Even though we are now well into fall; we hope that you have the opportunity to spend time on Great and Long Ponds or at least think of the time spent on the lake(s). Our mission to protect the lakes is ongoing throughout the year if future generations are going to have the opportunity to enjoy healthy lakes. Unfortunately the abbreviated summer and difficult economic climate resulted in a shortfall in BLA fundraising resources.
Even with the shortfall in income; donations received from BLA members helped support the many ongoing major activities on Great and Long Ponds including:
1) The courtesy boat inspection program to prevent the invasion of milfoil,
2) LakeSmart to teach property owners practices to protect the quality of water entering our lakes,
3) Reduction of duck itch,
4) Overall projects to reduce phosphorous getting into the lakes and its major adverse effect—algae blooms.
In August 2008, Eurasian Milfoil was discovered in Salmon Lake (in Kozy Cove), which leads into Great Pond. The Departments of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (DIFW) mobilized their rapid response teams; however, they were not able to eradicate the infestation. On a more positive note, in conjunction with volunteer divers (including many BLA members), Hatch Cove on Great Pond was investigated with no signs by infestation. Given the small area of infestation, the DEP applied an herbicide to target the milfoil; which has exhibited positive effects thus far. Please stay tuned to the new improved BLA website for all water quality updates: www.belgradelakesassociation.com
Salmon Lake Eurasian Water Milfoil Herbicide (2, 4-D) Treatment Concentration Results as of 9/18/09
The five water sampling stations are indicated by the yellow placemarks on the image below and labeled with sampling station name. Red shading indicates treatment area (Kozy Cove).
If you donate $1,000 or greater to the annual appeal we will send you the limited edition (100 in total) signed Centennial Map “A View of the Belgrade Lakes”. Thank for your continued generous support of the BLA and our efforts. Your donation is necessary if we are to continue to protect the health, beauty, and enjoyment of the lakes.
On a final note, you likely received a mailing from your BLA regarding the “Docks to Doorways” (D2D) Capital Campaign. The goal of the campaign is to purchase the “Post Office Building” and “Foundation Lot” (both on the Belgrade Stream), install public docks on both properties for easier access to town by water, and form an aquatic center focused on education and outreach. We hope that you donate to both the D2D and our annual appeal. Both efforts are important to our long term success.
On behalf of the BLA Board,
Polly Parkhill Beatie Paul Stewart
President Chair, Development Committee
The BLA is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible.
Donate online today or send your donation by mail to:
Belgrade Lakes Association
P.O. Box 551
Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918
Or contact us by email or phone: (207) 512-5150
Thank You from all of us at the BLA!
We certify that the BLA is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c) (3) of the IRS Code. No goods or services have been provided in return for your donation. Your donation should be fully deductible in accordance with IRS Code. Please keep this letter for your tax records.