North Bennington lake closes swimming area after insurance requirements
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NORTH BENNINGTON, Vt. (NEWS10)-- Lake Paran has removed its docks and slide after its new insurance required the lake to close as an official swimming area. Lake officials shared the update on its Facebook Monday morning.
According to the post, the lake's insurance has been the biggest issue for them.
"Until recently, we paid about $6,000 annually for our property and liability coverage. This year, our only available policy came in at over $32,000 — more than six times the previous cost — and includes new limitations that impact our programming," the post stated. "Because of this, we’ve taken a short pause to adjust and ensure we are in full compliance with these new guidelines."
On June 19, lake officials posted they were in the process of transitioning to a new insurance provider. With the switch, requirements have caused them to pause programming, ban lifeguards and close the area for public use.
According to officials, they are no longer allowed to have lifeguards or operate as an official swimming, which was described as a "non-negotiable condition of the coverage."
In July 2024, a 9-year-old child drowned in the lake. A settlement was reached in April 2025. In response to the updated insurance requirements, the lake no-longer has its floating dock or slide and more "swim at your own risk" signs have been placed around the lake.
The lake will also not be charging for access this season or holding the July 4 firework display.
"But we’re looking forward to finding new ways to celebrate summer and the Fourth together in the future," the post stated. "In the meantime, we’re doing everything we can to explore alternative insurance options and raise the funds needed to restore more of the activities we all cherish."
The lake's recreation organization is looking for donations. If you'd like to support Lake Paran, reach out to erin@lakeparanvt.org.