In recognition of Lakes Appreciation Month, board members of the Federation of Vermont Lakes and Ponds submitted a commentary highlighting some of the amazing things happening under the surface of our lakes and ponds (including here at Lake St. Catherine!)

While we've all been appreciating this year's very visible eaglets and loon chicks, other interesting things are happening beneath the surface of the lake. This commentary focuses in on a few of those fascinating organisms that you may not be familiar with that are thriving and contributing to a healthy lake ecosystem, including: the fresh-water sponge, native bladderwort, and the eastern elliptio mussel. 

You can read the commentary in the Rutland Herald here: 

Experience the Magic of Vermont Lakes

Photo: Eastern Elliptio, Vermont Center for Ecostudies