Freedom—April 11, 2019—Want to be a Lake Host on Ossipee Lake this year? Starting this week, you can apply for one of a handful of paid positions in which you will be on the front lines of one of Ossipee Lake’s most important environmental initiatives while spending time in the summer sun.

Lake Hosts greet boaters and provide a complimentary boat inspection to uncover and destroy invasive plants as boats enter and leave the lake. If you’re selected for the program, you’ll receive a short training course and be deployed to one of the lake’s main boat ramps, at Pine River, Pequawket Trail, or Ossipee Lake Marina.

The positions pay $12 per hour, and schedules are flexible, including full-time and part-time work. The official minimum age to apply is 18, but outstanding younger candidates will be considered. Retirees and seniors are also encouraged to apply.

Ossipee Lake Alliance board member Jim McElroy is the point person for the program, which is a collaborative effort between DES, NH Lakes, and the ramp owners. As head of the program, McElroy coordinates between Freedom, Ossipee and Effingham on where and when Lake Hosts are scheduled during the season. 

A number of unpaid Lake Host positions are also available for people who want to accrue volunteer community service hours in the context of a limited work schedule. 

With only three paid positions available this year, applicants should apply early.

More information on the program and Lake Host responsibilities may be accessed at the NH Lakes website, but to apply for a position you must send an email to Jim McElroy at jbmcelroysr@earthlink.net.

In addition to your name, address, and phone number, you should briefly describe your connection to the Ossipee Lake area, why you’re interested in a Lake Host position, and whether you’re looking for a paid or volunteer position. 

Applications will be accepted on a first come, first considered basis through Friday, May 10.