Why Do We Have Weeds In The Lake and What Are They?
Over the years weeds have been introduced into the lake through boats that were in other lakes and not properly cleaned before entering Nabnasset Lake. It is extremely important to clean boats, if previously in another lake, before entering Nabnasset Lake.
Treatments currently target Curly-Leaf and Milfoil weeds, and ocassional algae blooms. Weeds in the lake thrive on lawn fertilizers, that eventually wash into the lake – please avoid the use of fertilizers on lake front lawns – lawns may look nice, but the lake will not.
What Is The Annual Cost to Treat The Lake?
In recent years the annual costs to treat the lake has averaged $25,000. In 2023 the costs of treatment totaled $35,000. The first treatment in June of 2024 was just over $10,000 with an estimated two additional treatments during this season.
The funds required to treat the lake and keep it healthy need to be raised annually through member dues and fundraising activities. Starting in 2025 treatments will be solely funded by member efforts. Please help support maintaining a healthy lake.
What Steps Are Involved In Coordinating A Single Treatment?
The NLPA enters into a treatment contract with water management consultants, who then perform a baseline survey of the lake to identify nuisance weeds along with testing water quality. Survey results are then submitted and reviewed by the Westford Conservation Commission. The survey provides a lake mapping plan for areas of treatment and the types of weeds to be targeted are identified.
The NLPA contract consultants, Solitude Lake Management, apply for permits with the State DEP during Jan/Feb to treat based on the previous year’s fall survey results. In anticipation of the coming season’s treatment, Westford Conservation Commission is notified along with the BOH and NLCC. Membership notifications, via social email and email, are communicated with the dates for treatment. This is all done under the Order of Conditions set between the Westford Conservation Commission and the NLPA for the management of the lake. Order of Conditions are regularly renewed renewed.
How Often Does The Lake Need To Be Treated To Control The Weeds?
The number of required treatments can vary from year-to-year. With recent years experiencing record heat the lake has required at least one herbicide treatment for weeds (curly leaf & milfoil), and two treatments of copper sulphate to avoid algae blooms.
How Many Powered Watercrafts Are On The Lake?
For the 2024 season; There are approximately 100 powered watercrafts on the lake. The estimated breakdown is 88% boats and 12% jet skis. There are also, approximately 200 non-motored watercrafts on the lake (kayaks, paddle boards, peddle boats, sail boats, and row boats.)
How Many Properties Directly Abutt The Lake?
There are approximately 109 properties directly abutting the lake. The majority of these properties have docks that enjoy the lake in various forms.
How Many Beaches Are On The Lake?
There are a total of six beaches on Nabnasset Lake.
- NIA Beaches (private, membership required)
Sandy Beach, Mary Lou Beach, North Beach, Noble’s Cove - Lakeside Meadows Beach (private, neighborhood association)
- Edwards Beach (public, Town of Westford)
Is it OK To Boat, Kayak, or Paddleboard Into Shipley Swamp?
Although the swamp looks inviting, the swamp itself has weeds that can be reintroduced back into the lake by boating activities. Boating or fishing in the swamp also has many shallow underwater hazards, such as stumps and rocks. The swamp is also a respite for the local wildlife. It is advised that people enjoying the lake do not enter the swamp.
How Often Is There A Lake Drawdown and Why is This Done?
Scheduled lake drawdowns, historically, happen about every five years. Drawdowns are coordinated through town and state conservation commissions as a means of weed control. These drawdowns also provide an opportunity for shoreline cleanups and property repairs.
Who Controls The Dam and Water Level?
The dam is controlled by the Town of Westford DPW. The DPW is very responsive to NLPA requests or concerns regarding water levels.
Nabnasset Lake Preservation Association 