Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s most valuable freshwater resource, nationally and internationally renowned for its remarkable setting, outstanding water clarity, and abundant fishery.
It is also the main driver of the region’s tourism economy. However, the lake’s ecosystem is under threat from stormwater runoff, invasive plant and animal species, nutrient loading, and more.
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Polluted Stormwater Runoff
Polluted stormwater runoff accounts for 85-90% of the water pollution problems in New Hampshire.
Nutrients
Excessive nutrient loading is one of the major threats to the lake, and the nutrient of concern is phosphorus.
Lake Level
Lake Level management on Winnipesaukee is a balancing act.
Septic Systems
The majority of the Winnipeaukee Watershed relies on individual subsurface disposal systems (ISDS); i.e. septic systems.
Invasive Plants and Animals
Milfoil made its first appearance in New Hampshire in Lake Winnipesaukee in 1965. More than 50 years later, the plant can be found in most areas of the lake.
Erosion
Shoreline erosion naturally occurs in many bodies of water, including Lake Winnipesaukee. Its causes stem from unusual weather patterns, runoff, loss of vegetation, and development.