Water Quality

[LWWA]

Our Association is looking for some help in finding volunteers to assist in a pilot tributary water quality monitoring study. We need volunteers for the Smith River in Wolfeboro, Merrymeeting River in Alton Bay, and Gunstock Brook in Gilford. Purpose of the study is to monitor the quality of the water that is entering Lake Winnipesaukee from major tributaries. UNH has been monitoring the water quality of the lake for 20 yrs., but little has been done on the tribs. If you have ideas on more ways to get the word out, or want more info, please contact us.




The Lake Winnipesaukee Watershed Association (http://www.winnipesaukee.org)

[Tim]

What kind of results have been noted over the 20 year study? good, bad, etc. THANKS!

[LWWA]

That question doesn't generate a simple answer due to the size of the lake. Depending on the area of the lake you are interested in, there are different trends being observed. UNH maintains all of the data, but we have put the summaries for 2002 for Meredith Bay and Moultonboro on our website http://www.winnipesaukee.org/unh-llmp.htm .

This summer we will be presenting a "State of the Lake" press release as to overall health of the lake.

[frank m.]

I'm unable to open the links to the Meredith Bay or Moultonborough studies. Can you tell us in a few words what they say about the water quality over the past ten years?

[Tim]

[LWWA]

UNH LLMP is the best source for more of a definitive answer. However, according to the 2002 Summary, Meredith Bay is considered an unproductive "pristine" portion of Lake Winni. that is characterized by clear water and low levels of microscopic plant growth. However there are short term clarity reductions and algal blooms documented that suggest periodic pollutant inputs.

Moultonboro Bay is considered moderately nutrient enriched segment of Lake Winni, while the open waters of Winter Harbor and Wolfeboro Bay are currently characterized as relatively unproductive "pristine" segments of the lake.