Fireworks Use on Lake Winona

Fireworks Use on Lake Winona

Approved August 13, 2016

The Lake Winona Improvement Association is committed to maintaining the quality of our lake’s water, protecting wildlife on the lake, promoting the safety of our association members, protecting the value of our properties, and fostering good neighbor relations.

Use of fireworks on the lake is a source of legitimate concern because of the potential impact of such displays on water quality, wildlife, neighbors, and property. Fireworks contain phosphorous and radioactive and toxic, cancer-causing heavy metals that could push the lake’s health rating from its current mesotrophic status closer to a downgraded Eutrophic status, which is characterized by low dissolved oxygen, excessive plant and algal growth, cyanobacteria blooms, and fish kills, with dramatic consequences for wildlife and recreational activities. Therefore, the Lake Winona Improvement Association discourages the use of all fireworks near or along the shoreline of Lake Winona.

  1. Enjoy fireworks as much as possible through the excellent displays organized by Meredith, Ashland, and Center Harbor; and
  2. To the extent owners choose to exercise their right to use fireworks lawfully:
    1. Limit their use to the July 4th holiday, between dusk and 10 PM only (per Center Harbor and New Hampton noise ordinances)
    2. Remove all debris from the lake as quickly as possible (per NH State Law)
  3. Ask renters and guests not to make fireworks part of their visit; and
  4. Avoid reloadable mortar-style launchers which have the maximum impact on all concerns, especially phosphorous levels, heavy metals, personal injury and damage to abutting properties.