............. 7

20 Years of Extraordinary ...................... 7Let the Sun Shine In ............................... 8Go Fish! .................................................. 9State of the Lake ...................................11Loon Lookout........................................ 12Talkin' Trash ..........................................14

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 L A K E S U N A P E E P R O T E C T I V E A S S O C I A T I O N

If our nearest neighbor is the woods, streams, and lakes, we are reminded that we are part of the natural eco-system, whether we want to be or not. Just because we live in houses – versus trees, burrows, nests or waterbodies – doesn’t mean we live separately from the rhythms of the natural world surrounding us. Quite the opposite. Our daily habits are a major factor in how well our “nature neighbors” fare season-to-season and year-to-year.

Everything we do has an impact on the lake, streams, and woods – and the critters who call these places home. Check out “State of the Lake” on page 11 to learn how stormwater runoff, failing septic systems, and fertilizer use add to the potentially dangerous levels of phosphorus in the lake and streams.

Like to fish? "Go Fish" on page 9 looks at what fish species thrive in Lake Sunapee.

Lovers of loons are hoping to spot pairs of nesting loons this season. Browse “Loon Lookout” on page 12 for reminders on correct loon- watching behavior. Where to get lead-free fishing tackle is on page 4.

Finally, before cutting down trees, repaving a driveway, or rebuilding next to the lake, be sure to check your town regulations on shore-land buffer zones, erosion control requirements, and stormwater management plans.

When You Are Nature’s Neighbor

Lake-Loving GardensLiving near a lake or stream doesn’t mean you must forego gardening. “It means thinking differently,” says Robert Wood, LSPA’s associate executive director and watershed steward. “Test your soil before plant-ing anything,” he says. “It could mean your soil will not need any additives.” (See "State of the Lake, What Can You Do?”, page 11)

Another way to learn about gardening in a lake- loving way is to attend Landscaping at the Water's Edge on Saturday, June 6th, at 10 a.m., at the LSPA Learning Center. (See “2015 LSPA Summer Programs", page 5)

Check Out the Night Life!There is a world of activity outside our windows that begins every evening as we humans drift off to sleep. Nature’s night creatures wake up and embark on their daily routines of finding food, building nests, attracting mates, raising their young, and avoiding predators.

Owls, skunks, porcupines, opossum, bats, fox, raccoons and coyotes are just a few of the animals that roam their natural habitat at night. Getting a closer look at these elusive nocturnal creatures can be challenging. However, on Thursday, July 2nd at 6 p.m. at the LSPA Learning Center, a naturalist from the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center will present three live native NH nocturnal animals and talk about the lives, habits, and adaptations of these three – and more – Creatures of the Night. (See "2015 LSPA Summer Programs", page 5)

A lakefront garden adjacent to Sunapee Harbor shows off its plentiful and diverse flowers.

Eastern Screech OwlPhoto courtesy Squam Lakes

Natural Science Center

A publication of Lake Sunapee Protective Association, Founded 1898All articles prepared by LSPA staff unless noted.

2 Spring/Summer 2015

From the Helm

Memorial ContributionsLSPA has recently received contributions honoring the memory of the following individuals:

George Baskette Nancy Boyle Joseph Chapline Muriel & John Deacon Carolyn Eldridge Roswell Farnham John Ferraro Marion Grassi Paul Grevstad Doris Ivey Grant MacKenzie Robert Stevens Ellen & Sam Stevens Valleau Wilkie

We extend our sincere thanks to the families and friends who considered LSPA an appropriate recipient for these memorial gifts.

2014-15 LSPA OfficersCharlie Forbes PresidentKristen Begor 1st V-Pres.Maggie Ford 2nd V-Pres.Sue Venable SecretaryPhil Schulz TreasurerJohn Holton Clerk

Staff:June Fichter Executive DirectorRobert Wood Associate Exec. Dir.Kathleen Stowell Education DirectorKak Weathers Research DirectorSue Godin Office ManagerBonnie Lewis Lab ManagerGeoffrey Lizotte Watershed/GISNancy Heckel Environ. Educator

Office:The Learning Center63 Main St., Sunapee HarborMail: PO Box 683, Sunapee, NH 03782Phone: 603-763-2210Fax: 603-763-2077email: [email protected]: www.lakesunapee.org

It seems the word “epic” appropriately describes this past winter! As the snow and ice finally melted and blended into our lakes, ponds, tributaries and land, I felt a renewed appreciation for the abundance – and health – of our stunning natural habitat.

One only has to look at the severe drought conditions in the western United States to assess increased value of our water bodies and watershed. News reports regularly share pictures of parched earth and nearly empty reser-voirs. The lack of water there has frightening implications for day-to-day life, par-ticularly for the agricultural industry upon which so much of the country depends.

This “epic” drought situation makes one appreciate our fortunate circumstances in New Hampshire and reinforces the importance of a healthy and plentiful supply of fresh water. It’s no wonder that LSPA’s mission is all about the water!

Now that the ice is finally out, we can enjoy Lake Sunapee’s blue waters as our thoughts turn to the much-anticipated (and well deserved) summer season.

This issue of the Beacon once again delivers engaging and informative infor-mation on the plentiful activities and programs carried out by committed and passionate LSPA staff and volunteers, all in support of our precious natural resource – water.

On a personal note, my term as President will end at LSPA’s annual meeting in July. It has been my pleasure and honor to be part of such a wonderful organi-zation. I thank you for the opportunity to serve.

LSPA's AuctionWhen: Saturday, July 25, 2015, Time: 6:00 PMWhere: Lake Sunapee Yacht Club

Here's a sneak peek at some of the hot Live Auction items:

♦Premium seats to Red Sox game and back of the house tour for 4.♦Antique boat ride and dinner on Great Island.♦Private float plane tour around the lake and its watershed. ♦Join a Mt. Sunapee groomer on his evening shift.♦Learn to prepare a 4-Star Meal with Award Winning chef Brian MacKenzie

at the Inn at Pleasant Lake.

Details available on the LSPA website.We will also accept bids on all live auction items if you cannot attend.

Auction Kick-off: July 6th, 5 to 7 PMJoin Ken Burns for informal conversation in a lovely private home on the lake.Only 25 seats available on June 15th to first 25 callers.Details available on LSPA website.

Charles Forbes, President

3Spring/Summer 2015Spring/Summer 2015 3

LSPA's Annual MeetingDate: Saturday, July 18, 2015When: 9:15 AM - 11:00 AMWhere: LSPA's Learning Center

Save the Date!

Consider becoming a member of LSPA's Lighthouse Society.

The LSPA Lighthouse Society recognizes those who have chosen to include LSPA in their estate plans.

Gifts to LSPA from bequests and charitable trusts may result in significant tax savings for you or your heirs.

For more information on LSPA's Lighthouse Society call LSPA at (603) 763-2210 or e-mail: [email protected]

A beautiful evening on Lake Sunapee.

It was a windless, sunny day in March when LSPA staff Robert “Woody” Wood and Bonnie Lewis walked to the middle of frozen Lake Sunapee to do their annual through-the-ice water sampling. “Woody and I are always amazed at the depth of ice we have (and when I say we, I mean he has) to bore through to hit water!” says Lewis. “I think the deepest ice we've found was around 28 inches.”

Woody believes that motors should not be used when human effort is available. So, this year, he manually augured through 26 inches of ice before reaching water. Woody has been through-ice sampling for 14 years and notes that area “old-timers” recall that the ice on Lake Sunapee has been as thick as three feet in past decades.

Through-Ice Sampling The NH Division of Public Health Services tested the through-ice water sample for 12 parameters: Calcium, Manganese, Potassium, Sodium, Alkalinity, Phosphorus, Chloride, Sulfate, pH, Ammonia Nitrogen, Conductivity, and N i t r a t e + N i t r i t e + N i t r o g e n . Testing showed all levels were stable and consistent with past years.

Thanks to Nathaniel Stevens, LSPA has a brick near the pavilion in the harbor!

LSPA would like to thank Dick Katz

and Robert Kennersonfor their long-time

volunteering as tributary monitors.

LSPA’s Robert Wood (left) and Bonnie Lewis taking a through-the-ice sampling of water in the center of Lake Sunapee in March.


Earliest ice out: March 22, 2012

Latest ice out: May 14, 1888.

This year’s ice out: April 25, 2015

Breaking the IceOld Man Winter took his sweet time this year, before packing up his heavy snow, fierce winds, and frigid temps and vacating the premises.

Ice OutIt was five weeks into spring this year before the ice in Lake Sunapee officially gave way to open water. On April 25, 2015, Richard Osborne, of Osborne Marina in Sunapee, piloted his boat from Georges Mills to Newbury Harbor in (relatively) open water and officially declared ice out on Lake Sunapee. Ice out is the term for the moment when a lake is free of winter ice. On Lake Sunapee, ice out occurs when the ice has melted and broken up enough to navigate a boat from one end of the lake to the other, traditionally done by the Osborne family of Sunapee.

Buoy Data DiversityThe LSPA Buoy (picture on right) broadened its data gathering this spring with the installation of two new sensors that will measure con-ductivity and chlorophyll-a in Lake Sunapee. These sensors will bring LSPA’s buoy in line with other Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network (GLEON) buoys, enhancing research on aquatic occurrences, includ-ing potentially toxic cyanobacterial blooms. The added measurements will provide parallel data with the buoy’s ongoing tracking of sunlight and water temperature. All data will be shared worldwide. Thanks goes out to John Merriman, Peter Fichter, and LSPA staff who installed the new sensors and performed calibration maintenance on the buoy this spring.

Fill Up with Lead-Free TackleThe Loons Will Love You!Smart anglers save loons. When loons ingest lead-headed jigs and sinkers, the resulting death is from lead poisoning. According to the Loon Preservation Committee, once ingested, the lead tackle goes into the loon’s gizzard. The acid and grinding action of the gizzard erodes the lead, which then passes into the bloodstream and organs and poisons the loon. Even a single small lead split shot sinker is fatal to loons, and death will occur within 2-4 weeks of ingest-ing a piece of lead fishing tackle.

Check your fishing tackle before cast-ing your line. Are any of the jigs and sinkers lead-based? If so, here’s what

you can do:

♦ Bring your lead tackle to LSPA and we will exchange it for lead-free.

♦ Dispose of lead-headed jigs one inch or smaller. These are just as deadly as sinkers.

♦ Talk to other anglers about going lead-free.

You can buy lead-free tackle at The Tackle Shack in Newbury, and at Clarkes Hardware in New London.

"More loons die from lead poisoning in NH than from tumors, fractures, infections, fights, and boat encounters combined." Source: Loon Preservation Committee

Volunteer John Merriman (center), with staff Geoff Lizotte (left) and Robert Wood (right)disassembling the LSPA buoy, for maintenance and new sensor installation.

Beacon BlurbRobert “Woody” Wood, LSPA associate executive director and watershed steward, is a co-au-thor of the scientific paper titled: “Enhancing Cl imate Change Adaptat ion: Strategies for Community Engagement and University-community Partnerships”, published in The Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences earlier this year. The paper tracked two cli-mate change adaptation projects between 2009 and 2013. One of the case study sites was the Lake Sunapee Watershed.

5Spring/Summer 2015

2015 LSPA

Landscaping at the Water's EdgeSaturday, June 6, 10AMLSPA, The Fells and Sullivan County Master Gardeners present this look at landscaping on the shoreline, including information on storm water man-agement, the impacts of erosion and run off, and the effects of chemicals on our lakes and streams. Includes information on using native plants in the landscape. Presenters are LSPA’s Robert Wood, UNH’s landscape specialist Professor Catherine Neal, and Master Gardener Marilyn Hill of Newbury. Reservations at 763-4789, Ext. 3. Price $10.

Creatures of the NightThursday, July 2, 6PMA Squam Lake Science Center Family Program comes to LSPA - with live animals representing some of New Hampshire's nighttime critters! Come meet them and learn about what you hear and might see in the night!

Wind, Water, Fire, Ice Thursday, July 9, 7PMDave Anderson, Forest Society Education Director and NHPR's Something Wild, highlights how storm events shaped forests and river valleys in central NH and in some cases terrorized residents. Many slides highlight the Sunapee watershed for Hurricane of ’38; events include forest fires in Grantham and Sunapee, hurricanes, ice storms, even a Sunapee tornado in the 1820’s.

4 Centuries of Fishing in NH: Yankee Character, Yankee PrioritiesThursday, July 16, 7PMAuthor Jack Noon presents NH's fishing history, including nets, spears, guns, clubs, weirs, seines, fish pots, and hooks. Overfishing, inadequate regulations, and dams ended the enormous spawn-ing runs of salmon, shad, and sea-run fish. Yankee tinkering, coupled with technologies and sport fishing, brought new species to NH, with unforeseen results. Sponsored by the NH Humanities Council.

LSPA's Annual MeetingSaturday, July 18, 9:15 AM - 11:00 AMLearn about current lake topics, discover the latest on science and education, meet with staff and fellow members, and view exhibits. Refreshments served.

Summer Programs

Unless otherwise noted, programs are free and open to the public and located at the LSPA Learning Center

LSPA’s educators lead eco-activities at this year’s NH Drinking Water Festival held in May in Manchester.

Below, Gear Up homeschoolers are immersed in a close up exploration of nature, guided by LSPA’s Kathleen Stowell and Nancy Heckel. Gear Up is a homeschooling enrichment co-operative based in Warner, NH. Following their nature discoveries, the homeschoolers pictured here eagerly recorded their findings.

Continued on page 6


Winter Ice BoatingTuesday, July 21, 7PMAlan Peterson talks of ice boating and winter activi-ties on and near Lake Sunapee. Peterson began ice boating 33 years ago when he first came to Sunapee and has built his own ice boat. He knows about wind-surfing on snow and ice. As an avid sailor, too, he knows first-hand how to harness the elements for fun!

Green Blooms in Blue Lakes: What do we know and what do we want to know?Tuesday, August 4, 7PMDartmouth Biology Professor Kathy Cottingham presents the latest on cyanobacterial blooms in low nutrient lakes. These blooms threaten invertebrates, fish, waterfowl, the water we drink, and recreational opportunities on local waterways. What causes them? What are the long-term effects on humans, animals, our waterways? How can we keep these microorganisms in check or adapt to these changes?

Love Your Lake Day & Antique Boat ParadeSunday, August 9, 10-2 (Boat Parade at 1PM)Held at LSPA, this free event includes crafts, activi-ties and games for children, live aquatic plant speci-mens, scavenger hunts, loon exhibit, ice cream and popcorn, music, demonstrations and lovingly restored antique boats on display and in the parade. Free and fun for all ages!

150 Years of Recreational Boating on Lake Sunapee Thursday, August 13, 7PMWith a focus on sailing, John Dietel covers it all: large racing sailboats of the late 19th century, the regatta era, bang-and-go-back, the Sunapee One Design, one of the largest Star fleets in the world, naphtha and steam launches, and old wooden speedboats.

Full Moon Cruise Sunday, September 27, 6 PM Boarding TimeLocation: Sunapee Harbor, Mt. Sunapee Boat Cruise

Join LSPA on a beautiful not-to-be-missed cruise, timed for the full moon over sparkling waters! Hors d’oeuvres provided; cash bar; $25 pp; Reservations required. Don’t miss out on this very popular yearly event! Call LSPA at 763-2210.

Summer Programscontinued from page 5

LSPA’s Nancy Heckel instructs eco-story hour attendees on turtle etiquette when visiting Moses’ home at the LSPA Learning Center.

Bradford 5th graders listen attentively to LSPA’s Kathleen Stowell describe how water flows through the landscape.

In the “Out and About” program, you never know what you will see! (Can you spot the fawn?)

7Spring/Summer 2015

2015 LSPA

Creatures of the NightThursday, July 2, 6PMA Squam Lake Science Center Family Program comes to LSPA - with live animals representing some of New Hampshire's nighttime critters! Come meet them and learn about what you hear and might see in the night!

Fireflies & Other Night FlyersTuesday, July 7, 6PMWhy do fireflies glow and how do night time months find food in the dark? Come find out the answers to these questions and many more. Take home a "glowing" firefly project.

Summer Star Stories & S'moresTuesday, July 14, 6PMSpend the evening outside learning about how the stars got their names and where to look for them. Top off the evening with a summer s'mores treat!

Ecology Camp at The Fells for kids ages 6-13In cooperation with The Fells, and Newbury Recreation program. Monday-Friday, July 20 thru 24, 9AM to 12 (noon)This outdoor-based camp focuses on creating an awareness of the natural world. Campers will hike trails to explore the streams, forests and lakeshore at The Fells, while learning about animal habitats, aquatic creatures, birds and plant life. For more information and registration contact Newbury Park and Recreation at 763-4940.

Stream Side Safari: Walk for FamiliesTuesday, July 14, 6PMWhere: The Fells, Newbury, NHEver wanted to step into the life of a stream creature? Come meet the curious caddisfly who builds a home out of tiny pebbles and twigs and the wacky whirli-gig beetle that has two sets of eyes! Our walk will take us to Beech Brook for hands-on investigation and exploration. Please dress appropriately for the weather; waterproof footwear is recommended.

Summer Programs for children

Unless otherwise noted, programs are free and open to the public and located at the LSPA Learning Center

20 Years of ExtraordinaryKathleen Stowell is the real deal. As LSPA’s education direc-tor for the past 20 years, Kathleen established environmen-tal education as one of the organization’s cornerstones of success. Two decades of ever-expanding children/adult/family programs have placed LSPA as the premier “go to” source for watershed education.

“When I joined LSPA in 1995, my challenge was to create a regional environmental education program that would be available – at no cost – to the school districts,” Kathleen says. During the first year, she had about 80 children and adults in the program. Last year over 2,300 students and teachers – from pre-school to middle school – participated in an LSPA educational program. Add to that over 1,500 families and adults who attended LSPA lectures and programs. “Our reach is expanding each year,” Kathleen modestly says, “and that is so gratifying.”

Of special importance to Kathleen is to acknowledge LSPA’s forward-thinking commitment made 20 years ago by the board of directors and then-executive director, Paul Grevstad, which allowed her to advance the educational impact of LSPA.

The educational “reach” that she has achieved in the past two decades is huge. “At one time or another, Kathleen has taught environmental education to nearly all the school children in our area!” says June Fichter, LSPA executive director. “Her programs are science-based and her audiences observe, discover, learn and reflect on the wonders of nature and their place in it.”

Simply put, Kathleen Stowell has inspired, amazed, and helped children of all ages find their “listening point” in environmental learning. Here’s to another 20 years of extraordinary!

Kathleen Stowell, LSPA’s education director, expanding the minds of children during an eco-story hour at the LSPA Learning Center.

Continued on page 8


2015 LSPA

Good Night Lake Bedtime StoriesTuesday, July 28, 6PMJoin us for a special story time treat in the harbor - animal stories and songs! Wear your PJ's and bring your favorite stuffed animal snuggle pal!

Pollinator ParadeThursday, July 30, 6PMButterflies and bees, moths and hummingbirds ─ there are many pollinators that visit our yards and gardens! Lionel Chute of the Sullivan County Conservation District will help us learn about what plants pollinators like and show us how to build a pollinator house to take home for your backyard!

Lakeshore Adventure: Walk for FamiliesThursday, August 6, 6PMWhere: The Fells, Newbury, NHSpend the evening "Sunapee-Side"! Our walk will take us to the water's edge to explore and investigate the place where the water meets the land. Please dress appropriately for hiking and the weather.

Summer Eco Storiesfor children and their caregivers

Fridays, July 10th & 24th, August 7th & 21st10AM to 11AM

Join us for a special summer series of our popular nature story hour! Each session is focused on a different ecological story and topic. Stories, games, music and art - fun both inside and outside!

Summer Programs for children

continued from page 7

Some of our children's programs may change so for a complete list of all our summer series program, visit our website: www.lakesunapee.org

click on "Events" tab, or call 763-2210

Let the Sun Shine InLSPA is entering the world of alternative energy with the installation of solar panels in a small portion of the Outdoor Classroom behind the LSPA Learning Center. Located on a naturally sloped area of the property, the panels will capture the maximum amount of available sunlight. Early estimates indicate that the resulting solar energy will translate into an estimated annual rate of return on investment of at least 11%.

Kathleen Stowell, LSPA education director, and Nancy Heckel, LSPA environmental educator, have plans to develop an educational exhibit for the Outdoor Classroom demonstrating the steps involved in the process of harvesting sunshine and converting it to electricity.

Funding for the solar energy project was trifold: A HOPE Grant through the Hypertherm Corporation, Hanover, NH; a rebate through the NH Public Utilities Commission; and previous donations for special projects.

Installation of LSPA’s 32 solar panels is underway in the Outdoor Class-room at The Learning Center.

A simulation of a solar panel installation set in the LSPA Outdoor Class-room. LSPA’s finished installation will position the 32 solar panels in a formation of 16 panels in length by two panels deep.

9Spring/Summer 2015

Go Fish!Beneath the surface of Lake Sunapee and its tributaries is another universe inhabited by a number of scaly families. According to the NH Fish & Game Department, there are dozens of fish species that call Lake Sunapee home. As the summer approaches, fishing enthusiasts are checking their poles and tackle in anticipation of reeling in their favorite species.

Among the more recognizable fish in Lake Sunapee are:

♦ Bass (smallmouth, largemouth, and rock), which hail from the Sunfish Family (Centrarchidae);

♦ Trout (lake, rainbow, and brook) and Atlantic salmon belong to the Trout Family (Salmonidae);

♦ Shiners (golden and common), and fallfish that live in clear streams, belong to the Carp and Minnow Family (Cyprinidae); and

♦ Brown and Yellow Bullheads hail from the Bullhead Catfish Family (Ictaluridae).

Also living in Lake Sunapee are a number of fish who carry decidedly curious names but are treasured lake dwellers nonetheless:

Invasive Watch WorkshopSaturday, June 27th9 AM - 10:30 AMWhere: LSPA Learning Center

Laurie Callahan, aquatic plant specialist, and Robert Wood and Geoff Lizotte from LSPA, will update attendees with the latest on aquatic invasive species in NH and around the Lake Sunapee region. Come learn about old and new invasives and what can be done.

LOVE YOUR LAKE DAY & Antique Boat Parade 2015Where: The LSPA Learning Center at Sunapee Harbor

When: Sunday, August 9th from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

What: Live animals, crafts, activities and games for children, live aquatic plant specimens, scavenger hunts, loon exhibit, ice cream and popcorn, music, demonstrations and lovingly restored antique boats on display and in the parade.

Why: Because it is fun, lively, and filled with learning.

Who: Everyone is invited!

Cost: Free!

Slimy Sculpin (Cottus cognatus) A bottom dwelling fish, 3-4 inches long, and often preyed upon by larger fish.

White Sucker (Catostomus commer-sonil) A bottom feeding fish, 10-20 inches long, and used primarily as bait.

Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) A shallow water fish, 5-9 inches long, and aggressive when hooked by an angler.

Burbot (Lota lota) A deep lake fish, 14-24 inches long, with a single chin barbell. Its name is derived from the Latin word barba, which means beard.

A word about fishing tackle: Please use lead-free fishing tackle to ensure the safety (and lives) of loons and other waterfowl on Lake Sunapee and surrounding lakes and ponds. (See “Loon Lookout” article on page 12.)

Laurie Callahan, aquatic plant specialist, holding up an example of an aquatic invasive weed during her on-the-water workshop in Lake Sunapee.

All fish photos were taken from the general internet.


A Boater’s Best FriendLake Sunapee’s Lake Hosts are ready to welcome all boaters at the lake’s five public boat launch sites and offer free inspections for aquatic invasives along with information on the impor-tance of Cleaning, Draining and Drying their watercraft and recre-ational gear.

“The Lake Host program is a crucial part of LSPA's invasive prevention efforts on Lake Sunapee,” says Geoff Lizotte, LSPA watershed steward. “Aquatic invasive species are on the move in the northeast and it takes focused vigilance to keep Lake Sunapee invasive-free.”

This year, the program welcomes a total of 12 hosts – seven returning hosts and five new individuals, includ-ing an intern from Colby-Sawyer College (CSC). Cody Ferlow, an envi-ronmental studies major at CSC, joins his fellow hosts for some hands-on experience in frontline aquatic invasive prevention.

The 12 Lake Hosts officially start the season on Memorial Day weekend and work through September 20th at the following launch sites: Sunapee Harbor, Georges Mills, Burkehaven, Blodgetts Landing, and the State Beach. (See site map, below)

Layers and Layers of Lake When you dive into Lake Sunapee on a hot summer day, do you feel a dis-tinctive change in water temperature the deeper you go? “Diving deeply into Lake Sunapee is a journey through the scientific phenome-non known as stratif ication.” says Geoff Lizotte, LSPA watershed steward. “The lake contains various layers of temperatures depending on the depth of the water.”

Lake Sunapee is a temperate lake and stratification occurs during the summer months when the water

separates into specific layers (see chart below).

However, stratification does not occur year-round. Annually, the lake cycles through four seasonal changes: spring turnover; summer stratification; autumn turnover; and winter stagnation.

The spring/autumn turnover season means just that: the wind churns up the surface of the water, currents are created and a mixing – or turnover – occurs. When the ice arrives, it prevents the wind from accessing the water surface and the lake “rests” until ice out in the spring.

The above chart information was taken from “The Hedgehog” location in Lake Sunapee, which is a nautical chart location not far from Loon Island.

A Lake Host chats with a boater launching at Sunapee Harbor.

The LSPA Lake Host team reviews the upcom-ing season with Geoff Lizotte. (far right)

11Spring/Summer 2015

What Can You Do?♦ Limit fertilizer use. If you live next to the lake, it is against state regulations to use fertilizer of any

kind. If you live inland, have an inexpensive soil test done to see what your soil needs, if anything. Contact UNH at http://extension.unh.edu/Problem-Diagnosis-and-Testing-Services/Soil-Testing, or UMass at

https://soiltest.umass.edu/ for more information.♦ Keep your septic system maintained. Avoid using chlorine and other harsh chemicals since they kill the beneficial

bacteria that makes your septic system work correctly. ♦ Allow surface runoff to seep into the ground by installing rain gardens. Sources for help with planning and installing

a rain garden include: http://des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/stormwater/documents/rain-garden-fs.pdf; https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/rain-gardens-way-to-improve-water-quality; and http://www.ecolandscaping.org/03/rain-gardens/native-plant-selection-for-biofilters-and-rain-gardens/#more-9104. ♦ Do not disturb soils unnecessarily, especially on sloped areas. If soils are disturbed, stabilize them by seeding and

mulching. ♦ Dispose of pet waste appropriately. ♦ Use phosphate-free detergents for laundry, dishwasher and dish soap. Note: Phosphates in dishwashing

detergents are illegal in NH, VT and ME.

“It doesn’t matter where you live in the Lake Sunapee watershed, how you live day-to-day can have far reaching effects on the state of the lake and its water quality,” says Robert “Woody” Wood, LSPA associate executive director and watershed steward. Of particu-lar importance is the impact of human activity on the level of phosphorus in Lake Sunapee.

The Phosphorus Food Chain

Phosphorus is a nutrient found in all fresh water bodies. It may be the single most important element that indicates the quality and health of the lake. “The concentration of phosphorus controls how much life the water can support,” says Woody.

Phosphorus supports the growth of plant and animal microorganisms in the water – phytoplankton (aquatic algae) and zooplankton (animal

microorganism). In turn, they provide food for aquatic insects, crustaceans and small fish. Larger species, such as bass, trout and salmon, feed on the smaller organisms, and an otter, mink or eagle may feed on the larger fish. In this way, phosphorus supports the entire aquatic food web and beyond.

Where’s the Problem?

Too much phosphorus can cause an overgrowth of algae and may stimu-late the growth of unwanted aquatic weeds. When weeds and algae die, the resulting decomposition depletes oxygen in the water, and the lack of oxygen can kill fish and other aquatic organisms. “Also, waters with higher levels of phosphorus gener-ally have less clarity and a higher incidence of algal blooms,” says Woody, “including potentially toxic cyanobacterial blooms.”

Phosphorus can enter the lake from the tributaries feeding into it. Typically,

STATE OF THE LAKE... Focus on Phosphorus

tributaries have a higher concentra-tion of phosphorus than the lake. “Tributaries are affected by organic materials from woodlands, wet-lands, erosion from stream banks, surface runoff, and faulty septic systems,” says Woody.

The State of Lake Sunapee

Lake Sunapee is an oligotrophic lake, which means it is naturally low in phosphorus due to its watershed geological makeup. “With granite bedrock and granite as the parent material for most of the soils, there is little phosphorus available,” says Woody. However, ongoing water sampling throughout the years has shown a long term increase in total phosphorus in Lake Sunapee. That said, Woody adds that “the overall levels of phospho-rus have remained fairly stable over the last several years”.


Loon LookoutSpring burst upon us this year with robust vigor and the loons wasted no time returning to Lake Sunapee, Pleasant Lake, and nearby ponds. “We all have our fingers crossed that the Burkehaven loon pair will nest again this year and successfully hatch one or two chicks,” says Kristen Begor, LSPA Loon Committee chair, “and it would be an extra bonus if the Jobs Creek pair decided to give the nesting thing a try this year!”

Loons, like ducks, geese, cormorants and grebes, are water birds. According to the Loon Preservation Committee (www.loon.org), there are five different species of loons in North America. However, the Common Loon is the most widespread and well-known species, and the only one that breeds as far south as New Hampshire.

Loons are shy birds and very particular about where they set up housekeeping. In spring, they return to inland lakes from their wintering locations at sea. Mates are selected and nesting sites determined. Nesting is a vulnerable time for loons, who typically incubate eggs between late May and early July. Once the egg hatches, the parents continue in their shared parental responsibilities for about 12 weeks until the young loons dive and feed on their own. Come autumn, all the loons leave our lakes and head back to the open water of the ocean for the winter.

Reading the Signs

Here are some tips for successful “loon looking”:

♦ Give loons plenty of room. They are not comfortable when people or boats approach them.

♦ If you hear a “tremolo” call that sounds like crazy laughter, it means you are too close to a nesting loon, or a loon with chicks. Please move away immediately.

♦ Do not demonstrate any aggres-sive behavior around loons.

♦ Do be calm and sit quietly when watching them.

Source: Loon Preservation Committee

Want to Be a Loon Observer?

Consider joining the LSPA Loon Committee (LC), which currently consists of 36 observers. The LC compiles monthly observations that are sent to the Loon Preservation Committee as part of the statewide data on loons. If you are interested in joining the Loon Committee, please contact LSPA at 603-763-2210.

Can you count how many loons were spotted May 9th this year near Hasting Landing?Photo courtesy John Cassidy

John Wilson of Pleasant Lake carefully maneuvers one of the loon nesting platforms into its summer location on Lake Sunapee.

A second loon nesting platform, ready for a new loon family, is tenderly towed to a different summer location on Lake Sunapee by Kittie Wilson of Pleasant Lake.


For LSPA Members Only!

"LSPA Night" at the New London Barn PlayhouseAugust 12th, 7:30 PM

"Forever Plaid"

A deliciously goofy homage to the pitch-perfect harmonies of the 1950’s. The talented and exuberant boys of “The Plaids” never made it to their first big gig, but now they’re back for their posthumous chance finally to perform the show that never was. This tremendously popular and utterly charming musical revue is packed with oldie hits such as “Heart and Soul”, “Shangri-La”, “Chain Gang”, and “Love is a Many Splendored Thing”.

Volunteer Appreciation August 26th, 5:30 PM

Our many volunteers are honored at this annual fun event held at the LSPA Learning Center. Enjoy a late summer BBQ that promises to offer up good times, great food, and a chance to be thanked for the important contribution made by every LSPA volunteer. Our volunteers ensure that LSPA meets it mission of protecting Lake Sunapee and its watershed.

Trout Recipe Take a cup of oozy, gooey fish eggs, add a specially equipped aquarium, and mix with classrooms full of kindergartners, 4th and 5th graders, and middle school students. Wait three months and then release.

The result is Trout in the Classroom, a national educational program of Trout Unlimited. The NH Department of Fish & Game administers the program as part of their watershed education program.

Trout in the Classroom is an annual favorite among the schools serviced by LSPA’s education programs. Fish eggs are brought to the classrooms in February and students watch and learn as the small round balls with two dots for eyes grow into Eastern brook trout fry. In May, the students release the fry into area streams and tributaries.

There were four trout releases supervised by LSPA’s educational staff: Sunapee kindergartners and 4th graders, Bradford 5th graders, Kearsarge Middle School students, and Newport elementary school students.

Students carefully releasing their fostered fish fry.


Marine Debris BiodegradationTimeLine

Foam Plastic CupsPlastic Beverage BottlePaper ProductsAluminum CanTin Can Glass Bottle/Jar Plastic BagWaxed Milk CartonCigarette ButtsDisposable Diapers

Source: U.S. National Park Service, Washington,

DC MOTE Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL

50 years450 years2-6 weeks

80-200 years50 years

Undetermined10-20 years

3 months1-5 years450 years

LSPA’s Organizational HeartbeatEmbedded at the core of LSPA is a person who quietly goes about the daily task of ensuring that the organizational gears of the office remain in good working order.

On any given day, you will find Sue Godin, LSPA’s office manager, multi-tasking as she meets the many needs of LSPA’s staff, mem-bers and public. “I like the diversity of tasks I get to perform,” says Sue. “It keeps the work interesting and challenging.”

Sue greets visitors to the Learning Center, responds to staff needs, photographs LSPA activities, maintains the membership database, publicizes events and programs, keeps members and the public up-to-date via the web, lays out the designs for the Beacon and the LSPA Annual Report, takes care of Moses (LSPA’s mascot turtle) and Brookie (LSPA’s trout), keeps the computers humming, and helps Board members when needed. On the ever-important financial side, Sue handles LSPA’s bookkeeping and payroll, and maintains the financial and non-profit legal records.

Most recently, Sue completed the “Safe Boating Program” with the NH Department of Safety Marine Patrol, and received her license to pilot the LSPA pontoon boat when needed. “Summer is always busy here and an extra set of hands on the pontoon wheel will come in handy,” she says.

A native of Lynn, MA, Sue has lived in NH since 1977. When she joined LSPA in 2004, she brought experience from working at another non-profit organization and a water quality testing business. Her love of the lake and educating the public about the watershed is evident throughout the displays at the LSPA Learning Center. Many of the items on display have come from her eye for collecting. “I love to go to flea markets with the intent of finding something suitable for the Learning Center and education programs,” she says.

If you ask the LSPA staff about Sue and her role at LSPA, you will hear the following: resourceful, dependable, organized, and effective. From paper clips to pontoon boat piloting – and everything in between – Sue is on board to help with the diverse daily tasks that keep LSPA the stellar organization that it is.

How long does it take for trash to decompose? The answers (below) may surprise you.

Talkin’ TrashIn our world of fast-paced living it is very easy to create trash. All it takes is one or more of the following: a purchased cup of coffee in the morn-ing – to go; a plastic bottle of water to sip while hiking; a lunch sandwich wrapped in aluminum foil; paper towels used as napkins; a can of soda; a mid-afternoon energy bar; an evening meal prepared from canned ingredients; and a bottle of wine with dinner.

Fortunately, most of us have embraced recycling as a daily habit. However, it is still tempting to simply throw away the daily debris – into the trash pail or (much worse) into the lake while boating or swimming.

Sue Godin (left), LSPA’s office manager, introducing eco-story hour children to Moses, a red-eared slider turtle, who lives at the LSPA Learning Center.

Beacon BlurbKak Weathers, with the Cary I n s t i t u t e o f Ecosystem Studies and LSPA was named a 2015

Ecological Society of America (ESA) Fellow. The ESA is a 100-year old Washington, DC-based non-partisan, non-profit organi-zation of scientists dedicated to ecological science. ESA Fellows are scientists who have been recognized by their peers as dis-tinguished for their contributions to the ecological science discipline.


Meet Our Interns!By Taffy BeckmanLSPA Education Committee Chair

The LSPA Water Quality Lab (The Lab) welcomes two summer interns who will be assisting with water sample testing this summer. The Lab, located at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, conducts ongoing analyses of water samples for Lake Sunapee and 25 other lake and ponds. The interns will work under the direction of Bonnie Lewis, LSPA Lab manager.

Matt Brough, an Environmental Science major at Franklin Pierce College (FPC), grew up in Dover, NH, and admits to being an “ocean person” who has recently become interested in learning about lake quality issues. Matt is very inter-ested in this chance to learn more about water sampling since he is considering a potential career in water resource management. He is also a NH certified EMT. Matt will be a senior at FPC in the fall and is also considering other career options including police work and journalism.

Owen Krol, a Conservation Biology major at Colby-Sawyer College (CSC), is from North Reading, MA. While Owen was growing up, his family had a camp on Province Lake in Wakefield, NH, where he and a younger sister enjoyed all the

lake activities. Owen’s career goal is to be a conservation naturalist and he is looking forward to working with state standards and various sampling techniques in the The Lab. Also, the opportunity to be on the water adds to his enthusiasm for his summer intern-ship. Come fall, Owen plans to con-tinue his work at The Lab.

Bonnie Lewis, who is retiring at the end of June (see “A Watery Farewell” below), said Matt and Owen were among a pool of very strong candi-dates this year. “I am looking forward to working with Matt and Owen during my concluding weeks at The Lab," says Bonnie.

A Watery Farewell Bonnie Lewis is retiring at the end of June after nearly 16 years as the lab manager at the LSPA Water Quality Laboratory (The Lab) at Colby-Sawyer College (CSC). As lab manager, Bonnie worked directly with CSC students whose interests and curriculum included water sam-pling analyses and data gathering. She also was the primary interface between LSPA's water quality moni-tors and staff, and NH's Department of Environmental Services' (DES)Volunteer Lake Assesment Program (VLAP), which is part of the US EPA water quality effort.

“Daily, I am amazed at the dedication of the people around me,” she says. “The CSC faculty care so much about the success of the students here and

the LSPA folks are an inspiration!” Of special note, she adds, are the LSPA volunteer water monitors. “Their dedication in taking samples in all kinds of weather gives us a breadth of sampling and analysis that is particu-larly significant,” she says.

All told, Bonnie states that she has handled, and/or supervised the han-dling of, over 60,000 water samples during her years at The Lab. She credits the dedicated efforts of the LSPA water monitors and the focused

involvement of the CSC students for The Lab’s level of data collection and output. “It has been very rewarding to work with the CSC students and to send them out into the world with a greater appreciation for how lab results relate to real world situations,” says Bonnie.

Says June Fichter, LSPA executive director, “Bonnie will be sorely missed by us all! Her talent and dedication in running a top-notch laboratory, her wonderful personality, and her humor – all make her a very unique person.”

Bonnie’s future plans include taking a tour of the desert out west with her family this winter. Meanwhile, she will be doing more of the things she loves, such as visiting her children and grandchildren, performing with her theater group, and going on hikes and bike trips.

Owen Krol

Bonnie Lewis, manager of LSPA’s Lab, at work in the LSPA Water Quality Lab at Colby- Sawyer College.

Matt Brough

Non Profit OrganizationUS Postage

PAIDNew London, NH

Permit No. 11

This issue of the Beacon has been sponsored by:

LSPA greatly appreciates this support.

The Mission of LSPA LSPA, founded in 1898, is a member-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the special environment of the Lake Sunapee region, through education, research and collaborative action.

Wild Goose UpdateLSPA remains staunchly opposed to the proposed NH Fish & Game (Fish & Game) motorized double boat launch and parking lot planned for the Newbury site known as Wild Goose.

Situation Status

LSPA spent the past several years as appellants in the NH court system advocating against the proposed Fish & Game project. Extraordinary amounts of time and money were spent in this effort. Fact-driven briefs were prepared and deliv-ered by LSPA and the Town of Newbury during the numerous court procedures. Additionally, LSPA actively pursued various state committees and councils connected with the Wild Goose project, to advocate our position. However, the end result of this protracted effort was that the NH court decisions ruled in favor of NH Fish & Game.

Current Plans

LSPA is in another phase of our advocacy as we continue to reveal the facts of this proposed project to appropriate individuals, agencies and committees. We are working with various branches of state government pointing out not only the deficiencies of the proposed project, but also some alternatives to the existing plans. For example, the current project plans are expensive and more cost-effective alternatives are available. The plans also present significantly altered traffic patterns on Route 103 that are very dangerous. Finally, the environmental impact of the project continues to be at the center of our position as we put forward the above realities.

Financial Realities

Reduced financial strength has forced Fish & Game into a funding status that involves appealing to the NH General Fund for support. In other words, Fish & Game is no longer self-funding. This means the funding structure for Fish & Game projects and programs involves other players – all of whom require accountability. Thus far, the general funds earmarked for Fish & Game may be used only for Fish & Game operations – not for new projects.

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