Local lake group urges watershed study, proposes state loan to fund work

Steve Dolan, president of the Knights Lake Protection Association, told the Board the lake’s overall water quality remains good but flagged growing concerns about road salt, phosphorus and chlorophyll contributing to nutrient loads and a rising risk of cyanobacteria blooms. He said a watershed management study would identify where nutrients enter the lake and provide planning tools to address them.

Dolan outlined estimated costs for a study of roughly $30,000 to $50,000 and described the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan as an option that would require the town to apply. According to Dolan, the loan can be for up to $100,000; the town must apply and would be the applicant on record. Dolan said the loan amount and scope determine how in-depth the study can be, and that KLPA expects to raise funds to cover the interest on any loan. He estimated interest expenses at about $2,500 and said the loan is forgiven once the project is complete, leaving only interest to be repaid. He noted the loan carries a fixed 2% interest rate and that the state sets maturity dates.

Vice Chair Amy Lewis asked whether salt measurements are being taken in the lake and whether the state’s sand used near the shoreline is measured for salt content; a board member noted that the area was designated a reduced-salt area by a town action in 2008. The Selectmen said they would review KLPA materials and the Board will follow up with the KLPA at a later date.

The presentation focused on planning and funding options; no formal motion was made to apply for a loan during this meeting. The Board asked staff to review the materials and consider the timing and risk if an application were submitted by the town.