Massachusetts has over 3000 lakes and ponds that provide opportunities for recreation and valuable habitat for a wide diversity of plants and animals. However, over the years, many citizens of Massachusetts have observed a decline in the health of their lakes and ponds.

This is a starting point for concerned citizens who wish to learn about lake ecology and ways they can protect the future of their lake or pond. The first section will help you understand the basic concepts of watersheds and the ecology of lakes and ponds. It covers the importance of a watershed approach to lake and pond protection and the ecology and cycles within a lake system.

The next two sections address the main causes of reduced water quality and outline ways that you, as a concerned citizen, can adopt a proactive role in preventing further degradation to our waterbodies. There is also information for people who wish to go one step further and begin or join a lake association, apply for grants or obtain additional education publications. Act now and protect your lake’s future!

You will need Acrobat Reader to view the guide, which is divided into three parts for ease of downloading.

Chapter 1 Understanding Watersheds (207 Kb)

Chapter 2 Lake and Pond Basics (392 Kb)

Chapter 3 Lake Issues and Management (337 Kb)

Chapter 4 Actions You Can Take to Protect Your Lake (240 Kb)

Chapter 5 Resources (148 Kb)

You can also download the complete Lakes and Ponds Guide (1.2 Mb)