Water Quality
Keeping our lakes clear, clean, and wild
What We Do
MIA works closely with Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust and other partners to monitor and protect the health of Mooselookmeguntic and Cupsuptic Lakes.
Together, we support water quality monitoring, invasive species prevention, and responsible water level management so these waters remain as clear and wild for future generations as they are today.
Ongoing Monitoring
We support continuous water quality monitoring, encompassing clarity, chemistry, and ecosystem health, to track changes in the lakes over time and inform decisions.
Brookfield Water Level Agreement
As a signatory to the long-term Settlement Agreement with Brookfield for Upper and Middle Dams, MIA helped secure prescribed water level targets tied to specific dates each year, thereby protecting shorelines, wildlife habitats, and recreational areas.
Courtesy Boat Inspections
In partnership with RLHT, we help maintain courtesy boat inspection programs at the key public landings. Inspectors check hundreds of boats each season, intercept aquatic invaders, and educate boaters—helping keep the Rangeley region free of invasive aquatic plants and animals.
Invasive Plant & Animal Patrols
Volunteers and partners stay vigilant for threats like Eurasian milfoil and other non-native species, combining early detection with strong outreach so one careless launch doesn’t change the lake forever.
FAQ
How often is water quality monitored on Mooselookmeguntic Lake?
Volunteers and partners conduct regular sampling throughout the season, tracking Secchi disk clarity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and chemistry—typically bi-weekly during peak summer months.
What invasive species are the biggest threats?
Eurasian milfoil is our primary concern, but we also watch for variable-leaf milfoil, fanwort, and non-native fish. Boat inspections focus on catching these before they establish.
How effective are the courtesy boat inspections?
They intercept plants/organisms from hundreds of boats annually (2,000+ launches inspected), educating boaters and keeping the Rangeley chain 100% milfoil-free so far. You are the boat inspector on duty at your property.
What do the Brookfield water level targets protect?
Prescribed levels safeguard spawning fish, loon nesting, shoreline vegetation, and boating recreation—preventing extreme summer drawdowns that harm ecology and access.
How can I check my own boat before launching?
Drain bilge/livewells, remove plants from trailer/propeller, dry 48+ hours between waters, and inspect hard-to-see spots like anchor rollers. Follow “Clean, Drain, Dry.“
Our Stewards Speak
Join MIA to Protect Our Lake
Help defend Mooselookmeguntic Lake—whether an hour at the launch or a full season at camp. Volunteer, stay informed, check your boat.