STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

Protecting our lake, properties, and infrastructure

Stormwater Runoff is Newfound’S largest threat to Water Quality

What is stormwater?

Rainwater and snowmelt from developed areas has a much lower chance of soaking into the ground or evaporating than from natural ecosystems. Instead this “stormwater” runs off of our roofs, driveways, roads, and lawns quickly finding its way into the network of ditches, swales, and culverts that lead to Newfound Lake.

Why is it such a big deal?

Along its journey to the lake, stormwater picks up many contaminants that pollute freshwater ecosystems and spur the growth of harmful algae and bacteria. During large rain and melt events improperly managed stormwater can easily damage property and infrastructure. Washouts do more than create a headache for property owners and road managers, the sediment that stormwater conveys is the largest source of nutrient pollution to Newfound.

Working to control stormwater is a win-win for watershed residents and the environment.

PROTECTING OUR LAKE

NLRA partners with homeowners, municipalities, and state agencies to combat stormwater through multiple approaches on projects both large and small.

SMALL-SCALE STORMWATER SOLUTIONS

Stormwater runoff starts at home. We all have a role to play in addressing Newfound’s biggest threat.

NLRA offers stormwater services to support watershed property owners, businesses, home owner associations and road associations working to limit their stormwater contribution. These projects have measurable outcomes for the health of Newfound Lake.

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LARGE-SCALE PARTNERSHIPS

The Newfound Lake Watershed Management Plan guides large municipal projects targeting major pollution sources.

NLRA partners with watershed municipalities to assess major sources of stormwater pollution, develop actionable projects, and connect towns to state and federal resources. Since the beginning of that Watershed Management Plan in 2009, these partnerships actively prevent 566,483 pounds of sediment from reaching Newfound Lake each year.

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FOUR STORMWATER CONTAMINANTS TO KEEP OUT OF NEWFOUND

Phosphorus

Phosphorus limits the growth of plants and algae in most aquatic ecosystems, meaning that small increases in the amount of phosphorus lead to outsized impacts that lower water quality. Phosphorus is naturally found in soil and applied as a fertilizer. Stopping erosion and using phosphate-free fertilizers and detergents is paramount.

Household Chemicals

Household chemicals ranging from pesticides to solvents to petroleum products can quickly make their way from developed areas to surface waters. Limit the use of chemical pesticides, never dump chemicals down the drain, and clean up spills immediately.

Temperature

Summer runoff from roofs and roads can be as much as 40°F warmer than the temperature of nearby surface water. When warm stormwater reaches the lake it creates conditions that favor algae and impact Newfound’s coldwater fish populations.

Road Salt

Chloride from winter road salt use and water softeners persists in the environment for a long time and is toxic to aquatic life.

Shovel first and frequently, use salt sparingly, and use sand for traction on ice. A 12-ounce mug of salt is enough to treat 20 feet of driveway.

Here’s What You Can Do:

Complete a Stormwater Assessment

If you own property in the Newfound Watershed, call NLRA for a free stormwater assessment. Learn more.

Pump your Septic System

Regular maintenance reduces wastewater contamination in surface water and drinking water. Learn more.

Get LakeSmart

Through our partner NH LAKES, you can register for LakeSmart, a free evaluation process to determine how lake-friendly your property and activities are. Learn more.

Plant a Garden

Lawns are a source of stormwater runoff, while gardens soak up stormwater. Choose native plants for the best benefits to the environment. Learn more.

Maintain a Vegetated Buffer

A buffer of vegetation between your house, lawn, or driveway and the nearest waterways can slow and trap stormwater, allowing it to filter into the ground before it causes pollution. Learn more.

Support NLRA!

NLRA works year-round to protect Newfound from stormwater and other threats. You can support our efforts by becoming a member. Learn more.