July 09, 2021| Education, Environment, Recreation
By: Holly Odgers
You work and play on them. You drink from them. But do you really appreciate them? Growing population, development, and invasive species stress our local lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. All life needs water, let’s not take it for granted! The North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) started Lakes Appreciation Month, held each year during July, to focus attention on the value of lakes and reservoirs to society and the threats they face. Lakes and reservoirs are used for a variety of purposes: water supply for municipal, industrial and agricultural use; recreation; flood control; and aesthetic enjoyment. However, they are often considered “free” resources by users and this can result in abuse and neglect. July is a great time to celebrate and help your favorite lake or reservoir. It’s a time when many folks are vacationing and enjoying lakes and reservoirs. Just think, what would your life be like without lakes?
Share your stories, events, photos, videos, etc. on social media! Be sure to use the hashtag #LakesAppreciation and tag the Lake Hopatcong Foundation and NALMS (we love to see your stories and lake photos)!
Inspire the youth in your life (or the young at heart) with some Lakes Appreciation Bingo and a Lake Facts coloring sheet from NALMS. It's never too soon to encourage our next generation of lake supporters!
