The Megunticook Watershed Association (MWA) has been awarded two grants from private foundations to fund a major Watershed Survey in 2026. The survey will be administered and conducted by MWA staff with support from Ecological Instincts and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

According to MWA, in a news release, the purpose of the survey is to get a current assessment of the condition of the land area that drains into Megunticook Lake and Norton Pond, with a focus on identifying sources of pollution and potential solutions.

“Our goal is to identify and document specific erosion and runoff problem areas that are contributing to sediment and/or phosphorus loading into the water,” says Pat Behling, chair of MWA’s environmental committee. “With that knowledge we can then map out solutions.”

The last Watershed Survey was conducted in 2006. Watershed surveys focus on identifying sources of soil erosion from gravel roads, driveways, construction sites, foot paths, unstable culverts and other sources. Soil particles from eroding areas can be carried to lakes in stormwater runoff that flows directly into the water bodies. Soil particles carry phosphorous, a nutrient that promotes the growth of algae.

A number of Maine Lakes have been seriously impacted by algae blooms, which degrade water quality, harm other forms of aquatic life, and seriously hinder the public’s enjoyment of swimming, boating and fishing, according to MWA. The Megunticook System has not experienced such blooms to date, but the DEP considers this watershed “at risk” due to its shoreline development and heavy recreational use.

The Megunticook watershed covers some 30 square miles, and includes Megunticook River and Lake, as well as Norton, Moody and Levenseller Ponds. The 2026 planned survey will focus on land adjacent to Megunticook Lake and Norton Pond with an eye towards rolling out a similar survey of the Megunticook River and the other ponds next year. P.O. Box 443 Camden, ME 04843 - 207.200.3513 - www.megunticook.org

“The Norton – Megunticook system is a tremendous recreational and economic resource for our community,” says Kidder. “With over 300 waterfront homes, three public boat ramps, three public parks with swimming areas, plus public access at Lands End and the Fernald’s Neck Preserve, these waters are enjoyed by thousands each year. Our mission is to ensure that they remain clean and healthy into the future.”

The field portion of the survey is scheduled to begin in early May and volunteers will be needed. For further information or to volunteer, contact the Megunticook Watershed Association at https://www.megunticook.org/ or email: info@megunticook.org