This NH Union Leader editorial states that the struggle to balance the budget is nothing new, but unfortunately neither is the solution. Once again, the governor and our legislators plan to dip into dedicated funds to balance the books. It’s hardly a winning strategy. Dedicated funds are those fees paid by users, or participants in certain activities, that are “dedicated” because they are designed to fund or cover costs associated with those specific activities. In state government, there are hundreds of such fees, established over time to fund specific purposes. We have posted this editorial as we believe the issue will assume increased importance to lake communities as the state increases its share of milfoil control funding.
NEWS
State Faces Water Quality Challenges, Per New Report
We would like to think that our high-quality water resources and water services will always be here, that our quality of life will only improve, and that our infrastructure will always support a strong economy. But according to the Water Sustainability Commission, appointed by Governor John Lynch in 2011, New Hampshire faces water-related challenges now and in the coming years, and new approaches are needed to ensure that our state will have enough clean water for future generations.
Environmental Workshop to Focus on Area’s Dirt Roads
Ossipee Lake’s dirt and gravel roads can be a source of erodible soil, as they are subject to the erosive power of rain and wheels. A free public workshop in Freedom on March 23 will highlight gravel road maintenance techniques to improve performance and durability, while helping protect surface water quality through properly managed drainage.
The Smart Report: Almost There
I was at the dam around noon Thursday. Snowplow piles restricted a close up view, but I did confirm that all five south side gates are open. Looking to the west there is open water and no ice blockage. Water flow is steady and the level appears to be the same on both sides of the south dam. This is normal when the lake elevation is below 405′. The south side dam drains the water from the bottom of the lake so water flow resembles a river at today’s activity level.
Annual Ice-Out Contest Set to Begin
With snow still falling it’s hard to believe it’s time for the start of the Ossipee Lake Ice-Out Contest. The contest, sponsored by the Ossipee Recreation Department and New England Rod and Reel, is an annual event in which entrants guess the precise time at which Ossipee Lake is ruled to be ice-free. The winner receives a new fishing rod and reel. Last year’s official ice-out was at 4 p.m. on March 24. That was the earliest date in 17 years, according to Broad Bay’s Bob Smart. Smart says that despite last year’s early date, in most years there is ice on Ossipee Lake through much of April.