Q: When was Lakes Environmental Association founded? Its mission?

A: LEA was established in 1970 in Naples. The mission is to protect Maine lakes for the benefit of present and future generations.

Q: How has LEA improved Maine’s lakes over the past 43 years?

A: There are a number of important accomplishments. LEA: Started the oldest and most comprehensive water-testing program in Maine in 1970; Alerted the state to the threat of invasive plants and created the courtesy boat Inspector program and the Maine Milfoil Summit; Led the legal and technical fight against the Department of Energy’s proposal to site a high-level nuclear waste dump in the Lakes Region; Developed and implemented upgrades to Maine’s shoreland zoning law in numerous towns; Established a school-based natural resources education program that serves over 1,100 students annually; Initiated the 700-acre Holt Pond Preserve in Bridgton and Naples and the 66-acre Pondicherry Park in Bridgton; Has significantly reduced the Milfoil infestations in Brandy Pond and the Songo River and continues to work toward the goal of eventual eradication.

Q: What motivated you to work for LEA?

A: I was drawn to LEA right out of college when I saw the damage that was being done to the shoreline, wetlands and islands of Highland Lake, where I grew up. The work has been extraordinarily rewarding because I have the freedom to innovate, and LEA members have provided the association with the resources needed to truly make a difference. I have the honor of working with a dedicated and talented staff and board of directors.

Q: Explain your experience with LEA?

A: There is no other group in Maine doing the full range of lake protection and education work we do. We are now helping other lake groups develop those resources. LEA has always been an incubator for new ideas and has had the support to implement them.

Q: What prior education or experience did you have before joining LEA?

A: My degree from Colby [College] is in political science, which has come in handy, but I have had to educate myself on scientific and legal issues. I taught middle school for a year, was a code enforcement officer and a recreation director when my LEA work was part-time.

Q: Where do you see LEA 10 years from now?

A: LEA needs to stay at the cutting edge of lake protection. The creation of the Maine Lake Science Center will assure we have the facilities and collaborations necessary to learn and lead. I hope LEA will be able to advance lake protection statewide and nationally before we all lose the traditional water quality that is important in so many ways.

– Kayla Collins

Peter Lowell