LINCOLNVILLE — “It is fitting that the Megunticook Watershed Association is holding its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, July 23 during what Governor Mills has officially proclaimed to be Lakes Appreciation Month in the state of Maine,” said MWA, in a news release. “The proclamation recognizes the role of the Wabanaki in stewarding the incredible lake resources that are in the area now known as the State of Maine, as well as the immense value these lakes bring to us today, from recreational resources to drinking water sources to habitat for much of Maine’s wildlife.”

The proclamation also recognizes the recent finding from a study at the University of Maine documenting the value of Maine’s Great Ponds at over $14.1 billion.

The Annual Meeting begins at 7 p.m., at Camp Bishopswood, in Lincolnville, and is free and open to all.

After a few updates on the health of the organization, local loon enthusiast Brad Singer will share a talk called Living with Loons: Preserving Our Majestic Friends. Lakes maps and Association hats and T-shirts will be for sale along with fun giveaways.

Lakes Appreciation Month gives Maine residents and visitors the opportunity to learn more about lake health and ways to see Megunticook Watershed Association’s protection efforts underway, such as invasive plant patrols, courtesy boat inspections at all local boat ramps, water quality monitoring in local ponds, lakes, and rivers, loon counts, and much more. Alongside this local team, a network of other lake associations, regional watershed organizations, and state-wide nonprofits work together to support volunteer efforts and lake protection programming. Examples of different events, trainings and workshops offered during Lakes Appreciation Month can be viewed by visiting www.lakes.me/lake-appreciation. 

In addition to the Annual Meeting on July 23, Megunticook Watershed Association will host Lake Music on August 3 (rain date August 4), at 4 p.m., featuring local band, The Fins. This free concert on Lake Megunticook is
accessible by water only with the closest launch at Bog Bridge.

For details on all events and activities, visit www.megunticook.org.