Weldon Bosworth: Myopic county delegation flips the bird to the Lakes Region

To The Daily Sun,

The recently adopted budget by the Belknap County Delegation shows a disturbing disregard for the value of Lake Winnipesaukee and its surrounding watershed — natural assets that are central to our identity, economy, and way of life. By focusing solely on dollars and cents and embracing the oversimplified mantra of “cut, cut, cut,” the delegation has gutted the very services that make our region the envy of New Hampshire, if not the nation.

The more than 50% cuts to the UNH Cooperative Extension and the Belknap County Conservation District are not just fiscally irresponsible — they are dangerously short-sighted. As someone who spent my career analyzing and managing aquatic systems and who continues to stay engaged through my service on the board of Ramblin’ Vewe Farm in Gilford, I have seen the direct impact of these organizations. Their work protects our natural resources, supports local agriculture, and provides vital education and outreach. These aren’t optional extras — they are essential services.

It’s easy to swing the budget axe. It takes far more effort — and a basic level of understanding — to anticipate the real-world consequences of such cuts. Sadly, the delegation’s vote suggests a lack of both.

I fully support the county commissioners in their efforts to identify alternative funding and restore these organizations’ budgets to at least the minimal levels originally recommended. To do otherwise is to jeopardize the health of our environment, our economy, and the future of Belknap County.

Weldon Bosworth

Gilford