NORWAY — Since 1971, the Lakes Association of Norway (LAON) has been dedicated to preserving the health and beauty of Norway’s four lakes: Sand Pond, Hobbs Pond, North Pond and Lake Pennesseewassee.

“We protect lakes from harmful invasive plants and pollutants, monitor the overall health of each lake, and raise awareness about how to use lakes safely and responsibly,” said Sal Girifalco, president of LAON. “Some lakes in our region have degraded significantly. It’s very easy to lose water quality, and once it’s lost, it’s very hard to get it back.”

LAON’s critical work has inspired Norway Savings Bank to support the cause for nearly a decade, including a $1,500 donation this month.

“Savings Bank of Norway has played an important role in LAON’s programs to proactively protect the lakes, which really benefit the entire area and are enjoyed by residents and tourists alike,” said Girifalco. “It’s much better to prevent problems than to try to fix them.”

LAON hires inspectors to check boats that might accidentally introduce invasive plants into the water, and inspectors have had four “rescues,” removing invasive plants from boats about to be launched. The association also conducts watershed surveys, which have found more than 250 sites of erosion that carry algae-feeding nutrients into the lakes and is in the process of addressing them.

“We are a volunteer organization, but certain projects require the hiring of expert services,” Girifalco said. “Support from community-minded companies like Norway Savings Bank makes this happen.”

The importance of LAON’s mission cannot be overstated. Cleaning up infested lakes or dealing with algae problems has a massive cost, and the ability to continue using them for recreation can become limited, greatly reducing property values. It’s a problem that would extend from shore into the community, and one NSB is excited to proactively confront through its partnership with LAON.

“We are proud to stand with LAON as the organization is there for our lakes and their future,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings. “From regular lab water testing to invasive species screenings, the association’s commitment to the future of these lakes will enable swimming, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, skating and cross-country skiing in these areas for generations to come.”

There are many ways to support LAON, including as a volunteer, sponsor or through other means of support. To learn more about the association, its work and how you can help, visit www.norwaylakes.org/membership-and-support.

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