Squam Lakes News

The SLA is seeking awesome staff for our summer youth programs.

Let's take a hike!

Offices closed Dec. 24th - Jan. 3rd

Let's take a hike!

The new cohort of Lakes Region Conservation Corps have arrived! This week, say welcome (and welcome back) to Maggy and Daniel, LRCC members serving here at the Squam Lakes Association!

Saying goodbye to our summer crew: Don't miss the last conservation journals of the Summer/Fall program! Ryan reflects on his service at the Newfound Lake Region Association, Rachel has some tips for future members, and Jack sings in the rain with his fellow cohort. Follow the link to know more!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our virtual 8th Annual Squam Ridge Race!

This week: Look at the stars with Sophie, watch the loons with Grace, and contemplate the beauty of change with Beth!

Participate in the Squam Ridge Race—All Proceeds Support the SLA Trail System!

Virtual camp where we can see each other's faces, share stories & riddles, explore outdoors wherever you are, and laugh and have fun!

Check out the new Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest Nature Trail Guide!

After two years as the Squam Lakes Association's Lakes Region Conservation Corps Program Manager, Emily Gross is leaving to start her next adventure.

On March 30, 2020, NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) issued new fish consumption guidelines for Squam Lake. The PCB contaminants were found in lake sediments, and are not harmful to activities like swimming, boating or catch and release fishing. ​

Join Grace and Moses as they reflect on their experiences with the LRCC in this week's conservation journals!

Sign up for Wilderness First Aid and CPR class at the SLA for this May!

"...every invasive plant removed is one step in the right direction for the health of our world, and that if I want our forests to stay as marvelous as those on the rest of the Red Hill range, then this is the way to help. "

"It’s moments like these that we often take for granted. Small little stories being told in each whisper the wind puts in our ear. Soaking in small tales told by wildlife and plants, dipping their pins in ink each morning or before sunset."

"A theme that keeps popping up in our discussions during the LRCC on-boarding process is the vibrancy of the conservation community in this area and the depth of care for the lands and waters that sustain it. "

"As an AmeriCorps member, we are supposed to lead by example, however a big part of that is recognizing all of the other great examples around you, and adjusting yourself to be the best leader (or follower) you can be. That’s the greatness in community; there are examples all around that can guide you and help you improve in challenging areas."

In this week's conservation journals, catch up with Dawe, Heather, and Qiyah as they reflect on the many hours they've spent on trails this fall!

Take the path less traveled this Columbus Day weekend and help us protect the trails and check out these alternative hikes in the Squam Range.

Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and racers for supporting conservation in the Squam Lakes Watershed! Read more about the 7th Annual Ridge Race!

Read about how our Lakes Region Conservation Corps members are reflecting over their terms as summer is drawing to a close in this week's Conservation Journals!

See what our Lakes Region Conservation Corps members are up to in this week's conservation journals!

Visit this important piece of local history at the Holderness Historical Society on Saturdays from 10-12.

Adel and Haley both reflect on their year of service with the Lakes Region Conservation Corps in this weeks conservation journals.

"Scuba (scu. · ba): An apparatus utilizing a portable supply of compressed gas (as air) supplied at a regulated pressure and used for breathing while swimming underwater. This is an accurate although dull definition of a device that allows you to explore a mysterious realm that would otherwise be inaccessible. "

Come sail the Around the Lake Race for a great cause!

John explains the care that goes into maintaining the SLA's composting toilets, while Hollyn shares the highlights of NH LAKES watershed warrior program!

We had an amazing first week of training for camp!!! I can already tell we have a great team this year and we cannot wait for the inevitable upcoming adventures we are going to have with the campers!

"My second realization was that there’s a ton of “invisible” work that goes into public access. Even though I may not have seen them in person, every time I’ve camped out in a clean campsite, hiked a well-maintained trail, or cast off from a public dock, I’ve been able to do so because of the hard work of caretakers and volunteers. "

"In place of a photo or video, taking the time to write something down when you’re out in nature is a way to create a special and more meaningful memory. Looking back at your own writing, you are able to put yourself back in a place and time with ease. "

Tune in for Episode 2 of What's Happening on Squam: Muddy Season and Earth Day, a new podcast initiated by members of the Lakes Region Conservation Corps at the Squam Lakes Association. Each episode will feature stories about recent events at the SLA, conservation happenings, and interviews with members of the Squam community.

Ice is out, spring is here!

" If you ever find yourself forced to walk on a wet trail, walk right through the mud! It feels great and it protects the vegetation around the trail."

" I’ve always loved spring. The increased energy, the ability to bask in the sun without sweating, and the way the season naturally inspires change and improvement."

"As I ready myself to trade in views of forests and mountains for the man-made landscape of a city, I can’t express enough how much we need organizations such as the SLA. A place where the employees, volunteers, and even the community work together to protect the natural world."

"...as everyone is getting signed in, I begin to realize that today was not going to be my demise."

SLA members and camp participants can receive a discount on boat building classes at the NH Boat Museum.

"...we dressed as if we were walking on Antarctica, sub-zero temperatures and a wicked wind forced us to cover every centimeter of our bodies. "

“Tell us about a time when you have MacGyvered something,” is one of the most obscure, yet interesting interview questions I have ever been asked....

As part of my AmeriCorps service here, I have analyzed trail parameters which are used to improve management of SLA trail resources. As a result of this, I generated and had access to trail data which, in my free time, I used to identify trails whose grade and features would lend themselves well to a vigorous morning ski.

"Eventually, the holidays pass and the New Year arrives. Soon we’ll be strapping ourselves back in and preparing for the upcoming opportunities that await us. In the meantime, we’re going to continue enjoying what winter has to offer. Ice water quality trips, Winterfest,..."

The real reason why we were on Little Squam Lake that day was not to question the existence of a snowman, but to be trained on how to take water quality measurements under the ice.

She hands the binoculars to me and as I raise them my eyes are met with a spectacular sight. Standing proudly out on the ice is a bald eagle. As I peer out at this majestic creature, everything around me stops. There are no sounds. No one else is in the room. It is just the eagle and I.

"Being in New Hampshire has provided me with opportunities to see and do things I have never been able to before. The work that we have done so far has been both fulfilling and extremely enjoyable."

"Every once in a while when I make my way into nature I have an intimate and powerful experience if I allow myself to pay attention and listen."

"CRUNCH. The wintery mix of snow and ice gives way from the impact. Shards of frozen water particles rub against each other creating a hoarse sound. A man painfully groans. Birds happily chirp. Suddenly, the ground turns to brown as a liquid oozes over the area. "

"Although I will admit that some of the hands-on activities were a bit awkward at times (like checking for a pulse on a stranger’s bare feet or pulling on someone’s jaw to open up their airways), it was a really interesting course and I feel like I gained a lot from it."

"While it was sad to hear words of good-byes and advice for the future, I am hopeful and beyond happy to start the next chapter in life because I know I’m going into my next chapter, not alone, but with a whole new family. "

The SLA is seeking awesome staff for our summer youth programs.

"All of my Squam Ridge Race experiences have been exceptional, but this year I got to see, behind the scenes, what goes into putting on an event like this. "

Just a quick update to let you know that the three chicks on Squam Lake and the chick on Little Squam are growing and looking fantastic!

Hike or run the ridge to help raise money for the Squam Trail system. Sign up now: www.squamlakes.org/events/squam-ridge-race-1

"My time here has not only been fun but has transformed me into the budding conservation professional I have always hoped to be. Here I have found myself delving into a broad range of conservation initiatives, allowing me to expand my education in an applied way."

"At the time I was just beginning to see all that makes a non-profit function, but since then I have observed so many examples of these partnerships with the SLA, organizations working together to mutually accomplish their missions."

" It’s campouts like these that makes being a camp counselor the best way to spend a summer. "

This past weekend was a very sad one on the Squam Lakes.  Loon Preservation Committee received several reports of a loon tangled in fishing line on Little Squam over the weekend, and I was able to capture it on Sunday.

Join us for SLA's Annual Meeting on Saturday, August 4th, 2018 in the Fisher Family Barn! Meeting will be followed by reception and exhibit opening.

It's been a great summer so far beneath the surface of Squam as we make further progress in milfoil removal from Big Squam to the dam in Ashland.

"I am loving the lake even more every day-something I didn’t think possible! I went backpacking with a group of girls up to black mountain pond and..."

Support the Squam Lakes Association while enjoying a “field to fork” dinner at Moulton Farm! Dinner will be served under the tent and a portion of all proceeds will go directly to benefit SLA. Check out the menu!

I have fantastic news—the remaining loon nest on Squam hatched 2 chicks!! 

"As I write my first conservation journal I had to double check that it’s been two months. Not because it went fast, but because of how much I’ve already learned and experienced in such a short amount of time. "

"Being able to contribute to another side of SLA’s mission that I did not expect when I first started as an AmeriCorps member is really inspiring and exciting."

"Hey! I am psyched to be back for another summer of fun. "

"When I looked at the training week schedule I was surprised to see that we would be having a day of training with Camp Hale, another summer camp sharing our beautiful lake. "

Great news, Squam Lake has its first chick of the year! The chick hatched on Wednesday and the parents are very busily taking care of it, trying to convince the sometimes reluctant chick to eat all the minnows they bring!

It's been another busy week on the Squam Lakes!  I'm delighted to report that we have two new nests on Squam! 

Sign up now for the 2018 Squam ridge Race. Space limited to the first 200 racers.

On June 2, 2018, the Squam Lakes Association officially opened the Brooks Fisher Trail with a ribbon cutting ceremony and guided hike.

"This is just the beginning. It feels great to be learning to care and advocate for this watershed that has always been an important part of my life."

"In between the winter/spring AmeriCorps service term and the current term I took a road trip to see what other interesting places there are in the U.S. My time with the LRCC definitely gave me a different perspective on some of the national parks I went to, and a greater appreciation for the trail systems they maintain. "

"Part 1: Why I Love Serving as an AmeriCorps Member for the SLA... Part 2: Why I Love New Hampshire"

"We’ve been able to work a lot more with school groups thanks in part to our fantastic new director of education, Leigh Ann. Being with the kids rekindles my joy of watching them learn and become inquisitive about nature."

"Based on all the work we were able to get done this winter and how exciting it was to be a part of this new program, I can't wait to see how the energy here changes as warmer weather comes. "

SLA’s Lakes Region Conservation Corps participated in four different service related events around New Hampshire for AmeriCorps Service Week, which took place mid-March.

2017 marked another successful year of milfoil removal from the Squam Lakes watershed!

"It seems fitting to present my highlight reel from this AmeriCorps program, funny stories and poignant moments to give you a glimpse into the countless things I’ve learned in my time here. "

"I guess what I’m trying to say is there are always endless amounts of projects, activities and events to write about and picking and choosing between them isn’t easy... I never thought I would say this, but I don’t want winter to end just yet."

"Our goal as members is the same: to “get things done for America”. But our paths are all different. Our experiences, even if they are similar, are all seen from a different perspective."

"I’ve been able to try a lot of these winter sports and activities for the first time, and have had some great experiences continuing our goal of balancing access and stewardship through the past month. "

"When we were faced with tackling personal projects at the SLA, I was excited to work on a project involving the trails that the SLA maintains within and around the Squam watershed."

"This past weekend, Ben and I took part in a Wilderness First Aid course at the Holderness School. I must say that the course was not what I expected."

Read about LRCC's exciting MLK Service Day in January.

"My second day back I went into the day with a list of things I needed to accomplish, but little did I know I was in for much more than just a day filled with catching up."

"A recent learning experience involved ice harvesting at Rockywold Deephaven Camps. It was fantastic. It was right after the cold snap so the ice was in good form. The other LRCC members and I donned our microspikes and set off onto the ice."

"As someone who is lucky enough to be working in the conservation field, however, another aspect of the trip really stood out to me. We spent some time at the state parks in the city, and as we hiked or biked around an overwhelming proportion of the plants and animals we came across were invasive species. "

Get in the running for that perfect weekend at your favorite campsite on the lake! You must be an SLA member to enter the lottery.

"The start of winter allows me to participate in one of my favorite activities, winter birding. "

"It’s my favorite thing to do during our snowy hikes, look along the path for different animal tracks and things. "

Join us for a morning walk full of learning about common wintering bird species frequently found around Squam Lake!

"From my experience here, I’ll take away lessons about turning little parts of a goal into tangible results and how to survive a winter in New England."

"The one thing I can say is that I miss seeing a lot of the summer regulars, and I hope that with the increased amount of winter events that we are hosting some of the summer folk will have increased incentive to experience and enjoy the area in the winter as I am. "

Join a beautiful stargazing session – learn about constellations that are present in this hemisphere at this time of year! Even learn a little bit about celestial navigation – in case you’re stuck out in the woods.

Join us for a low intensity hike through Belknap Woods, with stops to explore amphibian specific habitats along the trail. This will include a focus on the importance of wetlands, vernal pools, and cover objects for native amphibian species, and conservation concerns regarding amphibians.

"The Squam watershed has rapidly become home to me, and I’ve enjoyed so many different activities, such as running to the top of the Rattlesnake Mountains on my days off, finishing the start of the brand-new Fisher Ridge Trail, and helping to answer 211 calls from victims of the Halloween flood event. "

Explore Chamberlin Reynolds Memorial Forest and the many recreational campsites the SLA has to offer! Join LRCC AmeriCorps member, Becca, as she provides you with information about all of the campsites, how SLA sustainably maintains the area, how our composting system works, and where to catch the best sunset!

"They’re a group of educationally hardened, passionately driven, and tenaciously… tenacious individuals that complete this AmeriCorps super team."

"It’s been a surreal experience returning to Squam Lake after what seems like forever, even though it’s been a little less than a year since I was here last. "

Join Lakes Region Conservation Corps (LRCC) AmeriCorps member Kyle Salmons in the Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest for a hands on look at environmentally friendly camping.

More than 100 gathered on November 1st to hear a panel of experts discuss toxic contaminants in the Squam Watershed.

Join the Squam Lakes Association and Plymouth State University for a public meeting to discuss recent contaminants found in the Squam watershed.

Join us for SLA's Annual Fall Work Day on Saturday, October 14th from 9:30am to 3:00pm. This is a chance to help us clean up after a successful year of conservation work, and to connect/reconnect with the Squam community!

Join us for the 5th annual Squam Ridge Race. 12 miles, 3 summits, 3000 feet of elevation gain with 82% of the course on trails, or 4 miles and 1 summit.

"Next is type two fun; activities that in the moment can be quite miserable, but looking back upon the completed adventure you can see the fun in it all. Over the internship we had our fair share of type one fun moments, but I feel that it was the type two moments that will be sticking with me as I head back to college this fall."

Join Squam Lakes Intern, Becca Cohler, for a morning kayak tour on White Oak Pond to discuss all things turtle!

"Regardless, people wave and smile when they see our odd looking boat, a tribute to the sense of community created by the lake, the likes of which I really have never experienced in a region so large."

"Sometimes it’s the little things, and finding community and sense of place amongst the ranks of SLA’s movers and shakers makes me realize that it’s a big mission, but I am a big part of that mission."

"This summer has put into perspective the kind of work needed to maintain a thriving natural area. From trail maintenance for the public to milfoil removal for the fishes I feel as though I have done it all. I feel as though I am a part of something much bigger than myself. I am a part of this whole community. "

"But as I looked back at the boat and my exhausted but happy team members, instead of feeling disappointment at how much there still was to do, I felt satisfaction at what we had accomplished so far and determination to continue. "

"The work is hard, but rewarding. I love to hike, and it is great to finally be able to give back in such a tangible way."

"I’ve hiked in this area since I was little, but it wasn’t until this summer that I realized how much dedication needs to be put into trails to maintain their integrity."

"I hope that everyone who attended my Adventure Ecology program was able to walk away with a growing sense of appreciation, and excitement for the plants around them in their lives."

"This, I believe, will be one of the biggest takeaways from my work with the Squam Lakes Association: that with proper care and minimal human impact, ecosystems can recover."

Join SLA Conservation intern, Alice Goldstein-Plesser, and unveil the otherwise invisible and overlooked creatures that surround us. Learn about their fascinating abilities and their important role in the environment.

"What’s my favorite job out here? Oh dear reader, if only that was a simple question to answer."

"Today is a good metaphor for this internship as a whole. When I take it day by day it seems that we have accomplished many small things but when I think back on what we have done I am amazed at how much has occurred. "

Join Conservation Intern Nathan Dulaney for an ecology walk through Belknap Woods. The main theme for this program is looking at the primary ecological role of several major groups found living in a forest and how they are connected to each other. Ages 10 & up are welcome!

"Every day I wake up and head off to work I have no idea what to expect, the only certain is that I know I am prepared, and able to respond."

SLA conservation intern Riley Harris will help participants explore the potential impacts climate change will have on local ecology.

"On one side of the car lie the woods, and Squam rests on the other. I feel connected to both, a bond forged through my interactions within them."

"I had always assumed that Squam existed in large part due to the gentle footprints left by those that visit. My time at SLA this summer has proven me very wrong – in fact there are people all over the lake fighting tooth and nail to keep Squam a pristine ecosystem."

“I always like a good challenge and these two weeks have not disappointed.”

Join us at the Squam Lakes Association for a family friendly event to kick-off summer and celebrate and explore all of the work that goes into conserving the Squam Watershed.

The 2017 Squam Conservation Intern bios are now posted! Meet the team who will be the driving force behind the SLA's conservation mission.

Ice is out, spring is here! Check out our ice cam video. The camera missed the ice out due to an intense wind storm, but captured the coming of spring on the lake.

2016 marked another successful year removing the invasive variable milfoil from the Squam Lakes.

While the summer crowds hibernate, you can embrace a variety of SLA hiking trails this season! The Squam Lakes Association provides plenty of winter friendly opportunities for all levels. Here are 5 of the best winter hikes around Squam.

Join us Wednesday, February 8th to learn about the art and science of Celestial Navigation from specialist, Steve Durham. This is one speaker series where you are sure to walk away with skills that will guide you in the night sky and beyond.

We continue to make significant strides on the Squam Watershed Plan! A public meeting will be held in late spring or early summer to share project developments. Stay tuned for the date!

Join us on Wednesday January 25th @ 7PM to hear about local ski legend Dan Egan, his ties to the Squam Community, his exciting Skiing Career and the Hall of Fame!

Considering using a de-icer this year? Before you do make sure to consider the safety, environmental and legal issues involved.

Are you ready to make your summer plans for 2017?

The 2016 Squam Ridge Race was a huge success! Despite an early morning thunderstorm many racers took to the ridge line and gave it their all. The fire pit kept folks warm, our amazing volunteers on the grills kept the food coming, and the aid stations and trail monitors supported racers throughout the day!

"To myself and the eight interns that I’m proud to call my friends, this lake has nurtured our bodies and souls the way that only the most special places may."

Join SLA milfoil experts at the Cottage Place on Little Squam this Saturday, August 20th from 9-11. We'll teach you aquatic ecology basics and plant identification, and the Cottage Place will provide coffee, snacks, and a spot to peek into the Lake.

"All of the events and programs organized by or in collaboration with SLA are efforts that bring people together who have a connection to the Squam community in order to communicate ideas, support a cause, or expand our understanding of the region."

"I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of what it means to work to conserve the natural environment, and how to do so while still letting people enjoy and respect nature in a responsible way."

"There’s a light side and a dark side to having days off when it comes to the SLA internship."

"Trail work helps maintain the integrity of the natural landscape for all of us to enjoy."

"I am really enjoying these last few weeks I have left here. I am trying to take it in as much as possible and take advantage of every opportunity I get."

The White Oak Pond Watershed Association, in collaboration with the Squam Lakes Association and the Squam Lakes Conservation Society, is sponsoring a classic rock concert and dance at the beautiful Fisher Family Activity Barn in Holderness! This event raises funds for the Marry H. Perry Conservation fund which helps preserve open land in the White Oak Pond Watershed, for future generations to enjoy.

Join Squam Conservation Intern, Katri Gurney, in a tranquil walk through Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest while discussing the history of the forest surrounding Squam Lake and identifying trees native to the region. Expect to walk a minimum of two miles and a maximum of four miles. Participants will meet in the east parking lot. All ages are welcome.

"Working on Squam continues to be a constant surprise and persistent pleasure."

During the summer months, especially July and August, it is not uncommon to see large masses of green, filamentous algae in the water as you swim or boat through the lake. Learn more about this natural occurrence.

Join Conservation Intern Erin Shilling on Friday, July 22nd from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for a chance to learn more about creative cooking in the outdoors! Ages 12 and up are welcome.

"It feels good knowing that I am not only doing something I enjoy, but I am helping protect the lake as well."

"Simple machines are wondrous!"

"It’s hard to know how well information about conservation work is being received and taken to heart by people not directly involved in the work, so getting out there as a lake host has been a great way to see that people are actually listening and do care."

The Watershed Plan update process is well underway. There are a few opportunities for public involvement coming up in July. Add your insight, experience, and ideas to the plan update this month!

Join Conservation Intern Maggie Gaiero on Friday, July 8th for a scavenger hunt through using navigational skills and compasses! All ages welcome. Family groups encouraged.

Join SLA Conservation Staff on Saturday (7/2/16) in Cotton Cove as we kick off a summer of Weed Watching! We'll be running these events every Saturday morning all summer, stay tuned for specific locations.

Join Conservation Intern Jordan Jones as he teaches basic fishing skills to kids ages 7-13 on Friday, July 1st.

"It is so worthwhile to preserve this watershed."

"As I continue to cross peaks and trails off of my ranger checklist, I am learning that the purpose of becoming a Squam Ranger is not to simply see the sites or walk the land, that is only the means to an end. By traveling the land around Squam, you gain an insight on this special place; you learn the story of Squam and find yourself living in it."

"I have been hiking all of my life, but I never really put much thought into how much hard work went into making the trails I hiked a possibility. It wasn’t until the second week of training for the internship when we learned the basics of trail maintenance that I began to wrap my mind around how much time and energy goes into making every step along a trail possible."

Join the Squam Lakes Association (SLA) on June 17th, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. for a morning of fun and adventure in Belknap Woods. Ages 12 & up are welcome. As part of the SLA Adventure Ecology program series, conservation intern Stevie Raymond will guide a group of participants in a fun exploration of wetlands and the animals that call these fascinating ecosystems home.

"All I could think about was how incredible this watershed is and the opportunity I have to help preserve it. Removing the variable milfoil has multiple benefits that can be felt by many plants, animals, and even us humans. I’m glad to be a part of the ongoing efforts on the lake. The Squam Lakes watershed is the next step I am taking to get closer to my future goals."

Join SLA Conservation Staff on Saturday (6/11) in Grapevine Cove as we kick off a summer of Weed Watching! We'll be running these events every Saturday morning all summer, stay tuned for specific locations.

"One of my favorite parts of the internship so far has been the boating. I have realized that I truly belong on the water."

Have you ever wanted to row on Squam? Squam Community Rowing (SCR) is offering two "Learn to Row" clinics this coming season. Click here to learn more!

The bios for the 2016 Squam Conservation Interns are available now! Meet the faces of those who will be the driving force behind the SLA's conservation mission.

The Watershed Wellness Committee--the group that is steering the watershed plan update--met for the first time on March 23, 2016.

Eastern Adaptive Sports donates $1000 to the Whitten Woods "Climb to the Top" matched contribution campaign. Check out this story and get inspired to join this community effort.

Learn how to manage an emergency in the backcountry from a SOLO certified instructor. This comprehensive two day course is a fast paced, hands-on training program. It's designed to meet the needs of hikers, skiers, hunters, fisherman, trip leaders, camp staff, and other outdoor enthusiasts who recreate in remote locations. It will introduce you to caring for people who become ill or injured far from definitive medical care.

How would the state economy be affected if residents and visitors who fish, boat and swim perceive any negative changes to the water quality in the areas where they recreate?” One of the goals of this study were to create useful information for policy makers, and promote “big picture” thinking that overcomes the perception that growth and healthy public waters are mutually exclusive. Come find out what the numbers mean and why this is so important for the overall health of New Hampshire Lakes.

The Squam Lakes Association has opened the application process for our seasonal positions. This is a great way to gain professional experience while spending time on Squam. We are looking for conservation interns, environmental camp leaders, sailing instructors and more! Check out the details here!

Are you looking to gain experience with environmental conservation this summer? There's no better place than Squam. Apply now to become a Squam Conservation intern!

After 25 years it's time to revisit the Squam Lakes Watershed Plan. This original document set the bar all those years ago and much has been accomplished since its creation. The time has come to look ahead and develop a document to manage the Squam Lakes Watershed into the future. Community engagement will be essential for creating the best plan possible. Click Here to learn more and how you can become part of this important process.

2015 marked another successful year removing the invasive variable milfoil from the Squam Lakes.

Jon Secord is a landscape and wildlife photographer living in Meredith, NH. He specializes in landscape astrophotography, showcasing the beauty of the New England landscape under the amazing night sky.

The 2015 Squam Ridge Race was a huge success! Despite a foreboding forecast many racers took to the ridge line and gave it their all. The fire pit kept folks warm, our amazing volunteers on the grills kept the food coming and the Aid Stations supported racers throughout the day!

"Squam Lake is one of the most preserved areas I’ve ever visited, and it’s like the whole watershed is alive in High-Definition. All of what I’ve seen and witnessed during my few months here is a gift. "

"The skills I have learned here have transcended every possible thought I could have had on what I would learn. I feel like I can do anything."

Come and pick yours up today! After two years in the making the SLA is happy to announce the new Squam Lakes Charts are here and available for sale. While staying true to the origional Washburn map, this version has been updated to reflect all the changes that have taken place since the early 60s.

Coming up next week are two amazing opportunities for people of all ages to get outside, enjoy summer, and dive into the interesting world of nature, art, and ecology on Squam! In Connecting Art with Nature, Conservation intern Coral Tucker will lead participants on an adventure focused on using various art forms to create lifelong relationships with the outdoors. In Composting on Squam intern Kyle Salmons will lead participants on a paddle to Moon Island in order to explain the Clivus composting system employed by the SLA.

Count em' - 34 SAVES! That’s how many fragments of hitchhiking aquatic invasive species Lake Hosts have captured and removed from boats and trailers in New Hampshire so far this summer.

"Lake heroes are all around us, even though we don’t necessarily recognize their presence all the time. Let’s talk about some of the unspoken champions of Squam Lake: the oh-so-luxurious composting toilets."

Adventure Ecology Trip: Guided Nature Walk with Conservation Intern Gabie Wolf and the iNaturalist Smartphone App! Squam Lakes Association Intern Gabie Wolf will be leading an informative “how to” session on the popular *iNaturalist* smart phone application, followed by a guided nature walk through Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial. Come along for the adventure!

"This Sunday, I watched an inchworm crawl for what seemed like hours. I was bored; Obscenely bored. And it was great. Don’t get me wrong; I hated it in the moment. More than anything I wanted a squirrel to come try to make away with my food or a camper to need my assistance, but looking back on it, it was a wonderful experience of self-reflection."

Got a skunk under the porch or deer nibbling your garden peas? Help for these and other common wildlife issues is now just a mouse click away.

"As I sit in the cabin on this Fourth of July, I read through my personal journal and relive the last two weeks. I do this as a calm and steady rain hit the pine needles and birch trees, droplets trickling down onto the roof of the caretaker’s cabin.The beginning of the first week was hectic, I recall as I flipped through the pages of my journal. My memories are scattered with feelings of anxiety, stress, and most importantly of triumph."

The newly published 2015 Squam Watershed Report that examines water quality, fish populations, invasive species, boat traffic, land conservation efforts, and the loon population.

"One of the tasks for the weekend was raising all the docks. Due to the amount of rain in the past week and the rain that came while I was out camping the docks were almost underwater and were getting hit with waves, adding wear and tear. It was windy, cloudy, and cold when Julian, who was camping on Bowman Island, and I went out to raise the docks."

"I wasn’t sure what to expect for my first night camping alone. The closest thing to camping alone I’ve done is getting a single dorm room at college. That’s basically one step past sleeping in your own room at home. This was different. I had to prepare everything ahead of time to make sure that everything was going to go smoothly. I needed food, water, shelter. The necessities of life. Granted, my food was mac and cheese, my water was encased in a giant five gallon jug, and my shelter was a huge four person tent I was going to be able to stretch out in. Still, that’s rustic for me. I've spent most of my life around electronics, so when I have to clean dishes with lake water I’m out of my element."

"For the first two hours, Coral and I worked tirelessly on the boat to keep the massive amounts milfoil from flooding the DASH table. The divers pulled almost eighty gallons. Not only do all the plants need to be spread out and dried before being piled into bins, all the dirt that comes up the suction tubes clogs the mesh table, which leads to massive flooding and chaos."

Make sure to catch the evening news on WMUR Wednesday night! SLA's sailing program will be featured as part of a segement on sailing in the lakes region.

"I find it hard to believe that we have been here for a month. One third of the internship is over. I feel as if I just arrived, yet as if I have known my fellow interns for much longer. This work doesn’t seem like work, it seems like a vacation where we occasionally have to do “stuff”.

"We have been living and working on Squam for over three weeks, but it feels like a year. Together we have accomplished so much, from earning our scuba diving certification to building an incredibly strong community. A fly on our wall would see a group of productive, driven, and incredibly jovial people who, I believe, have already become life long friends."

"Instead of giving me all the answers, Brett made me figure things out for myself, which helps you become not only a better boater, but a better learner as well. "

I keep waiting for this job to feel like work, yet all of our time spent on Squam has been enjoyable. The other interns and I have quickly evolved into great friends as we bond over our new experiences and there hasn’t been a day when we haven’t ended up all laughing together. I couldn’t imagine a better way to explore, and learn about the beautiful area of Squam Lake than by camping on the islands, hiking the surrounding mountains for a spectacular view of the landscape, or scuba diving along the bottom of the lake...

"Squam" This complete story of the Squam area tells the tale of the people, places and events that shaped a legacy. Order your copy of the limited edition 2nd printing of Rachel Carley’s book Squam NOW at a special pre-publication price!

Our time here out on Squam Lake has been a bit of a work-cation, I’d say. Things are heating up (literally) as we enter into our third scuba lesson tomorrow, with the certification dives on the radar for this weekend. Same goes for the commercial boating test on Saturday. More responsibility is loading onto the shoulders of us interns as we pick up on new skills and procedural protocol to follow out on the job....

The SLA has been battling milfoil on Squam for fifteen years. While this fight is truly a story of success, we need your help!

I can’t believe that it’s been nearly a year since I first set foot at the SLA. After the fantastic experience that I had last summer, I could not be happier to be returning as this year’s Conservation Intern Manager.

Don't miss this! June 27th Squam Community Rowing will host a Learn to Row clinic coached by Kay MacDonald, former head of the US Olympic Development Team for scullers. Kay has been rowing and coaching for over 30 years and brings a wealth of experience. Squam Community Rowing is thrilled to have this opportunity to learn with Kay and hope you will join.

Hundreds came to celebrate the season at this year’s Winterfest. It was the perfect winter day with snow flying, pick-up hockey on the ice and a roaring bonfire.

Sign up for summer camp and get ready for the summer of a lifetime!

Learn about the state of the Squam Watershed in this newly published report.

The results are in. Thanks to all the volunteers, runners, and land owners the event was a success!!

As our last big shebang as interns at the Squam Lakes Association we went on a canoe paddle down the Baker...

Anglers fishing the Squam Lakes are asked to release any largemouth and smallmouth bass they catch that were radio tagged as part of a New Hampshire Fish and Game study

I could not have asked for a better experience being with the Squam Lakes Association this summer. Moving to New Hampshire has been my first extended period away from Wisconsin and has been a great adventure...

Do you have a piece of Squam you cherish and call your own? Are you interested in ensuring the land you love will become part of a legacy that will be enjoyed from one generation to the next? Listen to the stories of four local property owners as they describe how their families have approached this important issue.

Two months in and this internship seems like it has only been a moment. It has all been one moment, frozen in time. I have been told that this single moment is coming to an end though, a rumor that there is only one month left until we return to the realm of the real world...

A friend once told me that the key to finding happiness in life lies in the way you perceive the things that you do and the things that happen to you. ...

Today happened to be one of the most exciting and rewarding days that I have spent as an intern for SLA for a number of reasons. It started bright and early at 7 am...

Wow! It is already half way through the summer. The Squam experience has so far been everything I had hoped and more....

This past Friday, all of the interns, and some of the SLA staff attended the New Hampshire Lakes Congress. Here we learned a lot about the impacts that aquatic invasive species have on bodies of water all over New Hampshire. It was an eye-opening experience overall just to hear the horror stories of variable milfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, and other invasive nuisances...

Join Conservation intern Ian Smith for a day of fly fishing on Squam. There's a 2 hour intro session at 10am followed by FREE kayak rentals too get out there and test out your new skills!

Start the day off with an instructional understanding of sailing including safety, rigging and basic racing skills. Then head out onto the lake and let the wind guide your adventure!

Check out the initial data from Squam's 35th water quality monitoring season.

Today I went on my first milfoil removal dive. Thinking of the situation that we face with milfoil on Squam reminds of a story that I heard during my time in Panama...

Good news! Another pair of loons went on the nest on Big Squam this week!

Hone your rock climbing skills in the SLA barn!

Join SCI Field Martin in his quest to understand the mysterious lichen and their role in the ecosystem....

It's been a very busy week for the loons on Squam, with a mixture of good news and bad news.

Join the Squam Lakes Association on Friday, June 13 from 10am - 12pm for the first Adventure Ecology trip of the summer. The SLA's Director of Conservation Rebecca Hanson, along with Conservation Intern Emily Gross, will lead participants on a morning paddle and a discussion of aquatic ecology and the impacts of invasive aquatic species.

After the long winter, the loons are ready for the summer to get going!

NH Fish and Game outlines current problems facing this magnificent creature. Learn the few simple things many people are doing to protect the bears in the grante state.

Help remove terrestrial invasive species from the Squam Watershed!

Are the rugged moutains of California calling you....?

Join the SLA and for a day of traditional Maple Sugaring at the White's Forest Farm in beautiful Sandwich NH!

NH Department of Environmental Services is seeking the help of anglers statewide to update statewide fish consumption advisories for mercury.

The SLA is delighted to welcome Brian Gagnon to the staff as our new Volunteer and Communications Coordinator.

Apply for a great summer internship on Squam!

PSU graduate student Andrew Veilleux will defend his thesis - Recreational Knowledge, Concern and Behavior for a Resource: A Spatial Descriptive Anaylsi of Squam Lakes using public participation GIS on Wednesday, November 20th at 1:30 pm at PSU Frost Commons.

The 2013 Squam Ridge race was a huge success. Thanks to all of our sponsors and participants.

Join us on Thursday, September 12th at 7 pm for the Squam Speaker Series.

Come by the SLA for handouts from our recent Arsenic and Radon talk

The SLA in partnership with The Holderness Conservation Commission will be holding an evening session at SLA on Wednesday 21st of August at 7pm at the SLA. The program will explore the safety of our drinking water and will cover how we in New Hampshire get our drinking water and some of the things that might be in the water.

Loon Update from Tiffany Grade of the LPC!

Join us for a day of fun at our first annual I Love Squam Day. Annual meeting in the morning, and the rest of the day given over to all the things that make this such an inspiring place.

Learn about upland invasive species in New Hampshire Wednesday, July 10 at 7 pm.

Regional Lightnig Regatta this weekend- awesome fun but congested boat ramp expected!

Loon Update from Tiffany Grade of the LPC!

Join us for an opportunity to share your love and concerns for our Squam Lakes!

Help protect loons. Contact your local legislator today!

The SLA kicks off the summer season on Saturday, May 25th with annual pancake breakfast, barn dance, and more!

Action update from the Loon Preservation Committee: Loon Bill (SB 89) Faces Crucial House Hearing Next Week

The Squam Lakes Association hires a vibrant and well-qualified staff. We are now accepting applications for JSLA and Resource Center staff.

The overall goal of Justin Brigham's study is to learn more about male smallmouth spawning behavior, and its interactions with recreational fishing. Information gained from this work could ultimately be used to educate anglers on proper protocol when catching spawning bass which may help reduce the likelihood of nest abandonment.

check out the pictures and video from taken from the lake.

From NH F&G: a one-day program where women can learn outdoor skills to enjoy during the winter months.

The Results are in! check out this years winners.

Join the SLA this Thursday, June 13th at 7 PM for an evening program on the history of Moon Iland. Local Squam resident and Antioch New England Graduate student, Dan Kemp will present the program.

Surviving chicks continue to do well! Last regular report of the season.

You've seen the weekly Loon updates, come to the SLA Fisher Barn on August 15th to hear an in depth talk about these amazing birds!

I am thrilled to report that all of our chicks are still with us! There was a scare this past week when one of the families was battling with another pair of loons for several days and the chick was not being seen.

Check out our summer line-up of interesting speakers!

The persistence of the Little Squam pair paid off and they hatched one chick!

It was another busy week on the Lakes. The great news is that two nests on Squam Lake hatched one chick each.