About HLA

The Highland Lake Association (HLA) is a registered 501(3)(c) non-profit organization, started in 1989. Our organization is staffed by volunteers from around the lake and is supported by our member donations.

Our mission is to preserve, enhance, and protect the natural resources of Highland Lake and its watershed.

The HLA has established itself as a leader in watershed education and water quality monitoring. Protecting water quality remains our top priority. The HLA Water Quality Committee monitors lake water quality using recognized standard methods, including analysis of natural and invasive plant species and coordinates additional testing, education, and personnel as warranted. We collaborate with our local partners, the Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Towns of Windham, Falmouth and Westbrook as well as USM, UNH and the DEP to improve and maintain the water quality of Highland Lake for the benefit of the residents, the Towns and future generations.

Lake History:
The first summer camps appeared around 1900 on Highland Lake, less than 12 miles from the heart of Portland, Maine. There are now more than 500 residences around the lake shore and more than 1000 within the watershed. The area around the dam (Duck Pond corner) served as the industrial center to residential settlement dating back to the late 1700s. The site served as a rag mill as well as a lumber mill. For more info on this, go to our History Page.

HLA is proud to maintain the lake’s history and dedication to pure enjoyment in pure water. HLA welcomes residents along the shoreline and beyond to join in our efforts to keep Highland Lake at its best!

Thank you to Julia Ellsworth for allowing us to use some of her beautiful photographs, of the northern side of Highland Lake, throughout our website.