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LETTER FROM A CONCERNED LAKEOWNER...
I wonder, looking around and across the lake from our dock, how the rest of our Watchic Lake neighbors came to be here, and why you chose to stay, once you settled in.
Many of you, I’ve been told, inherited your camp from parents or even grandparents who sought the peace and quiet of the clear waters, the fishing and boating, the safe swimming for their children and yours, and who in their wisdom kept the property so that you could enjoy it today.
Some of you wanted a vacation home. Some wanted an investment, recognizing the appeal of a small, family-oriented lake community to their rental customers. Some came by word of mouth, from friends already here. Some wanted to take advantage of the schools and commuter possibilities, to have “The Way Life Should Be” year-round for your families. Some wanted to retire here, not too close to civilization, yet not too far removed.
Whatever our reasons, the ingredient which ties us all together is the lake itself; the quality of the water, its purity and its beauty. It is the one thing we all have in common, no matter our origins, religion, income, or whether or not we think Gov. LePage is a good guy.
Several years ago the WLA undertook a watershed survey, followed by a major project of restoration, reclamation, and correction of many run-off and pollution problems. We were ably assisted and guided by people from DEP and Cumberland County Soil and Water District. However, much of the work itself was done primarily by our own Watchic Lake volunteers, neighbors helping neighbors all around the lake. Those problems were identified and corrected because Watchic folks recognized that one lake problem is everyone’s problem in the long run, and the sooner the problem is addressed the easier it is to fix.
A leak in the dam, as in a dike, could only be held back by a boy’s thumb for just so long. The dam was close to collapse, and we were so lucky to have the people with the abilities and knowledge to avert a disaster. It is time for us all to realize that caring for and maintaining the health of our lake can’t continue in crisis management mode. The need for a Capital Fund includes a proactive approach to the specter of a Eurasian milfoil presence from a missed plant transported into our waters. Watchic boats go to and from Sebago, where the Songo Lock is choked, to and from Little Sebago where a scourge is being battled, with tens of thousands of dollars already spent and no end in sight.
The issues confronting us along the Route 113 corridor aren’t all new, they’re just growing. And they can be remedied. And yes, it will be expensive. And no, we can’t put our fingers in the dike and hope the storm abates because it won’t. And if we don’t fix it, every last one of us will be affected. Owners affected directly by work on this project, as well as others who have no personal stake, have agreed and are participating in making it a reality. The Town of Standish recognizes and supports the plan. The rest of us who hope to continue our legacy can do no less.
I urge you to look deep into your hearts and your pockets and recognize how much you and yours are a part of the wonderful life we share in our lake. I know that we can continue this stewardship, together and in good spirit, whether we’re the fourth, or the first, generation."
-Judith Harris