Spring Message about Docks

Dear valued customers,

I am writing to you today in response to recent issues brought forth by the R.I. DEM.  In their Complaint they have enumerated a whole host of issues, many of which are old and still ongoing which the campground will deal with.  However, there are two of their more recent complaints that you, as campers, will have to deal with.  They are docks and the installation of crushed stone on your site. Understand that this does not include all of you, but only those of you who are within 50′ of either the pond or lake.  If you are not in those areas, you can disregard this notice.

Most of you should recall that when you asked if you could have a dock I have always said yes, but I have always conditioned it on you first obtaining a Permit from the DEM.  According to the DEM, none of the private docks or waterfront sites with gravel/crushed stone have permits and this has caused them to file notice.  The campground, as I have also told you, is prohibited by insurance from getting involved in your dock. You must accept ownership and provide us with an annual certificate of insurance.

There also is the issue of crushed stone within 50′ of the pond or lake; this too requires a permit.  You may decide to rake it back and remove your dock, but I ask you to understand that under the department’s rules, having a dock and spreading crushed stone on your site, while considered an insignificant alteration, you still MUST apply to receive it.

What I also want to explain here is that while many of you will think that the campground should handle this for me, I ask you to understand that I cannot. As I have said, we are prohibited by insurance from owning a dock.

Because the camp is a business, you as individuals have significantly more rights than I do as a business owner.  If I applied as a business owner, they would tell me I am trying to run a 70-slip marina on the lake and never give permission, whereas you as individuals can have it as an insignificant alteration. The same thing for crushed stone.

Please understand that doing nothing is not an option.  You either must apply for the permit or remove it.  Some of you who are less sophisticated may want to get ahold of your builder or Jay Ferria to help you out.  Because of the insignificance of the activity, it really is not a big deal. I know it is a hassle, but it is not much harder than registering your car. I ask for your understanding here.  You are valued customers.

Thank you,

John