A Franklin man is being honored for his work as long-time caretaker for Webster Lake.
Mark Lorenze, steward of Webster Lake, was awarded the 2019 John F. Morten Award for Exemplary Lake Stewardship on Aug. 3 at the Webster Lake Association annual meeting.
“Volunteer lake stewardship, in all its forms, is how we keep our lakes clean and healthy for future generations,” said NH LAKES Board Chair, Stu Lord. “There are many people doing great work on a voluntary basis at many of New Hampshire’s 1,000 lakes. Mark’s commitment to Webster Lake has spanned years and has included every conceivable role. He truly is the go-to person at Webster Lake.”
Lorenze is responsible for collecting water samples at Webster Lake and monitoring lake health, checking the lake for invasive plants, educating boaters about the importance preventing the spread of invasive species, working with Franklin town officials on runoff water issues, getting grants to do a septic survey, raising money and helping build recreation facilities, according to the Webster Lake Association.
“Once again, we had the challenge of choosing the best from the best of New Hampshire’s volunteer lake stewards. Mark Lorenze’s commitment to Webster Lake and the Franklin community has spanned years and is truly exemplary,” said Tom O’Brien, NH LAKES president. “He is most deserving of our most prestigious award.”