PATRICIA CROTHERS

Cyanobacteria blooms have increased considerably in the past few years. I read of many lakes that were devastated by closed beaches and waterfront last summer. I personally felt the devastation when we had to tell family who was coming to visit during a beautiful, warm weekend, that we would not be able to swim in the lake due to the blooms. NH is known for its beautiful lakes; tourism is a big part of our economy. We need to do all we can to protect our lakes for these reasons as well as prevent health effects to individuals and animals. With the effects of climate change, it seems that cyanobacteria blooms will continue to grow. An expansive, proactive approach is necessary now, not after our lakes have suffered more. I support creation of a task force to develop funding to help prevent continued growth and develop mitigation strategies before things worsen. I support SB598!