Welcome to the
Lakes and Ponds Management and Protection Section

The Lakes and Ponds Management and Protection Section monitors the water quality of lakes, determines the causes of problems, and develops ways to solve them. Our staff provides assistance regarding lake management and protection to municipalities, lake associations, and individuals. We also administer permits for aquatic nuisance control activities and for encroachments into lakes and we offer grant opportunities in a number of management areas.

Lakes and ponds are special places.  Whether tucked away at the end of a mountain trail or just on the edge of town, they provide us with opportunity to break away from our normal routine.  Many of us dream of owning a bit of heaven on a lakeshore.  Unfortunately, research has revealed that our desire to live on the water’s edge is affecting the shoreline, the creatures that need it, and the health of the lake itself - changing much of what draws us to lakes in the first place. 

Development, on-shore activities, loss of the littoral habitat, and the introduction of invasive species all represent significant threats to Vermont lakes.  Please explore our webpages to learn how you can protect Vermont lakes and reduce your lakeshore footprint.