Fireworks and Your Lake - A Letter from Linda Schier

As the summer comes along, thoughts of fireworks seem to be part of the season. I want to share some information regarding fireworks that has recently come to my attention. The NHDES Fact Sheet below deals with the impact of fireworks on our lakes. This information makes it obvious that fireworks contribute significant pollution to our lakes and puts our water related recreation at risk.  Fireworks during the July 4th holiday is a time-honored tradition, but it is important that you become aware of the impact the materials used in fireworks have on our environment. I must say that I was shocked to learn about all the different chemicals involved in fireworks production and it gives me great pause to think of swimming in the lake with my grandson after one of our big holiday weekends. In addition to the chemicals, a lot of residual paper and plastic ends up in the lake. We are all working hard to protect and improve the water quality in our lakes. I believe that keeping fireworks residue out of the water will certainly help. We know that fireworks displays are part of our heritage, but hopefully this information will inspire folks to minimize their displays or take measures to prevent fireworks residue from landing in the water of our precious lakes. Hope you all have a great summer. Thank you for all you do for your lake, 

Linda Schier, Executive Director AWWA,  lindaschier@AWwatersheds.org