Weed Stampede completes 100% shoreline survey with no invasive aquatic plants found

HEBRON — For the fourth consecutive year, Newfound Lake Region Association Weed Watcher volunteers have surveyed 100% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline for invasive aquatic plants, and once again, no invasive aquatic plants were found.

The achievement was made possible through the 2026 Newfound Lake Weed Stampede, held Aug. 15-16, along with additional surveys conducted by volunteers in the days following the event.

During the two-day Weed Stampede, 19 volunteers paddled more than 63 miles and surveyed 65% of Newfound Lake’s shoreline. Volunteers then returned to the water to complete the remaining areas, reaching the goal of 100% shoreline coverage.

“Reaching 100% coverage is an incredible accomplishment for our volunteer community,” said Paul Pellissier, conservation program manager for the NLRA. “But this work is about much more than completing one survey. Our Weed Watchers are an early-detection network for Newfound Lake, and their continued observations throughout the season give us the best chance of finding an invasive aquatic plant quickly, when there is still an opportunity to respond before it becomes established.”

Invasive aquatic plants can spread quickly once established, outcompeting native plants and disrupting aquatic ecosystems. Early detection is one of the most effective tools for preventing a small infestation from becoming a much larger and more difficult problem.

The Weed Stampede provides an important lake-wide survey, but NLRA encourages its Weed Watcher volunteers to continue monitoring throughout the season. Volunteers are encouraged to survey their adopted shoreline — or another favorite stretch of the lake — once each month, if possible. Even a short paddle with eyes on the water can help strengthen Newfound’s early-detection network.

“Every volunteer paddle adds another set of eyes on the lake,” Pellissier said. “We’re grateful for the time, energy, and commitment our Weed Watchers bring to this work. Protecting Newfound Lake truly depends on a community that is willing to watch, learn, and take action when needed.”

The NLRA’s Weed Watcher program is part of its ongoing efforts to protect Newfound Lake and its watershed through monitoring, education, conservation, and community engagement.

To learn more about becoming a Weed Watcher and other ways to help protect Newfound Lake and its watershed, visit NewfoundLake.org.