ABA Monthly Member Highlight: Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance
The ABA had the pleasure having the Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance (LWA) as the guest speaker for our monthly meeting and learned more about them and their crucial role in protecting one of New Hampshire’s most cherished natural resources; Lake Winnipesaukee. The LWA’s mission is to protect and improve the water quality of Lake Winnipesaukee and its watershed through advocacy, education, and direct action. Their work is vital in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the lake for future generations of residents, visitors, and wildlife alike.
Through water quality testing, monitoring, and implementation of watershed management plans, the LWA works tirelessly to address issues such as runoff pollution and shoreline erosion, which pose threats to the lake’s ecosystem. One of their accomplishments includes securing $650,000 in federal grants aimed at safeguarding and enhancing water quality across the Lake Winnipesaukee watershed. This funding will support critical projects designed to mitigate pollution and protect the lake’s delicate ecosystem.
Lake Winnipesaukee has been identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as one of New Hampshire’s threatened or impaired bodies of water. It is listed for marginal support of plant and animal life, which makes the LWA’s work even more vital. To address these concerns, the LWA is leading the Lake Winnipesaukee Comprehensive Protection Initiative. This initiative focuses on implementing long-term solutions to preserve the lake’s water quality, reduce nutrient loading, and protect the health of the lake’s ecosystem.
Experience shows that the most effective approach for monitoring and protecting valuable water resources is a comprehensive watershed-based management plan. In fact, such plans are a requirement for securing EPA funding for stormwater mitigation and protection projects under the Clean Water Act. How can you help? There are sponsor and volunteer opportunities available.
*The LWA are seeking sponsorship to help cover the costs involved in holding the Winnipesaukee Cleanup Event, an amazing and important clean up event for our lake. People from all around the lake volunteer to pick up trash along roadways and areas near the shoreline. Last year, approximately 12 yards of trash was collected! There will be a gathering at the Ames Farm Inn with a tentative date of Oct 12th, 2024 for the event. All proceeds and donations go directly to costs associated with holding the Winnipesaukee Cleanup Event.
*The Steering Committee primary role is to access and provide feedback on essential draft deliverables and project outcomes. Additionally, members will engage in field work and other supportive activities. This project is expected to span two years, with steering committee meeting two to four times annually, as scheduled by project manager.
Volunteers are needed to join steering committees for watershed management plans in Center Harbor, The Broads, and Alton Bay. The project is estimated to span for 2 years with members meeting 2 to 4 times per year.
For more information about the Lake Winnipesaukee Association’s work, ongoing projects, and how to volunteer please visit www.winnipesaukee.org.
Every month we sit down with one of our amazing ABA members to get to know them a little better! We ask each member the same questions, providing an opportunity for our members to highlight the important work that they do in our communities. If you’re an ABA Member and would like to be considered for future Monthly Member Highlights, please reach out to us via email at info@altonbusinessassociation.com.
Q: Tell us about your business?
A: The Lake Winnipesaukee Association (LWA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the water quality and natural resources of Lake Winnipesaukee and its watershed. Our Mission is to protect the water quality and natural resources of Lake Winnipesaukee and its watershed now and for future generations.
Q: Tell us about yourself:
A: I am the Director of Outreach & Development since July 1, 2024. I spent over 8 years with the Lakes Region Chamber and collaborated with the ABA. I will be joined by Pat Tarpey, President of the LWA for the science side of the impacts to Lake Winni. She leads he effort to identify threats to Lake Winnipesaukee’s water quality and to develop and implement action plans to mitigate their impacts.
Q: How did your business get started?
A: By a group of concerned residents.
Q: What has your relationship with the Alton Business Association done for you or your business?
A: The ABA is an excellent community organization contributing in so many ways to the Alton community and beyond. LWA is a non-profit member.
Q: What do you value most about this community?
A: The ABA community is vibrant and active in planning and executing so many community impact events.
Q: Why did you want to open your business in this community?
A: Lake Winnipesaukee!
Q: What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: The health of the Lake is critical to our economy. We have completed projects that have lessened the amount of phosphorus that enters the lake and we will soon begin the undertaking the watershed monitoring plan for Alton Bay.
Q: What does the future hold for you and your business?
A: Our mission is critical as a healthy lake is our economy.
Q: What is one piece of advice you wish you had as a new business member?
A: As non-profit organization it is critical for us to gain awareness of our mission.
Q: How can people who want to learn more about you or your business get in touch with you?
A: Joanne Haight can be reached at jhaight@winnipesaukee.org or by phone at 603.505.2937. Sign up for the newsletter on the website or follow them on Facebook at Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance. Volunteer opportunities available.