The Ripple Winter 2026

info245928
Feb 10
5 min read

Updated: Mar 31

Greetings!

It's a new year, and WALPA is kicking things off with some exciting new projects! From an expanded social media presence to student scholarships and a full slate of upcoming events, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about lakes and get involved. Keep reading to see how you can stay connected and support lake stewardship this year!

Learn About New Water Quality Standards Rulemakings

Webinars happening soon!

The WA Department of Ecology is hosting a webinar on their plans to update the surface water quality standards to address freshwater nutrient pollution and harmful algal blooms. They will discuss:

An overview of the rulemaking process
Harmful algal blooms: what they are and why they are an issue
How humans and aquatic life are affected by nutrient problems in lakes and reservoirs
Possible ways to use science, including models, to develop water quality criteria to protect humans and aquatic life
Timeline and opportunities for future participation

After the presentation, there will be time for questions. Please register in advance using the links below. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email with information about joining the meeting.

The webinar is via Zoom at the following dates and times:

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 – 2 p.m. Register for afternoon webinar

Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 – 6 p.m. Register for evening webinar

2026 WALPA Scholarship Applications Now Open

Apply by April 15th!

This year, WALPA is offering three student scholarships:

Nancy Weller Memorial Scholarship - $1,250 to a Ph.D. graduate student

Dave Lamb Memorial Scholarship - $1,000 to a M.S. graduate student

The WALPA scholarship - $500 to an undergraduate

All scholarships will also provide complimentary registration and a $200 travel stipend towards accommodation for our annual conference.

Student scholarships will be awarded to further our understanding of the limnology, hydrology, ecology, management, and restoration of lakes in Washington and Idaho. Applicants must be part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate students at an accredited college or university in Washington or Idaho. Recipients must use scholarship funds to cover expenses directly related to their research.

Applications due by April 15, 2026. Visit our website for more information on applying.

Ecology's Updated Aquatic Plant and Algae Management General Permit Coming Soon

Thank you to everyone who provided input on the Department of Ecology’s Aquatic Plant and Algae Management General Permit in 2025 during the development process and public comment period. We made numerous changes to the final permit based on comments and suggestions we received. These included removing some of the changes proposed in the draft permit and adding more complete monitoring around the use of phosphorus control products.

The reissuance process is on track to release the final Aquatic Plant and Algae Management General Permit by February 18, 2026. The updated permit will become effective on March 20, 2026. More details will be provided about the final permit in the March Waterline newsletter. If you have questions about the general permit or the reissuance process, please contact Shawn Ultican at shawn.ultican@ecy.wa.gov or 360-407-6283.

WALPA Updates

What else is going on with WALPA? News from the Board and more!

Early Career Panel Coming in April

WALPA is hosting an Early Career Panel in early April featuring aquatic professionals from a variety of sectors. Panelists will share their experiences working in the aquatic management field and offer insights into different career paths for students, early career professionals, and others interested in pursuing a career in aquatic management. Stay tuned for the official date and more details on our social media channels and the March issue of Waterline!

WALPA is Getting Social This Year!

WALPA’s Communication Committee is expanding our social media presence this year to better connect with our members, partners, and the public. With regular posts and short videos, we hope to better engage and educate our members and the public about lake science, stewardship, and the important issues affecting our local lakes. We will also provide important WALPA announcements, highlight member activities, promote opportunities to get involved, and provide timely educational content. With multiple weekly posts, we aim to create consistent, informative, and approachable content that supports WALPA’s mission and fosters a stronger lake-centered community.

Learn more about lakes in our new social media series, Lake Takes!

Follow us on your favorite platform and interact to increase WALPA’s reach in Washington and Idaho!

Have ideas for social media posts or interested in creating content? The social media team would love to showcase our members' work or relevant lake topics or issues. You can also help create content whether you are a social media pro or looking to gain experience. Contact our social media team Darren and Elise at communications@walpa.org.

Reminder - Become a 2026 WALPA Member

Your membership renewal plays a critical role in supporting WALPA’s financial stability and ensuring we can continue this important work. Membership fees directly support our programs, outreach, and advocacy efforts—and truly go a long way for a great cause. Learn more about WALPA and how your membership makes an impact.

Students - membership is free!
Early Career - just $35
Individuals & Lake Associations - $50

Renew or join today and continue supporting lake protection efforts across our region!

Renew Now

Lake News, Events, & Opportunities

Join fellow freshwater enthusiasts for upcoming events and activities and stay informed on the latest lake developments!

Job Opportunities

Swinomish Indian Tribal Community has an opening for a Fisheries Technician II to assist with shellfish surveys, green crab trapping, and other fishery projects. Apply by Feb 12.
King County is hiring a Senior Limnologist to monitor, analyze, and report on the status of Lakes Washington, Sammamish, and Union. Apply by Feb 18.
Puyallup Tribe of Indians is hiring a Fisheries Scientific Technician II to help with monitoring juvenile salmon. Apply by Feb 18.
Whitman Conservation District seeks a Conservation Project Planner to plan and implement riparian restoration projects.

Lake-Related Conferences

EPA CyanoSymposium March 16, 18, 23, 25, Virtual: Join the EPA’s biennial symposium focused on the human and animal health impacts of cyanobacteria.
2026 WAPMS Annual Conference March 9-11, Coeur d’Alene, ID: Attend the Western Aquatic Plant Management Society’s annual conference.
13th US Symposium on Harmful Algae October 25-29, Cedar Rapids, IA: Learn about the latest updates in harmful algal bloom science and management strategies.
NALMS 2026 November 3-6, Kelowna, BC: Join the North American Lake Management Society for their 46th International Symposium.

Volunteer & Training Opportunities

Lake Sammamish State Park Feb 21, March 7, 14, 21, 28: Help pot native plants for habitat and riparian restoration at Greenway Nursery in Lake Sammamish State Park.
Washington Sea Grant is recruiting for their 2026 Crab Team to help trap invasive green crabs or join their Molt Search volunteer program. Trainings start in March.

Enjoy & Appreciate Lakes

Lake Wenatchee Guided Snowshoe Hike every Sunday in February: Join Washington State Parks staff for this free snowshoe hike along the shores of Lake Wenatchee.
Lake Easton Guided Snowshoe Hike every Friday and Saturday through March 14: Join an interpretive ranger for a free, educational snowshoe hike along Lake Easton.
Lake Sammamish Outdoor Festival March 28, Issaquah, WA: Enjoy Lake Sammamish State Park at this free community event with activities and vendors.
Lake Pend Orielle Spring Fishing Derby April 25 – May 3: Cheer on or take part in the Lake Pend Orielle Idaho Club's annual fishing contest.