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Click HERE to read the LFA 2024 Spring Letter |
About the Lake Fairlee Association
The Lake Fairlee Association (LFA) was formed to preserve, protect and enhance the distinctive ecology and natural resources of Lake Fairlee and its watershed.
Membership is open to all who love the lake: lake residents, visitors, camps, and neighbors near and far.
Membership is open to all who love the lake: lake residents, visitors, camps, and neighbors near and far.
The affairs of the Association are managed by a Board of Trustees, which meets monthly through most of the year. A list of the current Trustees and an email contact form can be found here.
NOTE: This is a new LFA website. The previous LFA blog is available here and will be maintained as an historical record.
NOTE: This is a new LFA website. The previous LFA blog is available here and will be maintained as an historical record.
Help the Water Quality Action Committee Combat Milfoil!
Click HERE to access the Milfoil Observation form. Use this form to alert LFA volunteers of the location of any milfoil beds observed in the lake. Our intent is to evaluate observed milfoil beds, place buoys for significant beds so boaters can avoid these areas, and work with state and private groups to treat and/or remove. Your detailed observations will help us focus our resources to control the spread of Eurasian Water Milfoil in Lake Fairlee. Useful information on Milfoil can be found here and on the Lake Fairlee Association website.
Click HERE to access the Milfoil Observation form. Use this form to alert LFA volunteers of the location of any milfoil beds observed in the lake. Our intent is to evaluate observed milfoil beds, place buoys for significant beds so boaters can avoid these areas, and work with state and private groups to treat and/or remove. Your detailed observations will help us focus our resources to control the spread of Eurasian Water Milfoil in Lake Fairlee. Useful information on Milfoil can be found here and on the Lake Fairlee Association website.
The Loon Call - Lake Area News |
Click to enlarge Poster
Living With Beavers In Vermont - Oct. 17 @ Presentation at the Peabody Library (Post Mills) and Visit to Treasure Island
September 25, 2024
Tyler Brown, a wildlife biologist responsible for the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife's Beaver Baffle Program, will discuss beaver biology, the benefits of beaver-created wetlands, the history of beavers in Vermont, and current management strategies and techniques for resolving beaver-human conflicts.
After the presentation, join Tyler and local guides Doug Tifft, Jim McCracken, and Peggy Willey for a hike to a beaver lodge at Treasure Island!
Proudly cosponsored by the Peabody Library, West Fairlee Conservation Commission, Thetford Conservation Commission, and the Treasure Island Committee.
September 25, 2024
Tyler Brown, a wildlife biologist responsible for the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife's Beaver Baffle Program, will discuss beaver biology, the benefits of beaver-created wetlands, the history of beavers in Vermont, and current management strategies and techniques for resolving beaver-human conflicts.
After the presentation, join Tyler and local guides Doug Tifft, Jim McCracken, and Peggy Willey for a hike to a beaver lodge at Treasure Island!
Proudly cosponsored by the Peabody Library, West Fairlee Conservation Commission, Thetford Conservation Commission, and the Treasure Island Committee.
Loon Stories: Through the Lens of the Lake Fairlee LoonCam - Sept. 18 @ Latham Library
August 26, 2024
Whether you are a loon fanatic or are just curious about this interesting summer visitor, plan to attend our program “Loon Stories: Through the Lens of the Lake Fairlee LoonCam” on Wednesday, September 18, at 7 p.m. at the Latham Library on Thetford Hill.
This will feature a talk entitled “The Common Loon: Stories About a Loon’s Life and Their Conservation” by Eric Hanson, loon biologist and head of the Vermont Loon Conservation Project for over 25 years. Eric will also narrate a 24-minute video compilation of highlights from the 2024 season showing seldom-seen loon behavior. Local residents Sean Brown and Doug Tifft will briefly share an overview of the Lake Fairlee loon nesting raft and the second year of the Lake Fairlee LoonCam and its worldwide audience.
In his talk, Eric Hanson, will discuss the amazing recovery of loons in Vermont over the past 30 years, the threats that they face, and the conservation actions that have brought them back. He’ll explore their fascinating behaviors and natural history from territorial takeovers to visual and verbal communication. The VLCP is a program of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE) and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
Thetford resident Sean Brown will give an insider’s view of setting up and running the first and only loon camera in Vermont and his plans for the future. Fairlee resident Doug Tifft, who stewards the loon nesting raft at the northern end of Lake Fairlee, will summarize the successful ninth season which resulted in yet another loon chick.
There will be refreshments and plenty of time for questions afterwards. This program is generously hosted by the Latham Library on Thetford Hill.
August 26, 2024
Whether you are a loon fanatic or are just curious about this interesting summer visitor, plan to attend our program “Loon Stories: Through the Lens of the Lake Fairlee LoonCam” on Wednesday, September 18, at 7 p.m. at the Latham Library on Thetford Hill.
This will feature a talk entitled “The Common Loon: Stories About a Loon’s Life and Their Conservation” by Eric Hanson, loon biologist and head of the Vermont Loon Conservation Project for over 25 years. Eric will also narrate a 24-minute video compilation of highlights from the 2024 season showing seldom-seen loon behavior. Local residents Sean Brown and Doug Tifft will briefly share an overview of the Lake Fairlee loon nesting raft and the second year of the Lake Fairlee LoonCam and its worldwide audience.
In his talk, Eric Hanson, will discuss the amazing recovery of loons in Vermont over the past 30 years, the threats that they face, and the conservation actions that have brought them back. He’ll explore their fascinating behaviors and natural history from territorial takeovers to visual and verbal communication. The VLCP is a program of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE) and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
Thetford resident Sean Brown will give an insider’s view of setting up and running the first and only loon camera in Vermont and his plans for the future. Fairlee resident Doug Tifft, who stewards the loon nesting raft at the northern end of Lake Fairlee, will summarize the successful ninth season which resulted in yet another loon chick.
There will be refreshments and plenty of time for questions afterwards. This program is generously hosted by the Latham Library on Thetford Hill.
LFA Annual Meeting @ Horizons Camp - July 20, 2024
July 22, 2024
The annual meeting was held once again at Horizons Camp. Attended by approximately 50 members, mingling before and after the meeting was enjoyed by all. Reports from key LFA committees and board members were presented. Elections were held; Katherine Babbott, Kirsten Detrick, and David Forbes were reappointed for new 3 year terms and newly elected board member, Stuart Fairbairn, will represent the Aloha Foundation camps. Lisa Johnson was reappointed as Clerk for another year. Nick Harvey and David Matthews will continue an affiliation with the board as Emeritus Board members.
Funds were raised via the auction of Lisa Johnson's wonderful loon painting and a few other items. Thank you Lisa for donating your work of art! Throw blankets featuring many of the camps, past and present, were sold as well as LFA wine glasses. LFA logo baseball caps were also on sale; some are still available. If you would like to buy a baseball cap ($30), please send an email request to [email protected]
July 22, 2024
The annual meeting was held once again at Horizons Camp. Attended by approximately 50 members, mingling before and after the meeting was enjoyed by all. Reports from key LFA committees and board members were presented. Elections were held; Katherine Babbott, Kirsten Detrick, and David Forbes were reappointed for new 3 year terms and newly elected board member, Stuart Fairbairn, will represent the Aloha Foundation camps. Lisa Johnson was reappointed as Clerk for another year. Nick Harvey and David Matthews will continue an affiliation with the board as Emeritus Board members.
Funds were raised via the auction of Lisa Johnson's wonderful loon painting and a few other items. Thank you Lisa for donating your work of art! Throw blankets featuring many of the camps, past and present, were sold as well as LFA wine glasses. LFA logo baseball caps were also on sale; some are still available. If you would like to buy a baseball cap ($30), please send an email request to [email protected]
Second Annual Summer Social a Success - Finally!
June 30, 2024
After multiple postponements due to rainy weather, the 2nd Annual Summer Social took place on a gorgeous late afternoon at Doug Tifft & Bonnie MacAdam's waterfront on Sunday, June 30th. Approximately 40 LFA members attended. All enjoyed catching up with old friends and meeting new neighbors. The highlight was the the previous day's birth of the baby loon chick. The LoonCam was available for attendees to watch. Sean Brown and Doug Tifft spoke about the loons and the LoonCam. View the LoonCam's streaming video and highlight snippets. Keep a look out for more social events this summer!
June 30, 2024
After multiple postponements due to rainy weather, the 2nd Annual Summer Social took place on a gorgeous late afternoon at Doug Tifft & Bonnie MacAdam's waterfront on Sunday, June 30th. Approximately 40 LFA members attended. All enjoyed catching up with old friends and meeting new neighbors. The highlight was the the previous day's birth of the baby loon chick. The LoonCam was available for attendees to watch. Sean Brown and Doug Tifft spoke about the loons and the LoonCam. View the LoonCam's streaming video and highlight snippets. Keep a look out for more social events this summer!
Loon Chick Has Arrived - June 29th
June 30, 2024
On June 29 at around 5pm, the first egg hatched revealing a beautiful baby loon. The next day we all experienced joy and anxiety about the health of the chick and the fate of the second egg. Today (June 30), we have confirmed that the second chick was stillborn. While disappointing that our second chick did not survive, it reminds us of the natural rhythms of the lake and how fortunate we are to watch and learn from our wild environment. The loon family vacated the nest this afternoon to move on to a nursery area nearby. We will continue to observe and monitor their health and look forward to welcoming them again next year. Thank you again to all of you for your engagement, encouragement, and vigilant observations of loon behavior, of which we still have much to learn. Hopefully, the loon cam can continue to contribute to our understanding of these wonderful beings.
June 30, 2024
On June 29 at around 5pm, the first egg hatched revealing a beautiful baby loon. The next day we all experienced joy and anxiety about the health of the chick and the fate of the second egg. Today (June 30), we have confirmed that the second chick was stillborn. While disappointing that our second chick did not survive, it reminds us of the natural rhythms of the lake and how fortunate we are to watch and learn from our wild environment. The loon family vacated the nest this afternoon to move on to a nursery area nearby. We will continue to observe and monitor their health and look forward to welcoming them again next year. Thank you again to all of you for your engagement, encouragement, and vigilant observations of loon behavior, of which we still have much to learn. Hopefully, the loon cam can continue to contribute to our understanding of these wonderful beings.
Lake Fairlee Loons Lay An Egg To Worldwide Acclaim
June 3, 2024
Lake Fairlee loon cam watchers from Pakistan to Michigan awoke to fantastic news on the morning of June 3. The Lake Fairlee loons had finally produced an egg following a disappointing prior year with no eggs at all. Highlights posted to the LFA YouTube channel show the proud parents tending to the egg, including a close-up of the "egg roll" done with great care to maintain even heating.
This is the eighth year in which a loon pair has nested on the raft furnished by the Vermont Loon Conservation Project. Loons first nested successfully on the shore at the mouth of Blood Brook in 2016, producing the first of seven chicks born in subsequent years. Annually, Vermont loons raise under 100 new chicks each year across the entire state.
This year the loons began sitting on the raft on May 8 following its re-foliation and launching by Doug Tifft and his crew of helpers three days earlier. In the following weeks, the growing loon cam audience watched round the clock as the pair constructed the nest and did everything necessary to produce an egg (yes, some days repeatedly). This is the second year of operation for the only loon cam in the state, which was initiated by Sean Brown and sponsored by the LFA. It provides valuable insights into loon behavior, including clues to last year's puzzling outcome with no egg laid at all. Dedicated viewers who use monikers such as Loonychick, Ebbandflow, and Nascar19fan watch round the clock and post timestamps of significant events.
A second egg may yet be laid in the next day or so. With a gestation period of about 28 days, a loon chick could arrive before the end of June if all goes well. However, as revealed by the loon cam, the egg and the chick face numerous obstacles, including snapping turtles climbing on the raft, eagles swooping from above, and predators such as raccoons swimming from the shore. Some of these dangers have been recorded in the highlights from 2023 and 2024 posted on the LFA YouTube channel. Once the young are hatched, the parents soon depart the nesting raft and can be seen all around the lake with the chick or chicks riding on their back or trailing hungrily behind. The loon cam will then no longer be the site for this part of the loon life cycle, though our remote visitors continue to exalt at the sound of peepers and bullfrogs at night and Lake Fairlee's incomparable sunrises, sunsets, and misty mornings.
June 3, 2024
Lake Fairlee loon cam watchers from Pakistan to Michigan awoke to fantastic news on the morning of June 3. The Lake Fairlee loons had finally produced an egg following a disappointing prior year with no eggs at all. Highlights posted to the LFA YouTube channel show the proud parents tending to the egg, including a close-up of the "egg roll" done with great care to maintain even heating.
This is the eighth year in which a loon pair has nested on the raft furnished by the Vermont Loon Conservation Project. Loons first nested successfully on the shore at the mouth of Blood Brook in 2016, producing the first of seven chicks born in subsequent years. Annually, Vermont loons raise under 100 new chicks each year across the entire state.
This year the loons began sitting on the raft on May 8 following its re-foliation and launching by Doug Tifft and his crew of helpers three days earlier. In the following weeks, the growing loon cam audience watched round the clock as the pair constructed the nest and did everything necessary to produce an egg (yes, some days repeatedly). This is the second year of operation for the only loon cam in the state, which was initiated by Sean Brown and sponsored by the LFA. It provides valuable insights into loon behavior, including clues to last year's puzzling outcome with no egg laid at all. Dedicated viewers who use monikers such as Loonychick, Ebbandflow, and Nascar19fan watch round the clock and post timestamps of significant events.
A second egg may yet be laid in the next day or so. With a gestation period of about 28 days, a loon chick could arrive before the end of June if all goes well. However, as revealed by the loon cam, the egg and the chick face numerous obstacles, including snapping turtles climbing on the raft, eagles swooping from above, and predators such as raccoons swimming from the shore. Some of these dangers have been recorded in the highlights from 2023 and 2024 posted on the LFA YouTube channel. Once the young are hatched, the parents soon depart the nesting raft and can be seen all around the lake with the chick or chicks riding on their back or trailing hungrily behind. The loon cam will then no longer be the site for this part of the loon life cycle, though our remote visitors continue to exalt at the sound of peepers and bullfrogs at night and Lake Fairlee's incomparable sunrises, sunsets, and misty mornings.
Greeter Wake Boat Seminar
June 3, 2024
On Sunday, June 2nd, the LFA held a small educational seminar for our team of greeters who work at the boat launch. Subject's covered included the various types of boats capable of enhanced wake operation, how they operate, and how to identify them when they come to the launch on Lake Fairlee. The LFA strives to offer the best advise possible to all boaters during pre and post launch inspection in order to best assist our lake patrons to operate within the state operating rules. The ability to better identify a boat capable of enhanced wake operation allows us to better guide such boaters on how to operate within the newly formed wake sports zone on Lake Fairlee. The seminar was taught by Lake Fairlee Board of Trustee and lake-front owner Ben McLaughlin.
June 3, 2024
On Sunday, June 2nd, the LFA held a small educational seminar for our team of greeters who work at the boat launch. Subject's covered included the various types of boats capable of enhanced wake operation, how they operate, and how to identify them when they come to the launch on Lake Fairlee. The LFA strives to offer the best advise possible to all boaters during pre and post launch inspection in order to best assist our lake patrons to operate within the state operating rules. The ability to better identify a boat capable of enhanced wake operation allows us to better guide such boaters on how to operate within the newly formed wake sports zone on Lake Fairlee. The seminar was taught by Lake Fairlee Board of Trustee and lake-front owner Ben McLaughlin.
Lake Fairlee Ice Out History
April 25, 2024
This year, ice out was on April 6. Some lakes call "ice out" when a brick or other object falls through the ice. On Lake Fairlee the ice out has been called when all ice has melted off of the lake, including the bays. The ice out date has been tracked since 1975. Was this year's ice out date earlier or later than usual? If you are curious, you can learn more here.
April 25, 2024
This year, ice out was on April 6. Some lakes call "ice out" when a brick or other object falls through the ice. On Lake Fairlee the ice out has been called when all ice has melted off of the lake, including the bays. The ice out date has been tracked since 1975. Was this year's ice out date earlier or later than usual? If you are curious, you can learn more here.
Petition to Prohibit Wakesports on Lake Fairlee Submitted to Vermont DEC
April 20, 2024
On April 18, a petition to prohibit wakesports on Lake Fairlee was submitted to the Vermont Department of Conservation (DEC), a division of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR). The Petitioners include: the LFA; the Selectboards of Fairlee, Thetford, and West Fairlee; and the organizations that operate the camps on Lake Fairlee: the Aloha Foundation, Camp Billings, and Camp Lochearn. Letters of support for the petition came from Fairlee Marine, the Thetford and West Fairlee Conservation Commissions, Eric Hanson (Loon Biologist at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies), and the Treasure Island Committee.
The Petitioners do not believe the new statewide rule that allows wakesports within 500 feet from shore and 200 feet from other mid-lake boaters and swimmers adequately protects the lake ecosystem and the safety of traditional lake users. At its March 20 board meeting, the LFA Board voted 9-1 to submit the petition to prohibit wakesports. Specifically, the petition requests the ANR to add a new rule to the Vermont Use of Public Waters Rules (UPWR) Appendix A, Lake Specific Rules, under the Lake Fairlee section:
"b. Wakesports are prohibited."
Wakesports are defined in the UPWR as:
§5.17 “Wakesports” means:
A. to operate a wakeboat with ballast tanks, bags, or other devices or design features engaged to increase the size of the boat’s wake; or
B. to use a surfboard, wakeboard, hydrofoil, or similar device to ride on or in the wake: i. directly behind a wakeboat without a rope; or ii. directly behind a wakeboat with or without a rope, when the wakeboat has ballast tanks, bags, or other devices or design features engaged as described in Section 5.17.A.
Had the new statewide rule included the 1000-foot from shore distance for wakesports as requested in the Responsible Wakes petition (which was supported by the LFA) wakesports would not have been permitted on Lake Fairlee. The ANR acknowledged that it did not consider safety needs when drafting the statewide rule. For example, despite wakesports' much larger and more powerful wakes, the ANR left the current 200-foot distance any motorboat can operate from other boats and swimmers unchanged. During the statewide rulemaking process, the ANR recognized it will receive petitions from multiple lake organizations and municipalities seeking stronger recreational safety protections.
The statewide wakesports rule went into effect on April 15, 2024. The summer of 2025 is soonest the rule requesting a wakesports prohibition on Lake Fairlee could go into effect. The rulemaking process requires the DEC to hold a public hearing and provide a process for written comments on the Lake Fairlee-specific petition before deciding to make a rule change. These events have not been scheduled, but are expected to take place this summer.
A number of Lake Associations have petitioned ANR for stronger wake boat and wakesports regulation on their lakes.
April 20, 2024
On April 18, a petition to prohibit wakesports on Lake Fairlee was submitted to the Vermont Department of Conservation (DEC), a division of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR). The Petitioners include: the LFA; the Selectboards of Fairlee, Thetford, and West Fairlee; and the organizations that operate the camps on Lake Fairlee: the Aloha Foundation, Camp Billings, and Camp Lochearn. Letters of support for the petition came from Fairlee Marine, the Thetford and West Fairlee Conservation Commissions, Eric Hanson (Loon Biologist at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies), and the Treasure Island Committee.
The Petitioners do not believe the new statewide rule that allows wakesports within 500 feet from shore and 200 feet from other mid-lake boaters and swimmers adequately protects the lake ecosystem and the safety of traditional lake users. At its March 20 board meeting, the LFA Board voted 9-1 to submit the petition to prohibit wakesports. Specifically, the petition requests the ANR to add a new rule to the Vermont Use of Public Waters Rules (UPWR) Appendix A, Lake Specific Rules, under the Lake Fairlee section:
"b. Wakesports are prohibited."
Wakesports are defined in the UPWR as:
§5.17 “Wakesports” means:
A. to operate a wakeboat with ballast tanks, bags, or other devices or design features engaged to increase the size of the boat’s wake; or
B. to use a surfboard, wakeboard, hydrofoil, or similar device to ride on or in the wake: i. directly behind a wakeboat without a rope; or ii. directly behind a wakeboat with or without a rope, when the wakeboat has ballast tanks, bags, or other devices or design features engaged as described in Section 5.17.A.
- The rule proposed in Lake Fairlee-specific petition would still allow wake boat use on Lake Fairlee as long as the boat is not engaged in wakesports.
- Additionally, this rule will continue to allow wakeboarding behind a conventional ski boat or motorboat.
Had the new statewide rule included the 1000-foot from shore distance for wakesports as requested in the Responsible Wakes petition (which was supported by the LFA) wakesports would not have been permitted on Lake Fairlee. The ANR acknowledged that it did not consider safety needs when drafting the statewide rule. For example, despite wakesports' much larger and more powerful wakes, the ANR left the current 200-foot distance any motorboat can operate from other boats and swimmers unchanged. During the statewide rulemaking process, the ANR recognized it will receive petitions from multiple lake organizations and municipalities seeking stronger recreational safety protections.
The statewide wakesports rule went into effect on April 15, 2024. The summer of 2025 is soonest the rule requesting a wakesports prohibition on Lake Fairlee could go into effect. The rulemaking process requires the DEC to hold a public hearing and provide a process for written comments on the Lake Fairlee-specific petition before deciding to make a rule change. These events have not been scheduled, but are expected to take place this summer.
A number of Lake Associations have petitioned ANR for stronger wake boat and wakesports regulation on their lakes.
New Vermont Wakeboating and Wakesports Rule Takes Effect April 15
April 15, 2024
A new rule under Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules takes effect on April 15 that regulates wakeboating and wakesports on Vermont’s lakes. Vermont’s Use of Public Waters (UPW) Rules were developed to avoid and resolve recreational conflicts, to protect normal or designated uses on all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, and to ensure that natural resource values of public waters are fully protected.
For more information on the statewide rule, click HERE
For a map of Lake Fairlee's Wake Sports Zone, click HERE
Download wakesport zone maps for free in the Avenza app to use GPS-enabled maps offline
April 15, 2024
A new rule under Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules takes effect on April 15 that regulates wakeboating and wakesports on Vermont’s lakes. Vermont’s Use of Public Waters (UPW) Rules were developed to avoid and resolve recreational conflicts, to protect normal or designated uses on all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, and to ensure that natural resource values of public waters are fully protected.
For more information on the statewide rule, click HERE
For a map of Lake Fairlee's Wake Sports Zone, click HERE
Download wakesport zone maps for free in the Avenza app to use GPS-enabled maps offline
Special FOVLAP Event, March 26 - Recording and Presentations Available
Vermont's Wake Boat Rule
March 28, 2024
Beginning on April 15, 2024, a new rule under Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules takes effect that regulates wake boating and wakesports on Vermont’s lakes. Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules were developed to avoid and resolve recreational conflicts, to protect normal or designated uses on all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, and to ensure that natural resource values of public waters are fully protected.
On March 26, FOVLAP sponsored a seminar describing how Vermont's new wake boat rule will be rolled out by Vermont DEC, including outreach to lake users and enforcement officials. The event featured activities of lake associations preparing for this rollout and briefly touched on the topic of individual lakes preparing new petitions to strengthen restrictions. If you missed this event:
Vermont's Wake Boat Rule
March 28, 2024
Beginning on April 15, 2024, a new rule under Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules takes effect that regulates wake boating and wakesports on Vermont’s lakes. Vermont’s Use of Public Waters Rules were developed to avoid and resolve recreational conflicts, to protect normal or designated uses on all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, and to ensure that natural resource values of public waters are fully protected.
On March 26, FOVLAP sponsored a seminar describing how Vermont's new wake boat rule will be rolled out by Vermont DEC, including outreach to lake users and enforcement officials. The event featured activities of lake associations preparing for this rollout and briefly touched on the topic of individual lakes preparing new petitions to strengthen restrictions. If you missed this event:
- View the recorded event HERE
- PDFs of the presentations are all available HERE
- Visit the DEC's Wakeboating and Wakesports in Vermont webpage for addition rule details HERE
- Go to the Avenza Maps App HERE (Mobile app that allows you to download a map of all Vermont lakes that have a Wake Sport Zone and view your position on the map without a cellular connection.)
- See DEC's Maps of all Vermont Lakes' Wake Sports Zones HERE
FOVLAP Launches New Eurasian Watermilfoil Webpage
November 2, 2023
The Federation of Vermont Lakes and Ponds (FOVLAP) just added a new milfoil information webpage on their site which you can view here: Eurasian watermilfoil.
On this page, FOVLAP discusses what milfoil is, the impact it has on a lake, prevention and early detection programs, and control methods.
There is also an FAQ section presented in a Q&A format to address recent misinformation you may have heard, or read online or in newspaper commentaries about milfoil, or the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s permitting process. According to FOVLAP, additional FAQ entries will be added as they are completed.
November 2, 2023
The Federation of Vermont Lakes and Ponds (FOVLAP) just added a new milfoil information webpage on their site which you can view here: Eurasian watermilfoil.
On this page, FOVLAP discusses what milfoil is, the impact it has on a lake, prevention and early detection programs, and control methods.
There is also an FAQ section presented in a Q&A format to address recent misinformation you may have heard, or read online or in newspaper commentaries about milfoil, or the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s permitting process. According to FOVLAP, additional FAQ entries will be added as they are completed.
DASH Final Milfoil Report
October 16, 2023
This summer, the LFA hired the company Swampguana, LLC. to conduct Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) of invasive Eurasian Milfoil on Lake Fairlee. Find their final report here. (Note, replace "Boy Scout Camp" with "Camp Lochearn" as you read the report.) The team of divers could be seen throughout early to mid-September harvesting milfoil at several locations around the lake. While it is impossible to fully eradicate milfoil once established, the LFA's efforts to control this invasive plant are important to support native species, promote a healthy lake ecosystem, and ensure continued recreational opportunities for lake residents and visitors. DASH is just one of the many activities sponsored by the LFA and coordinated by LFA volunteers to control invasive species.
Read about Swampguana in FOVLAP's Fall 2020 Newsletter, pages 8-9. Watch a video of Swampguana's Robert Patton Hand pulling Milfoil.
October 16, 2023
This summer, the LFA hired the company Swampguana, LLC. to conduct Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) of invasive Eurasian Milfoil on Lake Fairlee. Find their final report here. (Note, replace "Boy Scout Camp" with "Camp Lochearn" as you read the report.) The team of divers could be seen throughout early to mid-September harvesting milfoil at several locations around the lake. While it is impossible to fully eradicate milfoil once established, the LFA's efforts to control this invasive plant are important to support native species, promote a healthy lake ecosystem, and ensure continued recreational opportunities for lake residents and visitors. DASH is just one of the many activities sponsored by the LFA and coordinated by LFA volunteers to control invasive species.
Read about Swampguana in FOVLAP's Fall 2020 Newsletter, pages 8-9. Watch a video of Swampguana's Robert Patton Hand pulling Milfoil.
Treasure Island has Closed for the Season - Boaters, Watch Out for Rocks
September 18, 2023
Megan Dubuque wishes all to know, Treasure Island has closed for the season and the buoys marking the swim area have been pulled. Boaters are advised not to take boats inside of the large white swim area buoys as there are several large submerged rocks.
September 18, 2023
Megan Dubuque wishes all to know, Treasure Island has closed for the season and the buoys marking the swim area have been pulled. Boaters are advised not to take boats inside of the large white swim area buoys as there are several large submerged rocks.
Tifft/MacAdam Screenhouse Storm-Damaged. LoonCam Still Working
September 8, 2023
Doug and Bonnie want everyone to know that they appreciate the concern of those who noticed the tree that fell and damaged their screenhouse. (More photos here.) The tree fell just before 11 p.m. Thursday night (Sept. 7) during the intense storm. You may have noticed a light on in the screenhouse. Doug hopes to enter the building to shut if off soon, but he can't cut the electricity without affecting the LoonCam router which is inside the building. If you are wondering, yes, many people are still watching the LoonCam, some in anticipation of the coming fall colors! Doug said, "It's amazing that the darn thing still transmits via the wireless antenna after all that happened."
September 8, 2023
Doug and Bonnie want everyone to know that they appreciate the concern of those who noticed the tree that fell and damaged their screenhouse. (More photos here.) The tree fell just before 11 p.m. Thursday night (Sept. 7) during the intense storm. You may have noticed a light on in the screenhouse. Doug hopes to enter the building to shut if off soon, but he can't cut the electricity without affecting the LoonCam router which is inside the building. If you are wondering, yes, many people are still watching the LoonCam, some in anticipation of the coming fall colors! Doug said, "It's amazing that the darn thing still transmits via the wireless antenna after all that happened."
Further Ventures into the Wild Areas of Treasure Island - Saturday, Sept. 9
September 7, 2023
Join us at Treasure Island on Saturday, September 9, at 10 a.m. for another "Walk and Talk" led by Treasure Island Committee member Dale Gephart, joined by local loon whisperer Doug Tifft. Back by popular demand, this tour will press further into the seldom seen northern section.
Park and meet at the upper parking lot by the dumpster.
This Saturday's walk includes densely forested waterfront, two beaver lodges, fern-filled wetlands, a meadow in transition, and a cattail marsh overlooking the loon nesting raft. Waterproof footwear and long pants are recommended.
September 7, 2023
Join us at Treasure Island on Saturday, September 9, at 10 a.m. for another "Walk and Talk" led by Treasure Island Committee member Dale Gephart, joined by local loon whisperer Doug Tifft. Back by popular demand, this tour will press further into the seldom seen northern section.
Park and meet at the upper parking lot by the dumpster.
This Saturday's walk includes densely forested waterfront, two beaver lodges, fern-filled wetlands, a meadow in transition, and a cattail marsh overlooking the loon nesting raft. Waterproof footwear and long pants are recommended.
Curious Happenings on Lake Fairlee
August 15, 2023
Over the next few weeks, you may notice a strange looking boat on Lake Fairlee flying a dive flag. No, they are not searching for lost treasure. These divers are from Swampguana Diving, and they are helping remove Eurasian Water Milfoil from the lake. Milfoil is an invasive plant that crowds out native plant species and clogs our waterways. Working with the Vermont DEC, the Lake Fairlee Association has hired Swampguana Diving to conduct Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) of milfoil from the lake bed. Through these efforts, we hope to maintain a healthy ecosystem by keeping invasive species such as milfoil under control. More details here.
August 15, 2023
Over the next few weeks, you may notice a strange looking boat on Lake Fairlee flying a dive flag. No, they are not searching for lost treasure. These divers are from Swampguana Diving, and they are helping remove Eurasian Water Milfoil from the lake. Milfoil is an invasive plant that crowds out native plant species and clogs our waterways. Working with the Vermont DEC, the Lake Fairlee Association has hired Swampguana Diving to conduct Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) of milfoil from the lake bed. Through these efforts, we hope to maintain a healthy ecosystem by keeping invasive species such as milfoil under control. More details here.
LFA August Social - Dockcert @ Doug & Bonnie's
August 13, 2023
Despite a forecast for possible thunder showers, Sunday proved to be a beautiful day for a concert on Doug and Bonnie's beautiful shore. The Boston-based a cappella group, Tonal Eclipse, (which included Katherine Babbott and Tom Ward's daughter, yeah Clara!) performed various throwbacks and pop music tunes. The 25+ in attendance had a wonderful time!
August 13, 2023
Despite a forecast for possible thunder showers, Sunday proved to be a beautiful day for a concert on Doug and Bonnie's beautiful shore. The Boston-based a cappella group, Tonal Eclipse, (which included Katherine Babbott and Tom Ward's daughter, yeah Clara!) performed various throwbacks and pop music tunes. The 25+ in attendance had a wonderful time!
LFA Annual Meeting @ Horizons Camp
July 22, 2023
The annual meeting returned to Horizons Camp and was attended by approximately 60 members. Reports from key LFA committees and board members were presented. Elections were held: Sean Brown (new trustee), Lisa Johnson (Clerk), and Elizabeth Wilcox (V.P.) were elected to new three year terms. Kirsten Detrick (new trustee) was elected to complete the one year remaining in Ridge Satterthwaite's term as Ridge and Renee Snow have become Emeritus Board members. Renee will continue to lead the outstanding Greeter program.
This year’s highlighted speaker, Lisa Niccolai, Conservation Specialist, White River Natural Resources Conservation District. Lisa gave an overview of the Lake Wise program and the Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP). For more information go to the Lake Wise and/or LWAP pages.
Another highlight was the auctioning Lisa Johnson's wonderful hot air balloon painting. The auction was ably and enthusiastically run by Ben McLaughlin and $500 was raised for the LFA! Thank you Lisa for donating your work of art. And of course, there was time to mingle with Lake Fairlee friends before and after the meeting.
July 22, 2023
The annual meeting returned to Horizons Camp and was attended by approximately 60 members. Reports from key LFA committees and board members were presented. Elections were held: Sean Brown (new trustee), Lisa Johnson (Clerk), and Elizabeth Wilcox (V.P.) were elected to new three year terms. Kirsten Detrick (new trustee) was elected to complete the one year remaining in Ridge Satterthwaite's term as Ridge and Renee Snow have become Emeritus Board members. Renee will continue to lead the outstanding Greeter program.
This year’s highlighted speaker, Lisa Niccolai, Conservation Specialist, White River Natural Resources Conservation District. Lisa gave an overview of the Lake Wise program and the Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP). For more information go to the Lake Wise and/or LWAP pages.
Another highlight was the auctioning Lisa Johnson's wonderful hot air balloon painting. The auction was ably and enthusiastically run by Ben McLaughlin and $500 was raised for the LFA! Thank you Lisa for donating your work of art. And of course, there was time to mingle with Lake Fairlee friends before and after the meeting.
Consider Supporting the Brian J. Boland Foundation.
July 26, 2023
Brian's hot air balloons floating over Lake Fairlee made everyone smile. He added a uniqueness to the Lake Fairlee community.
The Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation has been established to honor Brian Boland’s legacy as a creator, aviator, and inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds to get out there and make something! The Foundation will help preserve and support the Museum of Rusty Dusty Stuff, fund community events at Post Mills Airport, and develop educational activities consistent with Brian’s vision.
Plans include Experimental Balloon and Airship Association gatherings; a possible Winter Ballooning and Community event; and continuing work on the demonstration Pollinator Garden created by Alicia Houk. Some gentle organizing is going on in the Museum and work is underway to create a digital archive of Brian's ballooning legacy.
We appreciate your donations to help make these projects a reality. As a 501c3, all donations are tax-deductible. Donations will not be used to support airport operations.
Tax-deductible donations to the Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation can be made via Paypal at this link OR by sending a check
made out to Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation to PO Box 51, Post Malls, VT 05058.
July 26, 2023
Brian's hot air balloons floating over Lake Fairlee made everyone smile. He added a uniqueness to the Lake Fairlee community.
The Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation has been established to honor Brian Boland’s legacy as a creator, aviator, and inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds to get out there and make something! The Foundation will help preserve and support the Museum of Rusty Dusty Stuff, fund community events at Post Mills Airport, and develop educational activities consistent with Brian’s vision.
Plans include Experimental Balloon and Airship Association gatherings; a possible Winter Ballooning and Community event; and continuing work on the demonstration Pollinator Garden created by Alicia Houk. Some gentle organizing is going on in the Museum and work is underway to create a digital archive of Brian's ballooning legacy.
We appreciate your donations to help make these projects a reality. As a 501c3, all donations are tax-deductible. Donations will not be used to support airport operations.
Tax-deductible donations to the Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation can be made via Paypal at this link OR by sending a check
made out to Brian J. Boland Memorial Foundation to PO Box 51, Post Malls, VT 05058.
Wastewater Management Workshop - Presentation, Handouts, Audio Recording
July 14, 2023
Cristin Ashmankas of the Vermont DEC's Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division gave a very informative and insightful presentation on wastewater systems (aka septic systems) at the Fairlee Town Hall on July 13. This successful workshop was jointly sponsored by the Lake Morey Protective Association and the LFA.
If you missed the presentation, you will find the presentation slides here (this is a large file, be patient if your internet speed is slow) and the handouts: Homeowner's Handout, Failed System Handout.
The audio only presentation is available here. The presentation does not start until minute 00:17:40 - so skip ahead to that point. You can try to scroll through the slides while you listen to the audio presentation. Contacts for specific questions.
Septic systems can contribute significantly to lake phosphorus levels. Phosphorus can feed algae increasing the possibility of green blue algae (cyanobacteria) blooms which can be toxic to wildlife, pets, and people. Making sure your septic system is operating correctly can help keep Lake Fairlee healthy. Review the above linked materials to learn what you can do to make sure your septic system is not negatively impacting the lake's health.
July 14, 2023
Cristin Ashmankas of the Vermont DEC's Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division gave a very informative and insightful presentation on wastewater systems (aka septic systems) at the Fairlee Town Hall on July 13. This successful workshop was jointly sponsored by the Lake Morey Protective Association and the LFA.
If you missed the presentation, you will find the presentation slides here (this is a large file, be patient if your internet speed is slow) and the handouts: Homeowner's Handout, Failed System Handout.
The audio only presentation is available here. The presentation does not start until minute 00:17:40 - so skip ahead to that point. You can try to scroll through the slides while you listen to the audio presentation. Contacts for specific questions.
Septic systems can contribute significantly to lake phosphorus levels. Phosphorus can feed algae increasing the possibility of green blue algae (cyanobacteria) blooms which can be toxic to wildlife, pets, and people. Making sure your septic system is operating correctly can help keep Lake Fairlee healthy. Review the above linked materials to learn what you can do to make sure your septic system is not negatively impacting the lake's health.
State Formally Files Wakeboat Rule
June 28, 2023 - updated July 18 (Aug. 1 public hearing venue changed due to flooding)
On June 21, the Vermont Agency of of Natural Resources (ANR) filed a proposed rule to regulate wake sports on Vermont lakes and ponds to the Secretary of State. Public Notice of this rule was posted by the Secretary of State on June 28. This is an important milestone for Vermont and efforts to improve Vermont lakes' health and safety.
The next step in the rulemaking process includes public hearings: in-person on August 1, 5:00 PM-7:30 PM at the Richmond Free Library at 201 Bridge St. in Richmond and on August 3, 5:00 PM-7:30 PM online via Microsoft Teams. Sign-up sheets to speak at these hearings will be available on July 10 at 9 AM. Additional details will appear here when available. Written public comments can be submitted by email until August 10, 4:30 PM to [email protected] Use the subject line "wake boats."
June 28, 2023 - updated July 18 (Aug. 1 public hearing venue changed due to flooding)
On June 21, the Vermont Agency of of Natural Resources (ANR) filed a proposed rule to regulate wake sports on Vermont lakes and ponds to the Secretary of State. Public Notice of this rule was posted by the Secretary of State on June 28. This is an important milestone for Vermont and efforts to improve Vermont lakes' health and safety.
The next step in the rulemaking process includes public hearings: in-person on August 1, 5:00 PM-7:30 PM at the Richmond Free Library at 201 Bridge St. in Richmond and on August 3, 5:00 PM-7:30 PM online via Microsoft Teams. Sign-up sheets to speak at these hearings will be available on July 10 at 9 AM. Additional details will appear here when available. Written public comments can be submitted by email until August 10, 4:30 PM to [email protected] Use the subject line "wake boats."
Lake Fairlee Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP)
is available June 16, 2023 The White River Natural Resources Conservation District is working with Bear Creek Environmental, and other project partners to conduct lake watershed action planning within the Lake Fairlee watershed in Vermont. The Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP) aims to address key water quality issues and to promote the long-term health and sustainability of the Lake. Click HERE for a copy of Lake Fairlee Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP). |
The plan covers:
- Nutrient Reduction - Shoreline Protection and Restoration - Project Idenfification and Prioritization - Conceptual designs and cost estimates - Public Outreach - Funding and implementation. |
Loon enthusiasts delight in Lake Fairlee’s new livestream camera
from the Valley News by Liz Sauchelli, Published: June 11, 2023
On Sunday, the Valley News published an article featuring quotes from our own Sean Brown and Doug Tifft, and Eric Hanson, biologist for the Vermont Loon Conservation Project at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies. Read the article here.
from the Valley News by Liz Sauchelli, Published: June 11, 2023
On Sunday, the Valley News published an article featuring quotes from our own Sean Brown and Doug Tifft, and Eric Hanson, biologist for the Vermont Loon Conservation Project at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies. Read the article here.
The News Archives contains past Loon Call Area News and are available here.
The previous LFA blog will be maintained as an historical record and is available here.
Download a digital copy of At Home by the Water - Caring for Lake Fairlee and Its Watershed
This user-friendly book was created to inform and educate Lake Fairlee and watershed homeowners as to best practices that we, as homeowners, can do to help protect and preserve our fragile lake and watershed ecosystem.
Renter Guidelines, Contractor Tips, Permits, and Additional Resources
This user-friendly book was created to inform and educate Lake Fairlee and watershed homeowners as to best practices that we, as homeowners, can do to help protect and preserve our fragile lake and watershed ecosystem.
Renter Guidelines, Contractor Tips, Permits, and Additional Resources
Current LFA Projects
The Association’s board, members, and numerous dedicated community volunteers are working hard to take care of our lake. Volunteers have donated hundreds of hours for the betterment of the lake and community. Here are highlights of current projects supported by membership dues, generous donations, and many volunteer hours:
- Greeter Program: In 2023, a rotating team of 6 greeters welcomed nearly 2,500 watercraft to the lake and inspected over 2,200 of them. Of this total, watercraft required decontamination 16 times this summer - meaning that, on average, the potential introduction of invasive species to Lake Fairlee or other waters was averted approximately once per week since greeters began work in May.
- Milfoil Mitigation: In May 2023, the LFA sponsored an early season survey for aquatic invasive species, which suggested an herbicide treatment was unnecessary for 2023. While good news, new patches of milfoil were observed throughout the summer. Future surveys will guide the application of herbicide in the coming years.
- DASH: In September 2023, the LFA used approximately $14,000 in funds to conduct Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) of Eurasian Milfoil from the lake bed. The DASH team worked over 10 days to harvest and compost 5000 gallons of milfoil in several areas around the lake.
- Water Quality Action Committee: The WQAC completed its fourth season of tributary water sampling in 2023. LFA volunteers collected water samples from eight locations along Blood Brook and Middle Brook over 16 weeks to help identify sources of phosphorus entering the lake. The WQAC also conducted weekly Cyanobacteria testing at 3 locations on Lake Fairlee.
- Lake Wise: The LFA provided a Lake Wise representative with a public platform for communicating the benefits of property owner participation at its July 2023 meeting. Five homeowners participated in the Lake Wise program this year. Of note, if 2 more properties earn the Lake Wise award, Lake Fairlee will join a small handful of other Vermont Lakes to earn the State’s Gold Award. The Gold Award is given to lakes where more than 15% of the lakeshore properties have earned Lake Wise awards.
- Wakesports: LFA worked with partners at Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes (RWVL) to advocate limiting wakesports operation to bodies of water where a minimum distance to shore of 1,000 feet and in water 20 feet deep can be maintained. The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources has since put forward a rule requiring wakesports to take place 500 feet from shore in 20 feet of water. If RWVL’s proposed rule was adopted, wakesports would have been excluded from Lake Fairlee. With the ANR rule, wakesports will be permitted in the area southwest of Passumpsic Point surrounded by camps Lochearn, Horizons, Billings and Ohana.
- Loon Cam: The LFA deployed Vermont’s first “LoonCam” at the northern end of the lake in Spring 2023. It enables remote observation of a loon pair that has nested on the lake since 2016. The story of the loons and the LoonCam was the topic of a June 2023 article in the Valley News. The LoonCam was funded through a donation of $1,000 and enables ecologists, Thetford residents, and others to observe the lake and its loons. To date, there are nearly 550 subscribers to the LoonCam’s YouTube channel.
About Lake Fairlee
Lake Fairlee is a 2 mile long, 462 acre natural lake located in three towns: Thetford, Fairlee, and West Fairlee. The lake is fed from the north by two brooks, Middle Brook and Blood Brook. At the lake’s southwesterly outlet is the recently rebuilt Lake Fairlee Dam (2015). The water flows past the dam and makes its way into the Ompompanoosuc River, which, in turn, empties into the Connecticut River. A combination of four roads surround the lake: VT RT-244, Quinibeck Road, Robinson Hill Road, and Lake Shore Drive. There are two public access points, the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife Access Area/Boat Launch on RT-244 in West Fairlee and Thetford's Treasure Island (fees required), also on RT-244 in West Fairlee.
Lake Fairlee from the air.
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Please contact us if you have any questions about the LFA or wish to tell us about interesting happenings around the lake.
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