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NOTES FROM THE DOCK

From Tim Votapka, President, Salem Lakes Preservation Association

As summer settles in around Big and Little Salem, now's a good time to read our current issue of LakeFront which serves as something of a portal—an invitation to discover the many ways our community continues to care for, enjoy, and celebrate the lakes we all cherish.


Inside, you'll meet our new 2026 Greeter Team, a dedicated group of volunteers helping to protect our waters and welcome visitors throughout the boating season. You'll also find information about the Lake Wise Program and our collective effort to achieve Gold Award status this year. Every shoreline improvement, every conversation, and every participating property owner helps move us closer to that goal.


We've also included a quick and easy way to access the current Vermont wakeboat and wakesports regulations now in effect, helping everyone stay informed and enjoy the lake responsibly.


Be sure to mark your calendar for the Salem Lakes Preservation Association's Annual Meeting on July 18. We'll share updates on the work being done this season to stay ahead of invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil in both Big and Little Salem.,


Protecting our lakes requires ongoing vigilance, and we're grateful for the volunteers, partners, and supporters who make that work possible. One of the most rewarding things about our community is the deep connection so many people feel to these waters. Whether you've lived here for decades, recently arrived, or spend part of your year enjoying the lakes, there is a common thread that brings us together. That connection is evident not only in our conservation efforts, but also in the traditions and events that strengthen our community spirit.


From the annual Coin Drop and the Summer BBQ to the July 4th Parade, we continue to find reasons to gather, celebrate, and reconnect. This past winter brought a new tradition as well—the Ice Melt Contest—which added a little friendly competition and a lot of community conversation during the colder months.


Perhaps most encouraging of all is the growing number of people stepping forward to get involved. Volunteerism, fresh ideas, and neighborly collaboration are what keep our association vibrant and effective. We are always interested in hearing what members would like to participate in whether it's joining an existing project, helping with an event, contributing professional expertise, or suggesting something entirely new that we've never tried before.


After all, that's what community is: people who care enough to share their time, talents, and ideas in service of a place they love.

Thank you for being part of the Salem Lakes community. We hope you enjoy this issue of LakeFront, and we look forward to seeing you on the water, at our events, and at the Annual Meeting this summer.