Brian Barton
Beaver Lake, located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, is a popular fishing spot for largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch. The lake, which has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century, is currently facing environmental challenges due to pollution and runoff from surrounding development. With increasing levels of phosphorus and chloride, the lake's ecosystem is being disrupted, leading to the encouragement of invasive species and the displacement of local plants and animals. Efforts are being made by individuals like Rob Tompkins, a resident on the lake, to create natural barriers against erosion and reduce the impact of polluted runoff, in hopes of preserving the health and beauty of Beaver Lake.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Derry, Rockingham County, New Hampshire, United States |
| Popular Fish Species | Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Yellow perch |
| History | Previously known as Beaver Pond, the name changed to Beaver Lake sometime between 1857 and 1937 |
| Pollution | Under assault from pavement and lawns that ring the lake, conveying runoff from fertilizer |
| Action Plan | Property owners are encouraged to reduce polluted runoff by shifting to environmentally responsible, non-fertilized lawns |
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What You'll Learn
Sources of pollution
Beaver Lake in Derry, New Hampshire, is under threat from pollution, primarily due to the development and human activity that surrounds it. One of the lake's residents, Rob Tompkins, is taking action to protect the lake by creating a natural barrier against runoff and erosion. He is planting a variety of plants, including day lilies, blueberry bushes, beech plums, and a Japanese maple tree, as well as less common species such as sweet pepper bush, Joe Pye weed, and nannyberry. This barrier will serve as an aesthetically pleasing boundary between his backyard and the lake, and it is hoped that it will encourage other waterfront residents to take similar action.
One of the main sources of pollution in Beaver Lake is runoff water from the surrounding pavement and lawns. Fertilizer use on lawns contributes to high phosphorus and chloride levels in the lake, altering the chemical composition of the water. This encourages the growth of invasive species and negatively impacts local plants and animals. The president of NH Lakes, Andrea La-Moreaux, emphasizes the importance of reducing polluted runoff water to protect the health of the lake and the economy, as well as to prevent negative impacts on people's health and vacations.
Another source of pollution in Beaver Lake is erosion. As mentioned earlier, Tompkins' efforts to create a natural barrier against erosion will help to mitigate this issue. Erosion can cause the lake to become filled with sediment, clouding the water and disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem. It is important for residents and stakeholders to work together to implement erosion control measures and protect the lake's health.
Additionally, the development and human activity around the lake contribute to the pollution issue. As mentioned by Tompkins, the pressure from development and the increasing human population in the area can negatively impact the lake's water quality. This may include pollution from sources such as stormwater runoff, sewage, and littering, as well as the indirect effects of habitat destruction and increased pollution sources.
While New Hampshire's lakes are among the cleanest in the country, they are facing growing challenges due to pollution and development. It is important for residents, organizations like NH Lakes, and local governments to work together to address these issues and implement sustainable practices to protect the health and beauty of Beaver Lake and other water bodies in the state.
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Efforts to reduce pollution
Beaver Lake in Derry, New Hampshire, is under threat from pollution, particularly from the pavement and lawns that ring it, conveying runoff from fertilizer, which can cause toxic blooms, and high phosphorus and chloride levels that change the chemical composition of the water. This encourages invasive species and undermines local plants and animals.
To combat this, waterfront property owners are taking action to reduce the amount of polluted runoff water. One such owner, Rob Tompkins, has stopped fertilizing his lawn and has instead seeded clover and sweet woodruff, which don't need fertilizer. He is also extending a natural barrier of native shrubs, plants, and flowers—including day lilies, blueberry bushes, beech plums, and a Japanese maple tree—across his shoreline to create a boundary between his backyard and the lake. This will help to keep the lake healthy and clean, and Tompkins hopes that his efforts will inspire other waterfront dwellers to take similar action.
NH Lakes, an organization that works to protect New Hampshire's lakes, has also been active in promoting environmentally responsible practices. Their president, Andrea La-Moreaux, has encouraged property owners to move away from "trophy" lawns that are aesthetically pleasing but harmful to the lake ecosystem. Instead, they recommend adopting more natural landscapes that don't require fertilizer and help to reduce the amount of polluted runoff water.
Additionally, waterfront property owners can consider creating natural barriers against runoff and erosion. This can be done by planting native shrubs, flowers, and plants that help to absorb and filter runoff water, reducing the amount of pollution that reaches the lake. These natural barriers can also provide habitat for local wildlife and enhance the beauty of the shoreline in a way that is environmentally beneficial.
By taking these steps, individuals and organizations are working together to reduce the pollution that threatens Beaver Lake and other lakes in New Hampshire. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the health and ecological balance of these aquatic ecosystems, protecting local wildlife, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from these natural spaces.
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Fishing in Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake in Derry, Rockingham County, New Hampshire, is a popular spot for fishing. The lake is known for its population of Largemouth bass, Bluegill, and Yellow perch. Other species of fish that can be found in the lake include Smallmouth bass, Channel catfish, Rainbow trout, Black crappie, and more.
To find the best fishing spots on Beaver Lake, anglers can use the Fishbrain app, which provides information on where other anglers have caught fish, big fish potential, and real-time fishing activity. The app also offers Navionics depth maps to help anglers navigate the lake and locate the best fishing spots.
When planning a fishing trip to Beaver Lake, it is important to be aware of local fishing regulations and to have the appropriate licenses and permits. Information on fishing regulations and licensing can be found on the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's website or through local fishing shops and outdoor recreation stores.
There are a variety of fishing techniques that can be effective at Beaver Lake. Anglers can try their luck with live bait, such as worms, minnows, or crayfish, or they can use artificial lures and flies. Spinning, casting, and fly-fishing techniques can all be productive, depending on the target species and the time of year.
When visiting Beaver Lake for fishing, it is important to respect the natural environment and practice responsible fishing practices. This includes properly disposing of any waste, minimizing the impact on the shoreline and vegetation, and following any size and catch limits for the various fish species. Additionally, anglers should be mindful of boating safety regulations and always wear a personal flotation device when on the water.
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History of Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake, located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, has a long and fascinating history. The lake, which serves as a popular fishing spot for largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch, was once known as Beaver Pond. The name change occurred sometime between 1857 and 1937, according to maps from those years.
The area surrounding Beaver Lake holds significant archaeological importance. While the oldest human settlement in New Hampshire was discovered in Keene, dating back approximately 12,570 to 12,660 years, the only evidence of Paleoindians and later Pennacooks in southeastern New Hampshire has been found just 15 miles from Derry, on the Merrimack River in present-day Manchester, and on Massabesic Lake. It is likely that the Pennacook people also inhabited Old Londonderry before being devastated by diseases brought by European coastal settlements.
One of the most intriguing artifacts discovered in Beaver Lake is an unconfirmed Abanaki canoe. This 10-foot-long watercraft, made of sweetgum wood, was raised from 25 feet of water several hundred yards off Comeau's Beach. It is one of seven surviving dugout canoes found in New Hampshire's inland waters over the last 182 years.
The lake also holds religious significance. On April 13, 1719, Reverend James MacGregor and sixteen Scottish Presbyterian families from Northern Ireland gathered under an oak tree on the north shore of Beaver Lake. This gathering, known as the First Sermon, marked the beginning of a religious presence in the area. The oak tree, which died and fell in 1844, was replaced by an apple tree, and later, a cairn of stones was erected to commemorate the site.
Today, Beaver Lake faces environmental challenges due to erosion and runoff from surrounding development. High phosphorus and chloride levels in the water encourage invasive species and threaten local plants and animals. However, efforts are being made to protect the lake, such as the work of Rob Tompkins, a longtime board member of NH Lakes, who has transformed his waterfront property to include a natural barrier of plants to prevent runoff and erosion.
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Local wildlife
Beaver Lake in Derry, New Hampshire, has a rich history and is known for its natural beauty. The lake, previously known as Beaver Pond, was renamed sometime between 1857 and 1937. The body of water has been a significant part of the region's history, with archaeological evidence of early settlements in the area. The lake is also associated with Old Ezekiel, who lived nearby and is said to have dug a canal from his cabin to the lake.
The lake is a popular fishing spot, known for species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch. It is surrounded by a diverse range of plant life, including day lilies, blueberry bushes, beech plums, and a Japanese maple tree. The local wildlife also benefits from the lake's presence, providing a habitat for various species.
One of the most notable aspects of Beaver Lake's local wildlife is its avian population. The lake and its surrounding areas are known for attracting a variety of waterfowl and birds. This includes both migratory and resident bird species. During certain seasons, the lake and its surrounding wetlands become a haven for migratory birds seeking temporary refuge or a place to rest during their long journeys. Some of the bird species commonly spotted around Beaver Lake include ducks, geese, herons, and eagles. The presence of these birds not only adds to the natural beauty of the area but also contributes to the overall ecological balance of the region.
In addition to the avian population, Beaver Lake is also home to a variety of aquatic life. The lake supports a diverse range of freshwater fish species, as mentioned earlier. These fish play a crucial role in the food chain, serving as a food source for larger predators, both in the water and along the shores. The lake also provides a habitat for amphibians and reptiles, such as frogs, turtles, and snakes. These creatures often seek out the cover of dense vegetation along the lake's edges, using the water as a source of food and shelter.
The surrounding area of Beaver Lake also supports a range of mammalian wildlife. Small mammals, such as squirrels, raccoons, and foxes, can often be spotted in the nearby woodlands and fields. These creatures may venture towards the lake in search of food or water, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region. Larger mammals, such as deer, may also be present in the surrounding areas, especially in wooded regions. The presence of these mammals adds to the ecological diversity and highlights the importance of preserving the natural habitat surrounding the lake.
Beaver Lake and its surrounding areas have faced threats from pollution, erosion, and invasive species. However, local initiatives, such as the efforts of Rob Tompkins, aim to protect the lake and its local wildlife. By creating a natural barrier of plants and shrubs along the shoreline, Tompkins and other waterfront property owners are taking steps to reduce polluted runoff and encourage native flora and fauna. These efforts are crucial in preserving the delicate balance of Beaver Lake's ecosystem and ensuring the long-term health of the local wildlife.
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Frequently asked questions
Beaver Lake is under assault from the pavement and lawns that ring it, conveying runoff from fertilizer, a threat that is typically ignored. However, it is still considered to be one of the cleanest lakes in the country.
Champions of the lake, such as Rob Tompkins, are taking action to reduce the amount of polluted runoff water flowing into the lake. Tompkins has stopped fertilizing his lawn and is planting a 100-foot natural barrier of native shrubs, plants, and flowers to protect the lake.
High phosphorus and chloride levels in the water encourage invasive species and undermine local plants and animals.
