First Cyanobacteria Warnings of 2024 Issued for Lake Winnipesaukee

[Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance]

Yesterday, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) issued the first Cyanobacteria Warnings (previously Advisories) on Lake Winnipesaukee for 2024. The initial total cyanobacteria density for the sample collected at Nineteen Mile Beach was 561,000 cells/mL and density for Carry Beach was 160,000 cells/mL. Warnings are implemented when cell counts exceed 70,000 cells/mL. The taxa Dolichospermum was identified in both samples, and Aphanothece was also found in the Nineteen Mile Bay sample.

To stay up to date on these warnings, I highly suggest that you sign up for NHDES Waterbody Specific Notifications. You can check the status of the warnings and alerts using the Healthy Swimming Mapper. We will be updating the LWA Cyanobacteria page and tracking map this week. If you suspect a bloom, please use the NHDES Reporting Tool and contact LWA. The blooms in Wolfeboro are described as "thick green material mixed with swirls of yellow pollen along the shoreline." The Tuftonboro blooms are described as "green clouds thoroughly mixed into the water on the shoreline." All samples had pollen mixed in. Any surface scum should be avoided, especially if the material is green.


There are numerous factors that play into when and where cyanobacteria blooms occur and it is almost impossible to point directly to one source. Cyanobacteria feed on nutrients and sunlight. Limited ice in, fertilizer use, polluted stormwater runoff, erosion, and failing septic systems are just a few of these factors. Less ice = more sunlight, more sunlight = increased plant/algae growth.

How can you help? LWA works on Watershed Management Plans throughout the watershed by Bay, identifying sites in need of remediation (failing culverts, lacking vegetation, poor maintenance etc.) on public property. Private property owners can do their part to adopt Lake-Friendly practices like retrofitting drains that empty directly into the lake, taking proper care of their septic systems, stopping fertilizer usage (especially those containing phosphates), pick up their pet waste, break up their lawn with native plantings, and designate walking paths to minimize soil compaction that leads to erosion. Please visit www.winnipesaukee.org for more info on how you can do your part to minimize excessive nutrients from entering the lake.


Stay safe!
Bree Rossiter
Conservation Program Manager

[ApS]

Hmmm.

The same waters where lawns are mowed--especially on Thursdays.

[tis]

Originally Posted by ApS

Hmmm.

The same waters where lawns are mowed--especially on Thursdays.

Where are you talking about?

[ApS]

Both Tuftonboro- and Wolfeboro- Neck waters.

[dickiej]

Originally Posted by tis

Where are you talking about?

Green lawn means fertilizer which causes Cyanobacteria

[ishoot308]

Looks like pollen to me…

Dan

[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Looks like pollen to me…

Dan

Agree. Its pollen. We got the same warning over here on Winnisquam


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[fatlazyless]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

Agree. Its pollen. We got the same warning over here on Winnisquam]

.... "The bloom material is mixed with dense pollen to varying ... http://www.des.nh.gov/news-and-media...-winnipesaukee ..... degrees. At times, the cyanobacteria material is distinct from the pollen, appearing as green clouds separate from the yellow pollen clouds. In other area the pollen and cyanobacteria are more mixed, appearing just as yellow clouds. See below for varying bloom presentation. Microscopic review indicated the pollen is masking the presence of cyanobacteria."

[ApS]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Looks like pollen to me…Dan

My first thought...

but...

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Looks like pollen to me…

Dan

That's a limitation of the photography, unfortunately, you need to read the fine print. According to the lab testing, the cyanobacteria is the green mass underneath the pollen.

[tis]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Looks like pollen to me…

Dan

i thought that too.

[Charlie T]

Originally Posted by dickiej

Green lawn means fertilizer which causes Cyanobacteria

I would expect Saunders Bay, Smith Cove and the areas around Governors Island to have problems soon. Plenty of huge, green lawns in all those areas. What are people thinking? It's the lake, not a Golf course

[ApS]

Originally Posted by Charlie T

I would expect Saunders Bay, Smith Cove and the areas around Governors Island to have problems soon. Plenty of huge, green lawns in all those areas. What are people thinking? It's the lake, not a Golf course

^
With the exception of three years, I've been in the lake since 1952. No duck itch, no blue-green algae, no Canada Geese, but greater ice density back then.

This is one of Mother Nature's spikes in the sun's heating of the environment--merely somewhat augmented by human presence.

Mother Nature's most memorable heating spike inspired Vikings to plant grapes on the island of Greenland--formerly locked in snow, ice, and glaciers.

"Climate Change" is a natural phenomenon, which is why it no longer makes headlines as "Global Warming".

As to fertilizer, I've seen it spread by hand (broadcast) down to the water's edge near my place. The owners live in Washington, DC, so they're oblivious to their lawn maintenance crew's practices, and may even tip their lawn employees for the greener lawn than their neighbors'.

In 1952, we wouldn't have known the words "McMansion" and "rafting", but "nestled in the woods" would've been common knowledge.

We could return to the 1952 lakefronts of evergreens, pine needles, wildflowers, and moss--but don't hold your breath.

[ITD]

I flew over the lake yesterday and was amazed at the amount of "scum" I could see from 3,500 feet in the broads, complete with boat trails through it. I'm hoping it's just pollen, but who knows.

[WinnisquamZ]

This happens every year since I have been coming to the lake. That would be around 1968. Just not sure what the issue is


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[SAB1]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

This happens every year since I have been coming to the lake. That would be around 1968. Just not sure what the issue is


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Did you read the above? Look at the counts? Pretty big issue. You should attend meetings on this subject.

[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by SAB1

Did you read the above? Look at the counts? Pretty big issue. You should attend meetings on this subject.

Bull. Nothing but a money grab. There is nothing that can be done to avoid it from happening. It’s natural


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[gillygirl]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

Bull. Nothing but a money grab. There is nothing that can be done to avoid it from happening. It’s natural


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Many cases are anthropogenic. Sorry if it doesn’t fit your narrative that man isn’t having deleterious effects on the planet, but we are.


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[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by gillygirl

Many cases are anthropogenic. Sorry if it doesn’t fit your narrative that man isn’t having deleterious effects on the planet, but we are.


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But you are allowed to blame man for all of earths problems. Believe you are the only one here with a agenda


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[4 for Boating]

So I understand and agree that run off causes issues and there are more than a few homes that for whatever reason were allowed to take waterfront trees down and put in lawns but regarding fertilizer in particular - to say that the homeowners are solely responsible for this aspect (if it is in fact happening and causing these issues) would be overlooking local landscaping firms/businesses that actually do the work and would or should know better.

[John Mercier]

I believe there is a law and some cert/licensing requirements within a certain zone, but the run-off can come from a lot farther away than just the property right on the lake. But it is more likely a combination of several things and that it doesn't ''flush out'' of the lake that easy.

What they are noting is the phosphorous levels are higher than the natural background.

I believe the alum treatment is to lock that phosphorous into the lake bottom. I think it combines and settles out.

[SAB1]

Correct. There are many causes to the problem. Fertilizers are just one issue.

[tis]

Geez people. I am tired of blaming it all on fertilizer. We have a flat lot and grass and we haven't fertilized it for years. It is very green. I agree with Winnisquam, and I read that a lot of it is natural. It gets out of control sometimes and was never previously like it is now.

[TomC]

Effluent from poor/failing septic systems can be another cause...

[Biggd]

We can argue about the causes of bad water, bad air and climate change forever. The only thing that is guaranteed is, doing nothing changes nothing!

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by 4 for Boating

So I understand and agree that run off causes issues and there are more than a few homes that for whatever reason were allowed to take waterfront trees down and put in lawns but regarding fertilizer in particular - to say that the homeowners are solely responsible for this aspect (if it is in fact happening and causing these issues) would be overlooking local landscaping firms/businesses that actually do the work and would or should know better.

Good point--they posted on that yesterday, for homeowners and landscapers
https://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums...ad.php?t=29548

[gillygirl]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

But you are allowed to blame man for all of earths problems. Believe you are the only one here with a agenda


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I’m not the one speaking in absolutes.


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[BroadHopper]

This has been an issue since the McMansion owners started developing the lake. They completely disregard the lake infrastructure as their landscape is the top priority. Look at the fertilizers they use before sunset or sunrise on their lawn!

As for Lake Winnisquam, it all started when they were treating sewage in Laconia next to the public ramp. The discharge created huge bacteria counts on the lake and down the Winnipesaukee River. They finally built the plant next to the Merrimac River in Franklin and diverted sewage there. The lake never recovered.

If only we could foresee this back in the 50s.

[Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance]

6/14/2024 Update: NHDES issued a press release yesterday about the blooms on Winni. They have recommended that "Any surface scum, no matter the color, should be avoided to prevent toxin exposure. Do not recreate, let children play in, or let pets in any surface blooms. NHDES will resample the affected areas on June 19 and will continue weekly resampling if the bloom continues."

https://www.des.nh.gov/news-and-medi...-winnipesaukee

This is what the sample off of Tuftonboro Neck looked like under the microscope. Pollen scums are completely normal for this time of year, but we are seeing more cyanobacteria in these scums as well.

[Onshore]

I've been asked (not told) to refrain from posting on this forum until I retire or move on. I have honored that request but, in this instance, I'm making an exception. This problem is real. This is not just pollen. Fertilizer is not the sole cause. Contributing factors include fertilizers, increased run-off, reduced nutrient uptake in the watershed due to reduced vegetative cover, more geese, higher stream water temperatures due to less tree shading on contributing waters, more nutrients released into streams due to poor soil stabilization practices sites during and after construction, higher water temperatures, lack of winter ice cover, increased mobilization of lakebed sediments and mixing of nutrients in the water column due to boat traffic, increased nutrient contributions from flooding... I could go on. Yes, cyanobacteria are naturally occurring and native to our waters. No, they shouldn't bloom so aggressively. That they do, indicates that the system is currently out of balance giving them a growth advantage until they outstrip the available resources and starve themselves out.

This is our legacy. There is no simple, immediate remedy. People here can, and will, disagree about the causes and the viability of solutions. That said, it would seem that the people here generally do agree that they like their dogs, cats, and kids. Please do not disregard these warnings when they appear. The risk, particularly to pets that may drink from the bloom area, is real. Hopefully, these blooms will pass quickly.

[camp guy]

The post by Onshore is very important reading. People may discuss this situation using different words, but no matter how you slice it, if, by whatever means, the quality of the Lake is degraded to a point where it becomes a health issue, the economy of the Lakes Region, in the summer, will suffer immeasurably.

I read a quote a while back that hits this nail on the head, "Spend more time finding solutions and less time finding blame".

Grandfathered septic systems, poorly enforced regulations, and personal arrogance have all contributed to this problem - now it is the time the correct all this.

[John Mercier]

Originally Posted by camp guy

The post by Onshore is very important reading. People may discuss this situation using different words, but no matter how you slice it, if, by whatever means, the quality of the Lake is degraded to a point where it becomes a health issue, the economy of the Lakes Region, in the summer, will suffer immeasurably.

I read a quote a while back that hits this nail on the head, "Spend more time finding solutions and less time finding blame".

Grandfathered septic systems, poorly enforced regulations, and personal arrogance have all contributed to this problem - now it is the time the correct all this.

Once phosphorous enters the system, it is actually pretty hard to remove it... which is why they are using the alum.
The alum binds with it and removes if from the cycle... at least for a time.

[Susie Cougar]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

But you are allowed to blame man for all of earths problems. Believe you are the only one here with a agenda


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What is her agenda that you don’t like?

[rodgcsa]

I don't post often but I do read the discussions here all of the time. I have learned allot from this group about the lake. So I was on the fence about this subject until last year, Bree posted she needed a volunteer with a boat to bring her team to places on the lake to sample. I was happy to offer my help as I love to learn and observe. I had a friend of mine come along with us as well, that friend who is literally the most intelligent person I have ever met was blown away by the testing and evidence based information he saw. He helped the team sample and since then has read hours upon hours on this subject, he is convinced we are the primary cause of this problem and at the same time we can be the cure. He was a non believer before this! So I just want to say to Bree and her team THANK YOU for the great work you do. Anyone with doubts should contact her and I can guarantee you will have been thankful for what you learn. Its called we all can take small steps to help so please do what you can and most of all educate yourself about this very important matter.

[Biggd]

With the high temps expected this week I don't expect it to get any better anytime soon.

[mishman]

At the risk of sounding redundant (my wife accuses me of this occasionally if you are concerned about the water quality of the lake, I urge you to join the Lake Winnipesaukee Association (winnipesaukee.org). LWA is leading the effort to protect our lake using proven science to both understand the problem and implement solutions. The clear, clean water of our lake is the basis for everything - our recreation, property values and economy of the entire region. If we don't actively work to protect the lake's water quality, we will surely experience its further decline. Please consider supporting LWA today and protect our lake now and for the future. Use this link: https://winnipesaukee.app.neoncrm.co...s/membership-1

[Descant]

Agreed that LWA is important. Don't neglect NHLAKES.org which is statewide. Boats and trailers moving from lake to lake may create issues and when there is pending legislation, getting statewide support for all lakes is important. NHKAKES, among other things, runs the Lake Host program and works closely with NHDES.

[retired]

Stop peeing in the lake. If you have to drain it, strain it.

[gravy boat]

Lol. But the pee doesn’t seem to be the issue. If it is we are all guilty!

We all know it’s shoreline development. I bet many assume their one spot and the fertilized lawns and vegetation won’t matter.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by gravy boat

Lol. But the pee doesn’t seem to be the issue. If it is we are all guilty! We all know it’s shoreline development. I bet many assume their one spot and the fertilized lawns and vegetation won’t matter.

A gardener tells me that urine that is diluted one part to ten parts of water makes a cheap and effective fertilizer.

[John Mercier]

Nitrogen... but we add phosphorous to increase blooms.

[retired]

Most pee that goes into the lake in summer is 50% alcohol anyway.

[fatlazyless]

Monday, June 17: The Meredith Town Docks area now has a cyanobacteria warning .... http://www.des.nh.gov/water/healthy-...wimming-mapper as of today, June 17.

Meredith Bay in that area has two water inflows, Hawkins Brook flows through a large culvert under Rt 25 and into Meredith Bay while the Lake Waukewan channel flows through the Mills Falls mill race into Meredith Bay. Both inlets are north of the town docks. The water depth is about 3' to 6' deep with a sandy bottom.

It could be the presence of Canada goose on Hawkins Brook that is the primary cause of cyanobacteria because that water as seen from the Sam Laverack .... http://www.trailfinder.info/trails/t...-hawkins-brook .... board walk, nature trail has been looking very thick with some contamination on the water surface and there's a number of gooses families consisting of a mother goose, a daddy goose, and 2-3-4-5 yellow feathered new born goose.

Both the Town of Meredith's Clough Park and Hesky Park which border Meredith Bay attract Canada goose with their luxurious beautiful clipped green grass lawns which is a #1 favorite menu item for the goose. The Canada goose just love that easy-to-eat clipped green healthy grass .... is so um-umm-goooood! ..... a big Canada goose yummy favorite.

[granitehead]

I understand that the DES treated Lake Kanasatka fairly successfully with aluminum a couple years ago. Anyone aware of similar plans for Saukee?

[John Mercier]

I think it was last year...
And Winni is too big without a lot of federal dollars being spent.

[barndoor]

The water was clear when we left Barndoor at 8:30. We returned at 11:15 and the water along the shore is covered with green algae. Have never seen this level of algae on the island during the past 30 years.

[ITD]

Kanasatka was just done a few weeks ago, looks successful so far.

[granitehead]

Be nice if they could spot-treat the reported areas.

[fatlazyless]

June 18: Took a walk around the Meredith Town Docks, Hesky Park, and Clough Park, this morning, to get a good look on the cyanobacteria situation. The NH DES has about ten or more 8.5"x11" orange advisory warning signs posted along the large dock boardwalk, town boat launch ramp, Hesky Park and Clough Park shoreline areas.

The grass in both parks close to the water is pretty thick and full of Canada goose poop plus there were maybe 25 Canada goose, adults and yellow goslings present in Clough Park that were eating the green grass.

Could be that mowing the grass will result in grinding up the goose poop into smaller pieces that get into the lake due to rain or wind.

You know that ONE determined ........ person could clean the goose poop all up from both Clough Park and Hesky Park in ONE day or less with a rake, shovel, large dustpan, trash barrel, work gloves and face mask. The two waterfront grassy park areas town parks on both sides of Bay Point at Mills Falls Hotel have about 100-yards, each, of waterfront, or two hundred yards-total, of goose poop polluted green grass. The grass area that's closest to the lake water is the worst.

The goose poop pollution is most thick and dense very close to the Winnipesaukee Lake water probably because the goose are more safe when close to the water so they have a potential easy escape while eating the grass in case a predator like a wily coyote tiptoes in to attack.

[camp guy]

The RED signs indicating an "advisory" condition for cyanobacteria at certain beaches may prove to be interpreted as 'stay away from this beach', which could easily change the mind of parents thinking about a family day at the beach This could be the lead-in to real economic problems. Families will find other locations to spend their money. This should be a loud and clear wake-up call to the governments around the Lake, and the regulatory officials in Concord. The Lake is the engine that drives the economy in central NH, just like the mountains are what drive the economy in the north country.

[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by camp guy

The RED signs indicating an "advisory" condition for cyanobacteria at certain beaches may prove to be interpreted as 'stay away from this beach', which could easily change the mind of parents thinking about a family day at the beach This could be the lead-in to real economic problems. Families will find other locations to spend their money. This should be a loud and clear wake-up call to the governments around the Lake, and the regulatory officials in Concord. The Lake is the engine that drives the economy in central NH, just like the mountains are what drive the economy in the north country.

This comment is straight out of the original Jaws Movie. “Can’t close the beaches what of the tourists?”


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[Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance]

We've fielded many calls today regarding blooms observed all around the lake. NHDES has also received reports of blooms in the Broads, Center Harbor, and Governor's Island.

Bloom conditions are dynamic, potentially changing hourly. Perform your self risk assessments by looking at the water for any unusual growth or discoloration, such as clouds, ribbons or flecks in the water prior to recreating. If you see anything suspicious or are uncertain, stay out of the water, and please keep pets out as well.

Warnings are issued by NHDES when cell counts exceed 70,000 cells/ml. Counts reported today at the Broads were 80,500 dolichospermum off of Rattlesnake Island, 245,000 cells dolichospermum at Sleepers Point.

Counts at the Center Harbor town beach were 847,000 cells dolichospernum, Additional bloom reports were received for Salmon Meadow Cove and between Avery and Cook's Point.

Sample analysis for the Moultonborough town beach reported 394,000 cells/ml dolichospermum, and Hermit Cove at 476,000 cells/ml.

Additional samples were reviewed from Winter Harbor, Jockey Cove, Sewall Road area and Wolfeboro Bay, all in Wolfeboro.

To stay up to date on these warnings, you shoud sign up for NHDES Waterbody Specific Notifications. You can check the status of the warnings and alerts using the Healthy Swimming Mapper. If you suspect a bloom, please use the NHDES Reporting Tool and contact LWA.

As Cyanobacteria blooms become a more frequent topic of conversation with your friends and family please take the opportunity to tell them about LWA’s work on this issue, and remember, "When in doubt, stay out!"

NHDES will be resampling the areas that had warnings implemented on 6/12 as well as additional areas around the lake tomorrow

Bree Rossiter
Conservation Program Manager

[chachee52]

I would never have thought that after such a windy day on Saturday and the deep water of Broads would have this issue, but LSP now have the blooms. I have noticed that in the last 8-10 yrs the algae on the rocks/sand have increased significantly. We never had snails on the broads there, and now they are everywhere. Not saying that is was is causing these blooms, but the water temp has definitely increased since I was a kid, and the ice is NO WHERE near the coverage. This all helps not killing things in the lake. How, that's not for me to explain or decide, but it is in my mind a true factor. Sad to see the lake get this "ill" from what it used to be. No matter what anyone thinks is the reason, it is just sad.

[tis]

Originally Posted by Lake Winnipesaukee Assoc

We've fielded many calls today regarding blooms observed all around the lake. NHDES has also received reports of blooms in the Broads, Center Harbor, and Governor's Island.

Bloom conditions are dynamic, potentially changing hourly. Perform your self risk assessments by looking at the water for any unusual growth or discoloration, such as clouds, ribbons or flecks in the water prior to recreating. If you see anything suspicious or are uncertain, stay out of the water, and please keep pets out as well.

Warnings are issued by NHDES when cell counts exceed 70,000 cells/ml. Counts reported today at the Broads were 80,500 dolichospermum off of Rattlesnake Island, 245,000 cells dolichospermum at Sleepers Point.

Counts at the Center Harbor town beach were 847,000 cells dolichospernum, Additional bloom reports were received for Salmon Meadow Cove and between Avery and Cook's Point.

Sample analysis for the Moultonborough town beach reported 394,000 cells/ml dolichospermum, and Hermit Cove at 476,000 cells/ml.

Additional samples were reviewed from Winter Harbor, Jockey Cove, Sewall Road area and Wolfeboro Bay, all in Wolfeboro.

To stay up to date on these warnings, you shoud sign up for NHDES Waterbody Specific Notifications. You can check the status of the warnings and alerts using the Healthy Swimming Mapper. If you suspect a bloom, please use the NHDES Reporting Tool and contact LWA.

As Cyanobacteria blooms become a more frequent topic of conversation with your friends and family please take the opportunity to tell them about LWA’s work on this issue, and remember, "When in doubt, stay out!"

NHDES will be resampling the areas that had warnings implemented on 6/12 as well as additional areas around the lake tomorrow

Bree Rossiter
Conservation Program Manager

So you are saying look before you swim, that it's obvious if it's there? We don't have to all stay out of the water entirely? Do you know when they started testing for cyanobacteria?

[welch100]

Originally Posted by camp guy

This should be a loud and clear wake-up call to the governments around the Lake, and the regulatory officials in Concord. The Lake is the engine that drives the economy in central NH, just like the mountains are what drive the economy in the north country.

We all need to contact our legislators NOW!

[winterh]

This thread got me wondering how many current lakefront owners would be in favor of tougher regulations on what they could do with their property provided it was proven it would help water quality. Just as an example, would you be opposed to rules which prohibit lawns within 50ft or even made people get rid of lawns they have now in favor of natural woodland buffers? How far would you be willing to go to ensure the lake remains as is or hopefully improves? I have a small lawn but if required to remove it and plant blueberry bushes to save the lake then I would start digging it up today. This is coming from someone who is as anti govt regulation and libertarian as they come but when it comes to the lake I seem to have a hard time with that philosophy. Also, are the regulations tougher on Squam and do they have the same issues?

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by winterh

This thread got me wondering how many current lakefront owners would be in favor of tougher regulations on what they could do with their property provided it was proven it would help water quality. Just as an example, would you be opposed to rules which prohibit lawns within 50ft or even made people get rid of lawns they have now in favor of natural woodland buffers? How far would you be willing to go to ensure the lake remains as is or hopefully improves? I have a small lawn but if required to remove it and plant blueberry bushes to save the lake then I would start digging it up today. This is coming from someone who is as anti govt regulation and libertarian as they come but when it comes to the lake I seem to have a hard time with that philosophy. Also, are the regulations tougher on Squam and do they have the same issues?

Squam is a whole different animal.
Unfortunately, we can't turn back time and turn Winni into Squam.
That train has left the station!

[Descant]

Originally Posted by winterh

This thread got me wondering how many current lakefront owners would be in favor of tougher regulations on what they could do with their property provided it was proven it would help water quality. Just as an example, would you be opposed to rules which prohibit lawns within 50ft or even made people get rid of lawns they have now in favor of natural woodland buffers? How far would you be willing to go to ensure the lake remains as is or hopefully improves? I have a small lawn but if required to remove it and plant blueberry bushes to save the lake then I would start digging it up today. This is coming from someone who is as anti govt regulation and libertarian as they come but when it comes to the lake I seem to have a hard time with that philosophy. Also, are the regulations tougher on Squam and do they have the same issues?

Why would you start planting blueberries only if required? You should be out there with your shovel now, planting according to NH DES guidelines.

[welch100]

Originally Posted by winterh

This thread got me wondering how many current lakefront owners would be in favor of tougher regulations on what they could do with their property provided it was proven it would help water quality...Also, are the regulations tougher on Squam and do they have the same issues?

Regulations on Squam are tougher, and I don't think I have ever seen a cyanobacteria warning there. The history of Squam is quite instructive. From the Squam Lakes Association web page:

At the turn of the century, Squam was quite different from the scene we enjoy today. The surrounding mountains were cleared by logging, sawdust several feet thick had settled in many of the coves, driftwood made navigation hazardous, and refuse including tires, mattresses and dead animals, had been dumped in the lakes.

In 1904, the Squam Lakes Improvement Association was formed by a group of concerned landowners. In 1905, the association was legally incorporated as a non-profit conservation organization and renamed Squam Lakes Association (SLA). Initial efforts of the SLA were focused on eliminating pollution from the lakes, maintenance of the water level, boat safety, and navigation. Through cooperative relationships with local and state governments and the dedication of four generations of people who loved Squam, the watershed has been uniquely conserved.

Lakefront property owners should support the Lake Winnipesaukee Association (winnipesaukee.org) and NH Lakes (nhlakes.org). We need to contact our legislators to express our urgent concern and support for stronger regulations, as well as tougher enforcement of the laws. Individually, we must become more educated about how our decisions impact the lake we love and change some of our behaviors. NH Lakes' "Lake Smart" program is a great place to start, https://nhlakes.org/lakesmart/

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Meade

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by winterh

This thread got me wondering how many current lakefront owners would be in favor of tougher regulations on what they could do with their property provided it was proven it would help water quality. Just as an example, would you be opposed to rules which prohibit lawns within 50ft or even made people get rid of lawns they have now in favor of natural woodland buffers? How far would you be willing to go to ensure the lake remains as is or hopefully improves? I have a small lawn but if required to remove it and plant blueberry bushes to save the lake then I would start digging it up today. This is coming from someone who is as anti govt regulation and libertarian as they come but when it comes to the lake I seem to have a hard time with that philosophy. Also, are the regulations tougher on Squam and do they have the same issues?

I am a current lakefront owner with a shorefront and yard that meet all the recommended criteria (as others have noted, you can get these guidelines from Lake Winnipesaukee Association).

Short of moving my house, haha, I would support anything the state asked if there was a new rule proposed to protect the lake. The thing to consider with these rules is that like many things, you may not want to do them yourself, but you're grateful to live in a place where everybody else is doing them.

We really better do something, or we'll lose the lake we love

[The Real BigGuy]

Do they test the water column at various spots in the larger lake? I understand that they want to focus on the beaches and areas where people congregate but, I wonder what the general health of the lake is?


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[Lake Fan]

A substantial amount of the lake is now under a Cyano warning. It's early for this, I believe, and the hot weather is only going to make things worse. Been on the lake for 55 years. Shame to see what it's becoming.

[rodgcsa]

With all do respect, if people think the birds have caused this problem then I think the battle is lost. This is people and we need to understand we can just make some small changes to help solve this. I am begging people to read and research this whole situation.

[Susie Cougar]

Originally Posted by rodgcsa

With all do respect, if people think the birds have caused this problem then I think the battle is lost. This is people and we need to understand we can just make some small changes to help solve this. I am begging people to read and research this whole situation.

It’s just so sickening what we have done to the lake.

I remember when my dad bought our first camp and we were in Hanson Cove in Toltec. This was 1957. We got our water from the lake. I remember as a kid, the pipe was right next to the beach and it didn’t go that far out. My dad told me never to pee in the lake because we are drinking that water.

How many people do not realize that every bad action that we make has a direct negative result on the lake. Whether it be fertilizer, an old septic tank, or people visiting sandbars who stand around in their own urine. It is beyond mind-boggling to me how we treat the lake now.
What is especially disheartening is the number of people who make excuses for what they do. No one can possibly be doing harm.😂

[KPW]

Originally Posted by rodgcsa

With all do respect, if people think the birds have caused this problem then I think the battle is lost. This is people and we need to understand we can just make some small changes to help solve this. I am begging people to read and research this whole situation.

The Canada geese do have a part in this. Most of it is from fertilizers and septic.

[Susie Cougar]

Originally Posted by KPW

The Canada geese do have a part in this. Most of it is from fertilizers and septic.

If we eliminated all grass along the waters edge, the geese would have to go somewhere else. We are enticing them to come with all our beautiful, fertilized lawns.
We need to start doing something.

[WinnisquamZ]

I don’t know, saw about two dozen laying around the beach yesterday


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[Biggd]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

I don’t know, saw about two dozen laying around the beach yesterday


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They do favor grassy lawns near water.

[retired]

I swam today in West Alton and it was invigorating. No sign of blooms and my skin is still a pasty white. (I'm still working on that). I think the pollution problem isn't just those who have properties on the lake, but the runoff from all that live near the lake. Drainage from storm sewers and road ditches that all make their way into the lake. Tough problem to solve, but worth solving.

[John Mercier]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

I don’t know, saw about two dozen laying around the beach yesterday


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Open sight line.

Grass is for grazing.

[fatlazyless]

Here's a N.H. Dept Environmental Fact Sheet from 2020 ..... http://www.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/...20-01/sp-5.pdf .... that recommends planting pine trees within 150' of the lake.

How cyanobacteria green does the lake need to be before Lake Winnipesaukee water-fronters will tear out their green grass lawns and plant fast growing pine trees?

Is is time to return your GREEN GRASS LAWN to the WHISPERING PINES as it once was?

[ApS]

How did I miss this long-term fix?

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

Here's a N.H. Dept Environmental Fact Sheet from 2020 ..... http://www.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/...20-01/sp-5.pdf .... that recommends planting pine trees within 150' of the lake.

How cyanobacteria green does the lake need to be before Lake Winnipesaukee water-fronters will tear out their green grass lawns and plant fast growing pine trees?

Is it time to return your GREEN GRASS LAWN to the WHISPERING PINES as it once was?

1) The last time I boated on Wolfeboro's Lake Wentworth (canoe, 1992), I was impressed by the clarity of Wentworth's waters.

2) When I later looked at a lakefront house for sale there, was impressed again by the depth to which pine needles had collected under their "Cathedral Pine" forests.

3) I can't remember when Lake Winnipesaukee's waters became green.

[stingray]

Strange that Paugus Bay has no warnings yet vs the rest of the lake; since everything in the lake drains out of the lakeport dam as it passes the water supply source for Laconia. It would/should elevate concerns over the drinking supply when the alerts come. Will there be a warning not to drink or bathe with Laconia water? You got to wonder when will the outrage and demand for a step function increase of actions come? Do you think it will be the drop in the tourist dollars or a drop in real estate values? Perhaps we all should pool a % of our property values into a fund right now for an immediate increase in actions to end this s**t.


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[John Mercier]

The Laconia water supply is protected by a reverse osmosis filtering system.

Its problem is generally the posting of the beaches when testing returns negative results.

[BroadHopper]

The water eventually drains into Winnisquam. The association just had a meeting and testing for water quality is every week. The problem is UNH is swamped and it takes weeks to get the results.

[John Mercier]

And that would still just be the issue of the closing of the beaches.
Phosphorous bonds to soil particles... it doesn't move that much... which is why as you add more to the lake it becomes a problem - it doesn't ''flush''.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Great post APS! I agree with this 100% except for #7. I don't think people swimming (or peeing!) at sandbars has anything to do with algae blooms. #1 through #6 are spot on in my humble opinion however...

I see a lot of people on facebook are mis-identifying cyanobacteria as pollen. Pollen is all over the top of the lake (all lakes) right now and is nothing to worry about as it happens every year at this time... Dan

I've modified #7 and added #8 and #9:

Dismissers of what chemicals added to the mix in the lake, needs to study the quantities of uncommon--but increasingly detected--pollutants.

Check here:
https://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums...7&postcount=59

[The Real BigGuy]

My wife wanted a place where we could enjoy Christmas at the lake but on the island that wasn’t going to happen. I told her not to worry, in 20 yrs we would be boating out to the island and enjoying a Christmas Day dip to cool off


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[Lake Fan]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

My wife wanted a place where we could enjoy Christmas at the lake but on the island that wasn’t going to happen. I told her not to worry, in 20 yrs we would be boating out to the island and enjoying a Christmas Day dip to cool off

We had Thanksgiving on the island last year, and didn't close up until a week later. We could have had Christmas out there also. Maybe this year? Gotta roll with what Mother Nature gives us.

[The Real BigGuy]

But, did you take that dip to cool off?


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[Lake Fan]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

But, did you take that dip to cool off?

Going to need a bit more global warming for that!

[The Real BigGuy]

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[Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance]

🗓️ On Wednesday 6/26, NHDES announced that all cyanobacteria warnings for Lake Winnipesaukee have been lifted after re-testing the areas yesterday.

📍Tested Locations:
- Carry Beach
- Jockey Cove
- Brewster Beach (Wolfeboro)
- 19 Mile Bay
- 20 Mile Bay
- Tuftonboro Neck
- Between Ragged and Cow Islands
- Cow Island West Cove
- Long Island (Southern End)
- Moultonborough Neck (Near Nineacre Island)
- Meredith Town Docks
- Ellacoya State Park
- Gilford Town Beach
- Broads (East of Welch Island and Near the Deep Site)
- Moultonborough Town Beach
- Bear Island
- Center Harbor Town Beach
- Leavitt Beach
- Governors Island
- Alton (Town Beach and Dewitt Drive Area)

🎉 All 21 samples collected showed no cyanobacteria presence

✅ Reminder: Even though the bloom has dissipated, NHDES advises vigilance for future discoloration or surface accumulations. Monitor your shoreline and perform a self-risk assessment. If you see anything suspicious, stay out of the water and keep pets out too. 🐾
To stay updated on warnings:
- Sign up for NHDES Waterbody Specific Notifications.
- Check the Healthy Swimming Mapper.
- Report suspected blooms using the NHDES Reporting Tool and contact LWA.

🗾 Weekly Updates: Our cyanobacteria map tracks both warnings and reported observations not covered by NHDES.

https://www.winnipesaukee.org/winni-...obacteria-map/

📣 Spread the Word: As cyanobacteria blooms become more common, inform your friends and family about LWA’s efforts. Remember, "When in doubt, stay out!"

[The Real BigGuy]

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.


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[fatlazyless]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.

Yesterday, on Thursday, June 27, Aps said "Tuesday's (June 25) strong winds broke up the concentrations of blue-green cyanobacteria.

It'll be back."

This seems to be a strong theory, and could be accurate? Time will tell? .....

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.


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Maybe the wind, been breezy the past few days?

[Susie Cougar]

Originally Posted by Biggd

Maybe the wind, been breezy the past few days?

Or the drop in the lake water temperature From the 80s into the 60s.

[ITD]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.


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That's what it does, here today, gone tomorrow. And lately back again next week.

What is really disturbing to me is the potential link between Cyanobacteria exposure and ALS (Lou Ghering disease). Don't mess around with exposure.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by ITD

That's what it does, here today, gone tomorrow. And lately back again next week.

What is really disturbing to me is the potential link between Cyanobacteria exposure and ALS (Lou Ghering disease). Don't mess around with exposure.

For the last 25 years, I've suffered with a mild case of RLS--a "neurodegenerative" disease (ND)--and being treated with prescription Neurotin for about 20 years.

At this Wednesday's routine visit to Neurologist Dr. Surianyi, I forgot to ask about the relationship with my ND and the lake's Cyanobacteria.

As a young camper and lakefront dweller of about 80 summers, in Tuftonboro and Wolfeboro waters, I've wakeboarded, waterskied, swam and SCUBA-dove. Now I suspect our lakewaters--especially the eastern shores of Northeastern US lakes--are brewing cyanobacteria that affect one's nervous system. ALS is just the most serious of reactions.

[Cyanobacteria] have been associated with neurodegenerative diseases (ND), including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/art...5%2C96%2C97%5D.

When it's aerosolized behind a boat or in a shower, the ND effects are accelerated.


"Perfect storm" post:
https://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums...7&postcount=59

[SAB1]

Sorry to hear of your misfortune. I would love to see some folks post here that have confirmed medical conditions from the blue green or pets that have had issues. It would be interesting to see how common this is or to see if the media has overhyped this as they often do. I have read a lot on a possible link to ALS but from what I have read there has never been a proven tie to it and the algae though it is suspected. More reading certainly confirms this is not just a local thing. Many states are battling same condition in their fresh water lakes and ponds.

[John Mercier]

Beach closing and water quality warnings go back decades.
Even the Laconia Citizen used to report them.

The difference would be the internet.
Before the internet, readers of the local newspaper would know of the closings; but those not local to here would probably have no knowledge that it happened.

[tis]

i agree, but we usually heard about ecoli not cyanobacteria.

[John Mercier]

Originally Posted by tis

i agree, but we usually heard about ecoli not cyanobacteria.

That was the issue at the time, still is, but E coli populations are impossible to see with the naked eye.

But we never talked about spending thousands, or even millions, of dollars on a fix that no one is sure what the long term implications are.

We no longer farm or graze animals near the water, but they still have problems with E coli. Those warnings usually hit the same beaches year after year - shallow water and low circulation.

[sky's]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.


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its called MONEY

[barefootbay]

Originally Posted by sky's

its called MONEY

It’s also called tourism !

[Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

It sure would be nice if someone knew what caused the abrupt disappearance.

I apologize for the delay in getting back to you all. We believe that wind and wave action, along with rainfall, may have contributed to the dissipation of the blooms. Additionally, reduced sunlight and lower water temperatures have played a role. There are numerous factors that influence bloom formation, making it challenging to identify a single cause.

[SAB1]

So, devils advocate. No Will intended. We’ve had incredibly warm temperatures here for better than a couple weeks. Lake temp is up. Little wind. Some periods of heavy rain that runs right off into the lake adding nutrients. Seems like perfect recipe for a bloom but no bloom?

[barefootbay]

Originally Posted by SAB1

So, devils advocate. No Will intended. We’ve had incredibly warm temperatures here for better than a couple weeks. Lake temp is up. Little wind. Some periods of heavy rain that runs right off into the lake adding nutrients. Seems like perfect recipe for a bloom but no bloom?

Strange ain’t it !

[John Mercier]

If one were to occur and testing to require warning/posting, the State would do so. The risk of liability is far too great not to.

But after that, it is up to you.

Not any different than the E coli warnings.

[Grant]

Originally Posted by SAB1

So, devils advocate. No Will intended. We’ve had incredibly warm temperatures here for better than a couple weeks. Lake temp is up. Little wind. Some periods of heavy rain that runs right off into the lake adding nutrients. Seems like perfect recipe for a bloom but no bloom?

There could be blooms that have gone unreported. They can't test what they don't see. Be vigilant. I saw a small bloom a few years ago, and used the app to report it. They responded, asking if I could take a sample and bring it to Laconia. By the next day, when I went to take a sample, it was gone.