Bill to preserve Lake Hopatcong on governor's desk

TRENTON — The Assembly today cleared legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris) to preserve and restore the state’s largest freshwater lake. The bill (S2389/A4097), which now moves to Gov. Christie’s desk, dedicates $500,000 annually to the upkeep of Lake Hopatcong.
“This lake is an economic engine with a 38-mile shoreline,” said Bucco, a long-time advocate for state help to ensure Lake Hopatcong remains a recreational and environmental treasure. “Millions of dollars of revenue are generated each year from vacationers, boaters and recreational fishermen from across the state and the nation.”
Bucco’s bill rededicates money from license fees required to operate power boats on non-tidal waters to the newly established Lake Hopatcong Fund. The money will be used by the Lake Hopatcong Commission for maintenance, management and enhancement of the lake.
“Boating and fishing on the lake have been threatened in recent years by persistent weed growth that has overwhelmed areas, and low water from sedimentation and droughts like the one that disrupted the boating season in 2015,” Bucco said. “The crucial funding provided by this bill ensures people will be able to enjoy Lake Hopatcong for many years to come.”
The measure is also sponsored by Assemblymen Parker Space (R-Sussex) and Jay Webber R-Essex, Morris), and Assemblywomen BettyLou DeCroce (R-Essex, Morris) and Gail Phoebus (R-Sussex).