Recently, 800 gallons of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) spilled during an incident involving a fire-suppression system malfunction at at the Army Aviation Support Facility in South Burlington. This was particularly concerning due to the so-called “forever chemicals” found in the foam. However, the VNG has been actively mitigating and cleaning the spill. Although efforts are ongoing, these photos show the progress made.

AFFF is a fire suppressant used to put out flammable liquid fires, especially those involving jet fuel

VTF&W Offers Fish with a Warden Sessions

Trying to figure out Vermont fishing regulations?  Wondering what kinds of fish are in a lake?  Looking for new fishing tips?  The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is offering “Fish with a Warden” sessions to help with questions like these.

“We know many anglers have questions they would like to ask a warden, and we know many of our wardens also like to go fishing,” said Education Specialist Corey Hart, “so our Vermont State Game Wardens have teamed up with Forests, Parks and Recreation staff to offer Fish with a Warden sessions this summer.

Hart says the purpose of the sessions is to provide an opportunity for the public to go fishing with Fish and Wildlife Department personnel and have their questions answered.  These programs are the perfect steppingstone for new anglers that would benefit from a mentored fishing outing before heading out and fishing on their own.

The Fish with a Warden sessions will last an hour or more.  Participants need to have their fishing license and bring their own fishing equipment.  The state park day use fee has been waved for the duration of the program for participants that have registered in advance.  

Fish with a Warden sessions are scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m. on the following Thursdays:

July 18 – Knight Point State Park, North Hero

July 25 – Shaftsbury State Park, Shaftsbury

August 8 – Ricker Mills State Park, Groton

August 22 – Little River State Park, Waterbury

Pre-registration for up to 30 people for each session is available at this link on Fish and Wildlife’s website: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/fish/fishing-events-and-programs/fishing-clinics-and-events/fish-with-a-warden and in the list of Upcoming Events on the right side of the home page.

Game Wardens and State Police urge Vermonters to boat safely this Fourth of July weekend

MONTPELIER, Vt. – The state of Vermont is reminding all Vermonters to boat safely this Fourth of July weekend.

Recently released 2023 U.S. Coast Guard data show that alcohol use remains the primary known contributing factor in recreational boater deaths.  In addition, 85 percent of people who drowned in a recreational boating incident were not wearing a life jacket.

The Vermont Warden Service, Vermont State Police and other local law enforcement agencies will be partnering with the National Association of Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard by participating in Operation Dry Water heightened awareness and enforcement weekend which takes place July 4 – 6, 2024.

Operation Dry Water is a national awareness and enforcement campaign focused on reducing the number of alcohol- and drug-related incidents and fatalities and fostering a stronger, more visible deterrent to alcohol and drug use on the water.

“It’s always important to remind people that operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can lead to serious injuries, death, property damage and legal consequences,” Game Warden Sgt. Jenna Reed said.

“The July Fourth holiday means time on the water for boaters in Vermont and across the United States.  With an increased public presence on the water, the data show an increase in the number of boating incidents and fatalities that take place during this time.  We want everyone to be safe and responsible while having a good time on Vermont’s waterways,” she added.

“Wearing a properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jacket is one of the easiest steps you can take to improving your safety on the water,” said Vermont State Police Boating Law Administrator Al Johnson.  “New life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange PFDs of the past.  There are also innovative options such as inflatable life jackets that improve mobility and flexibility for activities including boating, fishing, paddling or hunting, and the new styles are much cooler in the warmer weather.”

VSP and the Warden Service encourage residents and visitors to enjoy Vermont’s beautiful and diverse waterways this summer. While you’re out there, take pictures, make memories, and for your safety, boat sober and wear your life jacket.