A Legacy of Stewardship
Caring for the Lakes That Connect Us
Our Mission
The Mooselookmeguntic Improvement Association (MIA) is a member-based organization representing property owners on Mooselookmeguntic and Cupsuptic Lakes.
Since its founding in 1956, MIA has worked to preserve the pristine, semi-wilderness character of these lakes and their surrounding environment. Our efforts focus on monitoring and protecting water quality and preventing the introduction of non-native plant and fish species. In partnership with the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust, we sponsor boat inspection programs at both public landings to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
MIA also promotes public awareness of environmental threats to lake health through education and outreach. When needed, we serve as a strong, effective advocate for the region—testifying at local and state hearings and supporting legislation and legal measures to safeguard these cherished waters.
A Timeline of MIA
The Mooselookmeguntic Improvement Association (MIA) is founded as a membership organization to protect and advocate for the interests of property owners on Mooselookmeguntic and Cupsuptic Lakes.
MIA intervenes to block the proposed development of 3½ miles of the western shore of Cupsuptic Lake by a Boise Cascade subsidiary.
Through the vision of Dick Spencer and Ed Kfoury, this effort leads to the creation of the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust (RLHT), which acquires the parcel and places it under perpetual conservation easement.
Combined with existing protections through the Stephen Phillips Preserve and the State of Maine, this creates a contiguous 20 miles of permanently protected shoreline—essentially the entire western shore of Mooselookmeguntic and Cupsuptic Lakes.
Today, roughly half of the lakes’ 57‑mile circumference is under conservation, and RLHT has grown to protect more than 40,000 acres of sensitive lands.
Under MIA’s leadership and with guidance from Dick Spencer, legislation is crafted that permanently bans personal watercraft (jetskis) on Mooselookmeguntic, protecting the lake’s character, safety, and quiet.
MIA successfully opposes the licensing of a proposed “residence camp” whose nature and background raise serious public safety concerns, preventing an inappropriate use on the lake.
MIA and RLHT join 24 other organizations in signing a long-sought Settlement Agreement with Brookfield, owner of Upper and Middle Dams on Mooselookmeguntic and Lower Richardson.
As part of the 50‑year licensing of these dams, the agreement establishes specific water level targets to be met on set dates each year, protecting shoreline habitat, recreation, and lake ecology.
Working jointly, MIA and RLHT develop ongoing educational programs and initiatives to continuously monitor water quality and prevent the introduction of non‑indigenous plant and animal species, especially Eurasian milfoil.
Together, they maintain courtesy boat inspection programs at the two principal landings, inspecting roughly 2,000 boat launches annually and educating boaters in the process.
Working with local landowners, motorized clubs, and town officials, MIA helps restrict unauthorized ATV traffic on Bald Mountain Rd to protect the area’s quiet character.
MIA organizes opposition to a proposal seeking formal FAA approval for expanded seaplane landings on Mooselookmeguntic.
Testimony at town hearings helps defeat the proposal, preserving the lake’s sense of quiet and safety.
After two years of discussion, MIA launches its NextGen Initiative, creating new venues for younger generations to connect, build relationships, and develop the same deep bond with the lake that long‑time members have enjoyed—cultivating the next generation of MIA leaders and stewards.
Our Stewards Speak
