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Being a native Mainer, my fishing expeditions throughout northern and eastern Maine are among my most sacred memories. However, throughout our state’s 6,000 natural bodies of water, a decline in water quality seems to be a recurring issue. It is essential that we fight to prevent degradation of water quality so that future generations may enjoy the beauty that our thousands of lakes, ponds, and rivers have to offer.
The Fish River Chain of Lakes, sandwiched between Fort Kent and Caribou, have been recreational hotspots for decades. Many people visit these lakes to fish, boat, or swim. Unfortunately, they have been victims of water quality degradation in recent years.
One cause of this is believed to be phosphorous contamination. In 2006, an EPA review stated that in Cross Lake, “phosphorus levels rebounded in the late 1990s and are high enough to affect water quality and promote substantial algae growth.” In 2021, the lake is still listed as “impaired” due to excess phosphorus.
It is important to note that forestry operations and run-off from residential areas do not help alleviate this issue. Lakes with high levels of phosphorus tend to have frequent algae blooms, which poses threats to the health of both the lake and the organisms that live in it.
One way to protect our lakes is to limit residential development. Writing letters of concern directly to forest management companies is one way to make your voice heard and encourage change.
Logan Drillen
Dedham