Penny Carson
and
Martha Eaton
helped found KLA in 1971.

KLA50 Anniversary Celebration

by Larry Griffin

​

Eaton Meadow on the eastern shore of Keoka Lake, Waterford proved to be the perfect setting for the Keoka Lake Association 50th Anniversary Celebration on the crystal-clear afternoon of Saturday, July 9, 2022. Nearly two hundred members and friends of Keoka Lake Association (KLA) gathered (one year delayed due to Covid) to honor the half-century commitment of fervent volunteers who have sought to preserve the health of Keoka Lake for future generations to enjoy.

KLA50 Celebration Committee Co-Chairs, Jo Lynne and David Johnson, kicked off the festivities with an Ode to KLA and recognition of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to create the success of the KLA50 Capital Campaign and Celebration event.

KLA Past-President and one of the Capital Campaign organizers, Charlie Tarbell, cited KLA’s mission to keep the lake clean, clear, and healthy. For years KLA has supported the Courtesy Boat Inspection and Plant Patrol programs to keep the lake clear of invasive plant species. Establishment of the critically important KLA50 Fund, supported by this Capital Campaign, raised money that will be needed to fund eradication. This is the third readiness component – being able to respond quickly, by getting divers in the water as soon as milfoil (or any invasive plant or animal) is detected. Rather than waiting for an infestation to occur, KLA has taken the proactive step of assuring readiness to address any situation that may arise.

KLA is fortunate to have 95% of lake property owners as members, and many other members who are lake users or friends of the lake. Many KLA members are also members of the Lakes Environmental Association (LEA). With this strong membership base, KLA is a phenomenal example of what may be accomplished when a group of dedicated volunteers harnesses the support of those who enjoy the benefits of a healthy Maine lake.

Aided by Jo Lynne and David Johnson, with a Reveal Board prepared for the occasion, Charlie Tarbell announced the Capital Campaign raised a “war chest” of over $144,500 to address the time not if, but when invasives or other dangers threaten Keoka Lake. Until the time the KLA50 Fund is needed to protect the lake, it is being held in reserve for that purpose.

Guests to the meadow were treated to hors d’oeuvres interspersed with sharing stories and narratives since they had last gathered pre-Covid. Second String, a local band featuring Colin Holme, Executive Director of the LEA, and other staff of LEA, performed as guests filled the Gala tent. Applause erupted when Martha Eaton, one of the two remaining founders of the KLA present, was announced as the raffle winner of the gorgeous handmade quilt depicting the four seasons on Keoka Lake.