The Washington State Lake Protection Association (WALPA) is a non-profit organization formed in 1986 by a group of volunteers concerned for the future of lakes in this state. WALPA has grown to more than 200 members that include
lakeside residents, lake associations, recreationists, scientists, educators, legislators, and local and state agencies. Through WALPA, separate entities with diverse interests speak with a united voice. More members give us an even louder voice – so please JOIN NOW!
WALPA is an affiliate of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS), an international organization. NALMS’ mission is “to forge partnerships among citizens, scientists and professionals to foster the management and protection of lakes and reservoirs for today and tomorrow.”
WALPA’s Mission
Our mission through WALPA is to allow diverse interests to speak with one voice to protect lakes. We encourage and support programs for lake and watershed protection, restoration and management, provide educational resources and information about lake and watershed management, and foster communication and coordination among lake and watershed stakeholders.
Current WALPA Bylaw (passed 2024)
WALPA’s Non-Discrimination Policy
formally adopted by WALPA’s Board on 9/6/2017
WALPA does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
WALPA is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
WALPA’s Activities and Accomplishments
Communication
- WALPA Brochure
- Publishing a quarterly newsletter called the Waterline
- Hosting annual conferences
- Conducted a lake user survey
- Conducted a statewide outreach program that solicited public input for a comprehensive lake and watershed management program for Washington State
- Representing lakes before local, state and federal governments
- Providing access to the North American Lake Management Society
Education
- Developed a slide show about lake management
- Sponsored aquatic plant workshops
- Published The Washington Lake Book: A Handbook for Lake Users
- Produced the Directory of Products, Services and Members
- Providing technical support at lake association meetings
Policy and Legislation
- Support for re-establishing the lake category of Ecology’s Centennial Clean Water Fund
- Support for re-establishing Ecology’s statewide lake monitoring program
- Provided critical input on the development and passing of the Lake Health Bill
- Instrumental in passing legislation for Ecology’s Freshwater Aquatic Weed Financial Assistance Program
- Instrumental in passing legislation for the Phosphorus Free Automatic Dishwasher Detergent ban
- Instrumental in passing legislation for the Clean Fertilizers, Healthier Lakes and Rivers Legislation
Contact us
We have a NEW ADDRESS!
WALPA
PO Box 75423
Seattle, WA 98175
For more information about WALPA, email us here!
For other contacts visit our Board and Committees page.
