“The Municipal Services Department — Utilities Division is pleased to provide you with this year’s annual water quality report. The source of water used in this report includes Canobie Lake, Arlington Pond and Southern New Hampshire Regional Water. The report covers the results of Laboratory testing required by State and Federal regulations through the most recent monitoring compliance period. The Utilities Division supplied 913 million gallons of drinking water to its valued customers in 2023. The Canobie Lake Water Treatment Plant produced 726 million gallons of drinking water. Salem received 187 million gallons of water from Manchester Water Works through the new Southern NH Regional Water Line. Salem supplied 104 million gallons of drinking water to the Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) in Atkinson. The additional water received through the SNHRW will give Salem and communities from Atkinson to Plaistow a reliable source of water for future growth and sustainability. On behalf of our dedicated staff I wish to thank you for your much appreciated support as we continue to deliver safe drinking water and maintain a reliable collection system at a reasonable cost Safe Drinking water at the tap is imperative and a mission of the Utilities Division.”
By Tanya Donnelly
A little different topic but has a huge impact on the lakes and ponds that are drinking supplies for our towns. In an era where the invisible can pose the most significant threats, a new contender has emerged from the shadows: Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, commonly known as PFAS. These persistent pollutants, numbering over 4,000, have silently infiltrated our lives since the 1940s, hiding in plain sight in everyday products from non-stick cookware to water-resistant apparel, and even in our cosmetics, food packaging, and cleaning products.
In partnership with The Southern NH Chamber, we recently hosted an enlightening session on PFAS in New Hampshire's drinking water, revealing the unsettling prevalence of these substances. The full video can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/3AksLlR.
PFAS are not just durable; they are virtually indestructible, resisting degradation and persisting in our environment. But their resilience comes at a cost. Certain PFAS are bio-accumulative, silently building up in our bodies over time through ingestion via contaminated drinking water or food.
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is on the front lines, battling the PFAS invasion in our drinking water. However, the recent EPA rule to regulate PFAS in drinking water above 4 parts per trillion presents an unattainable economic challenge. More to come on this for future articles.
While government and environmental agencies grapple with the monumental task of determining safe PFAS levels in drinking water, we, as consumers, hold a potent weapon in our hands: our buying power. By consciously choosing PFAS-free products, we can contribute to the fight against these persistent pollutants. A list of recommended PFAS-free brands can be found here: https://bit.ly/3X1bnvv. But the responsibility doesn't end at the checkout counter. Consumers are urged to contact manufacturers directly to confirm the absence of PFAS in their products. As research continues and guidance for manufacturers regarding PFAS evolves, consumers should remain vigilant, checking for PFAS-free labels and inquiring about specific ingredients.
The tide is turning. As awareness of the risks associated with PFAS grows, more companies are transitioning towards offering PFAS-free products. But to accelerate this process, we need to wield our consumer buying power wisely. By choosing PFAS-free products, we can help curb this growing issue in our drinking water.
The fight against PFAS is not just a battle for environmental agencies; it's a call to arms for every consumer. It's time to pay attention to what we buy, for the invisible threat could be lurking in our shopping carts.
2022 Aquatic Macrophyte Inventory Report
Introduction
Canobie Lake is a 375 acre lake located in the towns of Salem and Windham, New Hampshire, that has restrictions on swimming due to its use as a drinking water reservoir. SOLitude Lake Management was hired to conduct a vegetation survey in 2022 to determine the aquatic macrophyte assemblage present in the water body. Survey results can be used to track changes in the vegetation community, and also to determine future management methods within the waterbody.
The following report will discuss: methodology, results & analysis, summary of findings, and an attached map of the vegetation present.
Methodology
A visual survey of the shoreline and littoral zone was conducted on October 6, 2022 with a 10-foot jon boat and gas-powered motor. An underwater camera and throw rake were used to collect or observe plant specimens that were present in deeper water and unable to be identified from the surface. Species that were unable to be identified in the field were collected and identified with assistance from literature and expertise from colleagues. A handheld GPS was utilised to mark points of vegetation to correspond to notes taken during the survey.
Results
The following table displays the species found and their general abundance observed during the survey. The results can also be visualised on the attached map (Figure 1: Canobie Lake Aquatic Vegetation Survey).
* NHDES sent in divers in August 2024 to investigate the Brittle Naiad and found it to be Southern Naiad (bushy pondweed). NHDES does not classify this weed as an invasive weed.
A total of seventeen aquatic vegetation species were observed during the survey, including an unusual species of watermilfoil (Alternate-flowered watermilfoil, Myriophyllum alterniflorum). This species was observed at varying densities throughout most of the shoreline around the lake (see attached map - Figure 1: Canobie Lake Aquatic Vegetation Survey). One observed species that is considered invasive and non-native is brittle naiad (Najas minor), and this species was seen only at one location during the survey and at trace density.
Pondweed species were the most robust and variable within the lake, with a total of five observed, but particularly abundant was big-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton amplifolius). This macrophyte was found in sparse to dense abundance throughout the shoreline and littoral zone of the lake (see attached map - Figure 1: Canobie Lake Aquatic Vegetation Survey). Other vegetation species observed include: three bladderwort species (Utricularia spp.), three naiad species (Najas spp.), one floating-leaf species (Nymphaea odorata), and two emergent species (Sagittaria sp. and Persicaria amphibia).
Overall, Canobie Lake supports a healthy, diverse assemblage of native macrophytes throughout the littoral zone and shoreline, with the exception of the one invasive, non-native species. Brittle naiad is a non-native species that has the capability of spreading quickly and outcompeting more beneficial native plant species in the pond. Controlling this species in an effort to halt its further advancement in the pond should be a high priority of any management program at Canobie Lake.
Based on the current conditions of Canobie Lake, the primary outcome/goal of a management program should be to optimise fish and waterfowl habitat, as well as the overall recreational value by controlling invasive and nuisance aquatic plant species. The lake currently possesses a variety of characteristics (vegetation species, water depth contours, varied substrate composition, and water flow regime) that are desirable for many habitat types. In an effort to enhance the overall wildlife habitat and recreational value of the lake, we recommend the area selective control of non-native submersed plant growth (as budget allows).
If you would like to move forward with a management plan to control non-native submersed aquatic species, we can get a Proposal to you outlining costs and options.
Welcome to our latest blog post, where we dive into the fascinating world of loons and their nesting habits in New Hampshire. Our dedicated team, led by board member Jeff Boyer and supported by Sheri Coldwell and Kevin & Diane Labreque, have help provide two nesting rafts on the Northern and Southern end of the lake.
Timeline of Nest Initiation
Here in New Hampshire, loons typically start building their nests between late May and late June. However, early birds might begin as early as May, while others may wait until mid-July before settling down.
Loon Eggs and Incubation
Loons usually lay 1 to 2 eggs per nesting attempt. The eggs are laid 1 to 3 days apart, and the parents take turns incubating them for approximately 27 days. Both male and female loons contribute equally to the incubation process, though research suggests that females might take on more responsibility towards the end of the nesting period and during nighttime hours.
Loon Chicks Hatch
Once the incubation period ends, the chicks hatch roughly 24 hours apart, marking the beginning of a new life. In case of a failed nesting attempt, loons may try again up to three times within the same year. However, this renesting behavior may vary depending on the pair in question.
We hope you enjoyed this brief exploration into the captivating nesting habits of New Hampshire loons. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from our team as we continue to see if we hatch another set of eggs.
Weather Permitting we will be kicking off our annual parade at Rocky Point starting at 1 PM. Proceed to Scott Buttram’s Dock where prizes will be awarded. We look forward to all the great decorating.
Due to the unavailability of the contracted company on the 4th of July, Canobie Lake Park will not host a fireworks display for this year's 4th of July celebrations.
THE CLPA 2023 ANNUAL MEETING
Sept. 24, 2023
The CLPA Annual Social, Meeting, and Educational Speakers at the Searles School and Chapel.
6:00 - 6:30 PM - Check in and visit with your neighbors. Enjoy some light snacks and water.
6:30 Business Meeting begins
- President's Report
- Secretary - Membership approval of meeting minutes of 2022
- Treasurer - Delivers Treasurer's report
- Election Officers and Board Members
ELECTION INFORMATION:
The following four board positions of 2-year terms. The CLPA board recommended slate:
Salem Director - Senator Daryl Abbas - uncontested
Windham Director – Phil Workman - uncontested
Treasurer – Diane Labrecque - uncontested
Secretary – Jeff Boyer - uncontested
7:00 Close of Business Meeting for members.
7:00 PM
After our business meeting, we have a spectacular lineup of speakers this year.
Former State Senator Chuck Morse will update us on the Southern NH Water Project.
Salem's Municipal Services Director - Roy Sorenson - Review the water management plan and update on the Southern NH Water Project and how it helps Salem.
VLAP program and summary of the reports on Canobie Lake's water quality.
NH DES Watershed-Management - Amy Smagula - Weeds and more weeds, what to do?
Cobbetts Pond Improvement Association - Dave Blundell - Sharing the new septic system ordinance transforming Cobbetts Pond. https://nhlakes.org/septic-system-ordinanc
- Raffle drawing
Thank you to the many enthusiastic participants of the Annual 4th of July Boat Parade!! It was great fun to see all in the boats and all who waving and cheered from the shoreline.
If you would like to share some of your great pictures from the parade, we would love them posted on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/CanobieLakeProtectiveAssociation. A special thanks to Diane and Kevin Labrecque and Brian Medeiros for judging the boats, and Jeff Boyer and Sheri Coldwell for hosting the judges on their boat.
2022 Boat Parade winners:
1st place - Canobie Construction Crew by Acker & Kelly Kids
2nd place - Halloween in July by Forrence family
3rd place - Nascar on Pontoons by Silva family & friends
1st Honorable Mention - Nest of Loons by Campiola family & friends
2nd Honorable Mention - Tiki Hunt Afloat by Marotte family
Summary of recommended fish consumption advisories for 5 New Hampshire lakes. Follow the link to read more:
PFDs
New Hampshire law requires the following with respect to life jackets (PFDs)
All vessels must carry one wearable (Type I, II, III, or V) USCG–approved life jacket for each person on board. Type V life jackets must be worn to be acceptable.
In addition to the above requirements, vessels 16 feet in length or longer (except canoes and kayaks) must have one Type IV USCG–approved throwable device on board and immediately available.
Children 12 years of age and younger must wear a USCG–approved life jacket at all times while underway on a vessel, unless the vessel is completely enclosed by railings at least three feet high and constructed such that a small child cannot fall through them. It is strongly recommended that children of all ages wear their life jackets.
All life jackets must be in good and serviceable condition and must be readily accessible. The life jackets must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for life jackets is based on body weight and chest size and can be determined by the manufacturer’s label.
To read more go to: www.boat-ed.com/newhampshire/studyGuide/Specific-Life-Jacket-PFD-Requirements/10103102_39986/
Image from https://www.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt341/files/documents/2020-01/sp-2.pdf
Help protect and preserve water quality in Canobie Lake.
Too much phosphorus in lakes will cause excessive growth of algae and large aquatic plants which create ecosystem imbalances resulting in loss of other native life. High levels of phosphorus in the lake can also lead to algae blooms that produce toxins which can be harmful to animal health.
Fertilizers are all marked with a set of 3 numbers on the bag. They represent Nitrogen – Phosphate – and Soluble Potash. Always use fertilizers with a zero middle number as shown. Most garden centers carry phosphorus free fertilizers
Lakeshore property owners can enjoy a lawn if done so in a manner that protects the lake. Lawns should be buffered at the water’s edge by native shoreline plantings.
One cause is something - runoff of phosphorus into the lake.
Phosphorus, or phosphate, is a fertilizer component that is critical to weed growth in lakes. It is present in many lawn and garden fertilizers. It's the second number in the three number label which most fertilizer bags have. A typical lawn fertilizer might be 28-4-6; the 4 means 4 percent phosphorus. The good news is that many lawn fertilizers now on the market in NH have zero percent phosphorus - the middle number is 0. Please use those whenever you can. In NH there is enough phosphorus in the soil and in rainfall to meet the need for most lawns.
If on a septic system, another significant source of phosphate is from dishwasher detergent. Not dish soap used when washing dishes by hand and not laundry soap; most of that is phosphate-free. But detergent used in automatic dishwashers, whether solid, powder or gel, usually contains phosphates. But there are some dishwasher detergents available in local stores which are phosphate-free. Examples are: Planet Free and Clear, Cascade Complete, Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Gel, Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Soap Tablets, and more. Check the label to be sure.
For the Top Ten Ways to keep lakes healthy, check out this short summary: https://nhlakes.org/wp-content/uploads/1-Lake-Friendly-Actions-Top-10-Ways-to-Keep-Lakes-Healthy-NH-LAKES.pdf