The Policy Research Shop at Dartmouth College wrote the study, which was requested by the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. Among the contributors to the lake value is its effect on property values, which came to about $16bn, making it the largest single factor among Winnipesaukee’s economic contributions. Tourism revenue is the next largest at $249m, and another $109m comes from boating and fishing.
The study considered only the property values and tourism in those communities on the lake itself, but with Plymouth being only 15 miles from the lake’s edge it likely affects property values here as well, and no doubt brings in some tourism dollars.
A flyer printing service can be effective in letting vacationers know about nearby entertainment and dining options.
Lake Winnipesaukee Association Executive Director Patricia Tarpey said:
“Any regulation that happens, either comes at the federal, state or local level. We have no real authority as an association.
“The best we can do is help educate policy decision makers to implement better measures to protect this lake.”
Tarpey has expressed hopes that information in the report can be used by the municipalities along the 72-square-mile lake’s perimeter when making decisions affecting the lake’s ecosystem.