July 2015 is Lakes Appreciation Month
Vermont’s Governor Peter Shumlin signed a proclamation declaring July Lakes Appreciation Month. The proclamation states that lakes and reservoirs are “critical to Vermont’s environment and quality of life, providing sources of recreation, scenic beauty, and habitat for wildlife” and that ”maintaining the health of our lakes, ponds, and reservoirs is the responsibility of every citizen.”
“… by signing this proclamation, I seek to recognize the tremendous and critical efforts of the many Vermont citizens, community leaders, volunteers, lake and watershed organizations to protect and restore the quality of our state’s many lakes and ponds.” ~ Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin
About Lakes Appreciation Month
Lakes Appreciation Month is a time to think about where you would be without water. It is also a time to think about the threats facing your lakes and reservoirs. Lakes Appreciation Month is an initiative started by the North American Lakes Management Society (NALMS). NALMS mission is to “forge partnerships among citizens, scientists, and professionals to foster the management and protection of lakes and reservoirs for today and tomorrow”.
Growing population, development, and invasive plants and animals put stress on these waterbodies. All life relies water. And as you know, we can no longer afford to take for granted that these water resources will always be there and always be usable.
Lake Appreciation Month in Vermont
Vermont has been a leader in the protection of water resources. Recently, 2014’s Shoreland Protection Act and 2015’s landmark Vermont Clean Water Act, that addressed polluted stormwater runoff, continue that tradition of leadership. The three departments of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources: Fish & Wildlife, Forest Parks & Recreation, and Environmental Conservation all work to protect Vermonters’ ability to enjoy the state’s many lakes, reservoirs and ponds through education, outreach, oversight and maintaining access through boat launch areas and State Parks. Vermont’s citizens are instrumental in supporting the Agency through monitoring water quality, preventing the spread of invasive species, and educating the public about the importance of caring for the state’s waters.
Articles About Lake Champlain and Blue Green Algae:
- Lake Erie Toxic Algae Breaks Records in 2015
- Farmers: Lake pollution is not just us
- Farmers, environmentalists sound off on Missisquoi Bay settlement
- DEC Approves Plan to Protect Northern Lake Champlain Tributaries
- LCC Week 15 blue-green algae report