Happy New Year's Eve!

 Here we are, finishing up 2025 with a beautiful, clear, sparkling day - a lovely covering of new snow hiding treacherous ice in some spots. We are cold - it was only 5 above this morning, but now is in the low 20s. I didn't go out to measure precipitation during the ice storm - too slippery and miserable; yesterday it was too cold and blustery, but I went out this morning. I couldn't resist getting out into the sunshine. It was still cold, about 17 degrees at 9 a.m., but I cleared nearly 8 inches of snow off the deck and took measurements. All good - I'm back indoors, most chores done and have a few minutes before lunch time.

Jamie asked me this morning if I'm doing anything "special" to usher in the New Year. I'm not. I'm content to be warm and comfortable and will watch a little of the festivities on TV. However, Jamie's question reminded me of past New Year's celebrations.

The earliest I remember was when I was in high school, I went on a New Year's "midnight movie date" with a boy from my class. We went to Barre - I don't recall what movie we saw, but I do recall all the excitement at midnight and my embarrassment at getting kissed - not just by my date, but by strangers! I was probably 14 years old. 

After high school, when I was in business school and later working, New Year's dates were common and usually meant going to someone's house or "making the rounds" to various friends to get a drink and wish them Happy New Year. During the 50's and 60's there were always dances at restaurants with sometimes name bands, or more  often local bands that Ray (my first husband) knew well and often sat in with to play drums. Those were fun times - I knew the wives of some of the band members, and there were always lots of friends to celebrate with. 

After Ray died, the years blurred as the boys grew older and then Bob and some friends formed the Peacham School Band and because they were all under age, I went with them to their "gigs" - and there were a few New Year's parties - especially later when the band became TANK. Eventually the band members didn't need an adult accompanying them. 

Those "dine and dance" places began to disappear by the time I met Fred, but we always managed to get to wherever Bob and the band were - usually fairly local. The whole family and a bunch of friends always showed up to see the New Year in together. That was great fun, and we looked forward to those times.

There was one year - I'm not sure why we were "on our own" but probably Bob was playing somewhere too far away for us to conveniently follow. We went to the "Hillwinds" in Franconia for dinner and dancing.  We had reservations, and were seated at one of several very long tables with lots of other people ready to celebrate. We introduced ourselves and everyone except the couple seated directly across from us  seemed to be with friends, so we tried to make conversation with that couple. He seemed congenial, but whatever subject came up ended in them arguing. She complained about the food. He agreed with her (of course), she was not happy with the band, and after a few drinks, the guy got a bit feisty and began to give her grief. Fred and I spent more time on the dance floor than at the table, and I think we may have left early. That was the end of going out to celebrate - except if Bob was playing somewhere. 

Then there was the New Year's Eve when I had rigged up a "ball" of lights that I ran up the flag pole on the deck. I'm sure I've told this story before, but I still giggle when I think of how ridiculous it was. The ball was a big clump of Christmas lights - the plug-in kind - it was before solar lights. I thought it would be fun to make a video with a count-down as I lowered the ball at midnight. Fred was unenthusiastic and protested - it was a blustery night - but finally we went out on the deck in the cold, swirling snow, and he recorded the ball being lowered. In the background of that video, is the distinct grumble of Fred mildly expressing his discomfort. He was always such a good sport and tolerant of my whims. 

After that, I promised that there would be no more such "celebrations," and we stuck to having friends in for dinner, or going to friends' for dinner or drinks, and everyone was home before midnight to celebrate the yearly change however they pleased. As it should be!

May 2026 bring good health, happiness, and plenty of love to you and yours. 

Ending December

There aren't words to fully describe today's weather. We woke up to trees covered and bending under the weight of ice - some broke or toppled, others just bent to the ground. The back roads were a mess - slippery underneath mush, and when I left a little before 10 o'clock for an appointment in St. Johnsbury, it was raining "cats and dogs." Just before I went to warm up my car, my neighbor, Luke, came by and spread salt and gravel on my driveway. Talk about great timing!

When I tried to open the overhead door in the garage, it was frozen solidly to the pavement. I did the usual kicks from inside, but it wouldn't budge. I have a window that sometimes freezes shut and I use a metal shoehorn to pry it open, so I grabbed my garden shovel and that worked perfectly. A little leverage in a few spots and the door went up - distributing a spray of ice, snow and water at me as it rattled and clunked overhead. The rain had been beating against it, and it was well coated with watery and ice that chipped and dripped as it moved. 

The road from home to Route 2 was pretty glare, even though the town had spread gravel a few minutes before I started out. Then Route 2 was really messy - but mostly slush that covered up the potholes that pock the stretch between West Danville and Danville Village. It was slow, rough going, and nearly every car I met splashed me with slush. Fortunately, nobody pulled out to pass me, even though I was only traveling at about 35-40 mph. The parking lot in St. Johnsbury was also slippery and wet. It had been treated, but with the rain pelting down, most of the salt and gravel probably washed away before it had a chance to do it's work.

The good news is that Dr. Prohaska pronounced me "discharged" from his care. Also, no more PT necessary. Apparently whatever I have managed to do at PT and at home to help my knee heal has worked and the doctor was impressed that I'd made such rapid recovery. I told him most of my "recovery" was easy because of the great job he did reattaching that tendon. He said only a few years ago at the three-month point which is where I am now, I would just be getting rid of a cast. There's some kind of new screws that work wonders, apparently - and fortunately, he was able to use them on me. I practically danced out of there!

We are looking at more miserable weather and then intense cold with possible wind, according to the forecast I heard this morning. I haven't bothered to listen to any more weather reports - I don't have to go anywhere, I picked up a few necessities on my way home today, so I'm good to see the New Year in all tucked in and comfortable.

I have another video for you to watch. This one was done by Jamie - of the birds at his feeder at home. There are not only some interesting and very pretty birds, there is also a curious shrew that shows up a little way into the video, and towards the end, a really clever little one-legged nuthatch. It is amazing to watch him maneuver almost as well as the other birds who can hold on with two feet. Jamie said he has been around for some time and last year mated and raised young, assisting in feeding the fledglings like any other good parent. Even though I have birds at my feeder, I enjoyed watching this - it is relaxing and perfect for just letting your mind quiet down from all the hullabaloo of the the holidays. Click HERE to watch. That's a mix of meal worms and seeds on the ground, and Marie makes the suet cakes which the birds seem to prefer over store-bought ones. The woodpeckers and chickadees follow Jamie and Marie around, demanding to be fed when the feeders are empty.

If you are celebrating the New Year, please do it safely. If you make resolutions, make only those you know you can achieve - it's too embarrassing to have to admit even to yourself that you've failed those resolutions again, just like last year, and the year before, and the . . . you get the picture. So be kind to yourself and resolve to make a new friend, get to appointments on time, watch more movies on TV, or talk to your neighbor. Easy stuff that you'll probably do anyway. You'll be more relaxed, won't need to beat yourself up, and you'll have an all-around successful year of resolutions achieved! Or just don't bother making any resolutions at all. That works, too.

Happy New Year! 

White Christmas Assured!

 We have a nice fresh coating of snow in preparation for Santa's arrival. Our temperature remained in the teens most of today and is now slipping back to the single numbers. Another cold night, but I don't think we'll have the wind like we've had for the past few days. I don't think we will be getting much more snow for at least a few days, and that is perfect. No travel worries for the holiday.

The birds have been busy at my feeder - mostly chickadees, nuthatches, and juncos. Today I had one persistent bluejay, but a little chickadee refused to allow him access to the feeder, fiercely defending it with angry chirps and lots of aggressive maneuvers to prevent the big blue from getting a perch. The jays are so heavy, they sometimes dislodge the removable tray with their clumsy landings and take-offs, and they can gobble up the little seeds in no time, leaving the little guys with nothing to eat. Jays are as bad as the red squirrels for raiding feeders, 

Gretchen Farnsworth was happy that a group of Evening Grosbeaks visited the feeders at her house this past week. I haven't seen any here, but occasionally they come by and raid the ornamental apple trees that still have little berry-size fruit. They are pretty to watch - their yellow flashes so bright against the otherwise dull winter landscape. Thank you for sharing these photos, Gretchen.

I spoke with Jane Milne this weekend and she is mending well from her recent fall that ended with a broken leg. Neither of us will be racing with our walkers any time soon, but we'll be in great shape by the time JPA meetings and social events get going again next spring. 

Also, Cyndi Rouleau is recovering from her fall - nothing broken, just bruised and sore. There is never a convenient time for things like this to happen, but since they do and we are fortunate enough to not be seriously injured, I say, let our friends and family do the holiday preparations this year! Try to enjoy being waited upon - it's ok to let someone else do the work!

I had a response about the Molly's Falls Dam video from a friend in Alaska. Michael loves vintage autos and I was not surprised that he identified the string of vehicles shown in that video as follows: From left to right are three half-track Linn tractors manufactured in Morris, New York; a c. 1922-23 Maxwell coupe; a c. 1918 Hudson touring car; and a 1924 Studebaker with a rare and interesting dealer-supplied/after market "Flex Top" made by the Rex Manufacturing Company of Connersville, Indiana. 

You will see those half-tracks at work elsewhere in the video. The automobiles probably belonged to some of the officials of the power company or perhaps even state representatives. We don't know who might have been on hand to celebrate that equipment arriving for the new power plant. Thanks to Mike for identifying those vehicles.

By the way, Michael said they are experiencing an unusual winter in Alaska - very cold and little snow. He said the temperature has stayed a few degrees above or below zero for the entire month of December. I'd have to say that we've had a pretty cold December, too - except for the few days of rain last week; but we've had plenty of snow right from the get-go, at least in the higher elevations. Even the recent warm weather didn't melt all of it away here at Joe's Pond, but I expect there is little left in St. Johnsbury or the Barre-Montpelier area. 

I hope everyone is ready for the holidays. It is a beautiful season, but rushing to get last minute preparations finished can take a toll. I sent out a few last-minute greeting cards today - but still have my yearly greeting to all my cousins to do. I send a group email - it is far more efficient and there's nothing to burden the postal service with or left to recycle. It may not be as personal as a hand-written note, but as the years go by, my handwriting becomes less dependable, too, so typing an email greeting is best. My big problem right now is that I did the letter on my laptop and for the life of me, I can't get it to my desktop where I want to add a little decoration before it's attached to an email. So much to learn about this Windows 11 stuff. Nothing works as it used to - and my laptop and desktop computers apparently aren't communicating. Someday I'm going to have to settle down and complete a Windows 11 tutorial, but right now I have too much to do to take the time for that, so I struggle - or find work-arounds. I attached it to an email, but so far nothing has shown up. Still spinning out in the cloud someplace, I suppose. Grinched!

Merry Christmas!!! 

.  

So Much to Cover, So Little Time!

As usual, the holidays are almost here and there are important messages to send. I will try to cover at least a few this morning.

First of all, it's a beautiful sunny day here - temperature already above freezing and headed up! Later today and tomorrow will probably be a very different story, however. We are expecting rain, maybe some sleet and snow mix, and lots of wind. That said, we are enjoying the sunshine while it lasts!

Cabot has put on a Community Christmas Dinner for many years. It's free, happens on Christmas Day, and all are welcome. I have been getting these dinners for several years and always make a donation to help them with the expense of putting these delicious meals together. It takes time, money, lots of planning and work, and it is very kind of Fred and Shirley Ducharme, along with many volunteers, to do this every year. Here are the details:  

The free Cabot Community Christmas Dinner will be served Thursday Dec. 25 from 11 am - 2 pm in the Cabot School cafeteria. Fresh-baked individual deserts would still be appreciated. All donations welcome. Contact Fred and Shirley Ducharme at 802-563-2102. 
Meals will be happily delivered to the homebound. Please contact Amanda Legare at 802-426-3783 if you can think of ANYONE who might like a fabulous Christmas (Bothfeld turkey) dinner brought to their home on Christmas day.

*******************

This next item is a special treat put together by Amanda Legare and yours truly. As many of you know, Amanda and I have been part of the Cabot Historical Society (CHS) for many years - both of us have served on the executive board in the past and we are presently doing what we can to promote membership and publicity. There hasn't been a lot of good news from CHS in the past several years, but this summer we had some wonderful old snapshots donated to us that show the construction of the Molly's Falls Dam and Reservoir (also commonly referred to as "Marshfield Dam" - although it is entirely within the town of Cabot!). These black and white photos were taken in 1926 and 27 as the land was being cleared and reconfigured to create the earthen dam we now enjoy as Molly's Falls Reservoir and state park.

When the photos came to us from the granddaughter of the electrical engineer for the project (John C. Donahue), they were curled and deteriorating. Our historical society president, Ruth Goodrich, laminated them. They were not in order, but when Ruth brought them to me last summer, I discovered there were numbers on the backs, which appeared to indicate some order - but there was no other information. 

I scanned each one so they are preserved digitally, and the album Ruth created will be kept at the CHS building when it opens next spring. It seemed a shame that our members couldn't really see this important addition to our collection, so Amanda and I got the idea of putting them into a video so that we could share them with our members and the community. It has taken some time and a bit of head scratching to get this done, mostly because of my updating my computer to Windows 11 and suddenly not having the familiar apps I was used to. Instead, I have PowerPoint, which I've never used. Oddly, PowerPoint didn't show up on my desktop, but it was on my laptop. I finally got it to load on my desktop, but the menus were different  so some things I could do on one computer but others were only available on the other one. With not really knowing how to get all the parts to equal a whole, I called on son Jamie to help. He was quickly able to get all the pieces together and we now have a wonderful video for you to watch. Whew!

Amanda and I are hoping someone familiar with the South Cabot, Molly's Brook area and/or dam building in general, will be able to help us put together more information about what we are seeing in these historic snapshots. Our thanks to Ann Donahue for sharing her grandfather's photos with us. Here is the VIDEO. I hope you enjoy it! Merry Christmas from Cabot Historical Society!

This has been a really exceptional year for people falling. I took my tumble back in September, but more recently several area folks have taken spills. Jane Milne broke her leg a few weeks ago - I tried to reach her, but had to leave a message, so I cannot tell you how she is doing. About a week ago my friend and the chair of the Cabot Cemetery Commission, Melvin Churchill slipped when going to get his mail, broke five ribs, and has a bruised aorta which landed him in intensive care. Then this past weekend, Cyndi Rouleau took a tumble in her house here at Joe's Pond and is badly bruised, but fortunately nothing was broken. All I can say is, please be careful. These things happen in an instant, without warning or reason, sometimes, and it doesn't matter if you are young or old - you can still do damage. It's no darned fun recovering from a serious injury from a fall. I wish everyone coping with these injuries the best, fastest and least painful recovery possible. 

Thanks for reading - and make the most of the few days left before Christmas and the New Year! 

 

 

Update, JPA's Conversation with State of Vermont re. EWM Control at Joe's Pond

 

This came from Barry Cahoon this morning: (December 12, 2025

Good morning Jane

I'm forwarding to you this email thread and the attachments above for posting on the JPA blog if you see fit.

The Joe's Pond Association is considering its options moving forward at this time.

Thanks

Barry Cahoon, JPA Water Quality Director

Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Coordinator

---

 

NOTE: Email addresses of others included in this conversation have been removed to protect privacy.

 

The messages are presented here in the order in which they were sent/received to make following the conversation easier. -Jane Brown, Joe's Pond Reflections 

 

From: barry cahoon <bear817@hotmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2025 9:07 AM
To: Wichrowski, Mike <Mike.Wichrowski@vermont.gov>
Subject: Joe's Pond DF&W Boat Access & Joe's Pond Association Boat Wash/Decontamination Station

Hello Mike, I left you a voice mail message this morning with a little more detail about this matter than I will try to provide here.

Attached is a preliminary layout of a conceptual boat wash and decontamination station on DF&W land at the Joe's Pond boat access.

The JPA Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Committee feels strongly about the importance of developing this facility both to prevent the introduction of additional aquatic invasives into Joe's Pond and to avoid shipping EWM off to contaminate other currently non-infested water bodies.

You will see from this drawing that the proposed facility will usurp no currently used area of the boat access and avoids any encroachment into the delineated wetland; only into the wetlands buffer.

The JPA is seeking DF&W approval of this proposal, as it is DF&W land, before preparation of the wetlands encroachment permit application.

After you've had a chance to take a look at the attached drawing, please give me a call so we can discuss and set up a site visit.

Thanks so much Mike.

 For the Joe's Pond Association

Barry Cahoon, Water Quality Director

Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Coordinator

802-535-0049

bear817@hotmail.com

 

---

From: Wichrowski, Mike <Mike.Wichrowski@vermont.gov>
Sent: Friday, October 31, 2025 4:19 PM
To: barry cahoon <bear817@hotmail.com>
Subject: RE: Joe's Pond DF&W Boat Access & Joe's Pond Association Boat Wash/Decontamination Station

 

 Barry

 After discussing this proposal with ANR staff, including the F&W Commissioner, the Department’s position has not changed.  We believe placing a boat wash station at this access area would not be appropriate due to its space limitations.  The parking area is already very restricted and simply cannot accommodate the loss of any parking.  While I appreciate the lake association’s creativity to find an alternative option, the latest proposed wash station location would still impact boaters by taking up at least 2 critically important parking spaces. Additionally, encroaching into the wetland buffer is not something the Department or DEC supports and it’s unlikely that it would be a permittable activity. 

 The Department supports AIS education and prevention, but it cannot come at the detriment of the public’s ability to access the public resource of Joe’s Pond.  In past conversations with lake association members, I’ve encouraged them to put more effort into staffing the greeter station during the high use times (weekends, nights, holidays) to encounter the greatest number of boaters.  This approach is certainly more cost effective and can reach significantly more boaters.

The Department appreciates all the efforts of the Joe’s Pond Association to educate boaters and help prevent the spread of AIS.

 Mike

Mike Wichrowski (He/Him) | Lands & Facilities Administrator

Vermont Agency of Natural Resources | Department of Fish & Wildlife

Fisheries Division | Access Area Program

1 National Life Dr, Davis 2 | Montpelier, VT 05620-3901

802-917-1347 | mike.wichrowski@vermont.gov

https://vtfishandwildlife.com/

 

The Agency of Natural Resources supports telework, and there are times when I may be working from another office location. I am available to connect by phone and email. I am also available to connect in-person upon request.

From: barry cahoon <bear817@hotmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 6, 2025 8:20 AM
To: Wichrowski, Mike <Mike.Wichrowski@vermont.gov>
Subject: Re: Joe's Pond DF&W Boat Access & Joe's Pond Association Boat Wash/Decontamination Station

 11/06/25
Mike Wichrowski, Lands & Facilities Administrator
VT Department of Fish & Wildlife [DF&W]
Montpelier, VT
Dear Mike,
Thank you for your response to the Joe’s Pond Association (JPA) preliminary proposal
for a boat wash/decontamination station at the Joe’s Pond DF&W boat access
previously transmitted to you by email on 10/23/25.

As I’m sure you can imagine, the JPA is disappointed in the substance of the DF&W
evaluation and beyond that, takes express issue with the bases of your conclusions.
Equally disheartening is the seeming unwillingness of the DFW to substantively
collaborate with the JPA to significantly enhance and improve our ability to prevent the
introduction of additional aquatic invasive species (AIS) into Joe’s Pond and, perhaps
even more importantly, prevent the export of Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM), which has
already infested Joe’s Pond, inevitably to other currently EWM-free Vermont
waterbodies.
The DFW can rationalize all it wants that merely staffing the greeter station at high-use
times is “more cost-effective”. Perhaps so, but only if you ignore the ever expanding
costs of AIS containment and management with which a lake association is saddled,
most likely in perpetuity, once introduced, and as the JPA is already experiencing.
It cannot in any way be argued convincingly that a greeter inspection program alone,
regardless of how many hours staffed, will be more functionally effective than an inspection program, at equal staffing levels, backed up and supplemented by a fully equipped boat wash and decontamination station.

For instance, spiny waterflea can easily escape visual detection as can zebra mussel
veligers, rusty crayfish eggs, and minute fragments of numerous aquatic invasive plant
species. All these AIS and others are much more likely to be removed from boats and
trailers through operation of a fully equipped decontamination program. One would
surmise that the DFW would appreciate a partnership with any lake association willing
to expend the resources to develop and operate such an ecological protection program.
JPA already fully staffs its greeter program at high use times and more and is proud to
have maintained a vigorous inspection program for many years. As evidence of the
point the JPA is making here, despite our robust efforts at boat inspection (absent a
decontamination station), EWM still found its way into the lake and has become an
enormous and potentially overwhelming problem sorely taxing the management and
containment capabilities of the association.

DFW has made the claim that an inspection program alone without decontamination
capacity is “more cost effective”. FYI, the JPA plans to provide the financial resources
for project construction and to endow an operation and maintenance fund in perpetuity
for this proposed facility. Cost-effectiveness need not be of any concern to the VT
DFW or ANR or represent any rational argument for why this proposed facility should
not be built. The JPA intends to conduct the most effective lake protection program that
we are able and take responsibility for eliminating the potential export of AIS to other
waterbodies.

Virtually every piece of information published, on-line or in print, by VT ANR relating to
control of AIS spread and proliferation, emphasizes and places highest priority on
prevention of introduction into new waterbodies. The JPA embraces this strategy and
intends to implement it to the greatest extent possible. We need the DFW to embrace
this concept as well, consistent with your mission. 

10 V.S.A. Section 1453 (b)(2) states that the Agency of Natural Resources “shall work
with….local interest organizations….to develop long range programs regarding aquatic
nuisance controls.” The JPA constitutes a local interest organization and is certainly
proposing here a long range program. The DFW response to the JPA proposal
appears to be inconsistent with this statutory mandate.

The issue DFW has raised of whether the JPA proposal constitutes a permittable
activity is a question completely separate from the proposal submitted to DFW. As an
initial step to this project development process, the JPA has asked whether the DFW,
as the landowner and property manager, will allow the JPA to install, operate, and
maintain a boat wash and decontamination station for the purpose of preventing AIS
introduction into Joe’s Pond and export of AIS to other waterbodies. The question of
whether the JPA proposal is a permittable activity under the VT Wetland Rules is
appropriately addressed at a later step of this project development process.
It does not seem appropriate to the JPA that the DFW speculate, at this stage of the
process, that “it’s unlikely that it (the JPA proposal) would be a permittable activity” by
VT DEC under the VT Wetland Rules.

VT Lake Associations, including the JPA, bear disproportionately the burden of AIS
spread prevention and ultimately of AIS management once introduced into the
waterbody. VT Lake Associations and their members also suffer disproportionately the
social, financial and ecological costs of AIS proliferation. As the JPA works to discharge
our responsibilities to our membership, to Joe’s Pond, and all other VT waterbodies
(and beyond) to implement a complete AIS spread prevention and containment
program, we can much more effectively accomplish our purpose when the ANR is acting
as a collaborative and supportive partner.

The JPA can appreciate the value of public access to Joe’s Pond and recognizes the
constraints of limited space. We acknowledge the JPA proposal would result in the loss
of two parking spaces in order to facilitate access and egress to the proposed boat
wash/decontamination station. But we should honestly assess our collective and
shared purposes and priorities.

Introduction of AIS into VT waterbodies presents significant potential to dramatically
degrade water quality, aquatic habitats, native plant and animal species, and the
functions and values of all wetlands adjoining the waterbody. Why wouldn’t the ANR,
through the actions and decisions of the DFW and DEC, support a lake association
that is doing everything within its capabilities and resources to prevent AIS introduction
and export?

We need to examine the big picture. Just how often is the Joe’s Pond boat launch area
so plugged up with vehicles that these two spaces are critical? While this data
obviously does not exist, anecdotally, it can be accurately and confidently stated that
this area of the boat launch is used for parking extremely infrequently. And in
consideration of the almost negligibly limited extent to which it appears vessel access to
Joe’s Pond would be affected through implementation of the JPA proposal, how could
this possibly outweigh and become a higher priority than accomplishing a significant
reduction in the likelihood of AIS introduction and export?

If preservation of the functions and values of existing Joe’s Pond-associated wetlands
from the negative impacts of AIS introduction means so little to the DFW that it would
assign greater value to two parking spaces, then maybe the DFW should consider
agreeing that the JPA fill additional area of the wetland buffer (if permitted under the VT
Wetland Rules) to create two new offsetting parking spaces? This is a potential project
extension that the JPA is willing to undertake if it should constitute acceptable mitigation
for the lost parking spaces.

What is the ANR priority here? Preserve parking area and prohibit a small
encroachment into a wetland buffer thereby increasing the likelihood of AIS introduction,
and degradation of the social, economic and natural resource values of Joe’s Pond and
its associated wetlands? Or will the ANR priority be to form a functional and mutually
beneficial relationship with the JPA to mitigate any limited disruption of vessel access
and reduce the likelihood of AIS proliferation and its associated widespread ecological
loss?

The JPA respectfully requests that the VT DFW reevaluate its stated position on the
JPA proposal.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
For the Joe’s Pond Association
Albert Hebert, President
Barry Cahoon, Water Quality Director
Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Coordinator
cc: DFW Commissioner Jason Batchelder
ANR Secretary Julie Moore
Senator Scott Beck

 

From: Wichrowski, Mike <Mike.Wichrowski@vermont.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 3:54 PM
To: barry cahoon 

 Subject: RE: Joe's Pond DF&W Boat Access & Joe's Pond Association Boat Wash/Decontamination Station

Barry

 After discussing your request in more detail with Commissioner Batchelder, the Department has not changed its position.  Additionally, it was confirmed with Commissioner Sinsigalli that the wetlands program would not permit your proposed encroachment into the wetland buffer. 

 Neither the loss of parking for public access, nor encroaching on a wetland, are not something the Agency is willing to support.  Further, converting this parking to an alternative use could jeopardize our federal funding which is critical to supporting our access program and all federally funded fisheries grants.

 The Department values the public’s right to access public waters as well as protecting them from AIS.  We are willing to work with the JPA on a proposal that works for everyone.  Unfortunately, at this point we do not feel this proposal meets that threshold. 

Mike

Mike Wichrowski (He/Him) | Lands & Facilities Administrator

Vermont Agency of Natural Resources | Department of Fish & Wildlife

Fisheries Division | Access Area Program

1 National Life Dr, Davis 2 | Montpelier, VT 05620-3901

802-917-1347 | mike.wichrowski@vermont.gov

https://vtfishandwildlife.com/

 The Agency of Natural Resources supports telework, and there are times when I may be working from another office location. I am available to connect by phone and email. I am also available to connect in-person upon request.

 

 

 

Observations & Frustrations

Another gloomy day with light snow falling almost constantly. It hasn't amounted to much more than a dusting, and there hasn't been much wind, but I'm still waiting for the warmup I thought was happening this weekend. Jamie reminded me when I was grumbling about that this morning when he called, it HAS warmed up from a negative 12 degrees in the early morning to 12 degrees above zero this morning. He is a "cup half full" guy!

I can't really complain. I cleared 2.5 inches of light, fluffy snow off the deck this morning - that takes care of half of my daily physical therapy exercises - I'll manage more later in the day. I guess it's a good thing we get a little snow each day that gets me outside to exercise. Way better than having 8 - 10 inches of wet, heavy snow dumped on us all at once, for sure. That will probably happen, but I hope not right away.

I had a note from Marti Talbot with more sad news for her family. She wrote: My sad news is that my sister-in-law and Carolyn Hamilton's sister, Gwen Talbot, has passed away two days before Thanksgiving.  The family is traveling down this week for her services and to break up her apartment.

A sad time of year. --Marti Talbot

 

I didn't know Gwen, but I can certainly understand how hard it is on families to lose loved ones, and especially around the holidays when everyone should be happy and gathering to celebrate happy times. Condolences may be sent to Marti at 8 Courtney Rd., North Woodstock, NH 03262; or to Carolyn Hamilton at 8151 Green Mountain Rd., Boynton Beach, FL 33473.

 

It's interesting how times have changed in different ways than we usually think about. I had an appointment to get the oil changed in my car on Monday afternoon, and it was already snowing pretty steadily - the beginnings of this latest snowstorm. I only had to go to Danville, so I wasn't concerned, but it was also bitterly cold. While I was there, a woman stopped in to ask them to check her tire pressure because there was a low reading on one tire. Unfortunately, they couldn't help her because their air gauge (which is outside) was frozen and not working. The attendant went back to work and she hesitated at the door, looking a bit bewildered, obviously not knowing what to do next. I knew exactly what she was experiencing because I've had that happen with my car in cold weather, so I was able to assure her that if it doesn't actually look low, it's likely fine and the low reading would go away when the weather warmed up. She was obviously relieved and went on her way, I expect without incident. 

 

There are all sorts of "indicators" on cars these days - low air, low oil life, door ajar, etc., etc. Years ago we kept track of things like that visually, using common sense, and got along just fine. Now I can't even turn on the radio in my car without checking if it's on AM, FM, or finding that it is somehow locked because something else is operating. That happened to me recently. I must have pushed a wrong button or something because I couldn't get it to change stations. I had to pull into a rest area in order to get it operating - and I still don't know what happened or how I "fixed" it. I punched buttons and tried to think like a computer - and that never works for me. Sometimes it would be nice just to have a dial to select a station and another to control the volume. 

 

Then, on Wednesday I had an appointment for a hearing checkup in St. J. and got a call asking if I could come in earlier than planned - because schools were closing early due to snow in the forecast. When I got to St. Johnsbury, Main Street was strangely quiet  -  St. Johnsbury Academy hadn't even opened that day. That almost never happened when my kids were in school in St. Johnsbury. The Academy has lots of dorm kids and most local kids walked to school, so a few inches of snow didn't really bother anyone. Not anymore. Just about everyone drives their kids to school or the kids ride on busses that are apparently not very good in snowy conditions. I think the new conveniences we enjoy today are taking away our creativeness and ability to cope with whatever challenges arise. It's sad. 

 

Every now and then, it's good to express some of our frustrations and recharge. So Diane Rossi and I had pizza from the store in Cabot last night and discussed some of our frustrations. The Cabot store turns out a nice pizza and it was a good night to do enjoy "pizza and a beer." (Ours was non-alcoholic!) I usually have leftovers the following day for lunch, but today seemed more like a "hot soup" day, so I'm looking forward to pizza again tonight! I have a few Hallmark movies saved, and will probably watch one of those after I catch up on a bit of news. 

 

Hallmark Christmas movies moved me to finally put a wreath on my front door yesterday - not a traditional one with fresh greens because I thought it best not to wade into the snow to get the boughs like I usually do, but I found enough materials in my stash in the basement to make one that will do for this year.

 

 I am also enjoying the tree on my porch. There are no ornaments on it, and the lights are solar. Without much sunshine, they don't stay on very long - only until about 9 p.m., probably.  It's nice to have out there, anyway. There are two strings of lights and both were supposed to stay on, not blink, but after about an hour in the deep cold the first night out, one set began to blink. I suspect, like tire pressure indicators, it's affected by the cold. Anyway, I'm not going out there and try to change it! The tree already has a light covering of snow on it, blown onto the porch today after the wind shifted to the southeast, so it looks festive, even without ornaments or lights during the daytime.

 

Just a closing thought: I've had a couple of notes from strangers who have found this blog by accident, asking to be added to the mailing list. When this happens, I'm always very surprised and pleased. So, welcome, new readers - I'm happy that you find something interesting here. Joe's Pond is a special place with a wonderful community of both year around and seasonal folks who are treasured friends. It is always rewarding to hear from them and have their contributions for the blog. It keeps everyone in touch, no matter where they are or what they are doing. So, thank you, readers! You make my day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sad News

I am saddened to report that we have lost another long-time Joe's Ponder. Cindy Rubalcaba (Barre Ave.) passed away on December 6th. Cindy and her family have enjoyed summers at Joe's Pond for many years. The Rubalcaba cottage is across the water a short distance from our cottage, and the Rubalcaba kids were all part of a wonderful neighborhood of youngsters who formed friendships in the 1960s and 1970s that have lasted through the years. Cindy was always fun and upbeat and she will be very much missed. My thoughts are with her family, and I wish them peace through wonderful memories of their loved one.

I also learned yesterday that Jane Milne fell and broke her leg. I haven't confirmed that, but I will try to be in touch with Jane soon to see how she's doing. I can totally understand how quickly and unexpectedly a fall can happen. And I know well how debilitating it can be during the healing process. I hope Jane heals quickly and can toss away the crutches and walkers soon. 

As some of you know, winter has settled upon us with a solid grip of cold and snow. This morning I measured 6.5 inches of snow on my deck from this last snow storm. It has been so cold and windy I decided I would not venture out there to clear the deck and measure snow. I have an option to make  "multi-day reports" and that's exactly what I did. The temperature warmed slightly overnight, but today there have been snow flurries and the wind is picking up - as the temperature slips downward again. We will be in for another cold night tonight.

I was somewhat amused this morning as I worked on clearing snow off the deck. I've been doing weekly physical therapy sessions to rehabilitate my knee, and part of the routine is for me to practice side-stepping (both directions), and also walking backwards without holding onto anything. I do those exercises at PT alongside a bar so I can catch myself if I waver. I realized this morning that I do that constantly when I'm shoveling snow off the deck - working sideways and moving backwards after pushing snow over the edge - my security bar is my snow shovel. Somehow, it works! I believe there is no need to practice those movements again on days I clean off the deck. At PT I'm constantly being reminded to hydrate as I go through the exercises. As one therapist explained when I started therapy, muscles are like leather; drinking plenty of water keeps them supple. So now I carry my water bottle wherever I go. 

All these below-zero nights have frozen the pond slightly earlier (and more quickly) than usual, and Shelly Walker reported to me yesterday that she spotted the first fishing shanty - a red tent of some sort, I think she said - out on the ice by the fishing access this week. Never mind that the ice has only recently completely reached shore-to-shore and I can't imagine it is very thick. That isn't enough to deter dedicate fishermen, apparently, but I would think the windy, cold, snowy weather would be. One has to be devoted to the sport to go out there when it's as blustery as it's been for the past several days! Shelly didn't get a picture, but said she will watch and perhaps get one later.

Winter here is not always pretty, but we love the place and look forward to warmer, sunnier days, with happier times.