Page 22 - NLL - OCT2026

Page 22 NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM October 2026 Community
Newfound Weed Stampede Completes 100% Shoreline Survey with No Invasive Aquatic Plants Found
HEBRON — For the fourth consecutive year, New- found Lake Region Association (NLRA) Weed Watcher volun- teers have surveyed 100% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline for invasive aquatic plants, and once again, no invasive aquatic plants were found.
The achievement was made possible through the 2026 New- found Lake Weed Stampede, held August 15 and 16, along with additional surveys con- ducted by volunteers in the days following the event.
During the two-day Weed Stampede, 19 volunteers pad- dled more than 63 miles and sur- veyed 65% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline. Volunteers then re- turned to the water to complete the remaining areas, reaching the goal of 100% shoreline cov- erage.
“Reaching 100% coverage is an incredible accomplishment for our volunteer community,” said Paul Pellissier, Conserva- tion Program Manager for the NLRA. “But this work is about much more than completing one survey. Our Weed Watchers are an early-detection network for Newfound Lake, and their continued observations through- out the season give us the best chance of finding an invasive
The Weed Stampede provides an important lake-wide survey, but NLRA encourages its Weed Watcher volunteers to continue monitoring throughout the sea- son. Volunteers are encouraged to survey their adopted shore- line—or another favorite stretch of the lake—once each month, if possible. Even a short paddle with eyes on the water can help strengthen Newfound’s early-de- tection network.
“Every volunteer paddle adds another set of eyes on the lake,” Pellissier said. “We’re grateful for the time, energy, and com- mitment 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.”
The NLRA’s Weed Watcher program is part of its ongoing efforts to protect Newfound Lake and its watershed through mon- itoring, education, conservation, and community engagement.
To learn more about becom- ing a Weed Watcher and other ways to help protect Newfound Lake and its watershed, visit NewfoundLake.org.
aquatic plant quickly, when there is still an opportunity to respond before it becomes established.”
Invasive aquatic plants can
spread quickly once established, outcompeting native plants and disrupting aquatic ecosystems. Early detection is one of the
most effective tools for prevent- ing a small infestation from be- coming a much larger and more difficult problem.
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