Celebrating Lakes Month

Sunset at North Hero

This July, Governor Phil Scott officially proclaimed it Lakes Appreciation Month in Vermont—a special occasion to pause and truly recognize how deeply our lakes, rivers, and streams enrich our communities, our well‑being, and our way of life.

At Friends of Northern Lake Champlain, we know that protecting these waters doesn’t always require sweeping legislation or massive infrastructure. Change often starts with small, voluntary actions—like planting a native buffer, redirecting downspouts, or reducing fertilizer use. While each step may seem modest on its own, they have far greater impact when embraced collectively, across neighborhoods and communities. Over time, these everyday choices shape our shared values. When water-friendly practices are woven into how we live and care for the land, they don’t just make a difference—they leave a lasting legacy for the lake.

That’s why FNLC offers free shoreline and streamside assessments to landowners. We’ll help you understand how your property connects to the broader watershed and offer practical, non‑regulatory guidance for protecting water quality. Visit our pages for Stream Wise and Lake Wise to learn more about these consultations.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our blog for helpful posts and how‑to videos on building a rain garden, choosing native plants for buffers, and simple steps you can take to slow the flow of runoff into our waterways. These resources are designed to empower you with knowledge and tools to take action right where you live.

The July proclamation also arrives as Vermont celebrates the Shoreland Protection Act’s 10‑year milestone, a cornerstone policy allowing balanced development while preserving water quality and shoreline habitat. Now more than ever, voluntary best practices—like those promoted by FNLC—work hand‑in‑hand with regulation to maintain healthy lakes and waterways.

This year’s observance is especially timely. With federal clean‑water funding facing uncertainty, the role of local, community‑rooted organizations like FNLC grows ever more vital. We’re on the ground, building relationships, offering practical advice, and taking action—every day—to protect Lake Champlain and its tributaries.

As we celebrate Lake Appreciation Month, I invite you to appreciate what our waters mean to you—and to be a part of the solution. Whether it’s scheduling a free assessment, planting a native tree, or making a donation, your support keeps this work flowing.

Let’s care for our lakes, streams, and rivers together—clear, vibrant, and cherished—not just this July, but all year long.

~ Bridget, FNLC Executive Director

To schedule a free shoreline or streamside assessment, click on Get Involved above, explore our informative webinars at our Blog page above, or make a donation to FNLC by clicking Donate above.