William Johnson

Harmful cyanobacteria blooms are increasing across New Hampshire’s lakes and rivers, posing risks to public health, drinking water, recreation, property values, and local economies. Some studies done in Northern New England point to up to a 60% drop in property values of lakeshore property values. Some people might say "well that's just the rich folks on the shore"...but what they don't realize is if those property values plummet the burden of those lost tax dollars will land on everyone else in the community! This is a regional issue that needs regional-based solutions! In the two previous summers we've been directly impacted by blooms that have kept us and our families out of the water due to the health risks. I support HB 1148 because it enhances coordination and problem-solving by integrating bloom prevention and response into an established committee already focused on waterbody management. The bill also recognizes the importance of advancing understanding of the factors driving bloom formation. This knowledge will help New Hampshire continue developing informed, science-based strategies to protect water quality statewide. As I've stated above, more needs to be done on this issue and it needs to be driven by a State/Regional approach to be successful. The Lakes Region alone is a $1B industry supporting over 8,000 jobs. We need to do more! Thanks for listening....