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.
LAKE FAIRLEE MAP – 2024 LFA Fundraiser
We are updating the Lake Fairlee map! Please click HERE to fill out a form to let us know what last name you would like used to label your property on the updated map. (If you do not fill out this form, your property will not be labeled on the map.) |
At this summer’s annual meeting, the membership committee proposed a fundraiser to update the 2011 map of Lake Fairlee members' cabins/cottages around the lake. Members present at the meeting indicated a strong interest in the project. |
The Lake Fairlee LoonCam will return this spring.
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
The Loon Call - Lake Area News |
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 anr.wsmdlakes@vermont.gov 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 anr.wsmdlakes@vermont.gov 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.
Successful LFA First Annual Summer Social
June 4, 2023
Approximately 40 LFA members attended the First Annual Summer Social held at Doug Tifft & Bonnie MacAdam's waterfront on Saturday, June 3rd. All enjoyed catching up with old friends and meeting new neighbors. The highlight was the official launch of the LoonCam. Sean Brown provided an overview of the project and gave "tours" of how to view the LoonCam's streaming video and highlight snippets.
We hope to make an early summer season gathering an annual event. Keep a look out for more social events this summer!
June 4, 2023
Approximately 40 LFA members attended the First Annual Summer Social held at Doug Tifft & Bonnie MacAdam's waterfront on Saturday, June 3rd. All enjoyed catching up with old friends and meeting new neighbors. The highlight was the official launch of the LoonCam. Sean Brown provided an overview of the project and gave "tours" of how to view the LoonCam's streaming video and highlight snippets.
We hope to make an early summer season gathering an annual event. Keep a look out for more social events this summer!
Doug, Bonnie, and Katherine upgrading the loon nest island
They're Back! Loon Pair Returns
April 16, 2023
This report just in from Doug Tifft (aka The Loon Ranger)
As if on cue, the loon pair returned this morning to inspect yesterday's handiwork on their nesting raft. (Doug, Bonnie MacAdam, Katherine Babbott, and Tom Ward provided maintenance and new landscaping for the loon nest island the day before.) I walked out a little after 6 a.m. to a totally still and vacant lake. After sitting down on the bench with my coffee, the show began with what I first thought were silly mergansers swimming out from the large marsh to the left. I looked more closely with my binoculars and was pleased to see that this was, indeed, our loon pair looking regal and healthy. They proceeded to swim at a distance in front of me, diving now and then, and continued across to their nesting cove. A small squadron of geese meanwhile flew overhead, circled around, and landed a bit further out, directly across from me. The loons reappeared to the left of the geese, swimming casually and in a stately fashion toward them. This seemed to enerve the geese, who honked with apprehension as if to say, "They're back! The jig is up." As the loons neared, the geese took flight. It was clear that noisy geese (and silly ducks) had better show more decorum from here on out.
Thank you Doug for your informative reporting!
April 16, 2023
This report just in from Doug Tifft (aka The Loon Ranger)
As if on cue, the loon pair returned this morning to inspect yesterday's handiwork on their nesting raft. (Doug, Bonnie MacAdam, Katherine Babbott, and Tom Ward provided maintenance and new landscaping for the loon nest island the day before.) I walked out a little after 6 a.m. to a totally still and vacant lake. After sitting down on the bench with my coffee, the show began with what I first thought were silly mergansers swimming out from the large marsh to the left. I looked more closely with my binoculars and was pleased to see that this was, indeed, our loon pair looking regal and healthy. They proceeded to swim at a distance in front of me, diving now and then, and continued across to their nesting cove. A small squadron of geese meanwhile flew overhead, circled around, and landed a bit further out, directly across from me. The loons reappeared to the left of the geese, swimming casually and in a stately fashion toward them. This seemed to enerve the geese, who honked with apprehension as if to say, "They're back! The jig is up." As the loons neared, the geese took flight. It was clear that noisy geese (and silly ducks) had better show more decorum from here on out.
Thank you Doug for your informative reporting!
Lake Fairlee LWAP Project Update – Meeting Video & PowerPoint, Sidenote Article
February 22, 2023
Lisa Niccolai, Conservation Specialist, WRNRCD and Mary Mary Nealon, Bear Creek Environmental presented an update on the Lake & Watershed Action Plan
Agenda:
1. Brief introduction and update about what has been happening since the kick-off meeting (Lisa Niccolai, White River NRCD)
2. Lake Wise summary (Lisa Niccolai)
3. Data collection roads, shoreline and tributaries (Mary Nealon, Bear Creek Environmental)
4. Project Identification and prioritization (Mary Nealon)
5. Questions and Next Steps (Lisa Niccolai)
Click here to watch the Zoom meeting.
Click here to view Mary Nealon's PowerPoint slides.
Click here to read Li Shen's Feb. 26 Sidenote Article, Watershed Action Plan; Halting Lake Fairlee pollution requires cooperation of many.
February 22, 2023
Lisa Niccolai, Conservation Specialist, WRNRCD and Mary Mary Nealon, Bear Creek Environmental presented an update on the Lake & Watershed Action Plan
Agenda:
1. Brief introduction and update about what has been happening since the kick-off meeting (Lisa Niccolai, White River NRCD)
2. Lake Wise summary (Lisa Niccolai)
3. Data collection roads, shoreline and tributaries (Mary Nealon, Bear Creek Environmental)
4. Project Identification and prioritization (Mary Nealon)
5. Questions and Next Steps (Lisa Niccolai)
Click here to watch the Zoom meeting.
Click here to view Mary Nealon's PowerPoint slides.
Click here to read Li Shen's Feb. 26 Sidenote Article, Watershed Action Plan; Halting Lake Fairlee pollution requires cooperation of many.
Press Coverage: DEC Wake Boat Draft Concept Rule Feedback Meeting, Greensboro, VT
February 17, 2023
Approximately 100 people attended the DEC's February 15 meeting in Greensboro in person. Another 170 attended online. The DEC sought input on the draft concept rule announced in January. 60 people were selected randomly to comment. Over 90% expressed support for wake boat regulation and the vast majority of those requested the DEC strengthen the draft rule further.
Links to post-meeting press coverage:
Seven Days - Feb. 17
VTDigger - Feb. 15
WCAX - Feb. 15
FOX44 - Feb. 15
February 17, 2023
Approximately 100 people attended the DEC's February 15 meeting in Greensboro in person. Another 170 attended online. The DEC sought input on the draft concept rule announced in January. 60 people were selected randomly to comment. Over 90% expressed support for wake boat regulation and the vast majority of those requested the DEC strengthen the draft rule further.
Links to post-meeting press coverage:
Seven Days - Feb. 17
VTDigger - Feb. 15
WCAX - Feb. 15
FOX44 - Feb. 15
LFA Board Votes to Reafirm Support for Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes Wake Boat Petition
January 19, 2023
At the January 19th LFA board meeting, the board voted to express its appreciation for the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) decision to move forward on rule-making to manage wake boats on Vermont's inland lakes. Additionally, the board voted to communicate to the DEC its desire to see the DEC's concept rule strengthened by reaffirming support for the rule proposed in the petition filed in March 22 with the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) by the multi-lake group, Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes (RWVL). The DEC's concept rule proposes wake boats operate 500 feet from shore whereas the RWVL petition proposes a 1000ft from shore distance. The LFA supports the 1000 foot distance which can provide additional future protection for lakes and lake users as wake boats continue to become more powerful and more numerous. See the letter sent to Oliver Pierson, Lakes and Ponds Program Manager, DEC.
The DEC has scheduled a public meeting on February 15, 2023 to receive comments on the concept rule. The meeting will be held in person on 2/15 at 5:30 PM, at the Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro VT, and virtually on Microsoft Teams. Full details, including how to join via Teams can be found here.
Sign up here to provide a comment.
January 19, 2023
At the January 19th LFA board meeting, the board voted to express its appreciation for the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) decision to move forward on rule-making to manage wake boats on Vermont's inland lakes. Additionally, the board voted to communicate to the DEC its desire to see the DEC's concept rule strengthened by reaffirming support for the rule proposed in the petition filed in March 22 with the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) by the multi-lake group, Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes (RWVL). The DEC's concept rule proposes wake boats operate 500 feet from shore whereas the RWVL petition proposes a 1000ft from shore distance. The LFA supports the 1000 foot distance which can provide additional future protection for lakes and lake users as wake boats continue to become more powerful and more numerous. See the letter sent to Oliver Pierson, Lakes and Ponds Program Manager, DEC.
The DEC has scheduled a public meeting on February 15, 2023 to receive comments on the concept rule. The meeting will be held in person on 2/15 at 5:30 PM, at the Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro VT, and virtually on Microsoft Teams. Full details, including how to join via Teams can be found here.
Sign up here to provide a comment.
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.
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:
- Lake and Watershed Action Plan (LWAP). Lake Fairlee has been selected as one of two Vermont lakes for funding ($30,000) to develop a Lake and Watershed Action Plan. Led by Lisa Niccolai, Conservation Specialist, White River Conservation District (WRNRCD), work has begun on the plan with a final report anticipated in the spring of 2023.
- Lake Wise Program. Concurrent with the LWAP, the WRNRCD has asked the LFA for assistance identifying landowners wishing to have a Lake Wise Program property assessment. Through the assessment process, you will learn valuable information about your specific shoreline – how to support a healthy lake ecosystem by following best management practices and the method(s) to create a native vegetative shoreline buffer to decrease runoff and erosion. To schedule an appointment or gather more information, contact Lisa Niccolai). To assist this program, EC Browns Nursery in Thetford Center offers current LFA members listed in the upcoming LFA Directory a discount on trees, shrubs and flowers.
- Water Quality. The Water Quality Action Committee (WQAC) continues its cooperative work with the LaRosa Partnership Program (LPP) to understand the sources of high phosphate levels in the lake and its tributaries, adding sampling sites and utilizing new research methodologies. WQAC will assist with the Lake and Watershed Action Plan.
- Treasure Island Committee. The new charge given to the Treasure Island Committee (formerly known as the Treasure Island Exploratory Committee), which is now a standing committee of the Thetford Selectboard, is to “develop a financially
sustainable way to improve and maintain facilities and expand recreational and educational activities while
adhering to best environmental practices.” The group is currently reviewing the draft of a 32-page stewardship
plan written by Lisa Niccolai, a conservation specialist who heads up the Lake Wise Program for our area. This
detailed document will be the basis for a 10-year management plan for the 11.5-acre lakefront property, which
has been owned and managed by the Town of Thetford since 1973. The Selectboard also awaits results of a
wetland delineation, required by the Vermont Lake and Shoreland Agency, by the end of May. The Treasure
Island Committee meets on the third Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Thetford town offices (with a
Zoom link in the online town calendar). - Milfoil Mitigation. Routinely the largest portion of the LFA annual budget, milfoil mitigation efforts continue in 2022 with a renewed State license and a June application of the herbicide Procellacor. This product boasts higher effectiveness in lower concentrations than previous products. Used in conjunction with some potential suction harvesting, Procellacor will help us continue to combat milfoil and help create a healthier, better balanced aquatic ecosystem.
- Greeter Program. The Lake Fairlee Greeter Program is integral to our battle against invasive species. Stationed at the boat landing from May through mid-October, six (6) highly experienced (6-8 years each), state-trained greeters will return in 2022! The greeters inspect all inbound and outbound watercraft for invasive plants and animals. The Greeter Program is one of the primary programs supported by your dues and donations.
- Wake Boats. Congruent with the LFA’s core purpose to preserve, protect and enhance the distinctive and natural resources of Lake Fairlee and its surrounding watershed, the LFA board voted in July 2021 to support the work of Responsible Wakes for Vermont Lakes (RWVL). This citizens group has filed a petition with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) proposing rules to manage wake boats on Vermont lakes. Public informational hearings are scheduled for June 29th and July 7th. To show your personal support for wake boats to be managed on Vermont's lakes and ponds, please sign the online Letter of Support at this link: tinyurl.com/RWVLLetterOfSupport and attend the public hearings in person or virtually. The DEC will decide later in the summer any plans to issue new rules. Unfamiliar with wake boats and wake surfing – Watch this 1.5 minute video showing a wake boat in action on southern Vermont's Lake Raponda last summer.
- Nature. For quiet observers, the lake and surrounding land once again hosted numerous wonderful creatures. Fox, beavers, otters, muskrats, turtles, bald eagles, great blue herons, osprey, and loons could all be seen around the lake. Thanks to our state approved nesting raft, we've had a successful loon breeding pair for six of the past seven years (a baby chick was first spotted this summer on June 15, 2022) – an incredible success rate. Dedicated volunteers work closely with Vermont Fish and Wildlife, a biologist from the Vermont Loon Conservation Project, and Vermont Center for Ecostudies to monitor the lake’s loon population. With member donations, the LFA continues to provide financial support to the Vermont Center for Ecostudies.
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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The LFA sends out periodic newsletters and announcements. If you would like our newsletters and announcements emailed to you, please provide us with your email address.
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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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