Vermont Governor Shumlin Declares July “Lakes Appreciation Month”

Gov. Peter Shumlin has declared July 2015 as "Lakes Appreciation Month."

Shumlin signed a proclamation that says the state's 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."

The Legislature this year passed a law addressing polluted stormwater runoff and last year passed a Shorelands Protection law.

Shumlin says Vermont residents play a key role in supporting the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources by monitoring water quality, preventing the spread of invasive species, and educating the public about the importance of taking care of the state's waterways.