Rick LaFond, the Webster Town Administrator who helped guide the proposal through a successful Town Meeting Warrant, said “I am very pleased that, through the efforts of Sen. Fattman and Rep. McKenna, we are able to join a partnership with the WLA and Commonwealth. The burden of caring for and managing the property of the Commonwealth has fallen unfairly of the WLA and we hope to establish a long-term commitment from all parties to manage and preserve our common asset. Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg is the signature identity of Webster and we must do all that we can to ensure that future generations have the same pride and enjoyment of this asset” The voters of the Town of Webster demonstrated strong support for the initiative, with a warrant article allocating $20,000 for WLA lake management efforts passing by an overwhelming 204-10 vote at the spring Town meeting. This local commitment complements the state funding, creating a robust financial foundation for ongoing lake management efforts.

State Senator Ryan Fattman, responsible for obtaining a $50,000 grant from the Commonwealth, added, "Webster Lake is one of the largest bodies of water in the Commonwealth and is a source of recreational and economic activities for Webster and surrounding communities. It is essential that we preserve this natural resource. I've enjoyed working with the Webster Lake Association as we tackle challenges that come up as well as innovative ideas to keep this lake beautiful and available for all."

State Representative Joseph McKenna, who secured a $25,000 earmark for the project, emphasized the lake's significance: "With Webster Lake being such an important economic driver, natural resource, and recreational asset for the community, it's so important that we work together as a state, town, and community of residents and stakeholders to ensure its maintenance and upkeep. When we all pull in the same direction to share the costs and burden the work is easier and we can protect this resource for all to enjoy." 

Webster Lake, officially recognized as a Massachusetts Great Pond, has faced increasing challenges due to invasive weeds and algae caused by run off from lawns, gardens, roads and highways, contamination from incoming rivers and streams and other environmental sources. The WLA, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization founded in 2001, has been at the forefront of addressing these issues. Their mission, "dedicated to enhancing, preserving and protecting the quality of the lake and its watershed through the promotion of responsible, effective environmental & educational policies," has guided their efforts in conducting water quality testing, invasive plant studies, and invasive weed management for over two decades. 

The economic impact of Webster Lake on the local community is substantial. Lakefront properties, assessed at approximately $824,000,000, make up about 20% of the Town’s total residential units but pay 34% of all Webster residential taxes. The lake is a major economic driver for the town, region, and state, supporting significant employment and business activities and including various recreational pursuits, events and tourism. 

This new partnership marks a significant milestone in ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of Webster Lake. By combining resources and expertise from local, state, and community organizations, the initiative sets a promising precedent for effective lake management and conservation efforts.