Looking for a little exercise, good company, and volunteer work with a view? We’ll be clearing out the berms and swales along Chocorua Lake and we can always use extra hands. This is a great job for people who like to see what they’ve accomplished! And, if you like to swim at Chocorua, this is an opportunity to help keep the water pristine.

On Tuesday, October 27, from 10 AM–12 PM, join Chocorua Lake Conservancy for Berms & Swales Stewardship at the Island at Chocorua Lake, just off of Route 16. The berms and swales that run along the highway beside the lake were put in 25 years ago, a method of best practices to slow and filter runoff from the highway into the lake. The berm, or higher ridge, was planted with shrubs, trees, and grass to help catch dust from the road. The swale, or ditch, was filled with gravel and larger stones to allow rainwater and runoff to percolate through and be filtered before reaching the lake. Both strategies help to keep the lake water clean and reduce the amount of phosphorus entering the lake.

The berms and swales need annual maintenance to help keep them working as designed. We’ll prune shrubs and trees from the berm and rake and leaf blow to clear the fall debris in the swale. Bring loppers and a rake if you have them, or we’ll have a few extra to use. If you have a leaf blower and are willing to use it to help, feel free to bring it along. 

Over the last couple of years, CLC has undertaken a significant Shoreline Restoration project along the eastern shoreline of Chocorua Lake, also to protect lake water and enhance habitat in response to a changing climate and lake usage. You will be able to see some of the fruits of that labor during the work morning.

We’ll meet at The Island public access parking area on Route 16 by the lake. Feel free to come for all or some of the morning. Please bring close-toed shoes, gloves, a water bottle, and snacks, and sun protection as needed. Please register in advance so that we can let you know of any changes in the schedule.