March 28, 2025

Welcome to the Newfound Connection

Each edition of the Newfound Lake Region Association newsletter features events, news, trivia, and the people of the watershed—everything a Newfounder needs to know! 

Building Conservationists In (and Out) of the Classroom

The future of Newfound depends on the next generation. By connecting kids with the natural environment, we're fostering conservationists that will care for our natural resources in the years to come. During the course of the school year, NLRA works in and out of local classrooms, facilitates field trips, and visits after-school programs to teach watershed science and conservation principles. Below are just some of the ways we're connecting the next generation to the world around them.

As part of a research project within and around the Newfound Area School District, students at multiple schools put out wildlife cameras to learn more about the species in their areas, the habitats they live in and how everyone can contribute to wildlife research.

Students sampled waterbodies near their schools for invertebrates and learned about why invertebrates are an important part of the ecosystem and what clues they give us about water quality.

Snow and ice can track the climate and atmosphere from storm to storm and year to year. This winter students explored ‘ice cores’ and found different layers in the snowpack around their schools in the same way that scientists use ice layers to understand past weather and climate.

From taking a nature walk to bird watching to looking for animal tracks, our monthly Nature Station program is a great way to help children develop a love for the natural resources that surround them.

The health of the Newfound Watershed depends on the actions of our community. Along with schools, camps, and community programs, NLRA offers year-round events to engage all ages in the work of conserving our land and water. We hope to see you there!

Visit NewfoundLake.org/events 

to register and see all upcoming events.

We're building a new home for conservation with an onsite water quality lab! This dedicated space will be equipped with the tools we need to strengthen our scientific capabilities, enhancing existing water quality work and growing our programs that build Newfound's resilience to pollution and other threats. It will support the volunteer force we rely on to monitor water quality and enable us to grow volunteer participation in conservation.


The Grey Rocks Conservation Center project is possible because of the enthusiastic and generous support of the Newfound community. Thank you!

Learn More

Grey Rocks is currently closed to the public. Updates can be found at: NewfoundLake.org/GreyRocks.

Upcoming NLRA Events

Newfound Science Pub: Hop to it! Protecting NH's Frogs, Salamanders, and Vernal Pools

April 16, 5-7pm

Newfound Lake Inn

1030 Mayhew Tpke, Bridgewater, NH

Amphibians and reptiles are among the fastest disappearing species in the world. Join us for a conversation with Rachelle Lyons, Plymouth State University Professor of Environmental Science & Policy, to explore issues facing NH’s amphibians and why vernal pools are an important part of the story. Registration is required.

Nature Station: Spring Wildflowers!

April 30, 10am-12pm

Hebron Town Forest

184 Groton Rd, Hebron, NH

Join us as we explore some of our earliest spring plants! Learn about spring ephemerals, walk the trails looking for flowers, and make some spring art! Nature Station is a drop-in program with activities designed for kids of all ages. This program is free and open to all.

Visit NewfoundLake.org/events 

to register and see all upcoming events.

"Stay on the Trail" in Muddy Conditions

Mud season has arrived! Help protect Newfound's natural areas by staying on the trail in all conditions.

You may find ice, puddles, and mud on your favorite trails in the watershed. Going "off trail" and around challenging trail conditions damages sensitive trail-side ecosystems and can lead to erosion. Follow these tips for maximum enjoyment and minimum environmental impact on the trails this spring:


  • Wear the right footwear. Wear waterproof footwear and bring ice cleats for icy conditions.
  • Stick to the trail. Be prepared to stick to the middle of the trail even when wet, muddy, or icy. Stepping off designated trails to avoid mud or standing water can cause erosion and damage ecosystems.
  • Timing makes a difference. Muddy areas are more likely to be firm or frozen in the early morning.
  • Pick your trail thoughtfully. Stick to drier trails as much as possible and give wet areas time to dry out.


Find more responsible recreation tips at Leave No Trace: LNT.org.

Membership has its Benefits!

Our next edition of our biannual publication, The Monitor, is headed to mailboxes in April. Get the latest edition delivered right to your mailbox by joining or renewing your membership today! Members also receive these great perks:


  • First notification of news and events via our email newsletter, the Newfound Connection.
  • 25% discount on EcoTour tickets.*
  • Eligibility for the Grey Rocks Boat Storage Lottery.*
  • Members-only events.*
  • Peace of mind knowing you are supporting the only organization working full time to protect the Newfound watershed.


*Included with donations at or above the $50 level.

JOIN NOW!

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The Newfound Lake Region Association is dedicated to protecting Newfound Lake and its watershed.
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