The week ahead will be important for those interested in the future of Vermont’s lakes and ponds. On Wednesday, February 15, DEC conducts a meeting to gather commentary on its draft wakeboat rule. Last week, we saw a flurry of press reports and opinion in favor of RWVL. This newsletter provides information and advice to help you support our cause.
DEC Meeting
The Department of Environmental Conservation will be taking public commentary on its draft rule for the management of wakeboats on Vermont lakes on February 15, 2023. The meeting will take place from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Highland Center for the Arts, 2875 Hardwick Street, Greensboro, Vermont, and also online. Consider participating in this meeting to show your support, preferably in person.
If you have received notice from Oliver Pierson of DEC that you will be speaking at this meeting, please let us know what you plan to say, and whether it will be in-person or virtual, at info@responsiblewakes.org. In this way, RWVL can coordinate the comments to make sure that all of our key points are covered, and to avoid duplication. If you need ideas for your talk, read our “Talking Points for February 15.” If you want to review the RWVL’s position on the DEC’s proposed rule on our website, read our RWVL Response. If you are concerned about connecting to the meeting from afar, and want to make sure your comment is heard, feel free to send us a copy at info@responsiblewakes.org.
Comportment at the meeting: The purpose of this meeting is to allow the staff of the Department of Environmental Conservation to gather comments on its draft rule. The meeting is neither a political rally nor a debate. To allow as many comments as possible to be heard, and to keep things civil, RWVL suggests that if you wish to show your approval to a speaker, that you silently raise a hand with a V-for-victory. If you are neutral, or disapprove, then just sit tight. Avoid applause and oral interruptions.
Meet and Greet
RWVL will host a meet-and-greet event at the Highland Center for the Arts from 3:00 until 5:00 PM on the 15th. We will have a chance to meet in person, to prepare our remarks, and share news of our progress. Refreshments will be available.
Press Coverage
Finally, we’ve just enjoyed a week full of positive press for our work. You may review this at the Media section of our website.