This is in response to the article Aug. 11 about a new boat launch at Worthley Pond, Peru. When asked whether an official “needs assessment” or survey was conducted, the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife replied “no.” When told the pond has many launch sites, IF&W representatives seemed surprised. However, a town survey indicates feedback was 123 for to 178 against on the question of “should there be greater public access to Worhtley Pond?” Boaters put in at the public beach, snowshoe club, Honeyrun Campground and off their own properties.

The IF&W and town acknowledge this proposed site as being developed more because of “opportunity” rather than need. They also acknowledge that this site is not the best site, but the only site. In fact, this site is in a tiny cove where the water is only 30 inches deep. Plans show cutting trees, paving, building a 75-foot ramp and retention pool. Neighbors should be concerned. The ramp would be in their swimming areas.

So much for the courtesy boat inspections started at two of the other sites. It will be costly to add inspections at a third site. The risk of invasive plants into Worthley is imminent.

I encourage IF&W to investigate developing the site at the public beach. The store changes hands every few years and could have been purchased. Make it safer. That site will always exist. No trees would need cutting, and there is better parking and easier access.

Thea Palanza-Parker,

Worthley Pond

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