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The Ripple Winter 2026


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:






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.



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