VOLUNTEER: Winter Water Quality Excursion

The Squam Lakes Association's water-quality data set is the oldest in the northeast, and we need YOU to help keep it going. Volunteer water quality monitoring is a great way to get involved in the Squam community, get outside, and contribute to important research. Join us to collect a water column sample and a data profile at one of our monitoring sites on Sunday, March 1st and Sunday, March 8th from 10-2.

The purpose of this excursion is to get folks out on the ice and show them how the SLA and its volunteers collect water quality data. Participants will get hands-on experience using winter water quality equipment. We will meet at the SLA headquarters at 10:00 A.M for a brief introduction to winter water quality and ice safety, then head out in our van to our monitoring sites.

All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Squam Lakes Association is dedicated to conserving for public benefit the natural beauty, peaceful character, and resources of the watershed. In collaboration with local and state partners, the SLA promotes the protection, careful use, and shared enjoyment of the lakes, mountains, forests, open spaces, and wildlife of the Squam Lakes Region.

Participants should be sure to have appropriate attire and layering for walking and standing on the ice for extended periods. This includes extra layers, comfortable water resistant shoes, winter hats, mittens, and a buff/balaclava. Snowshoes and/or microspikes may be needed depending on conditions. The SLA can provide snowshoes & microspikes if needed. Make sure to bring a lunch to eat out on the ice, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses. Feel free to reach out to the SLA with any questions!

Squam Lakes Association Headquarters

This event will take place first at the Squam Lakes Association Headquarters Great Room followed by an excursion out on the ice to sample for water quality.