This spring, students from Holderness Central School became LakeSmart Leaders through a collaborative shoreline restoration project at Livermore Beach in Holderness. Working alongside community partners, students investigated how stormwater runoff, erosion, and invasive plant species can impact the health of Squam Lake and explored solutions that help protect water quality and wildlife habitat.
The project brought together Holderness Central School, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Squam Lakes Association, Squam Lakes Conservation Society, and the Holderness Recreation Department. Guided by recommendations from the LakeSmart Program, students learned how land-use decisions affect lake ecosystems and how communities can take action to reduce environmental impacts.
On a community workday in May, middle school students removed invasive plants and helped construct water diverters designed to slow and redirect stormwater runoff before it reaches the lake. Later that day, members of the K–4 Earth Club planted native shrubs and trees all over hte property to stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and improve habitat for wildlife. Students worked alongside parents, conservation professionals, AmeriCorps members, and town volunteers, gaining firsthand experience in environmental stewardship and community collaboration.
Beyond the immediate restoration work, students developed a deeper understanding of watershed health, climate resilience, and the role individuals can play in protecting natural resources. Through hands-on learning and meaningful community partnerships, they contributed to a project that will benefit Squam Lake for years to come.
Funding for this phase of the project was generously provided by Rockywold-Deephaven Camps’ Squam Environmental Preservation Fund.
