Rebekah Weber.

• Position: FIVE QUESTIONS FOR ... - Interview

Lake Champlain Lakekeeper

As advocate, convener, and watchdog, Rebekah Weber plays a unique role in helping to protect and restore Vermont's most iconic landmark--and all of the state's waters.

1 What drew you to Lake Champlain?

I became interested in water issues through their connection to the food system. Growing up, my family always paid attention to where our food came from and how agriculture impacts the environment. My mother kept a garden, and I was fascinated to learn all of her home remedies for developing healthy soils. Later, when I worked on farm policies at the federal level, it was impossible to ignore the inherent conflicts our food system has created with sustainably managing our natural resources.

I was drawn to work on Lake Champlain because of the intricate role it plays in Vermont's food web. While the lake is an important resource--for drinking water, tourism, and recreation--it is also part of an agricultural framework that concerns many Vermonters. Protecting the lake, while also promoting sustainable uses for the surrounding lands, serves as a model for communities across New England.

2 What do you like most about your work?

I collaborate every day with a range of individuals and communities throughout the watershed--from farmers and business owners to elementary school kids and retired fishermen. It's heartening to see all Vermonters take ownership of this challenge and fight to clean up our lake.

3 What is the biggest concern you hear from Vermonters about their water?

The saddest stories to me are from Vermonters who remember what it was like to swim and play in Lake Champlain growing up, but who now warn their kids to stay away from the water. They're concerned because they never know when it's a safe day for the lake and when the levels of bacteria and toxins are too high. It's not something parents should have...