Do You Live Near Lake Champlain? Help Seven Days and ProPublica Investigate Algae Blooms.

Vermont’s iconic Lake Champlain, a source of the state’s drinking water and a beloved recreational spot, has been plagued by pollution for years. Phosphorus runoff from various sources, including farm fields, roads, parking lots, stormwater drains, and wastewater treatment plants, feeds algae blooms that regularly devastate the lake’s bays and shores.

In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency set stricter standards for reducing phosphorus runoff, with Vermont aiming to meet these requirements by 2036. However, a decade into the initiative, the state is falling short of its goals. Despite investing nearly $1 billion, water quality has not shown significant improvement, and in some areas, it is deteriorating.

This summer, algae blooms led to the closure of public beaches in St. Albans Bay. Seven Days and ProPublica are investigating the reasons behind this lack of progress, aiming to understand how pollution impacts Vermont’s economy and the lives of those who live, play, or depend on Lake Champlain. They seek to explore the effects on drinking water quality, tourism revenue, and overall well-being.

Those living near or relying on the lake are encouraged to share their experiences to aid the comprehensive reporting project, which may span several weeks or months. Submissions can be made through the provided form.