Building Knowledge and Networks at the 2025 Lakes Conference
By: Sarah Whateley, Program Manager
Lakes at the Edge: Maine Lakes & Lake Stewards of Maine
Last week, lake associations, landowners, scientists, and conservation professionals gathered at UMaine Farmington for the 2025 Lakes Conference— an energizing day focused on freshwater protection in Maine. The turnout was impressive, with many attendees traveling long distances to participate. Their commitment reflects the deep connection Maine residents have with their lakes — and the growing desire to be part of solutions that protect these critical ecosystems.
The day began on a hopeful note: each participant received a packet of native seeds from the Wild Seed Project, with a reminder that the best time to plant them is in the fall. This simple gesture reflected the conference’s overarching message — plant now for the future — and set the tone for a day full of practical ideas, collaboration, and ecological stewardship.
The keynote was delivered by John Maclaine, a familiar and influential figure for many in the room. His talk introduced the newly launched OUR SHORE program — of course, an acronym — focused on nature-based shoreline stabilization. His message emphasized expanding the toolbox of materials to address shoreline erosion, applying a checklist that integrates both engineering and ecological perspectives, and trusting that “nature knows best.” Maclaine advocated for using the least amount of intervention and disturbance possible to allow shorelines to recover and function as natural systems quickly. He also addressed the limitations of traditional riprap stabilization and previewed upcoming Permit by Rule updates designed to reduce barriers for landowners — making it easier to implement small-scale actions like planting native vegetation. Many attendees who had participated in his workshops smiled as they echoed his familiar mantra: “Mulch, mulch, mulch.”
Maine’s freshwater resources are vast — home to over 6,000 lakes and ponds, 45,000 miles of rivers and streams, and 5 million acres of wetlands. Presenters from across the state shared how they’re using innovative tools to better manage these systems:
The Lake Protection Coalition, representing six lake associations, is helping shape local policies on septic standards and floating structures.
Jeremy Deeds of Maine DEP shared updates on shoreline zoning and shallow-water habitat assessments, including a new scorecard and an ongoing statewide assessment covering over 180 lakes.
Jen Jesperson provided a deep dive into internal phosphorus release, watershed monitoring, and modeling approaches to identify nutrient sources and inform management decisions.
In the afternoon, Sharon Mann (7 Lakes Alliance) and Robin Sleith (Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences) shared cutting-edge work using environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect aquatic invasive species. These tools — such as metabarcoding and qPCR/dPCR — enable faster, more targeted monitoring of threats like curly-leaf pondweed by detecting genetic traces directly from water samples. The team is also working to develop a comprehensive genetic library of native aquatic plants in Maine, along with key invasive species, to support broader detection and management efforts.
Other sessions showcased inspiring local partnerships. Cary James shared how the Meddybemps Lake Land Trust emerged from collaboration among Downeast Lakes Land Trust, the Maine Wetlands Coalition, and other partners. Presenters encouraged attendees to embrace failure, seek out mentors, and stay open to adaptation as part of successful conservation work.
While I wasn’t able to attend every session, the conference also featured valuable discussions on a wide range of topics. Rebecca Jacobs spoke about building better shoreline buffers, focusing on the littoral and emergent zones — dynamic areas that alternate between wet and dry conditions. She shared plant recommendations well-adapted to these fluctuations, along with tips for managing these unique habitats. Chad Hammer explored the impact of terrestrial invasive plants on forested riparian zones, detailing how these species can degrade soil structure, stream habitat, and overall watershed function. Brittany Tillotson highlighted the role of native and invasive forest insects, showing how pest outbreaks can weaken or kill trees near shorelands — reducing their ability to stabilize soils, filter runoff, and support lake health.
Key Takeaways for Waldo County:
Momentum is strong. From lake associations to tribal partnerships, many groups across Maine are actively working to protect freshwater resources through science, restoration, and community action.
Local involvement is powerful. Volunteer-driven monitoring, land trust collaborations, and policy advocacy are helping drive change — and there’s clear opportunity to support similar efforts in Waldo County.
New tools are reshaping management. From bathymetric mapping to eDNA analysis, decision-makers now have more data and insight than ever to support healthy lakes.
Climate change needs more focus. While several presenters acknowledged its role, more discussion is needed on how shifting precipitation, warming waters, and extreme events are impacting lake management strategies.
Youth and networking. While the conference was well-attended, there’s room to build on its success by encouraging more youth participation and creating additional opportunities for cross-regional collaboration.
If you’re a lake association member, landowner, or just someone who cares about clean water, we invite you to connect with the Waldo County Soil and Water Conservation District. There are many ways to get involved — whether it’s monitoring water quality, restoring shorelines, or supporting collaborative conservation efforts across our region.
Plenary Session: Jeremy Deeds, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, discussed ‘Shallow-Water Habitat Condition in Maine Lakes’