A Labor of Love: Building and Launching a Loon Raft

May 4, 2023

On Tuesday, May 2nd, CLA participated in Maine Audubon’s Loon Restoration Project (LRP) by launching a loon raft on China Lake.

CLA Board of Directors member Bill Powell was assisted and guided by Maine Audubon staff David Morill and Tracy Hart, Director of the LRP. The raft is constructed of natural materials and will be monitored via an on-board bluetooth camera throughout nesting season. For additional photos, visit our album and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for continued updates; we can’t wait to share the first hoot of a loon chick!

Finally, if you’re out on the lake and happen to notice the raft in it’s – undisclosed – location, please DO NOT approach; keeping your distance gives loons the best chance at raising their family!

Tracy Hart, David Morill and Bill Powell gather before constructing the loon raft

The group eagerly performs various tasks before launching the raft.

Tracy Hart looks on as David and Bill tow the raft to it's location for nesting season.

With bedding applied and the loon raft securely tethered to the lake bottom, it's a wrap!

China Lake Watershed (red), 2022 U.S. Census Block (green)

China Lake Watershed (red), 2022 U.S. Census Block Group 1-3 subdivisions (green)

China Lake Watershed (red), Watershed households (green) and non-Watershed households (blue)

2022 China Lake Watershed Economic Contributions to Kennebec County