Lake Raponda in Wilmington. Courtesy photo.
Vermont Business Magazine Governor Phil Scott has proclaimed July as Lakes Appreciation Month in Vermont. The Governor’s proclamation signifies the importance of the state’s over 800 lakes and ponds for this and future generations.
“Lakes and ponds are among our state’s most valuable natural resources,” said Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Jason Batchelder. “They offer Vermonters countless benefits from drinking water and recreation to crucial fish and wildlife habitat.”
Vermont has faced unprecedented challenges due to climate change, including catastrophic flooding. The protection of lake health using tools like the Shoreland Protection Act strengthens Vermont's resiliency to the harmful impacts of climate change. The Shoreland Protection Act balances the protection of vegetation along the shoreline with the allowance for reasonable development along shorelands.
Another important tool used to protect lake health is Vermont’s Lake Wise Program. This program is an Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) initiative that provides free, non-regulatory, technical assistance to lakeshore homeowners to make their properties more lake friendly. Once a property achieves the Lake Wise criteria, it can receive a Lake Wise award. Lake Wise properties are more resilient to flooding, erosion, and property damage, and they provide important habitat for birds and other shoreland animals.
Together, these voluntary and regulatory programs work with private homeowners, State Parks, Towns, and businesses to protect these vital lake resources that are so important for recreation, drinking water, and habitat.
“Working with the public on development projects gives us the opportunity to promote the benefits of decreasing lawn area near lakes and planting native plants for the good of the lake,” said Misha Cetner, DEC Lakes Ecologist.
To celebrate Lakes Appreciation Month this year, visit one of the many State Parks on a Vermont lake. If you already live on a Vermont lake, show your appreciation for the lake and plant a native tree species along the shoreline. For years to come, that tree will help stabilize the shoreline, protect water quality, provide shoreline habitat, and offer some shade to keep you cool on a hot July day.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.
7.1.2025. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Website.
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