08/04/2026
We have had recent reports of yard waste floating in the lake. Please remember that adding/dumping yard waste into or near the lake contributes to increased nutrient loading which increases chances of harmful algae blooms like our lake had last year and decreases oxygen levels, negatively effecting wildlife such as fish and other aquatic life. As of January 1, 2026, due to NH House Bill 416, it is now a felony to dump yard waste into or near the lake.
Please be sure that your lawn care service/landscaper is aware of the law and refrains from blowing or dumping yard waste into the lake.
Let's all work together to keep our lake healthy!
Protecting New Hampshire’s Lakes—One Simple Change Makes a Big Difference
Starting January 1, thanks to the NH LAKES Community giving our lakes a voice in the New Hampshire Legislature, it is now illegal to dump yard waste into any public water, onto the ice, or along the banks of those waters.
Under House Bill 416, passed by the Legislature in 2025, yard waste—like leaves, grass clippings, and brush—has been added to the list of materials already prohibited from being dumped into waterways. That list includes items such as bottles, cans, tires, scrap metal, garbage, and even old car parts. Anyone who purposely or knowingly violates this law faces a felony violation.
Why this matters for our lakes:
🍃 Yard waste isn’t “natural” once it’s dumped. When leaves and grass break down in water, they release nutrients that fuel harmful algae growth.
🐟 Too many nutrients mean less oxygen, which can harm fish and other aquatic life.
🌿 Clean shorelines support healthy habitats, clear water, and safe recreation for everyone.
💧 Prevention is easier than cleanup. Keeping yard waste out of lakes helps avoid costly and long-term environmental damage.
This law is about protecting water quality, supporting wildlife, and keeping New Hampshire’s lakes clean and enjoyable—now and for future generations.
Let’s do our part: compost yard waste properly and keep it out of our lakes. 💙
Interested in learning more about the bills coming up this legislative session and how you can get involved? Sign up for our Advocacy Alert emails https://nhlakes.org/email-list-sign-up/
