06/09/2026
Today, on the 15-year anniversary of his passing, we pause to remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Jody N. Connor.
Jody worked for NHDES for 32 years, the last 20 as the Limnology Center Director (renamed the Jody Connor Limnology Center in 2012). Dedicated to science, Jody was instrumental in establishing several programs including the Volunteer Lake Assessment Program (VLAP), Clean Lakes Program, Exotic Species Program, Beach Inspection Program, Pool and Spa Inspection Program, and Clean Vessel Act Program. Today, these programs are still going strong and VLAP continues to serve nearly 200 lakes and supports hundreds of volunteers as they conduct citizen science.
Over the past 15 years, NHDES has also had a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Program that emerged from the Beach Inspection Program and has been dedicated to the issue of cyanobacteria blooms, one of the most serious issues facing New Hampshire lakes today. Additionally, NHDES continues to protect water quality through ongoing programs such as the Watershed Assistance Section’s water quality grant program, Soak Up The Rain NH, Green SnowPro and Shoreland Protection, which protects vegetation within the 50-foot waterfront buffer, 150-foot woodland buffer, and oversees sound shoreland development/redevelopment within the 250-foot protected shoreland of public waters.
Jody touched many lives and was unselfish in patiently sharing his vast knowledge with others. Many of us owe our passion for and understanding of aquatic biology to Jody as we continue to carry on his life’s work. Jody absolutely loved dragonflies, so if you see one today, think how fortunate we were to have known him and to benefit from his work to help protect New Hampshire’s lakes and ponds.
The greatest tribute we can make is to continue in this mission.
NH LAKES Winnisquam Watershed Network New Hampshire Rivers Council Lake Winnipesaukee Alliance
