The following was contributed by:  Derek R. Durbin, J.D.
Environmental Policy Director,  New Hampshire Lakes Association
3 Silk Farm Rd.,  Concord, NH 03301    (603) 226-0299
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.nhlakes.org/

Good News! On May 27th, the NH Senate passed HB 350 as amended (a NH LAKES initiated bill). The focus of this bill is to update the law to include limitations of phosphorus in automatic dishwashing detergents (automatic dishwashing detergents containing low and no phosphorus are readily available today through most manufacturers). Phosphorus can encourage overabundant plant and algal growth which can lead to increased problems with toxic algal blooms and the increased growth of exotic invasive aquatic weeds. By eliminating a significant contributor of phosphorous pollution at its manufacturing sources, we are able to greatly reduce its impact on lakes. We are looking forward to the Governor's signature - stay tuned!

Also, on Wednesday, June 3rd, the NH Senate passed HB 45 as amended. This bill expands the eligibility for water supply land conservation grants to future sources of public drinking water and broadens the definition of grantees to include non-profit land trust organizations. The amendment also establishes a committee to study the Fish and Game Department plan to develop the Wild Goose site on Lake Sunapee into a motorized boat access ramp and places a moratorium on the permiting process while under review by the committee. NH LAKES agrees with the position of the Lake Sunapee Protective Association, as there are major concerns for water quality impairment under the current site plan. It would be much better to revise the site plan to include low impact lake access, such as a cartop launch site, with facilities for swimming, picnicking and shoreland fishing. By revising the site plan to accommodate low impact lake access, the Fish and Game Department will comply with the requirements under the Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act, as well as the permitting requirements (least impacting alternative) under the Wetlands Act. In addition, the current proposal will require at least $1.2 million dollars to develop into a motorized launch site. Given the current economic situation affecting the state budget, it would be fiscally responsible to reallocate some of those funds to existing state access sites. There are many existing motorized launch sites throughout NH that require funding for upkeep and maintenance. Significant funds can be reallocated to existing motorized access sites in need of repair by simply revising the current Wild Goose proposal for low impact lake access.

Next Wednesday, June 10th, the NH House of Representatives will be asked to support HB 45 as amended by the NH Senate. ACTION: Please contact a member of the NH House of Representatives and voice your support for HB 45 as amended in the Senate. We need your support to pass this important piece of legislation designed to help protect drinking water supplies.