Lake appreciation goes deeper than enjoyment

Did you know that July is Lakes Appreciation Month? And what a perfect month it is to appreciate Lake Winnipesaukee as we enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the warm summer heat.

This year, the North American Lake Management Society is celebrating July’s Lakes Appreciation Month with this message “You work and play on them. You drink from them. But do you really appreciate them? A growing population, development, and invasive species stress your local lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. All life needs water; let’s not take it for granted!”

In a recent proclamation, Gov. Kelly Ayotte declared July 2025 as Lakes Appreciation Month in the Granite State.

We are lucky here in the Lakes Region to have so many lakes and ponds to recreate on. Access to natural waterbodies is known to improve mental health and reduce stress, and engaging in water activities can promote physical fitness. Our lakes support abundant wildlife and fisheries, aid in climate regulation, and offer economic benefits through tourism, recreation, and real estate.

Additionally, the lakes and ponds in the Lakes Region have historical and cultural importance, especially for the Abenaki people. These are just a few things our lakes do for us, but what can we do for our lakes?

Appreciation goes beyond enjoyment. True appreciation means taking steps to protect and preserve these vital resources for future generations. This summer, we encourage you to show your appreciation for Lake Winnipesaukee by taking action. Whether it’s picking up litter on your next walk, planting native vegetation along your shoreline, maintaining your septic system, or reducing fertilizer use, even small steps make a difference. These everyday actions help reduce stormwater pollution and nutrient runoff, which are leading contributors to poor water quality and cyanobacteria blooms.

If you’re looking for ways to get more involved, consider supporting your local lake association, participating in water quality efforts, becoming a weed watcher through the NHDES program, or attending a public meeting about local water issues, any of these actions can make a difference. If you’re new to these efforts, simply starting a conversation with your neighbors about lake health is a great first step.

Recreation can be lake-friendly too. If you’re spending time out on the water, remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat, trailer, and gear to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Be mindful of no-wake zones, and avoid stirring up sediment in shallow areas. And if you're renting or hosting visitors this summer, share your knowledge, help spread awareness about lake stewardship practices.

For more ideas on how to protect the lake you love, check out our Tips for Healthy Lakes at winnipesaukee.org/take-action.

Although Lakes Appreciation Month is officially in July, let’s keep showing our appreciation all year long. Lake-friendly living is something we can all take part in: one action, one conversation, one day at a time.