Help Keep Your Lake Clean
Reduce Nonpoint Source Pollutants
- Fertilizers: Choose low or phosphorus-free fertilizers for your lawn. Avoid overuse and do not apply them before a heavy rain. Follow this link to learn more.
- Plant Debris: Do not dump plant debris into a lake. It contains nutrients that can contribute to aquatic weed and algae growth.
- Pesticides: Exercise extreme care when applying a pesticide near a lake or stream. Most household pesticides are toxic to aquatic habitats.
- Soil Erosion: Soil carries an abundance of nutrients and potential contaminants. Control soil erosion by planting ground cover and stabilizing erosion prone areas.
- Geese: Goose droppings can create a health hazard as well as contribute significant nutrients to a lake. Discourage their presence by:
- Not feeding them.
- Installing low shoreline barriers, such as fencing, hedgerows, or planted buffers.
- Scaring them off using load noises or hiring professionals that use dogs.
- Destroying eggs and nests. Check with your State Division of Fish & Wildlife for more information on egg addling techniques and permit requirements.
- Pets: Runoff containing fecal matter can supply nutrients to a lake. Clean up after your dog.
- Septic Systems: Failing septic systems can create pubic health problems, contaminate ground water and contribute a substantial amount of nutrients to a lake. Septic tanks should be inspected annually and pumped out every 3-5 years depending on use.
Do not flush strong cleaning agents, paints or chemicals into a septic a septic system. These contaminants can kill the microorganisms that make a septic system operate properly.
- Car Washing: Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles its wastewater. If you wash your car at home, be sure to use detergents that are phosphate free.
Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species
Invasive species out compete native vegetation, form dense mats that restrict recreational use and are difficult to eradicate once established. Avoid relocating aquatic plants.
- Do not empty aquarium plants and fish into a water body. Aquarium species are often exotic and can grow uncontrollably in lakes.
- Remove any plants from boats, trailers, anchors, and fishing gear. Dispose of them on dry land away from the water.
- Wash boats and trailers before and after visiting other lakes. If possible, use hot water and allow them to dry completely.
Click Here to view a list of invasive aquatic plants.
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