Since 1992, Friends of Lake Quannapowitt (FOLQ) has operated as an organization working to fulfill its goal of promoting public awareness and providing long-term protection and enhancement of Lake Quannapowitt and its environs. Large amounts of tar were found in the lake some years ago, a by-product of gas manufacturing from coal. The lake is emptied by the Saugus River.
Since 1992, Friends of Lake Quannapowitt (FOLQ) has been working to increase public awareness and protect and improve Lake Quannapowitt and its surroundings.  Years ago, a significant amount of tar was found in the lake, which is drained by the Saugus River as a result of coal gas manufacturing.