Waterside lands are unique. When in public ownership, they are often combination access areas and nature preserves. When in private ownership, there is sometimes a conflict between the use of private property and the protection of the public water resource. Both types of owners are learning better ways to care for the land alongside our special waters.

The VRC works with public land managers to determine better ways to manage human use and balance it with the fragility of the resource. The management issues can be numerous and complex and may include parking, trash, human waste, protection of vegetation and natural communities, assessing and controlling carrying capacity. The tasks include site and signage design and education of users.

The VRC is working with State land managers to help with the long-term management of some very special properties. For instance, the VRC drafted the Long Range Management Plan for the new Lyman Falls State Park. At three recently protected swimming holes, the VRC is contributing funding and management expertise as an important adjunct to State efforts.

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page updated 5/14/08 by Zephyr Sites

The VRC is also assisting with management of municipally owned waterside lands. By facilitating public discussions, organizing volunteers and drafting municipal management plans, the VRC is also assisting with management of municipally owned waterside lands. In Montgomery Center, for instance, the VRC has worked hand-in-hand with the Hazen's Notch Association and the Town of Montgomery Center to develop a management plan for its magnificent, yet heavily visited "Three Holes" swimming area.

At the VRC, we are acutely aware of the need to take our thinking beyond the safe confines of protected property. Along Vermont ’s rivers and lakes, the percentage of land that is permanently protected public land is very small. We can only purchase a few special acres of land. Appropriate management of private waterside lands is just as important as public lands. The VRC hopes to increase its work with private landowners so that we may all protect our common legacy to Vermont's future: Our Waters.