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Old 07-17-2012, 12:18 PM   #62
MAXUM
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Originally Posted by Benny View Post
Some “get” the jist of the original question, but most don’t. We all agree that safe boating laws certainly apply to all who enjoy the lake, and that these laws need to be enforced by the State. We also agree that the State manages natural resources for the enduring good and welfare of the people of New Hampshire by implementing regulations intended to preserve the ecological balance of the lake and its tributaries.
What seems to be a bone of contention is an apparent lack of written decree that defines acceptable “etiquette” pertaining to rights and privileges of waterfront owners who are taxed so heavily for their property. Landowners, almost without exception, accept their responsibility as stewards of the fragile lake environment. Winnipesaukee has +/-300 miles of shorefront. Hypothetically assuming shorefront is rationed into 100 ft wide lots, each landowner shares 1/15840th stewardship (worst case). This vested interest in the lake certainly should have more influence than the out-of-state boater who invests $15 to launch their boat. Unfortunately, the stereotypical daytimer is observed to exercise little or no respect for those of us who pay the price for our little bit of heaven. Consider the analogy of renting a car vs. using your own car. The rental is thrashed, abused, and soiled. The owned car is maintained and clean. There is no pride-of-ownership for the rental.
Let's first offically define "etiquette": imply observance of the formal requirements governing behavior in polite society

Far as the lake goes, property owners have no more 'rights' or 'privledges' than anyone else when it comes to the lake itself. The amount of property tax levied is just that tax on property NOT on the lake. The fact a piece of property may include acutal shoreline is a unique feature that determines it's overall value. That's why if you look at any tax map for waterfront property the property boundary is the shore, not extending into the lake. Any features you wish to use that encroach into the lake is a matter of public interest, into a public body of water, and therefore regulated by the state in the best interest of the public.

To suggest that landowners are good stewards of the lake is comical, if that were the case then why have very strict guidelines for shorefront development? Answer, the 'stereotypical' landowners have taken it upon themselves to say hey I own my little piece and I'm going to do with it as I damn well please in many cases to the detriment of the lake itself. The worst offenders are the big money places, clear cutting, putting in lawn to the water's edge, polluting the water with ferilizer, throwing up these huge often times ugly places that take away from the natural beauty of the natural shore line. How obnoxious can you get to see some 20K SQFT mansion on a clear cut lot that is used only at best a couple weeks out of the year? I would also assert that most of the shorefront owners are also out of staters too because us natives can swing those places. So what's your point other than to present an entire premise that is argumentative?

Now as a native and resident of NH, should that give me any more access to the lake than anyone else? Of course not. The lake is not an exculsive club it's a resource for everyone to enjoy no matter where you are from or what means you happen to have. I have just reciently been one of the lucky ones to now own a little slice of heaven too, but that makes me no better than the day boater I used to be. I welcome all to enjoy the area and all it has to offer, and whether you be a day boater, land owner or just using a public beach. In the end it's God's creation that we all share, so treat it with the respect it deserves and good grief learn how to play well with others!
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