State of Vermont Executive Department
A Proclamation
WHEREAS, lakes and ponds are among Vermont’s most valuable natural resources; and
WHEREAS, lakes and ponds contribute to the Vermont landscape by providing irreplaceable fish
and wildlife habitat, stormwater storage capacity, groundwater replenishment, and
other biotic and abiotic ecosystem services; and
WHEREAS, they provide drinking water, transportation, recreation, tourism, and scenic beauty
for the residents and visitors of Vermont; and
WHEREAS, these beneficial uses are of fundamental importance to Vermont’s history, culture,
and economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, our lakes and ponds improve the quality of life for all Vermont residents, and their
importance should not go unnoticed; and
WHEREAS, Vermont recognizes the need to protect the ecological integrity and natural resiliency
of these lakes and ponds for future generations, particularly as climate change creates
new challenges for ecosystems.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Philip B. Scott, Governor, hereby proclaim the month of July, 2026 as
LAKES APPRECIATION MONTH
in Vermont.
Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of
Vermont on this 30th day of June, A.D. 2026.
______________________
Philip B. Scott
Governor
__________________________
Jaye Pershing Johnson
Secretary of Civil and Military Affairs
