Wentworth Watershed Association

Why the Work of the Wentworth Watershed Association Matters

Lake Wentworth Is Rare — And That Matters

• Lake Wentworth is one of New Hampshire’s rare Class A lakes, the highest water quality designation in the state.
• It is also one of the largest lakes with this distinction.
• Most lakes across the state are working to restore lost water quality. We still have the opportunity to protect what remains exceptional.

The Lake Is Still Healthy — But Pressure Is Growing

The watershed is experiencing increasing stress from:

• Stormwater runoff from roads, driveways, and development
• Shoreline alterations that reduce natural filtration
• Erosion and phosphorus entering the lake
• Growing recreational and boating use
• Incremental changes that add up overtime

These are the same pressures that have degraded lakes throughout New Hampshire.

Prevention Is the Critical Window

• Once water quality declines, restoration becomes extremely difficult and expensive.
• The most effective and affordable strategy is prevention.
• We are at a pivotal moment where action now can prevent far greater environmental and financial costs later.

Clean Water Supports the Entire Community

A healthy lake protects:

• Property values
• Recreation and tourism
• Wildlife habitat
• Drinking water resources
• The character and quality of life of the region

What happens on the land flows directly into the lake.

The Wentworth Watershed Association Provides Science-Based Protection

The WWA works year-round to:

• Monitor water quality and track changes over time
• Identify pollution sources before problems worsen
• Reduce stormwater runoff and erosion
• Restore and protect shorelines and wetlands
• Conserve sensitive lands within the watershed
• Educate residents, visitors, contractors, and lake users
• Mobilize volunteers and community action

Proven, Local Impact

• The watershed has already seen measurable reductions in phosphorus through targeted efforts.
• Actions are guided by data, science, and long-term watershed planning.
• Small improvements across hundreds of properties create meaningful lake-wide results.

Why This Matters Now

We are in a rare position:

• The lake is still high quality
• We know the threats
• We know what works
• We still have time to act before irreversible decline occurs

Protecting Lake Wentworth is not just about today — it is about ensuring future generations inherit a lake that remains exceptional, not average.