Dear Pleasant Lake Community Member:
For decades there has been a commercial display of fireworks over Pleasant Lake for the community to celebrate the 4thof July. It was first sponsored by lakefront owners and more recently by the Pleasant Lake Protective Association. PLPA will sponsor the 2026 fireworks on July 1 as part of the 250th commemoration of the birth of our nation. But over the past year, the PLPA board has been debating the effects of fireworks on the lake and whether this organization should sponsor them after 2026. We are at a point in those conversations where we’d value the input of the community as we realize this is an issue that many people want to weigh in on. Below is some information about fireworks and a link to a survey where you can register your wishes.
Fireworks have been part of New London’s traditional celebration of Independence Day. Many people find fireworks enjoyable and consider them part of US culture. Last year’s costs to the PLPA for the approximately 20-minute fireworks show were $8,250 and will be $10,000 in 2026.
There is credible evidence that noise and other aspects of fireworks negatively affect the environment, wildlife, and domestic animals. According to the fact sheet, “Fireworks and New Hampshire’s Waterbodies” (NH Department of Environmental Services, 2019), “Fireworks contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and aquatic life.” However, the fact sheet also states that “… fireworks are likely a very small source of nutrients and metals compared to stormwater runoff from roads, sidewalks, and lawns.” More information about the effects of fireworks can be found on the Internet.
Each membership has one vote. Please click on the link below to vote.
Your opinion matters! Thank you in advance.
PLPA Board
Click for your survey
