Squam Lake, nestled in Holderness, NH, is renowned as one of North America's most pristine lakes. Its serene beauty and ecological significance draw thousands of visitors annually, providing an invaluable resource to local residents and the broader community. For many of us, this lake is not just a natural wonder but a cherished haven of tranquility and biodiversity.

In our community, however, there's a growing concern regarding the New Hampshire Electric Cooperative's (NHEC) current practice of spraying herbicides under power lines across various Holderness properties. This action is carried out without explicit consent from landowners unless they make the effort each year to request exclusion. The onus is unfairly placed on property owners to opt-out annually, rather than on the NHEC to obtain explicit permission before potentially impacting the environment and personal property.

Considering the delicate ecosystem surrounding Squam Lake and the potential hazards herbicides pose to both environmental and human health, we believe a paradigm shift is essential. Property owners should not have to annually remind NHEC of their preference to avoid herbicides. Instead, a proactive approach should be adopted where properties are excluded from spraying by default unless owners choose otherwise.

Herbicides can have lingering effects on soil and water quality, potentially endangering wildlife and disrupting natural habitats. Numerous studies have highlighted the risks posed by chemical herbicides, including increased chances of water contamination and adverse impacts on biodiversity. For the sake of preserving the pristine condition of Squam Lake and its surroundings, it's critical that landowners have the right to decide what happens on their property.

We're calling on NHEC to prioritize consent and environmental stewardship. Let's protect our cherished natural resources and respect individual property rights by ensuring herbicides are only used where they are truly wanted. Sign this petition to urge the NHEC to change their policy, requiring explicit approval from property owners before any herbicide spraying on their land in Holderness, NH. Your support is pivotal in safeguarding the pristine beauty of Squam Lake for generations to come.