From John Gilbert, Chair, Water Sustainability Commission

In New Hampshire, water is essential to our quality of life and to economic vitality.  Water has shaped our history, settlement patterns, and economy, from pre-colonial times to the industrial revolution to today's tourism- and knowledge-based economy.  Recognizing this, the Water Sustainability Commission was created in April 2011 to address the sustainable management of water resources and water infrastructure.  The decisions we make or fail to make about water sustainability in the next few years will shape our futures and those of our children.

On May 8, 2012, the Commission will hold a statewide conversation on the subject simultaneously at five sites throughout the state: Berlin, Greenland, New London, Keene, and Manchester (see below).  The discussion will be facilitated by New Hampshire Listens, a project of the Carsey Institute at the University of New Hampshire.

We need to hear from you.  Please join us for an evening that is designed with the general public in mind.  The meetings will consist of small group conversations, not presentations by talking heads.  What about water is important to you? What are you concerned about? In what direction should New Hampshire be heading with respect to water resources and infrastructure?

The meetings will run from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, with a light supper served before the discussion.  Pre-registration is required so that we know how many people to expect at each site.

To register for this event or for more information, please click on the link below, visit http://m1e.net/c?82384231-/Zhj7gWiuD2TI%407457490-.C/5COgidt5qk or call (603) 862-0692.  Members of the Commission and I are eager to hear from you.

Note that a separate meeting will be held on June 19, 2012 in Concord to hear from professionals with a more direct interest in water resource issues.

This statewide conversation will report findings to the Governor's Commission on Water Sustainability. More information on the Water Sustainability Commission, its charge and water resources can be found at http://m1e.net/c?82384231-szG6oMbst76Ck%407457491-OQ6GfiFNUnvfI