FRANKLIN, N.H. (AP) -Kayakers say the Winnipesaukee River could become the “whitewater mecca” of New England if the state changes the way it manages water levels in Lake Winnipesaukee.
Representatives of whitewater groups told a state committee Monday that if the lake level were kept 3.5 inches higher, water releases during the summer would attract kayakers to the Winnipesaukee River through Franklin, Tilton and Northfield.
The state currently draws down the lake level in the spring, keeping the river flow too low for whitewatering in the summer.
Supporters acknowledge the plan might not sit well with boat dealers and property owners on Lake Winnipesaukee, because of concerns that a higher lake level could produce no-wake restrictions after heavy rain or threaten docks and shoreline.
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Information from: New Hampshire Union Leader, http://www.unionleader.com
AP-ES-11-21-06 1317EST
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