We took a family paddle around Rust Pond today and much to my consternation I saw numerous docks built with pressure treated lumber. Pressure treated lumber is infused with preservatives and chemicals that can leach into the water. The state of NH has a document on the web about pressure treated lumber use for docks. It says:

“DES advises against using pressure treated wood in any waters of the state. Any application for a dock construction permit where creosote-treated wood is used will not be accepted.”

Read the whole document at:

http://www.des.nh.gov/factsheets/bb/bb-19.htm

People can argue whether the chemicals will leach into the water, but why take the chance? It’s way easier to keep the poisons out of the water than to try and remove them from the water later.