We focus on programs that have a measurable impact, promote volunteerism and increase public awareness of lake issues. Many of our efforts are partnerships with state agencies and local organizations. Have an idea for a new program? Send it to us at info@ossipeelake.org.
Invasive weeds are a serious problem and milfoil prevention is one of our most important goals. Our Exotic Species Prevention program is a partnership with ramp owners to ensure that boaters voluntarily inspect their craft before entering the lake. Our milfoil prevention pamphlet shows the locations of infested areas and is available at ramps and other locations, including town offices.
To keep milfoil in check we have established Weed Watchers around the lake. These individuals and groups monitor their shoreline and other parts of the lake so new infestations are quickly found, treated and controlled.
Who pays the cost of controlling existing infestations? Our Milfoil Cost Initiative seeks state and local funds – your tax dollars – to pay for as much of the clean-up as possible. We were the first in the state to promote hand-pulling by professional divers as an alternative to chemical treatments, and we continue to look for new ways to remove weeds faster and for less money.
Our Lake Representatives Forum is a coalition of individuals, lake associations and businesses that meets every other year to hear state officials and professional lake specialists discuss issues pertaining to our area. The forum connects people from all parts of the lake system – including surrounding ponds and rivers – and allows participants to help set our goals for the coming year. You can check stories about the latest Lake Representatives Forum by using the Searh box on this page.
The quality of water affects humans, plants and wildlife, making accurate information on water quality important for local land planning and resource protection. With the help of volunteers and the N.H. Department of Environmental Services we conduct annual deep-water tests on the lake. The results of the tests are maintained by Green Mountain Conservation Group, which is developing a database on long-term changes in water quality in the Ossipee Watershed.
The lake’s human and natural history is an endless fascination, and exploring it is the purpose of the Tales of Ossipee Lake program. This series of public events features speakers on topics of interest from ghosts to rare plants to vanished resorts. Sign up for our free email news service to be informed about new Tales events as they are scheduled.