SPRING 2025 Newsletter
Welcome to Summer 2025!
As usual, it’s shocking that the time has come again so quickly. The Sheepscot Lake Association would like to thank you for your support, and let you know what we’re planning for the season.
You will again notice Courtesy Boat Inspectors at the Fish and Game boat launch doing their part to help keep Sheepscot healthy. Inspections will take place every Saturday and Sunday from July through Labor Day. Please remember to check your boats for any plants when both entering and leaving the lake as inspectors are not always present to do so.
Our annual July 4th Boat Parade is scheduled for July 4th, with July 5th as the rain date. This year our Grand Marshal will be Lynda Pound, a long-time Sheepscot resident and former SLA Board member. We shove off from the Fish and Game boat launch cove at 11:00AM. Last year we had a total of 42 boats – let’s try to top that record! If you’re not participating by boat, please wave from your decks and docks as we float by!
The state-wide annual Loon Count is scheduled for Saturday, July 19th from 7:00AM-7:30AM. Last year we counted a total of eight adults and one chick! This year we are pleased to report that the loon nest platform that SLA volunteers helped build with Maine Audubon Society has a proud parent patiently sitting on the nest! It was placed back in the lake at the end of April, and by early June was being happily used! Please remember to be cautious when approaching loons, especially by motor boats, and most importantly when they are nesting! We want these majestic creatures to feel safe and at home on what really is “their” lake…Thank you for your support in that.
Our annual General Membership meeting will be held on July 24th at 6:30PM, location and speaker to be announced. Continuing the popular tradition, it will be a “dessert potluck” so please join us with your favorite yummy treat to share and learn about our programs, renew your membership, and hear from our guest speaker. We will also be electing our slate of board members, with three seats up this year. We will be utilizing a new voting process this year with the ability to vote online! That way all members can participate, regardless of whether you are able to attend the meeting. Please be on the lookout for voting information in your email soon. If you are interested in running for a seat or would like more information, please email us at sheepscotlakeassoc@gmail.com
SLA Water Quality inspector Jeff Levesque has been kind enough to continue his volunteer services this season. We are so grateful for his efforts! Jeff has already been out on the lake to conduct the first test of the year, and we will report back on his findings throughout the season. Watch Jeff's video about the process.
This year SLA is excited to co-sponsor a Plant Paddle Patrol workshop on China Lake on August 1st. Participants will learn how to detect invasive plants from native ones. They then will launch out onto the lake as a group to investigate and search for invasives. This program is also sponsored by the China Lake Association and the Lake Stewards of Maine. It is a great opportunity for you to bring your kayak, paddle board, or canoe and learn how to be on the lookout for detrimental species while enjoying nature! Please join us! For more information and to sign up, please visit https://www.lakestewardsofmaine.org/workshops-events/ais-workshops/
Our popular “Sheepscot swag” is still available at our online store. We have short and long-sleeved tee shirts, hooded or crew sweatshirts, tote bags and other swag for your interest. It is a unique gift idea for birthdays, graduations, or more! To browse and purchase, please visit https://www.bonfire.com/store/sheepscot-lake-association/ As a reminder, a portion of your purchase is donated to the Sheepscot Lake Association in support of our programs.
The board members of the Association appreciate your support! Membership dues help us to provide these programs. If you have not yet renewed your membership, please visit https://www.sheepscotlakeassociation.com . The dues have stayed the same since our inception - $20 for an individual, $30 for a family, $50 for a patron.
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you on the lake!
Maria O’Rourke, President Sheepscot Lake Association