Having witnessed the public hearing on House Bill 571, I implore those considering the merits of this legislation to review the evidence carefully. This bill, introduced by Rep. Tom Walsh of Hooksett, negatively impacts residents near Hoit Road Marsh, a wildlife management area in Concord.
Rep. Walsh was given the opportunity to speak first. He stated, several times, that motocross riding on the pond occurred only two or three days a year and the ban was enacted due to complaints by one or two neighbors. At least 40 neighbors signed petitions supporting the ban and others have testified that the riding occurred throughout the winter.
When questioned about his data, Rep. Walsh said that it was from a different pond, cited hearsay, and finally stated “he had no hard data.” This from the sponsor of the bill!
Capt. Eastman, representing Fish and Game, lobbied in support of the bill but never addressed the overriding legal objection: Hoit Road Marsh does not fall under the exception of RSA 271-20 allowing OHRVs on frozen ponds.
A Mason resident testified that the riding had gone on for 40 years. Local residents have testified that it has been about 10 years.
A Loudon resident testified that the majority of the marsh is within the town of Loudon but they were given no consideration. Relevantly, the closest point on the pond used by riders is 1,000 feet from the Loudon town line.
I could go on but would need hip boots to continue.
GLENN HORNER
Epsom