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Stoddard committee reviews steep‑slope runoff strategies and outreach via Lake Smart
Summary
Committee members reviewed erosion control panels, terracing and shoreline buffers to limit runoff into local lakes and discussed encouraging builders to incorporate the NH Lake Smart program into client recommendations.
At the March 13 meeting, committee chair Rex Rodanos reported that much of Stoddard would qualify as steep slopes and outlined three primary mitigation strategies: buried erosion control (honeycomb) panels to retain soil and allow plantings, terracing to increase infiltration, and shoreline buffers (for example, leaving about 10 feet of natural vegetation at the water’s edge) to keep grass clippings and other contaminants out of lakes.
Patrick Leonard urged the committee to work with local builders—particularly those constructing properties near lakes—to promote the NH Lake Smart program as a recommended advisory resource for new clients. Helen Tam‑Semmens raised concerns about construction‑season runoff and the seasonal nature of building activity, and members discussed how roof runoff can be directed or dissipated to reduce pollutant flow into the watershed.
Patrick also distributed a handout summarizing watershed sources and strategies to reduce nutrient output, and members emphasized public education so property owners understand their individual impacts on lake water quality. Naomi Risch said she is arranging external speakers and awaiting responses from the DES cyanobacteria committee and the NH Lakes Association about outreach events.
