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Francestown subcommittee flags rising phosphorus at Pleasant Pond, considers watershed plan
Summary
At its May 18 meeting the Watershed Study Subcommittee heard VLAP data showing a long-term phosphorus increase at Pleasant Pond and discussed pursuing a watershed management plan recommended by NHDES to identify corrective actions and qualify for grants; members will consult DES staff at the NH Lakes Congress.
On May 18, 2026, the Watershed Study Subcommittee of the Francestown Conservation Commission discussed long-term monitoring that shows rising phosphorus levels at Pleasant Pond and whether the town should pursue a formal watershed management plan.
New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) staff and VLAP (Volunteer Lake Assessment Program) monitoring were cited in the meeting minutes as recommending a watershed management plan for Pleasant Pond. Committee member Cathy Eby reported that VLAP results show “a long-term increasing trend for phosphorus indicating greater risk for a cyanobacteria outbreak,” and described the practical benefits of a plan, including identifying corrective actions and qualifying the pond for grant support.
Subcommittee members acknowledged ongoing, narrower issues such as localized erosion, road-maintenance impacts and the need for homeowner education. Ted Graham raised concerns about the feasibility of developing and implementing a plan, noting that “the elephant in the room remains the importance and management of the dam which is on private property,” and questioned whether the state would prioritize funding and whether the town has a clearly identified project manager to oversee such an effort.
The subcommittee agreed to seek more information before committing to a formal planning process. Chair Elizabeth Hunter Lavallee and members Cathy Eby and Ted Graham said they will attend the NH Lakes Congress in Concord on June 5 to consult DES staff and watershed representatives about feasibility, costs and community engagement strategies. Elizabeth also said she will research the Watershed Warrior program (https://nhlakes.org/watershed-warrior/) and explore relevant experience from nearby Chesterfield.
The subcommittee did not adopt a formal plan at the May 18 meeting; members directed follow-up research and agreed to place a “Lessons Learned” item on the next WSSC agenda after the Lakes Congress.
Next procedural step: the subcommittee will reconvene on June 8, 2026, and consider findings from the Lakes Congress and any follow-up information from NHDES or local watershed representatives.
