LSPA presents septic‑system maps to Springfield selectmen, says Lake Kolelemook water quality 'fairly healthy'

Elizabeth Harper, executive director of the Lake Sunapee Protective Association (LSPA), told the Board of Selectmen on Oct. 27 that the group’s mission is to "preserve and enhance the environment in the Lake Sunapee Region," and that it conducts water‑quality testing, educational programs and septic‑system mapping for towns in the watershed, including Springfield.

Harper said LSPA created maps showing documented failed septic systems in each town and will email those maps to Zoning Coordinator and Health Officer Tim Bray to assist town staff and residents as Springfield considers changes to its septic regulations. She said the LSPA can also partner with the town on informational mailings and workshops and directed interested residents to the organization’s website for events and resources.

The presentation included a question from Janet Wilson about Lake Kolelemook’s condition. "The water quality is fairly healthy," said Steve Dolan, identified in the meeting as president of the KLPA; he said the lake has had no cyanobacteria blooms to date and that phosphorus levels are low. Dolan told the Board the KLPA supports the proposed septic regulations and is exploring a watershed plan to identify and mitigate problem areas.

Harper and Dolan emphasized the mapping as a tool to pinpoint where failed or failing septic systems are likely to affect streams and ponds in the region, and Harper said LSPA will share its town maps with Bray to help answer public questions about proposed regulatory changes. The Board did not take formal action on the presentation; the mapping and outreach offers were presented as informational assistance to town staff and decisionmakers.