Paul Pellissier, NLRA’s Conservation Program Manager, will share results from 2025 lake and tributary monitoring, explore how drought affects water quality, and discuss the spiny water flea, a tiny invasive species that can disrupt the lake’s food chain and overall ecosystem. He will also highlight what NLRA is doing to track the species and protect the lake moving forward.

“Early detection of the spiny water flea has given us a critical opportunity,” says Pellissier. “We’ve been able to collect baseline data on lake ecology and can now track how this invasive species may affect Newfound Lake in the years ahead.”

NLRA conducts monitoring of the lake and its tributaries to identify trends and guide strategies that address negative impacts across the watershed. These monitoring techniques, along with new approaches, help the organization understand current threats and develop steps to keep the lake clean and healthy for the future.

The Newfound Lake Region Association’s mission is to protect and improve the health of Newfound Lake and its watershed. Through focused programs and community engagement, NLRA supports ecosystem resilience and natural resource conservation. Guided by a vision of a cleaner, clearer Newfound Lake, the organization works to improve environmental health, expand land conservation, grow watershed stewardship, and strengthen community support. Learn more about employment, volunteer opportunities, and ways to get involved at NewfoundLake.org.