Lake Kanasatka Watershed Association

Overview

The Lake Kanasatka Watershed Association (LKWA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established in 1971 to promote the conservation of the environment in the Lake Kanasatka watershed area. The organization focuses on protecting the natural resources of the land, water, marshland, woodland, and open spaces, as well as the plant and animal life within the watershed[1][3]. It also works to safeguard the water quality of Lake Kanasatka and its tributaries from pollution.

Activities and Initiatives

LKWA is actively involved in various initiatives aimed at improving and maintaining the water quality of Lake Kanasatka. This includes developing a Watershed-Based Management Plan (WBMP) to address issues like cyanobacteria blooms, which have been a concern in recent years[2][3]. The plan involves monitoring water quality, conducting analyses of phosphorus sources, and implementing strategies to reduce phosphorus inputs from stormwater runoff, shoreline erosion, and other sources[2].

One of the key actions recommended by the WBMP includes the installation of stormwater controls and buffer plantings to mitigate pollution from watershed development[2]. Additionally, an alum treatment was considered to reduce internal phosphorus loading in the lake, a method that has been successful in other lakes[2].

LKWA engages the community through grassroots efforts, including educational campaigns, fundraising, and direct outreach to stakeholders to support their initiatives[1]. Volunteers play a crucial role in the organization's work, contributing to tasks such as water quality monitoring, stormwater remediation, and community outreach[3].

Achievements and Ongoing Efforts

LKWA succeeded in implementing an alum treatment in the spring of 2024, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to improve lake water quality[3]. However, the organization recognizes that continued work is necessary to fully mitigate the risk of cyanobacteria blooms, particularly by curtailing stormwater runoff[3]. LKWA welcomes community involvement and encourages volunteering to support its mission and ongoing projects[3].

[1] https://nhlakes.org/wp-content/uploads/Talk-3-Community-Engagement-Helps-to-Inform-Voting-on-Funding.pdf [2] https://kanasatka.org/watershed-based-management-plan/ [3] https://kanasatka.org [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/85-3296994 [5] https://www.des.nh.gov/document/lake-kanasatka-watershed-based-management-plan